“Heroism—a punishment for only the worst criminals. Those sentenced to the fate of a hero are forced to fight on the front lines against deadly centers of contagion that rot the land and turn its creatures into roving armies of violent beasts. And if a hero dies, their only reward is being brought back to life so they can continue the never-ending battle. But when Xylo Forbartz, a member of Penal Hero Unit 9004 and a convicted goddess killer, comes face-to-face with a new goddess, the pact they forge might just be enough to change the world…” (Yen Press)
For Western and Eastern pop culture fans, it is difficult not to draw a direct comparison between “Sentenced to be a Hero” and DC comic's “Suicide Squad.” Both take the approach of villains forced into servitude and feature a unique mix of outcasts with varied powers and mental stability. While drawing such comparisons seldom offers much substance in narrative or critique, the popularity of the DC property over the light novel may give readers a rough idea of what to expect. Moreover, Rocket Shokai's approach to ‘forced heroes' is far from a carbon copy of the formula and offers much beyond the stagnant DC property.
The series' success rests mainly with its characters; Xylo Forbartz is a well-constructed protagonist built off a strong morality. Out of the various criminals turned heroes, he is the only one who is a political prisoner, sentenced to cover up a conspiracy surrounding the Holy Knights–the group he now serves as a penal hero. Bound to Xylo through a mishap during battle, the goddess Teoritta makes a peculiar ally as her desire for praise outweighs everything else, and her inclusion does not seem tied to potential romance or fan service (a rarity in the fantasy genre). Perhaps this will change, but to start, the two are an ideal pairing in pushing toward action and navigating the politics and culture that Shokia has constructed.
The side characters in the story are equally important. They offer an intriguing array of peculiar eccentrics, some damaged by the resurrection process that ensures the heroes are used to their full potential and remain expendable. The chapters taking place in the Zewan Gan tunnels prove to be a highlight as they feature Norgalle, a master of crafting magic seals who happens to think he is kind, and Tatsuya, a man whose mind has rotten to the point it no longer feels exhaustion. The four working together in this book segment keep an enjoyable light comedic tone during the action-heavy sequences.
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Beyond the exceptional character crafting, Rocket Shokai excels in creating engaging fights, structuring the book as quick-paced with short chapters and several different incidents within the first volume. The emphasis on ‘fun' over a complex narrative may deter some, as the overarching story is slowly revealed as Xylo and his compatriots take on various tasks. Still, the book's delivery and action-heavy focus make for a quick read and ideal to throw in rotation with other light novel series.
The pacing, eccentric characters, and engaging world-building make “Sentenced to Be a Hero” an ideal choice for future adaptations, and it is not surprising to learn that it has already been announced for future release. While the release date is still TBD, readers who like getting in early on forthcoming releases will find allure in jumping into the series from volume one.
The art provided by MEPHISTO complements the tone and style of Shokai's writing, being expressive and with a slightly gritty aesthetic. This extends to the two-page pull-out spread at the front of the book that visually represents each character contained within. The only slight shortcoming is that the illustrations are lighter on the action, but this is a minor niggle in an otherwise well-presented visual accompaniment.
“Sentenced to Be a Hero” impresses in its inaugural release, thanks to the strong cast of characters that help keep the tone enjoyable comedic, and action-heavy. At the same time, the substance of a grander story does not land, and the overall success of the series feels like it will rest with the subsequent volumes. However, “Sentenced to Be a Hero” is an ideal pick-up for an easy-to-read page-turner that should please most fantasy light novel fans.
