It’s never what it seems.
Creative Staff
Story: Kafka Asagiri
Art: Sango Harukawa
Translation/Adaptation: Kevin Gifford
What They Say
Ranpo is forced into a difficult battle with Mushitarou, whose skill allows him to erase all evidence of a crime. Between a string of mystery novelist murders, Dazai’s arrest, and a mysterious organization known as “Decay of an Angel,” the twists and turns go beyond expectations!
Content: (please note that content portions of a review may contain spoilers):
Ranpo and Poe work together to capture and expose the murder mystery surrounding Dostoyevsky’s recruit, Mushitarou. As the truth comes to light, Ranpo exposes exactly how and why Mushitarou did it, but in this case how he didn’t. Just when Mushitarou might have a new lease on life, his car is stopped by Gogol, a Decay of the Angel member. Mushitarou tries to warn Ranpo, but it’s too late for Mushitarou.
With the Decay of the Angel killing four people, the Agency is tasked to stop the fifth suspected murder. Ranpo declines due to Mushitarou’s warning, but the President insists the Agency does all it can to prevent a murder from happening. While all signs lead to the idea that a government official is involved with the murders, it turns out that official, who wants revenge and destroy the Agency, is up to be the fifth murder.
Meanwhile, the Hunting Dogs, have found and arresting Dazai. The Agency is now under a test and their actions will possibly cost people their lives. Ranpo finds out that the Decay of the Angel stole a page from a book where anything that is written in it becomes real. Also, in addition to Gogol, Dostoyevsky’s a member of the group along with three other skill users. Atsushi has hands full with Gogol’s transportation skill. In the end, the Agency with all their good intentions ends up racing down the path of their own destruction.
In Summary:
The first half or more of the volume was intriguing, albeit a bit slow. I really enjoy Ranpo quite a bit, but unfortunately, when unraveling a theory, it takes a lot of talking and very little action. The rest of the volume made up for that in spades. Without giving the end away, I was happily surprised at the turn of events. I love being surprised by stories and this one did so beautifully. This series has never shied away from death or violence, but it upped its game this time. It’s written so well that it intrigues me greatly about the motives behind this new Decay of the Angel group. I hope this flow continues in the next volume.
Content Grade: B
Art Grade: B+
Packaging Grade: A-
Text/Translation Grade: A
Age Rating: Older Teen
Released By: Yen Press
Release Date: March 24, 2020
MSRP: $13.00
