The Detective Is Already Dead Volumes 1–4, An Ambitious Mystery That Struggles to Stay Grounded
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FOLIO OTN – The Detective Is Already Dead presents an unusual combination of mystery, supernatural elements, comedy, and character-driven drama. Across its first four manga volumes, the series follows Kimihiko Kimizuka, a former assistant to the legendary detective Siesta, as he continues dealing with the consequences of their past partnership even after her death.
One of the most interesting aspects of the story is the lasting influence Siesta has on Kimihiko. Although she is no longer actively present in the narrative, her relationship with him remains central to the direction of the plot. Kimihiko is gradually forced to confront the strange world of investigations and supernatural incidents that Siesta once introduced him to.
The manga also benefits from the interactions between its characters. Kimihiko and the other members of the cast frequently exchange sarcastic remarks and playful jabs, giving the story a lighter side despite its darker subject matter. Their conversations can create surprisingly funny moments and provide some relief between the more serious mysteries.
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The first four volumes are structured around several different cases, with each storyline introducing a girl whom Kimihiko encounters or attempts to help. While these cases appear to have their own individual problems, they eventually connect to the larger mystery surrounding Kimihiko and Siesta's shared history.
However, the storytelling becomes increasingly complicated as the series progresses. What begins as a relatively straightforward mystery gradually incorporates more extraordinary concepts and supernatural developments. Some revelations arrive without enough preparation, making certain solutions feel less convincing than they could have been.
This becomes particularly noticeable when characters suddenly demonstrate abilities or when Kimihiko reaches conclusions without the story providing enough clues beforehand. As a result, the mysteries can sometimes feel as though they are being resolved because the plot needs to move forward rather than because the preceding evidence naturally leads to the answer.
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