Originally posted July 12, 2009
By REBBECA P.
My thoughts
Demons are meant to be exorcised and that’s exactly what Rosette and Chrno are called to do. From the first pages we’re immediately thrown into the action, which nab a reader right off. After their mission is accomplished we see a slight pause in action as we’re introduced more to the personalities and lives of Rosette and Chrno. Before long, they’re sent on another mission and we discover exactly what Chrno is, a demon. Now, I personally thought the first two chapters (maybe more) were dull. We don’t really get a feel for the personalities of Rosette (who I found a little arrogant at first until later on in the book and parts in between) and the reading felt average.
However, truth be told we don’t see Chrno or any of the minor characters personalities shine through until later on in the story. Things start to pick up after Chrno and Rosette meet Azmaria and in the chapters following, Chrno Crusade becomes an enjoyable read. I won’t give anything away, but the final chapter gives clues on what’s ahead and opens up the series a lot more.
Exorcisms and demons are not unfamiliar in the realm of manga, but you may have seen something like this before (aka Hellsing). Hellsing is for a more mature reader while Chrno Trigger is a lighter version of Hellsing and with different elements. The elements are fresh and not overused clichés which is a fresh breath in the manga realm. Chrno Crusade has a good art style. The drawings are detailed and well done so readers will find little to complain about artwork wise. The dialogue moves the story along and keeps a steady flow. It’s not simple text bubbles and does go in detail and gets the job done. However, Chrno Crusade is slow and you might have trouble getting into it. You might not enjoy it until midway through or in one of the last, if not the last chapter. That being said Chrno Crusade is an OK read. It doesn’t offer anything that stands out, it’s just OK. I think the last chapter shows a lot of promise, so we’ll see what Chrno and Rosette’s adventures bring.
