Death Note, Vol. 7

This volume is widely praised for reigniting the series with exceptionally strong developments and a heightened sense of tension. Many readers found it to be a brilliant and wonderful installment, with some even calling it their favorite. The plot is noted for picking up significantly, delivering non-stop intensity, numerous unexpected twists, and constant revelations that keep the audience on edge. Reviewers commend the author for making bold narrative choices, effectively shaking up the established story, and consistently surprising readers. The introduction of intriguing new characters also generates considerable interest and anticipation for future challenges, while the art during pivotal moments is highlighted as stunning.

Despite the excitement, the volume proved to be highly polarizing, eliciting strong emotional distress, surprise, and even anger from many readers regarding the drastic turn of events. A significant portion of the audience found certain developments disappointing or even "the worst," leading to feelings of unhappiness and a sense of detachment from the characters or story for some. There were complaints that parts of the volume felt slow or boring after the initial impactful shifts. A notable criticism also emerged concerning the portrayal of female characters, with reviewers pointing out a perceived lack of strong, well-developed women and an over-reliance on stereotypical roles. Many expressed not agreeing with the new direction, despite acknowledging the strategic brilliance behind it.

Overall, this volume marks an undeniable turning point in the series, frequently described as "the end of an era" and a "new beginning," where all narrative cards are completely reshuffled. While it generated intense, often conflicting, emotions among readers, it successfully delivers a story rich with strategic depth, unexpected developments, and a fundamental alteration of the series' trajectory. This book will likely appeal to readers who appreciate bold, unpredictable storytelling, complex plotting, and major narrative shifts, even if these changes evoke strong emotional reactions. However, those deeply invested in the established character dynamics might find the new direction challenging to embrace, as it sets a drastically different stage for the future of the series.