This is an interesting story. Unfortunately, I get easily lost in keeping track of more than a few characters when I have to tell them apart graphically. Even with a character list at the beginning. It's a problem I have with lots of graphic novels. In this case, the characters mostly sorted themselves out as the story went on.

I am intrigued by the story. Arctic nomads, and a southern Empire (well, warmer clime empire) trying to civilize them. A new governor sent in, who isn't doing a very good job communicating with the nomads, and an a translator who appears to not only dislike everyone, but have his own agenda. And a sister who doesn't talk other than telepathically to him. And who also has her own agenda.

Twists and turns and ups and downs. This book has a lot crammed into its pages. And the chains run through it..so many chains..slavery, life, death, magic.

I can't say this is my favorite graphic novel--I personally prefer the more humorous Manga (such as Usagi Yojimbo). But I would read the second volume of this if I found it. It is a rich multi-layered story.

For a better summary of the story, see:
http://www.ravenschildren.com/intro.shtml

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