This life again

<p>Wow, what can I say? I genuinely enjoy a great slash 'em up manga, but this one was a letdown. The plot was so minimal, it might as well have been nonexistent. It's not that I'm overly critical—I even appreciated Dendrobates, which featured a rather thin and predictable storyline. However, the so-called "surprises" and "plot twists" in this manga were clichéd, absurd, and irritating. This tale brought nothing innovative to the table. NOTHING! I truly wanted it to be exceptional. The artwork was delightful, and a protagonist named Alligator Nichol wielded one of the most impressive weapons I've encountered in a manga! How awesome is that? I sincerely hoped throughout for something to enhance the plot's interest, but ultimately, the setting, characters, and artwork deserved better than the plot they were given. There was an overabundance of exposition. It felt like the author explained everything without allowing the pleasure of mystery and discovery, and relied on "character bios" at the end of volumes to compensate for the lack of genuine character development within the story. The pacing was too rapid, leaving no room for meaningful moments. It seemed as if this story was penned by a ten-year-old, despite the mature setting and the intense violence, gore, and excellent action sequences striving for more depth. If I could make one wish, it would be for a more skilled author to take these characters and reconstruct the entire narrative with a compelling story.</p>

Jackals is quite a decent manga. It features a diverse cast of characters, numerous subplots, and in my view, its standout aspect is the art.  
Story: 8/10  
The narrative isn't particularly intricate or sophisticated, but it remains enjoyable without being overly simplistic. At first glance, the story revolves around a city steeped in violence, mafia intrigue, and a hunter who eliminates everyone in sight. (Reminiscent of "Dogs," perhaps?) Digging a bit deeper, you'll uncover a rivalry between the two main characters, each driven by an intense desire for vengeance. (Does "Canaan" come to mind?) Yet, delving even further, you'll find many smaller subplots intricately woven into the main storyline. These provide context to the characters and explain the motivations behind their principles, fostering a sense of familiarity and empathy towards them.  

These 'subplots' are what make the story truly engaging. The shifts in character perspectives are skillfully executed, adding a dynamic spark to the narrative.  

Art: 10/10  
The artwork is nothing short of exceptional. The realism, gunplay, and combat sequences are unmatched. Even if violent genres aren't your cup of tea, I highly recommend this manga purely for its artistic brilliance.  

Characters: 8/10  
The characters in Jackals are intriguing and distinct, though they lack originality as many fit the psychopathic stereotype. Additionally, if you're seeking significant character development, you'll be disappointed since it's primarily through action scenes that you gain insight into them. Moreover, the only two somewhat likable characters are the main ones, largely due to their sheer awesomeness. Otherwise, the supporting characters tend to be either unsettling or peculiar.  

Enjoyment: 8/10  
Jackals is highly entertaining, boasting great action, impressive perspective drawings, and a consistently fast pace. The interwoven plotlines add depth to the story, and the characters are the kind you want to learn more about. Overall, it's a captivating tale filled with betrayal, bloodshed, and legends born from the most bloodthirsty individuals.  

In summary, I rate it 9/10 and strongly recommend it for those who aren't faint of heart.

Lllllllllllllluv it

Love Cass's stories..one more beautiful book..loved it..infact want to keep reading more and more of your books..the excitement the well written characters kept me hooked to this one too..

Don't bother! Book started off really well. but it has been 5 months and no update!

its disappointing how they made the divine world arc full of fighting.zzz. first he kill a few kids then the fucking imperial concubine comes?? what the fuck dude they full on made it an action filled novel when it is wholely about chef and cooking and then the fucking imperial king wont even put the concubine in a leash...wtf dude she disobeyed the fucking imperial edict its fucking treason what thw fuck is the author doing its disappointing... but the fights are good too though but wtf its on repeat beat the kid and the elder comes ...