I didn't care too much for the beginning at first, but thinking back on it now it really covered things quite nicely. To my surprise, it only got better and better. The plot envelops without any major "side-stories" that'll distract you from it, which plays a good role of keeping the reader immersed in the storyline.
Before I get into spoilers, this is one of the greatest mangas I've read. It reminds me a lot of a Gaku Miyao series called "Kazan". Yes SAO is much darker and more "mature", but I feel that it still has some of the intensity that SAO has.
Do yourself a favor and check this series out. It has some of the longest chapters ever, but each page is VERY entertaining. I give you my word on that.
Shin Angyo Onshi has a dark mood enshrounding it all the way until the
very last chapter. The ending really supported one of the morals of the story: let the dead rest in peace. Throughout Munsu's life, he never really had a true moment of "peace." It was always plagued with tragedy, misfortune, and sorrow. But when he dies, and reunites with all his friends, he is finally at peace with those he loves.
Also, some fret about how Sando and Munsu didn't develop much of a relationship. I feel that it was the best for the story, albeit I do feel the same way. Munsu already had his girl and Sando already had her man. Both are dead, so they can partly sympathize with each other except for the fact that Munsu had to live with the curse/illness.
One thing I do feel was integrated in more was Sando's change to the dark side. Although it was pulled off quite well, I felt she was ignored for waaayyy too long. I still love the fact that her innocence pulled through in the end.
End of rant. I love this series. I feel that it is one of the few that I'll be able to re-read...seeing as how I want to re-read 10 minutes after finishing the series lol.