James TomiokaOne of the best things about mystery and suspense manga is their unpredictability and the fun of solving puzzles!
Throughout the reading experience, my mind is constantly brimming with question marks, making it impossible to stop turning to the next page.
The revelations and plot twists at the end are thrilling to the point of making my heart race—it’s incredibly exciting.
10 Popular Mystery/Suspense Manga That Offer the Thrill of Solving Mysteries
James TomiokaMystery and suspense manga truly have an addictive quality when it comes to solving mysteries.
Reading them and making guesses here and there really makes you feel like a detective.
Tomahawk ShinobuPlus, I look forward to seeing how the foreshadowing set up in the story eventually connects!
I love that moment at the end when you say, “Oh, so that’s what it was all about!” That moment at the end is the best.
Brian TanjiroThe psychological battles and games between characters are incredibly engaging.
I find myself unable to stop turning the pages—it’s exactly the kind of content that keeps me up all night reading.
1st: The File of Young Kindaichi Returns
Brian TanjiroIt’s refreshing to see Kindaichi at 37 years old.
I can’t imagine him as the old man he used to be, and what a salesman he is!
James TomiokaBut the charm of Kindaichi as an “old man” is amazing.
He usually works for a PR firm, but when a case arises, his talent shines through.
Tomahawk ShinobuMiyuki’s appearance is another point of interest.
I wonder how the adult drama will tie in….
The tricks are as original as ever, and they surprise me every time I read them.
Reasons for Recommendation
- Grown-up protagonist: The once prodigious high school detective, Kindaichi, is now a 37-year-old adult, giving the character a new appeal. His matured persona and unchanged detective skills are the highlights.
- Adult Drama and Mystery Solving: The mysteries and dramas that confront Kindaichi now that he is an adult, after having solved cases as a student, are more complex and deeper. This change brings new life to the story.
- Continuation of the authentic mystery: The authentic mystery that has been delivered at a high level throughout the series is alive and well. The intricate tricks and unexpected twists and turns are a must for mystery fans.
- Fusion of nostalgia and novelty: Both fans from the high school days and readers newly introduced to the series will enjoy the content. The reappearance of old characters and their intertwining with new ones will appeal to a wide range of generations.
- Enjoyable for readers of all ages: While the series follows Kindaichi’s growth, the mystery element that is the essence of the series remains the same, making it a work that readers of all ages can enjoy.
2nd: Moriarty the Patriot
Tomahawk ShinobuMoriarty, the sorrowful Moriarty, presents a fresh and intriguing perspective in this comic.
It portrays the world of Sherlock Holmes from the viewpoint of his youthful adversary, Moriarty.
James TomiokaWilliam Moriarty’s anguish.
The depth of the book prompts readers to question whether their ‘cleansing’ actions are justified or evil.
Brian TanjiroThe illustrations are stunning and truly capture the dark atmosphere of the story.
Moriarty, as a dark hero, is indescrib
“The illustrations are stunning and truly capture the dark atmosphere of the story. Moriarty, as a dark hero, is indescribably cool.
Reasons for Recommendation
- NEW PERSPECTIVE: Adds a new dimension to a known character by featuring his nemesis in the Sherlock Holmes series, Professor Moriarty, and telling the story of his younger days. It offers readers the freshness of experiencing the story from a different perspective.
- Deep Themes: Dealing with weighty themes such as social inequality and the class system, and the actions of the Moriarty brothers in confronting these issues, the book raises questions in the reader’s mind about what justice is and what evil is. This deep thematic depth adds depth to the story.
- Dark Hero Appeal: The complex characters of the Moriarty brothers and the dark deeds they perform in pursuit of justice are fully realized as dark heroes. Their struggles and decisions make you sympathize with them and root for them.
- New Interpretation of the Original: Based on the work of Arthur Conan Doyle, this manga is sure to draw even fans of the original work into new interpretations and developments. The different approach from the original will satisfy existing fans as well.
- Beautiful artwork: The story’s charm is further enhanced by the beautiful artwork. Many readers will be drawn to the beauty of the artwork, which is carefully rendered down to the smallest details of the characters’ emotions and backgrounds.
3rd: In/Spectre
James TomiokaIn/Spectre is truly a novel type of mystery narrative.
It incorporates elements of fantasy, like peculiarities and ghosts, but fundamentally, it remains a robust mystery.
Brian TanjiroKotoko’s character is genuinely intriguing.
Her method of intertwining the bizarre with logic makes her a delight to follow.
Tomahawk ShinobuI’m also curious about the relationship between Kuro and Kotoko.
It will be interesting to observe how the two become intertwined in the narrative and where it leads.
The storytelling approach in the manga adds an additional layer of intrigue.
Reasons for Recommendation
- A new kind of mystery: A novel storytelling approach that blends traditional mysteries with elements of yokai and urban legends. This distinct amalgamation provides readers with a fresh experience.
- Confrontation of the bizarre and logic: Central to the narrative is the protagonists’ endeavor to decipher the realm of the bizarre using logic. This effort to “reinterpret the unreal in a realistic manner” proves to be captivating.
- Fascinating characters: The characters, including a young girl as the main character and a man feared even by monsters, are intriguing. Their unique personalities, backgrounds, and relationships enrich the story.
- Easy-to-read manga presentation: Despite tackling complex themes, the manga’s unique visual storytelling simplifies comprehension and engagement. Coupled with the characters’ endearing qualities, the manga becomes accessible to a broad audience.
- Involvement of romantic elements: The subtle integration of romantic elements into the fabric of the mystery and narrative adds an additional layer of interest. Readers become invested not only in the unfolding mystery but also in the characters’ emotional journeys.
4th: Red River
Brian Tanjiro“Red River” is indeed a captivating piece.
The premise of Yuri being transported back in time to another world, specifically the ancient Hittite empire, felt novel and refreshing.
Tomahawk ShinobuI believe many readers of this book have grown interested in Hittite and Egyptian civilizations.
Yuri’s vibrancy and the love she chooses add significant depth to the narrative.
James TomiokaThe story, rich with historical context, intrigue, and tender development, is indeed thrilling.
Despite being an older work, it possesses a timeless charm that remains captivating even today.
Reasons for Recommendation
- Otherworldly meets historical: Set in the ancient Hittite Empire, “Otherworldly” presents an enthralling mix of history and fantasy. This distinctive setting provides a novel experience for readers.
- A story of the main character’s growth: The narrative tracks Yuri’s development and adventures as she is unexpectedly transported from high school to another world. It offers inspiration and hope through her journey of self-discovery and internal transformation.
- A rich and rewarding story: Despite its length, the engaging plot and the detailed historical backdrop keep readers captivated. The story’s richness and depth make it irresistibly compelling, ensuring that once readers begin, they are unlikely to stop.
- A blend of history and romance: The accurate historical depictions drawn from ancient civilizations, combined with the romance between the main characters, enrich the narrative. This romantic aspect introduces a delightful sweetness to the story.
- Stimulates interest in history: By weaving the histories of the Hittite and Egyptian civilizations into the narrative, the book ignites readers’ interest and curiosity about history. It offers a captivating historical engagement that textbooks alone cannot provide.
5th: Master Keaton
Tomahawk Shinobu“MASTER Keaton” is indeed a treasure trove of adventure and knowledge.
Keaton’s versatility, both as an archaeologist and a former survival instructor for the SAS, is astounding.
James TomiokaI’m consistently amazed at Keaton’s ingenious solutions, like using chocolate to stop a bomb.
The unique worldview and the blend of reality and fiction are truly captivating.
Brian TanjiroKeaton’s relationships with those around him, particularly his daughter Yuriko and his father Taihei, enrich the narrative.
I appreciate the character’s austerity, including his moments of dullness.
Reasons for Recommendation
- Versatile protagonist: An archaeologist, former SAS instructor, and insurance investigator, Keaton leverages his broad skill set and experiences to unravel complex cases. His distinctive character surprises readers with novel perspectives.
- A fascinating story mix: Offering an ideal blend of archaeological adventure, military tactics, and mystery, this narrative appeals to enthusiasts across various genres. The plot seamlessly merges reality with fiction, establishing it as a compelling read.
- Global settings: Keaton’s escapades across Europe introduce him to diverse sites and cultures, immersing the reader in a global journey through the pages of the book.
- Re-read appeal: The book’s charm lies in its re-readability. Discovering new elements with each read ensures that the experience never grows tiresome.
- Balance of austerity and humor: Despite Keaton’s seemingly dull exterior, his adventures and the story’s sprinkled humor create a work that is both serious and light-hearted. This balance endears the stories to many, making them beloved by a wide audience.
6th: The Holy Grail of Eris
Brian TanjiroI love the dynamic between Connie and Scarlett in “The Holy Grail of Eris.”
It’s a refreshing mix of a modest Viscountess and a villainous ghost.
Tomahawk ShinobuScarlett truly has a good heart, and I find myself cheering for her more and more.
Their development and growing bond are highlights for me.
James TomiokaThe incorporation of mystery and crime suspense enriches the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple reincarnation story.
The brisk pace of the dialogue further tightens the storyline.
Reasons for Recommendation
- A unique character duo: The story is enriched by the unique pairing of the protagonist, the somber Viscountess Connie, and the spirited villainess Scarlett Castiel. Their contrasting personalities create a compelling dynamic that engages readers.
- A wide range of genres: The narrative masterfully weaves together human drama, crime suspense, mystery, and romance, offering a multifaceted reading experience that appeals to a broad audience.
- Engaging storytelling: With its rapid-fire dialogue and unforeseen plot twists, the story captivates readers, making it difficult to put down.
- Characters you’ll root for: Despite her past as an executed villainess, Scarlett’s inherent goodness endears her to readers. Connie, evolving through her quest for revenge, becomes a character whose journey you’ll want to follow.
- A new perspective on reincarnation: “The Holy Grail of Eris” presents an innovative approach to the reincarnation theme, incorporating mystery elements and crafting a distinctive narrative that deviates from typical reincarnation story tropes.
7th: 7SEEDS
Tomahawk ShinobuWhen I read 7SEEDS, I really cringe at the thought of this future becoming a reality.
The reality of survival is amazing.
James TomiokaThe stories are deep, and Tamura-sensei’s work truly transcends the boundaries of shoujo manga.
The individual stories become more and more intertwined, and they become one big story.
Brian TanjiroIt really makes you think about what you choose to do in order to survive, and those choices.
The world that Mr. Tamura describes has some gory scenes, but that’s what makes the story so realistic.
Reasons for Recommendation
- SURVIVAL REALISM: This story is a realistic depiction of what it takes to survive. Through survival techniques, struggles with nature, and the complexity of human relationships, the story leaves a deep impression on the reader.
- Diverse Characters: The drama of these unique characters adds depth and color to the story. Their growth, change, and inner conflicts move readers emotionally.
- Near-future worldview: The near-future setting of a post-extinction Earth seems unrealistic, yet somehow realistic and foreboding of the near future. This worldview is one of the factors that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
- Epic storytelling: The individual survival stories intertwine in a larger flow, weaving an epic tale. This breadth and depth makes for a rewarding read.
- Thought-provoking themes: The questions posed throughout the book, “What would you do if this really happened?” Yumi Tamura’s words are powerful and stay with you long after you have read the story.
8th: MONSTER
Brian TanjiroMONSTER, as the name suggests, is a scary read, but I can’t help but be curious about the rest of the story.
Tenma and Johan, their story really pulls you in.
James TomiokaThe atmosphere of this film is already a perfect mix of frightening and compelling.
I’m particularly impressed by the mystery and suspense, especially the part where the human sins are confronted in the midst of mystery and suspense.
Tomahawk ShinobuYou can’t forget the feeling you get after you finish reading it.
You can’t get enough of it after reading it once, and you want to read it all over again. Naoki Urasawa’s worldview is amazing.
Reasons for Recommendation
- Intricate storytelling: Naoki Urasawa’s works are known for their intricate plots and deep psychological descriptions. In “MONSTER,” Naoki Urasawa’s skills are on full display, drawing the reader deep into the world of the story.
- Profound Themes: This work delves deeply into human sin, ethics, and redemption. Through the “monster” of Johan, the story explores the line between good and evil and the darker side of human nature.
- Fascinating Characters: Each of the characters, including Tenma, has a complex background and psychology. Their growth and change leave a strong impression on the reader throughout the story.
- Interweaving history and reality: Set against the backdrop of Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall, the story is a perfect blend of historical events and fiction. Real world events and situations add depth and realism to the story.
- Lingering after-reading: The stories leave readers thinking about their themes, characters, and developments long after they have finished reading them. It is so engaging that many readers are compelled to pick up the story again, even after finishing it once.
9th: Arata Natsume’s Marriage
James Tomioka“Natsume Arata’s Marriage” always amazes me with its really unpredictable development.
Everything starts to change when Arata meets Shinagawa Shinju.
Brian TanjiroI was really horrified when the identity of the Shinagawa clown was revealed.
But as the story progresses, we get to know Shinagawa Pearl’s humanity and background, so we see a deeper side to her than just a criminal.
Tomahawk ShinobuThe charm of this manga lies in the beauty of the drawings.
In particular, the emotions of the characters are so finely rendered that you can almost feel their feelings in your hand.
Watching the relationship between Arata Natsume and Pearl Shinagawa change is really exciting!
Reasons for Recommendation
- Unique setting: The theme of marriage and the unusual encounter between the protagonist, who works at a child guidance center, and a serial killer make the story unique.
- Unpredictable development: The story always takes the reader by surprise, and once you start reading, you will not be able to put it down until the very end.
- Human kindness: The human connection and tenderness that underlies the story is inspiring.
- Beautiful drawings: The gorgeous and delicate artwork enhances the appeal of the story.
- Attractive characters: The main character, heroine, and other characters are very attractive, and their growth and changes are also noteworthy.
10th: Summer Time Rendering
James TomiokaOnce you start reading “Summer Time Rendering” you really can’t stop.
It starts with the shocking event of Ushio’s death, but it is interesting to see the mystery hidden on Hitotoge Island being unraveled little by little.
Tomahawk ShinobuEvery time you go back in time, the situation changes, and you discover something completely different in the same scene.
The foreshadowing is cleverly laid out, and there are so many things you don’t notice just by reading it once, so it’s fun to discover something new every time you reread it.
Brian TanjiroThe atmosphere of this manga, in the beginning, is really classic horror-like and interesting.
But gradually, digital technology and other modern elements are incorporated, which is refreshing.
The atmosphere of the island of Hito Keshima in Wakayama City is also very nice and makes you feel as if you are there too.
Reasons for Recommendation
- A refreshing read: The speedy development and exhilarating atmosphere make this a must-read in a single sitting.
- Unique story structure: You will enjoy the detailed foreshadowing that you did not notice on the first reading, and the deep story structure that you will discover new things every time you reread the story.
- Constant suspense: The never-ending thrill of the story is scary, but it keeps you on the edge of your seat.
- Fresh and digital elements: Classic horror atmosphere combined with new-age digital elements.
- Rich reading experience: The clever use of fluctuating time frames keeps you guessing as to what will happen next. The depth of the original story and the high level of perfection of the animation are also wonderful aspects of the film.