Claymore by Norihiro Yagi

 until Christmas!ge source: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/777423.Claymore_Vol_01?from_search=true

Claymore is a fast-paced manga set in a world where monsters called Yoma devour humans. Yoma are incredibly strong, difficult to kill, and can disguise themselves as humans. A mysterious organization has created half-human, half-Yoma female warriors, called Claymore for their massive swords. These silver-eyed women travel the land killing Yoma - for a price.

Claire is one such warrior, and she ends up with an unexpected travelling companion in Raki, a boy whom she saves from a Yoma in his village. As they complete the various jobs assigned to Claire by the Organization, Claire begins to learn that the fight against the Yoma is not what it seems.

Though I try to avoid ongoing manga series (because you just never know when or if they're going to end), I couldn't help but pick up Claymore. The style is neat and appealing, the story is engaging and mysterious, the characters are interesting and complex. Nothing is as it seems in Claymore and you'll find yourself constantly surprised by what happens next.

If you love monster stories, fantasy settings, high-action and strong female protagonists, this manga is for you. You can also check out the anime, which is incredibly loyal (with the exception of the last couple of episodes). If you enjoy the anime definitely pick up the manga and find out what happens next!

(By the way... my cat Raphaela is named for one of the characters from this series. You'll understand if you read it...)

19 days until Christmas!