By Reginald M., Old Mill High School
Kagurabachi, Vol. 1 by Takeru Hokazono instantly intrigued me with the main character's design alone, but the actual concepts of it are even cooler. You're thrown into a world of swords (katanas), dark magic, and an unrelenting thirst for revenge.
The story centers around Chihiro Rokujo, a young swordsmith whose father was killed by a group of unknown antagonists. Fueled by vengeance, Chihiro takes up his father’s craft and his enchanted katana, setting out to cut through the people responsible for his father’s death. He’s not just chasing vengeance, though; he’s trying to make sense of a world that has torn apart everything he loves.
What makes this volume shine isn’t just the action, even though the action is drawn beautifully - it’s the emotional core. Chihiro’s journey is a raw and new story; his pain and how he perceives it only reels you in even more. Chihiro brings a mysterious aura to his manga that makes you want to see more of him. Hokazono’s art brings it all to life, from the glint of a blade to the unspoken grief in Chihiro’s eyes. Each illustration is drawn with care and detail.
If you’re into dark fantasy sling with a hint of samurai culture, this one’s worth a read. Since then, I’ve continued reading past volume 1, and it’s definitely worth your while.
Click here to check out Kagurabachi, Vol. 1 by Takeru Hokazono