New Release: Volume 1 of Etsuko Tsuki's Dark Fantasy Romance
Fans of dark fantasy and school romance have something really exciting to look forward to. Volume 1 of "A Rabbit Dreams of Happiness in the Belly of a Beast," the latest work by the very talented Etsuko Tsuki, has officially been released by Hakusensha today, March 19th. If you follow the manga scene closely, you’d know Etsuko Tsuki is the same author who gave us popular titles like "Outbrides - Interracial Marriage" and "I Reincarnated as Cinderella's Sister-in-Law, But I'm Doted on by Two Princes." This new series is already making waves for its unique premise and emotional depth.
Plot Overview: A School Fantasy Like No Other
The story of "Usagi Dreams of Happiness in the Belly of a Beast" follows the life of Yukiho Usagura, a high school girl who has had a pretty tough time. Having lost her mother at a very young age, she lives a life where she isn't really accepted by her own family. Her world takes a massive turn one day when she stumbles upon three of her classmates—Masamune Yuuki, Hachiki Akarou, and Shino Kumayoshi—who are in the middle of a fierce battle against a mysterious monster. In a moment of bravery, Yukiho gets seriously injured while trying to protect Yukitsune.
This is where things get truly dark and interesting. It is revealed that Yukiho's very flesh and blood is considered "excellent food" for these fox-like beings, and they naturally begin to seek her out. This complex dynamic of danger and attraction is exactly why you need to read this dark fantasy manga. The series is currently being serialized in Hana to Yume, and the tension is only growing with each new chapter.
Exclusive Bonuses and Special Features
For the hardcore collectors out there, the release of Volume 1 comes with some sweet bookstore purchase bonuses. Depending on where you pick up your copy, you can get your hands on different illustration cards:
- TSUTAYA: Unique character illustration card.
- Animate: Exclusive themed card.
- Melonbooks: Limited edition illustration card.
- General Benefit: A monochrome illustration paper is also being distributed as a common benefit at most participating bookstores.
In the latest issue of Hana to Yume No. 8, which is also out today, the series appears in a beautiful color spread at the front of the magazine. A brand-new chapter titled "Shinryu Gakuen" is currently being developed, showing that the story is expanding into even more interesting territories. Many readers are finding that a rabbit dreams of happiness in the belly of a beast is a perfect blend of supernatural elements and school drama.
Also, if you're curious about the author's other works, the entire first episode of "Let me get used to love for now" is now available for free on Comic Natalie. It's a great way to experience Tsuki-sensei's storytelling style before diving into her latest beastly adventure. Don't forget that the current preview publication period for the new volume is only until 11:30 on Thursday, April 2, 2026, so you might want to check it out soon.
Etsuko Tsuki’s "The rabbit has a happy dream at the bottom of the beast’s belly" is definitely one of those stories that lingers in your mind. The combination of Yukiho's vulnerability and the predatory nature of her classmates creates a very high-stakes atmosphere. It’s a bittersweet journey about finding where you belong, even if that place is in the belly of a beast.
