STORY:
I' try my hardest not to compare it to the original one (despite some hates) the first FY did have some strong pros that made the manga and anime a breathtaking experience for readers and viewers alike (esp for shojo fans). What's really nice is that although, Genbu Kaiden was a prequel to FY, the story can stand on its own, it doesn't depend too much or even at all to the original FY story. Those who have not heard of the first FY would still be able to fully enjoy this book, and even more so, those who were a fan of the first FY will automatically fall inlove with Genbu Kaiden. The story has more depth, more details and definitely not predictable, get ready for some crazy plot twists!
ART:
One of the reasons why I love reading Watase-sama's works are her drawings, they are absolutely beautiful. Even the details on each character's clothes were as clear as day. She did made an itty-bitty change on her art style with genbu kaiden as far as comparing it to the first FY or Ceres (like some of the character's eyes and the shape of their faces) but it is not something to frown upon really. The characters, as expected are still gorgeous.
CHARACTERS:
Where do I start? Although I love the suzaku seishis to heart, the Genbu celestial warriors are the REAL DEAL. I'm not even exaggerating. I fell inlove with all of them. Each characters have strong back stories that didn't came out forceful in the story line. Takiko Okuda, the MC (Priestess of Genbu) is by far the most promising character in the series. She has the will and prowess of how a real priestess should be and it's not in a Mary Sue kind of way. She's definitely hardcore, she can fight battles on her own and her way of thinking is very realistic, selfless and mature. I think Yuu Watase has profoundly written the Genbu Seven as these fierce likable individuals to set an example for the next set of seishis and priestesses to come. They do not play around when it comes to where their loyalty stands and the hardships they endure in this series is AGAINST ALL ODDS. It's really interesting how most of the story's turn of events favors on each of the characters's own motivation as a celestial warrior. My fav. episodes are probably the last 5 chapters where we get to see all of the Genbu Seven fight 100,000 soldiers. They are indeed the best and probably the strongest of all the seishis in the Universe of the Four Gods.
OVERALL:
My whole reading experience with this manga is very gripping. I had to take a few breaks to get my breathing in check (laughs). It's a very enjoyable ride, to the point that you'll get attached to the characters, endure their pain, cry with them, laugh with them and fall in love. This is definitely a 100/10... and I would recommend this to all shojo readers out there, a must read!
