reinakun's manga / #Shoujo(8)

Timeless. I've read this series several times since I discovered it 10 years ago and it each re-read is as brilliant, if not moreso, than the last. "Basara" is a masterpiece and that's not something I say often when it comes to manga. Or ever. It's one of those stories that sinks into your bones and winds around your heart so that you still feel it long after you've finished reading it. I can't put into words how utterly, mind-blowingly stunning this series is. It has everything: gorgeous artwork; a strong, relatable heroine; an earth-shattering romance; amazing character development for both major and minor characters; a phenomenal cast you can't help but fall in love with; an unpredictable plot that will keep you riveted from start to finish; exciting political intrigue and action scenes; moments so touching you'll cry without realizing you're doing so; and lastly, so much depth. "Basara" does more than just tell an incredible story--it teaches lessens, it opens hearts and minds, and it makes you *think*. I learn something new every time I read it, be it about myself or others or the world as a whole. I'm so, so grateful that this story exists.

This is what I like to consider a "guilty pleasure" manga, meaning that I absolutely loved it and feel super guilty for doing so. The characters are awful and they treat each other terribly but damn if it wasn't delicious af despite that. To those interested in reading this all I've got to say is: leave your morals at the door and brace yourself for one helluva dramatic, romantic, and angst-ridden ride. Also, if rape triggers you then you should definitely back away as fast as possible.