Blade of the Immortal, Volume 31: Final Curtain
(Libby/OverDrive eComic, Kindle)

In the concluding volume of Samura's long-running, multiple-award-winning series, various factions converge to settle scores with deaths worthy of Shakespearean tragedy. Also characteristic of the Bard's work is the contrast of powerful men with grand ideals and the more prosaic motivations of common people, as well as the mix of formal language and slang. However, Samura is more generous in providing happy endings to several in his large cast. Dark Horse provides a glossary plus information about the translation, layout, and the manji symbol-not to be confused with a swastika-but there are no recaps for the uninitiated. Readers will have to be familiar with the warriors who have made it this far: the disgraced shogun's official given one month to clear up messes before committing ritual suicide; his subordinate eager to bolster his own name; the leader of a group dedicated to making martial prowess a force in the country; and the girl who wants revenge. The many fight scenes have kinetic energy and employ familiar tropes from movies: the blow, the breathless pause, the collapse. The characters have distinct designs and expressive features. Samura's linework allows for fine detail, and his skillful use of tone provides depth and contrast. Verdict An essential volume for fans.-Susan Salpini, Fairfax Cty. Pub. Schs., VA © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

In the concluding volume of Samura's long-running, multiple-award-winning series, various factions converge to settle scores with deaths worthy of Shakespearean tragedy. Also characteristic of the Bard's work is the contrast of powerful men with grand ideals and the more prosaic motivations of common people, as well as the mix of formal language and slang. However, Samura is more generous in providing happy endings to several in his large cast. Dark Horse provides a glossary plus information about the translation, layout, and the manji symbol—not to be confused with a swastika—but there are no recaps for the uninitiated. Readers will have to be familiar with the warriors who have made it this far: the disgraced shogun's official given one month to clear up messes before committing ritual suicide; his subordinate eager to bolster his own name; the leader of a group dedicated to making martial prowess a force in the country; and the girl who wants revenge. The many fight scenes have kinetic energy and employ familiar tropes from movies: the blow, the breathless pause, the collapse. The characters have distinct designs and expressive features. Samura's linework allows for fine detail, and his skillful use of tone provides depth and contrast. Verdict An essential volume for fans.—Susan Salpini, Fairfax Cty. Pub. Schs., VA (c) Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.