Testarotho: Volume 1

Testarotho #1

by Sanbe Kei

Young Capria has completed her studies at the Arsenal School and has begun her internship with the Elysia Unification Council under Father Garrincha. But no lessons could prepare this sheltered novice for the outside world, where rebels battle against the dreaded "Testarotho." Heretics are tried and burned at the stake, warring religious factions battle for power, and the common people live a miserable life in feudal servitude. Can she bring a spark of hope to a world filled with destruction and madness?Maybe if she lives long enough!

Genres: Manga

168 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[David Doel · Rating 1 out of 5]

This more evidence (from manga) that Christianity did not follow the teachings of Christ in Japan. The art is marginal and the story is so-so. Fortunately, I only bought volume 1.

[intrepideddie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is sort of a "re-imagining" of the Catholic inquisition: it's about the "church" forcing conversion on pagans; with the story focusing on a small group of characters and the individual ways they come to terms with their beliefs. (Though, this first book is mostly setting up the characters.) Lots of potential set up in this first book for complex subplots with the different characters exploring their faith. It will be very interesting to see where this story goes in the subsequent books.

Good artwork (note there is some graphic depiction of violence and some nudity).

[Holly Letson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I went into this, not liking where it was going. I don't fancy reading about people being burned at stake, especially for crimes they did not commit. But, once the action picked up, later in the volume, I actually enjoyed this.

[Geoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would have been great if it was finished