Neneo, a notorious killer, narrowly escapes death by being purchased by Freya, a wealthy heiress. Despite their differences, both outcasts in society, they decide to start a new life together in exile. The title, Snow and Ink, symbolizes complete opposites, reflecting the characters’ backgrounds and personalities. Neneo, from a lower-class background, is harsh and violent, while Freya, from an upper-class background, is subdued and reserved.
The manga explores their relationship as they navigate their pasts and try to build a future together. The unique setting in the 19th century adds to the intrigue of the story. The couple’s intimacy is portrayed realistically, without the typical manga tropes of blushing and hand-holding. However, the rapid pace of their courtship may leave some readers wanting more depth and development.
The lack of character development and pacing issues impact the overall story. While Neneo’s character is more defined, Freya’s emotional depth is not fully explored. The story quickly moves them into a new project without much conflict or resolution from previous events. Despite these shortcomings, the artwork is impressive, capturing the cold, unwelcoming atmosphere and intense flashbacks effectively.
As a debut work from Miyuki Unohana, Snow and Ink shows promise with its historical drama elements and detailed art. Fans of historical dramas with a tolerance for quick romantic developments may find this manga appealing. However, for readers seeking a more gradual and nuanced exploration of character relationships, this series may fall short of expectations. Overall, Snow and Ink offers a unique premise and engaging visuals, but the pacing and character development could benefit from more depth and exploration.
