Hiroaki Samura does an excellent job in his research of feudal Japan, and you can clearly see many 'traditional' elements when reading his work. What really captivates me is the rawness of the character that blends in beauty in a seductive way that you can almost feel. Sometimes I can hear swords clanging and characters grunting in pain as they fight to the death. You can especially see this when his art takes up a full two pages in some volumes.
Rin, my favorite character, is not your typical heroin, she's a clutz and cries easily. But she has a steely strength and a strong sense of honor that I admire. Even facing her mortal enemy who was responsible for her parents' murders, she still has her honor and listens to her heart even when she wants to kill.
I realize after reading all the available manga thus far, that there really isn't a 'bad' guy. True, there are those like Anotsu who kills for his purposes and feels no remorse. But after learning more about him, I can't help but feel pity for him and I can see why he does the things he does.
This manga is definately not for the faint of heart. There are bloody scenes, decpaitations, and severed appendages. But if you want a great story with complex characters, and like historical Japan, then this is for you.
Oh, and there are some kick-ass weapons used by many characters. A main reason for Anotsu's rampage and killing of dojo leaders is because of his contempt of 'traditional' Japanese teachings of the sword. So you'll see plenty of his followers using oddball weapons and tactics. My favorite is Makie's spear-like blades that she HIDES in a shamisen!!
In many ways I wish that there was an anime to match this manga, but it would be an exhaustive endeavor.
. Oh the drama of it all. 
