When you realise that internet connectivity might have been the best thing that happened to warriors who leave their homes for far away battle fields or when their home becomes the battle field
Have you ever made a decision that filled you with such indescribable joy and brought immense satisfaction? I experienced this when I chose to read the Kara no Kyoukai (KnK) novel before watching its movie series. After finishing the novel, I watched the films, which were stunningly animated, but I realized that had I watched them first, I might not have understood much of the intricate storylines.
Story & Storytelling (9/10):
There are seven incidents set across seven different timelines. Each incident forms the core of its respective story, and while it may feel like the plot occasionally strays, it ultimately ties everything together in an unexpected way. The storytelling in KnK is exceptional; particularly noteworthy is the fifth chapter for its masterful narration and complex plot, despite the numerous magical terms that might be unfamiliar.
The series unfolds in a non-chronological order, but reading it as presented offers better insight into the overall narrative than attempting to follow a chronological sequence on the first read. The storytelling is captivating, drawing you in quickly. The characters' monologues are thought-provoking, and their interactions feel natural. Even when the story seems to take a roundabout path, it proves essential and enriches the experience. The strength of the storytelling compensates for the lack of visual art, inherent in novels rather than manga.
Character (10/10):
In one word, the character development is brilliant. Every character fulfills their role admirably. The male protagonist, Kokuto Mikiya, and the female lead, Ryougi Shiki, are compelling. Shiki embodies grace, beauty, and serenity, playing a pivotal role in many chapters. She's incredibly strong. Aozaki Touko, the head of Garan no Dou where Mikiya works and Shiki frequently visits, plays a crucial role in explaining the complexities involving magi, origins, sorcery, and otherworldly beings. However, she also becomes actively involved in the fifth chapter or movie. Mikiya, driven by justice and peace, is willing to protect Shiki at any cost and accept her sins as his own. Character development is evident, especially in Shiki Ryougi. To fully appreciate the characters' experiences, paying close attention to their dialogues is recommended. The movie series effectively conveys these emotions, which can be harder to grasp from the novel alone.
Enjoyment (10/10):
To say that the KnK novel and movie series were merely 'good' would be an understatement. Some dialogues can be challenging to understand due to the complexity of the concepts, especially in the fifth chapter, which introduces many new terms. Kara no Kyoukai gained recognition in 2004 after Kodansha published it, leading to its well-deserved anime adaptation. Credit goes to Kinoko Nasu for his outstanding work. This was my introduction to the renowned Nasuverse, and it was unforgettable.
For those interested in following the correct chronological order: 2 -> 4 -> 3 -> 1 -> 5 -> 6 -> 7. There's also a sequel, Kara no Kyoukai - Mirai Fukuin, worth exploring. I recommend reading the novel first for a deeper understanding, followed by watching the films. Alternatively, watching the films first can help identify any missed details from the novels. Regardless, don't miss the films, as they excel in animation, background score, and voice acting.
One iconic quote from Aozaki Touko:
"It's a mistake to choose your path based upon the sins that you carry. We don't choose our path based on the sins that we carry, but we must bear our sins on the path we choose."
This is a mixed review for the manga/series/movies.
I recall reading this online ages ago! It was initially released independently, and once it gained popularity, Kodansha picked it up, which really propelled this writer into the spotlight and paved the way for the release of Fate/Zero later on. Both series are fantastic in my opinion, but Gos is the greatest of all time (GOAT).
Interestingly, I hadn't watched the series back then (and I still haven't finished the entire Fate/Zero series either), so revisiting it as an adult was both nostalgic and incredibly engaging. It feels much more mature than I remember, so I believe I gained far more from it now as an adult than I would have when I was younger. The story is told out of sequence, which adds an intriguing layer, while also enhancing the impact of the ending. I think Ufotable did an exceptional job organizing this series. The art, soundtrack, and overall artistic style are beautifully captured in that mid-2000s aesthetic.
This series tackles some truly dark aspects of reality (Trigger Warning - rape, incest, murder, etc.), while delving into taboo subjects like religion, cultism, and the supernatural. Simultaneously, it weaves in metaphors about mental health and illness. It's truly remarkable. The plot isn't necessarily "female-focused," as the narrative is presented from a third-person perspective, yet it remains relatable from an untraditionally feminine viewpoint.
(This includes some thoughts on the 3rd volume which is not listed here but my rating stays the same)
Very enjoyable series of novels. Nasu’s earliest work, yet his writing style didn't come off as overly amateurish—definitely much more intricate and nuanced compared to the average Light Novel author. I actually thought his tendency to overwrite was more restrained than in his later works, though it still occasionally creeps in.
I believe how much someone will enjoy these novels largely depends on their tolerance for ambiguity. Perhaps it was just my Japanese skills being tested, but I found the first volume very confusing due to its achronological order, leaving me with more questions than answers by the end. Thankfully, things become clearer with each subsequent novel, even though the achronological structure persists. Volume 2 has moments where the perspective shifts suddenly without much warning, making it somewhat jarring. However, this setup made Volume 3 feel like one cohesive and highly satisfying read.
Another debatable aspect is Nasu’s penchant for overwriting. For the most part, this isn’t necessarily an issue, but there are times when massive walls of text explain every last detail of the subject matter. Most of the time, this is appreciated because the world he's created is incredibly complex, and understanding the powers at play, as well as the techniques available, adds depth—not only for these novels but for all his subsequent works. This also enhances the action sequences, as you read about every body part being cut apart or the lengthy incantations and their aftermaths; it really immerses you in the story. However, he isn't indiscriminate in this treatment and sometimes goes off on tangents about minor details, such as in Volume 3 where he explains the usage of THC and LSD. Personally, I found this endearing and respect that he gives everything the same level of attention and respect. That said, it does unsurprisingly lead to pacing issues. Volumes 2 and 3 are about 1.5 times the length of Volume 1, which isn’t surprising since these volumes delve into the magic systems and Shiki herself. Still, it feels like there’s a fair amount of unnecessary content that could be trimmed.
For me, the weakest element of the series was the characters, which is surprising given that they're often highlighted in reviews. Understandably, they primarily function as exposition devices and don’t stand out much beyond that. This is unexpected because Mahoyo, another early work by Nasu, features my favorite cast of characters across all his works. I imagine this is because Mahoyo had more time to develop before release, being the last of his major works. I did find Shiki’s journey of self-discovery compelling, and she was undoubtedly the strongest member of the cast. This has more to do with her internal conflict than her external characterization, which makes sense since the story revolves around her inner struggles. Generally, I think the characters are more engaging in the movie adaptations. They aren’t bad, just unrefined and often overshadowed by the atmosphere.
These novels are definitely worth reading if you’re into his work—I know they were recently fully translated (though I can’t comment on the quality of the translation). A great introduction to the world and systems carried over into all his other works, it makes me wish he would write more standard novels to explore his potential further. I plan to revisit these once my Japanese improves.
Garden of Sinners is on my list of the top 10 best novels of all time. Let me explain why.
Story, Characters, and Enjoyment: 10/10
The story is exceptionally well-crafted, with a dark atmosphere that permeates every page. It follows the journey of our main character, Ryougi Shiki, a deeply damaged woman and a sociopath with a penchant for killing, who has no one but herself. She possesses a unique ability known as the "Mystic Eyes of Death Perception," which allows her to perceive the lines of death in all things. This power came to her after a failed suicide attempt. After being discharged from the hospital, she begins working for an anti-crime organization called Garan no Dou, owned by Touko Aozaki, where Shiki's mission is to prevent people from committing murders and to investigate homicides. As the narrative progresses, Shiki comes to realize that she does, in fact, have someone in her life—Kokutou Mikiya—and through him, she starts to become a better person, more empathetic and less detached. Kokutou is Shiki's opposite; he is willing to assist even those he finds repulsive, provided there is a valid reason to do so. The novel features multiple antagonists, each meticulously crafted with their own dark and compelling natures. One of the standout aspects of the story is how the author invites readers to interpret certain events, adding layers of depth and intrigue. The characters are incredibly well-developed and feel authentic.
Overall: 10/10
You should definitely read this novel—it’s truly amazing.
Popular Reviews
Story & Storytelling (9/10):
There are seven incidents set across seven different timelines. Each incident forms the core of its respective story, and while it may feel like the plot occasionally strays, it ultimately ties everything together in an unexpected way. The storytelling in KnK is exceptional; particularly noteworthy is the fifth chapter for its masterful narration and complex plot, despite the numerous magical terms that might be unfamiliar.
The series unfolds in a non-chronological order, but reading it as presented offers better insight into the overall narrative than attempting to follow a chronological sequence on the first read. The storytelling is captivating, drawing you in quickly. The characters' monologues are thought-provoking, and their interactions feel natural. Even when the story seems to take a roundabout path, it proves essential and enriches the experience. The strength of the storytelling compensates for the lack of visual art, inherent in novels rather than manga.
Character (10/10):
In one word, the character development is brilliant. Every character fulfills their role admirably. The male protagonist, Kokuto Mikiya, and the female lead, Ryougi Shiki, are compelling. Shiki embodies grace, beauty, and serenity, playing a pivotal role in many chapters. She's incredibly strong. Aozaki Touko, the head of Garan no Dou where Mikiya works and Shiki frequently visits, plays a crucial role in explaining the complexities involving magi, origins, sorcery, and otherworldly beings. However, she also becomes actively involved in the fifth chapter or movie. Mikiya, driven by justice and peace, is willing to protect Shiki at any cost and accept her sins as his own. Character development is evident, especially in Shiki Ryougi. To fully appreciate the characters' experiences, paying close attention to their dialogues is recommended. The movie series effectively conveys these emotions, which can be harder to grasp from the novel alone.
Enjoyment (10/10):
To say that the KnK novel and movie series were merely 'good' would be an understatement. Some dialogues can be challenging to understand due to the complexity of the concepts, especially in the fifth chapter, which introduces many new terms. Kara no Kyoukai gained recognition in 2004 after Kodansha published it, leading to its well-deserved anime adaptation. Credit goes to Kinoko Nasu for his outstanding work. This was my introduction to the renowned Nasuverse, and it was unforgettable.
For those interested in following the correct chronological order: 2 -> 4 -> 3 -> 1 -> 5 -> 6 -> 7. There's also a sequel, Kara no Kyoukai - Mirai Fukuin, worth exploring. I recommend reading the novel first for a deeper understanding, followed by watching the films. Alternatively, watching the films first can help identify any missed details from the novels. Regardless, don't miss the films, as they excel in animation, background score, and voice acting.
One iconic quote from Aozaki Touko:
"It's a mistake to choose your path based upon the sins that you carry. We don't choose our path based on the sins that we carry, but we must bear our sins on the path we choose."
Overall: 9/10.
I recall reading this online ages ago! It was initially released independently, and once it gained popularity, Kodansha picked it up, which really propelled this writer into the spotlight and paved the way for the release of Fate/Zero later on. Both series are fantastic in my opinion, but Gos is the greatest of all time (GOAT).
Interestingly, I hadn't watched the series back then (and I still haven't finished the entire Fate/Zero series either), so revisiting it as an adult was both nostalgic and incredibly engaging. It feels much more mature than I remember, so I believe I gained far more from it now as an adult than I would have when I was younger. The story is told out of sequence, which adds an intriguing layer, while also enhancing the impact of the ending. I think Ufotable did an exceptional job organizing this series. The art, soundtrack, and overall artistic style are beautifully captured in that mid-2000s aesthetic.
This series tackles some truly dark aspects of reality (Trigger Warning - rape, incest, murder, etc.), while delving into taboo subjects like religion, cultism, and the supernatural. Simultaneously, it weaves in metaphors about mental health and illness. It's truly remarkable. The plot isn't necessarily "female-focused," as the narrative is presented from a third-person perspective, yet it remains relatable from an untraditionally feminine viewpoint.
Very enjoyable series of novels. Nasu’s earliest work, yet his writing style didn't come off as overly amateurish—definitely much more intricate and nuanced compared to the average Light Novel author. I actually thought his tendency to overwrite was more restrained than in his later works, though it still occasionally creeps in.
I believe how much someone will enjoy these novels largely depends on their tolerance for ambiguity. Perhaps it was just my Japanese skills being tested, but I found the first volume very confusing due to its achronological order, leaving me with more questions than answers by the end. Thankfully, things become clearer with each subsequent novel, even though the achronological structure persists. Volume 2 has moments where the perspective shifts suddenly without much warning, making it somewhat jarring. However, this setup made Volume 3 feel like one cohesive and highly satisfying read.
Another debatable aspect is Nasu’s penchant for overwriting. For the most part, this isn’t necessarily an issue, but there are times when massive walls of text explain every last detail of the subject matter. Most of the time, this is appreciated because the world he's created is incredibly complex, and understanding the powers at play, as well as the techniques available, adds depth—not only for these novels but for all his subsequent works. This also enhances the action sequences, as you read about every body part being cut apart or the lengthy incantations and their aftermaths; it really immerses you in the story. However, he isn't indiscriminate in this treatment and sometimes goes off on tangents about minor details, such as in Volume 3 where he explains the usage of THC and LSD. Personally, I found this endearing and respect that he gives everything the same level of attention and respect. That said, it does unsurprisingly lead to pacing issues. Volumes 2 and 3 are about 1.5 times the length of Volume 1, which isn’t surprising since these volumes delve into the magic systems and Shiki herself. Still, it feels like there’s a fair amount of unnecessary content that could be trimmed.
For me, the weakest element of the series was the characters, which is surprising given that they're often highlighted in reviews. Understandably, they primarily function as exposition devices and don’t stand out much beyond that. This is unexpected because Mahoyo, another early work by Nasu, features my favorite cast of characters across all his works. I imagine this is because Mahoyo had more time to develop before release, being the last of his major works. I did find Shiki’s journey of self-discovery compelling, and she was undoubtedly the strongest member of the cast. This has more to do with her internal conflict than her external characterization, which makes sense since the story revolves around her inner struggles. Generally, I think the characters are more engaging in the movie adaptations. They aren’t bad, just unrefined and often overshadowed by the atmosphere.
These novels are definitely worth reading if you’re into his work—I know they were recently fully translated (though I can’t comment on the quality of the translation). A great introduction to the world and systems carried over into all his other works, it makes me wish he would write more standard novels to explore his potential further. I plan to revisit these once my Japanese improves.
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Story, Characters, and Enjoyment: 10/10
The story is exceptionally well-crafted, with a dark atmosphere that permeates every page. It follows the journey of our main character, Ryougi Shiki, a deeply damaged woman and a sociopath with a penchant for killing, who has no one but herself. She possesses a unique ability known as the "Mystic Eyes of Death Perception," which allows her to perceive the lines of death in all things. This power came to her after a failed suicide attempt. After being discharged from the hospital, she begins working for an anti-crime organization called Garan no Dou, owned by Touko Aozaki, where Shiki's mission is to prevent people from committing murders and to investigate homicides. As the narrative progresses, Shiki comes to realize that she does, in fact, have someone in her life—Kokutou Mikiya—and through him, she starts to become a better person, more empathetic and less detached. Kokutou is Shiki's opposite; he is willing to assist even those he finds repulsive, provided there is a valid reason to do so. The novel features multiple antagonists, each meticulously crafted with their own dark and compelling natures. One of the standout aspects of the story is how the author invites readers to interpret certain events, adding layers of depth and intrigue. The characters are incredibly well-developed and feel authentic.
Overall: 10/10
You should definitely read this novel—it’s truly amazing.