Requiem of the Rose (Vol 1) King Review

I am a theatre nerd (hence being an English and Theater major) and when it comes to Shakespeare, I am all in especially with different adaptations of his classic works. I am not a big fan of Shakespeare's historical plays, however, Requiem of the Rose makes me want to re-read Henry IV and read Richard III. An added bonus is that Aya Kanno also wrote one of my favorite manga series Otomen. I could not wait to start reading this and it met all of my expectations. Without further ado here is the review for Requiem of the Rose. 

Synopsis

In medieval England, during the age of the War of the Roses, a fierce battle rages between the House of York and the House of Lancaster. Young Richard of the House of York is determined that his family will ascend  the throne...but he's hiding a secret that could destroy everything he desires. 

I remember reading Richard III just recently last semester and I may have read Henry IV as well. If one has no idea about the original plays or read some and not all, it is not a problem. Aya Kanno makes the story original and engaging enough to sit and read, hungry for more volumes. The secret that Richard of Lancaster has, will spin the story in such a way that I did not see it coming nor did I that as part of the original story. It differs from the play but one could understand the premise and love the story. For veterans of the plays, it gives a whole new twist and it may peak your interest on how Aya Kanno takes the series even further. Also the artwork is amazing and it reminds me a lot of Otomen. This manga is a little more serious than Otomen however there were funny moments. 

Rating

I give this a rating of 9/10. Overall the story, characters, and artwork are amazing and I can't wait to read more from Aya Kanno. Manga Rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!