I was pleasantly surprised by this story about alt-history Russia that infuses magic alongside the historical elements. The artwork is lovely and atmospheric and the story engaging. I did have trouble connecting with the characters and feel that the novel could have been a little longer. Overall, a solid read.

Arale is the kind of graphic novel you tear through, eager to discover what happens next until you slam into a surprise finish. The story, the characters, the magic and intrigue - it’s all here and it’s epic. This is an alternate history of Russia after World War I like you’ve never seen. Rasputin and his cronies have created a hauntingly dark world of magic in order to trick the Russian people into keeping them in power. The story is wild, to say the least, but perfectly in keeping with the bizarre history of Rasputin and the unexplained events surrounding him.

A few spoilers ahead, so beware!

From a story perspective, this was just fascinating to me. The author pulls from Russian propaganda, pairing it with rustic science fiction technology to create this alternate state that continues under the Tsar. The realm of limbo is equally fascinating, filled with lost soldiers who are doomed to continue fighting the war for eternity. The concept of these machines and what they stand for is horrifying, yet it isn’t a surprise by the end. These zealots have lost any connection with human decency and are purely ruling to stay in power. The twist at the end promises a hectic and exciting second volume.

I loved the artwork. It’s a beautifully detailed comic book style that melts into an almost grotesque surrealism within limbo. The panels are extremely intricate and there’s an interesting usage of smaller panels to add to the overarching scenes. The battles are done well, and the incorporation of large, broken faces from statues adds that feeling of failed propaganda looming around every corner.

Overall, Arale is a fascinating take on what Russian history could have been (had Rasputin been magical and trapped Baba Yaga to do his bidding). The volume blends science fiction, fantasy, and alternate history into a fascinating tale that is sure to excite and shock readers.

A perfect story for the graphic novel treatment.
Russian 1934 an alternative history based on a perpetual war; a continued struggle that continues to demand and drain the blood of the country’s youth.
The story is enriched and embellished with the myths and magic behind the Tsar’s throne. Pulling the strings is mad monk Rasputin who’s powers transcend life itself. He has taken to cult of an immortal leader to its logical conclusion where a kind of mind transfer can heal the fallen Tsar and enable him to be reborn in the same body. Meanwhile the war itself is a means to maintaining order especially as the Tsar will lead them to ultimate victory over their enemies.
An interesting storyline and the need for a common enemy and a ever expanding army and development of modern weapons. The motivations of heroes of the state and a love for their country embodied within the Tsar.
An expansive tale full of dark and troubling imagery. The concept of a separate battlefield within the subconscious mind of the Tsar - Arale was literary mind blowing. The corruption of power, the disregard for life even on their own side. Everything is subservient to the worship of their own deity, the immortal Tsar.
Disturbing and a troubled commentary on pre-revolutionary Russia. Playing on the possibility some descendants survived the execution of the family and the unhealthy mysticism that maintained their dynasty. This dark perpetual alternative future hits home and shares messages of caution and reminders over closed political structures.

Basically, everything is said in the description. All I need to add to that is that art is fine looking, the story is interesting and engaging. Shame it's so short + the ending is probably ending but it asks for more.

A cool historical graphic novel. Art style is nice and crisp. The story itself is engaging and driven. I'll recommend this one.