Title: The Worst Ronin
Author: Maggie Tokuda-Hall
Publisher: HarperAlley
Publication date: May 21, 2024
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Summary
Chihiro has always dreamed of being a samurai. Her father was a well-known samurai until he got injured, and Chihiro is obsessed with Tatsuo Nakano. She is the only woman accepted into Kesi Academy, a samurai academy.
When Chihiro’s father is conscripted into service, Chihiro takes his place. Especially when she gets the chance to work with Tatsuo. Their mission? Kill the yamauba demon that is killing children from a local village. But Tatsuo isn’t what Chihiro expected she’d be. Will they be able to work together to save the village?
Review: The Worst Ronin
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAlley for an advanced copy of The Worst Ronin by Maggie Tokuda-Hall to review! I always enjoy Maggie Tokuda-Hall’s work, and I was excited to see a new graphic novel from her. And it didn’t disappoint!
This is a fast-paced, violent at times graphic novel that kept me hooked from the very beginning. Both the writing and art work together beautifully to tell this story. The characters are expressive, and the panels are composed really well. Plus, I always enjoy the whole “grumpy mentor” story arc. We get to see Tatsuo’s background and understand why she is the way she is, and this was written so well.
Also, if you love expressive animal sidekicks, you’ll definitely enjoy Tatsuo’s horse. Wonderful addition to a story that is a bit dark at times. This story does flip between events in the present and the past, which is noted by different color palettes. Always useful in the graphic novel format!
My only complaint is that the inclusion of phones felt a bit out of place to me, but not enough to take me out of the story, honestly. By the end, it was kind of fun!
All in all, if you like fast-paced graphic novels featuring strong female leads, definitely pick this one up!
4.5 stars