Storyline: it's quite original, as it mostly revolves around a power source called "Innocence" & also involves goth-looking Akuma. the plot is quite compelling & somewhat complex, but it drags on after a while & you'll soon realise that most of the chapters are spent on fighting & more fighting. the setting of the entire story is what makes this series different, it's a cross between Medieval & Modern England; I commend the mangaka for that.
Characters: Just like all Shounen manga, there's an array of characters in this series. The male protagonist, Allen Walker, is quite admirable because you can see how he develops in personality and strength. I can actually witness how he's also looking a whole lot more mature & well-built as the chapters progress. However, he can be a little naive & stupid, but then most mangaka like to create their heroes that way (I don't know why either). The rest of the cast are all right (the "Chosen" ones that the story centers on are Allen, Kanda, Lavi, Linali, Crow & Miranda), but nobody really stands out, except maybe Crow & Lavi. & to be honest, I find Miranda way cooler than Linali, not to mention more tolerable too. The woman just transformed into a vision of beauty; I think the mangaka should give her more credit, rather than just focusing on Linali.
Artwork: Very gothic and dark, which is awesome to see. The art & graphics also improve as you continue reading each volume. It's a fabulous sight for me so far.
Negatives: Linali/Linalee (whatever). She's reduced to a pathetic crybaby who's sheltered and fawned over by practically every male character she meets now. Seriously, can someone return the poor girl's dignity? I try to ignore her existence unless I really have no other choice.
Conclusion: A great series worth the read, but could also be improved on here & there.