A Kingdom of Quartz Volume 1 Manga Review: A Captivating Blend of Beauty and Darkness

Discover the captivating world of A Kingdom of Quartz Volume 1 manga, where stunning artwork and a compelling storyline come together to create a unique reading experience. Dive into the fascinating setting of the Quartz Kingdom and follow the journey of the protagonist, Blue, as she faces discrimination and discovers her hidden powers. With its breathtaking art and a mix of beauty and darkness, this manga is a must-read for fans of captivating narratives.

A Kingdom of Quartz Volume 1 Manga Review: A Captivating Blend of Beauty and Darkness

A Kingdom of Quartz, the debut manga by Canadian mangaka BOMHAT, has captured the hearts of readers with its stunning artwork and compelling storyline. Published in Japan in 2023 and now available in the West, this manga effortlessly blurs the boundaries of what constitutes “genuine” manga, offering a unique and captivating reading experience.

BOMHAT’s artwork in A Kingdom of Quartz is nothing short of breathtaking. The clean and detailed illustrations bring to life a heavenly fantasy realm, filled with beautiful characters and mysterious angelic creatures. The art style shares similarities with Kamome Shirahama’s Witch Hat Atelier, exuding a nostalgic and classic illustration aesthetic reminiscent of John Tenniel’s work in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

The Quartz Kingdom: A Fascinating Setting

The Quartz Kingdom, where the story takes place, is a captivating world populated by angel-like winged Celes. These celestial beings protect the kingdom from demons and reside in a shining city separated from the darkness of the demon-populated lands. The protagonist, Blue, stands out with her rare black wings, which sets her apart from the white-winged Celes. The manga explores themes of discrimination and abuse, as Blue faces challenges due to her “deformity.”

A Dark and Beautiful Tale

While the manga initially presents a cute and charming atmosphere, it quickly takes a darker turn. As demons attack the Quartz Kingdom, Blue awakens a disturbing and dark power within herself. The subsequent battles are both visually stunning and unsettling, evoking a tone reminiscent of Madoka Magica and Made in Abyss. This contrast between the adorable and the blood-drenched adds depth to the story, keeping readers engaged and eager for more.

Protagonist and Plot Development

Blue, the protagonist, is a good-natured and innocent character who maintains her optimism despite the struggles she faces. Her encounters with Prince Cassian, a pretty boy angel and heir to the throne, add intrigue to the plot. Cassian’s fascination with Blue’s powers and his offer of future ascension provide her with a goal to work towards in subsequent volumes. As the first volume draws to a close, it is clear that Blue’s journey of self-discovery has only just begun.

Conclusion: An Enchanting Beginning

A Kingdom of Quartz Volume 1 leaves readers captivated and eager for more. BOMHAT’s exquisite artwork, combined with a fascinating world and a delightful protagonist, creates a manga that stands out from the crowd. Despite the volume’s relatively short length, the story manages to deliver a satisfying introduction while leaving readers craving for further exploration. A Kingdom of Quartz is a must-read for manga enthusiasts who appreciate beauty and darkness intertwined in a captivating narrative.