Graphic Novel Review – Vinland Saga Vol 9 by Makoto Yukimura (5/5 stars)

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Historical Fantasy/Graphic Novel
Length: 400 pages
Publisher: Kodansha Comics
Release Date: June 27, 2017
ISBN-10: 978-1632364456
Stand Alone or Series: 9th volume in the Vinland Saga Omnibus series
Source: Bought
Rating: 5/5 stars

“Thorfinn and his crew are on their way to Greece, the first leg of their expedition to Vinland. Having landed near Bergen, in Norway, Thorfinn is attacked by a bear, only to be saved by a fierce huntress named Hild. While sharing a meal together, Hild recounts how her village and family were massacred many years ago—a story Thorfinn knows quite intimately. Now, Thorfinn must face Hild and his own violent past in order to press forward. As his journey progresses, Thorfinn encounters more factions that do not share his vision, and a war in the name of Vinland may be looming on the horizon.”

This is the 9th Omnibus collection of Vinland Saga and was just as wonderful as previous installments in the series. The detailed artwork, story, and characters are amazing. This is my absolute favorite manga series of all time.

In this series we learn more about Thorfinn’s past after meeting Hild, a young woman whose whole life was shaped by Thorfinn’s past actions. Thorfinn is desperately trying to continue his quest to create a peaceful place to settle, however he keeps getting drawn into events and politics from his past.

Thorkill is also in the story quite a bit and we see how he is going through war withdrawal (which is actually kind of funny). We also run into Floki again and are caught up on the political troubles of the region.

The illustration continues to be very detailed and just amazing. I am always impressed by how much research and historical background are included in these books. The characters are amazing and the story is absolutely engrossing.

Overall another absolutely fantastic addition to this series. I absolutely love this graphic novel series and continue to be amazed at the consistent quality of each volume. I recommend this series to everyone, it’s just so well done!

This book goes towards the following reading challenges:
– You Read How Many Books? Reading Challenge
– New Release Reading Challenge
– Graphic Novel Reading Challenge
– Flights of Fantasy Reading Challenge