MANHWA REVIEW: Revenge of the Baskerville Bloodhound, Vol. 1

REVENGE OF THE BASKERVILLE BLOODHOUND, Vol. 1
by TO WALK(REDICE STUDIO) and S.arang
Available January 20

Don't get ahead of yourselves: this is not another Sherlock Holmes retelling. The title, while eye-catching, is incidental. Revenge of the Baskerville Bloodhound is a manhwa adaptation of the novel series by the amazingly pen-named Step on a LEGO, and it's the latest time-rewinding revenge story. That in and of itself will give you a good idea of if this is for you or not.

Vikir Von Baskerville is the illegitimate son of Hugo Le Baskerville, patriarch of a family known for its sword skills and frankly unhinged traditions. After 40 years marked by grueling training from babyhood to defeat demons, the loyal Vikir is beheaded by his own father. But that's not the end — he reawakens as a baby, retaining all the memories of his past life.

With a chance to start over, Vikir puts all his past memories to work, fighting his way through martial and magic training to stand out among his siblings and half-siblings. As the first volume comes to a close, he's already considered a prodigy at his young age. But will it be enough to change his future?

Revenge of the Baskerville Bloodhounds is one of an increasing number of "do-over" stories rising in popularity, especially in the world of light novels and web novels. And it does hit all the marks of a fantasy-flavored one of these: executed, reawakens as a baby instead of dying, etc. Vikir's story is not a twist on the trope, nor is it (so far) head and shoulders above other stories like it. But it's still a fun read.

S.arang's art is gorgeous, and the aesthetic alone will reel in many readers. It's a gorgeous color edition, and visually, it's very engaging.

If you're not familiar with or not into stories of this type, something a little more upbeat like Tearmoon Empire might be the place to start. But if this is a subgenre you already love, dive right in.

TEA PAIRING: Headless Horseman
This manhwa's visuals give me big autumn and Halloween vibes. This Sleepy Hollow-inspired tea, with notes of pumpkin and autumn spice, is a perfect fit. Use my code KARA15 for 15% off this and other teas from Chapters Tea & Co.!