The novel offers a deep and reflective interpretation of existential themes such as the existence of God, human consciousness, and the origin of the nightmares that plague humanity. What truly stands out is the use of fairy tales as a premise to explore these philosophical concepts, which is both captivating and addictive. As you progress through the story, you become immersed in the characters' traumas, ranging from parental abuse to the complex relationship between killer and victim, and even suicide. However, it’s worth noting that the scenes are extremely explicit and raw, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
Characters: 10/10
The true strength of the novel lies in its character development. Each character has a well-defined story and past, giving them a depth that is rarely seen in this type of work. Yukino, for example, is a fascinating character, as her struggle with her nightmare fragment and her emotional growth as she begins to feel affection for others is portrayed exceptionally well. Aoi, with an equally well-developed past.
Art: 7/10
The visual aspect of the novel is perhaps its only weak point. The art, while functional, feels quite simple and at times lazy, which could be attributed to its publication in 2006.
