A review by jennifermreads
Moriarty the Patriot, Vol. 1 by Ryōsuke Takeuchi

dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

For a few months, I had been eyeing this manga on my library’s “new books” shelf. I mean, Moriarty?! My curiosity was high when I thought of how on earth this devious villain from the Sherlock stories would spin-off in his own adventures.

I did enjoy this first volume. While “short” in that there are only three chapters, each chapter is quite meaty and detailed. The first story, <i>The Scarlet Eyes</i>, gives readers the background for how young Moriarty came to be. The origin story is unique and I really enjoyed the glimpse of the eldest Moriarty, Albert, wanting to work with two orphans to change the caste system of England. The second and third stories move forward thirteen years and we get to witness William Moriarty begin to use his wit and knowledge to take down members of the noble class. 

I’m not exactly sure why I am not gushing about this manga. I like the premise, I was intrigued by the created backstory, and the stories do have the feel of a Conan Doyle “deduction” at the end. But something is not clicking with me to raise it from “it was good” to “this is amazing!” Maybe I just need another volume to get comfortable with the characters and fully immersed in their world? 
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