Dowman Sayman probably my favorite mangaka of all time. His minimalist cartoony artstyle is instantly recognizable. His interesting quirky storytelling through strange plots and small stories building the main overarching story remains my favorite. And his dark humor never fails to crack a smile on my mug. The Voynich Hotel is a fantastic culmination of these traits making it one of my alltime favorites. 620https://pm1.narvii.com/5950/437e4cd052b42764718eb58531e6f5450251c42400.jpg Story Taizou Kuzuki escapes to the Voynich Hotel a rundown resort on a quaint island called Blefuscu in the South Pacific after dealing with some troubles back in Japan. He quickly discovers the bizarre nature of his new home as he becomes acquainted with Voynichs staff and occupants. Soon he finds himself entangled in everyones bizarre affairs and discovers the islands secrets. Dowman tells the story from multiple perspectives giving individual characters their own short stories. These short stories are very bizarre and unique almost making the series feel like an anthology of individual stories. However Dowman manages to smoothly connect them all with his wonderful use of recollection/referencing. For example Snark is a central figure in the Detectives and Sleuths Brigade plot lines. The series selling point lies in its absurd comedy. Dowman has mastered the art of dark humor effortlessly making murder sex suicide and necrophilia jokes in a natural lighthearted manner. Through the amusing dialogue and interactions between characters we additionally find out more about the world in The Voynich Hotel. The absolute absurd and eccentric nature of the comedy compliments the bizarre stories seamlessly making for a very entertaining read. Despite the storys general lighthearted tone it does have its emotional somber moments. Such as Snarks story. 620https://i.ur.com/chf8La3.png Characters The series characters contribute tremendously to the series absurdness as they themselves are very quirky and eccentric. You have a former Mexican prowrestler hotel owner a Japaneseotaku loli maid two assassinsturnedghosts a pothead government undercover agent etc. Theres also an air of mystery around them that dissipates as the story progresses and reveals more about their pasts. Their interactions and relationships are very entertaining to see unfold. 620https://i.ur.com/AgvrORk.png Art: The cartoony somewhat crude artstyle compliments the series ridiculous wacky tone. Its certainly reminiscent of oldtimey western cartoon comics like Popeye. The character designs and facial expressions are rather cute radiating an aura of hey have fun with this series. The art is definitely not perfect but it does what its supposed and maintains the lighthearted tone of the series. 620https://66.media.tumblr.com/750294dad926db89ed9690c7033282c6/tumblrozft9zeQ5P1qeug7uo11280.png Enjoyment The most entertaining series Ive read by far. Dark humor done right absurd gore a lovable artstyle and a very interesting story built on the foundation of multiple short stories. Ive read this 5 times and its quality is still fresh as ever. 620https://i.pin.com/originals/16/7a/f2/167af2b4310119e5c75c04abc17a1170.jpg Final Words The Voynich Hotel is a phenomenal comedy series with an interesting and enjoyable way of storytelling and cast of characters. The absurd nature is crafted very well making it feel natural as you continue reading and find out more about the bizarre world and its inhabitants. Its certainly a unique series by a unique mangaka and hasnt lost its taste after multiple rereads.