When I first heard about this project I didnt know what to expect other than fighting being a big part of it. After meaning to read it for so long and now having done so, wow. PLEASE READ IT IF YOU HAVENT. I will share a few thoughts as a personal send off and compliments to the chef :> Where do I begin?
Early on they are very flawed and a lot of them come across like dicks, but that's why their development shines so much better. The hook for the whole story is set up so early that the resolution of it at the end of the story is a bitter sweet win. It was a perfect way to start off the narrative. And while the cast is small with only a handful of important characters, they all get so much love and attention and work incredibly well of each other, that I feel like any more would have been distracting.
The writing of the day to day life, the training, fighting and many of the heart to hearts were written so well that I got immersed in the world.
Fight days were the highlights, with the action being clear with mostly words and few visuals. While the mundane days leading up to it had drama and surprises around every corner. I never knew what to expect, sometimes it was silly with lighthearted moments thanks to Redline, Bucky and Drayden. Other times members of FANG as well as each interaction with Bruce left an uneasy air as well as a little bit of mystery? It was great.
This may not be true for everyone, but it felt nice being able to relate to a lot of the personal issues the cast was facing. (Not to spoil anything, but having a character be asexual made me jump out of my chair. Thank you for the representation I often feel missing in VNs ;v;)
When it comes to the late half of the story had me at the edge of my seat. The intensity of the conflicts increased with each passing month in the story, I was scared of what it all builds up to. I grew so attached to the characters that I was rooting for them like they close friends I desperately needed to succeed in order to know peace.
Although the story's end is satisfying, I adore its world and main cast so much, that it makes me wish there was more. These 3 grown goobers and their spiritual fathers stole my heart haha!
All this to say I loved it. It's been on my mind ever since, it resonated strongly with me and I cannot emphasize how well it's doing what it set out to do. Excited for future projects!!!
(I dont write reviews like ever so I hope my ramblings make sense haha)