Brunhild the Dragonslayer is a captivating dark fantasy novel that has recently made its way to the English market, courtesy of Yen Press. Written by Yuiko Agarizaki, this novel follows the story of Brunhild, a young girl who was raised by a dragon on an island called Eden. The narrative takes a dark turn when the dragon is killed by humans, leading Brunhild on a path of revenge against the Dragonslayer, Sigebert.
The novel is a well-crafted debut work by Agarizaki, with a clear beginning, middle, and end-point. The story is self-contained in this first volume, providing a satisfying conclusion to Brunhild’s tale. The cast of characters is small but well-developed, each given their moment to shine in the narrative. This is a refreshing change from many ongoing series that tend to drag on with unnecessary plotlines.
The translation of the novel, done by Jennifer Ward, is seamless and easy to read, with no noticeable issues. The physical version of the release is a beautifully designed hardback, complete with stunning color illustrations by Aoaso. This attention to detail adds to the overall appeal of the book and makes it a valuable addition to any collection.
While Brunhild the Dragonslayer may not be emotionally moving in the same way as other dark fantasy series, such as Agents of the Four Seasons, it offers a unique and compelling story that will keep readers engaged until the very end. The novel explores themes of revenge, betrayal, and the complexity of human emotions, making it a thought-provoking read for fans of the genre.
The next installment in the series, Brunhild the Dragon Princess, is set to be released later this month, with two more books to follow in February. Additionally, there is a manga adaptation of the novel in Japan, although it has not yet been licensed for an English release.
In conclusion, Brunhild the Dragonslayer is a dark fantasy novel that stands out for its intriguing storyline and well-developed characters. While it may not appeal to everyone due to its grim premise, it offers a fresh and different take on the genre that is worth exploring. If you’re looking for a compelling read that will keep you guessing until the end, Brunhild the Dragonslayer is definitely worth checking out.