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james_desantis 's review for:

Vinland Saga, Volume 5 by Makoto Yukimura
4.0

So we take a break from war to get more personal time with Thorfinn and his purpose in life.

To not give much spoilers on the last 4 omnibus, a lot of people around Thorfinn have died. The boy, ever since a little kid, has not had a easy life. He filled his life with revenge and then when he never got it, he lost all his motive to do anything. He became a slave and decided to work on the fields, or not decided, but forced to with another farmer. That farmer would be Einar, who declares himself Thorfinn's first real friend. Together they try their best to become free of slavery by creating their farm and selling it to the land for their freedom.

Canute is shown as devious as ever. Using his mind to overcome England and become king. It's only one chapter but it shows the progress of him through the years in a quick and satisfying way.

Good: The art is still some of the best around. Everyone looks different, which sounds silly to be a plus, but it helps with so many characters. The fights, while a lot smaller here, and just as well done. Thorfinn's journey is dark yet hopeful. I liked the change in the character and his evolution. I also enjoyed learning more about the farm, the masters, and their kids. Oh and Einar finally becomes a character I really enjoyed here.

Bad: There's scenes closer to the end where Thorfinn slips into a sleep and visits his version of hell. It's a little too similar to every other comic/manga that does this. I didn't really enjoy this part that much.

Overall, this series is great. Vinland Saga truly is proving itself as being different than most Mangas. A step above most. A easy 4 out of 5. Worth checking out for sure.