As someone who is a fan of science fiction and dark fantasy, I love stories that contain action-packed and terrifying adventures that lead to character development that is simultaneously heartwarming and tragic. All mixed and blended with bits of comedy and drama.
This is only my personal opinion, but I’ve found that only stories created by female writers have been able to find that perfect balance. Especially within the world of anime and manga.
There are some works that have garnered a lot of attention and praise, most notably Fullmetal Alchemist. But there are some lesser known works and authors that are of similar quality, that I am obligated to recommend to anyone that I bump into:
Ron Kamonohashi: Deranged Detective
Written & illustrated by Akira Amano
The titular character is a former ace detective who has a fatal flaw and has been banned from participating in criminal investigations after his involvement in a case-gone-wrong. When a struggling police officer named Totomaru Isshiki, comes to him for assistance with an unsolved case, they make a deal: Ron will help solve the cases while Toto takes all the credit. But there’s a mystery lurking in the shadows; one that may be connected to Ron and his fatal flaw…
Mushi-Shi
Written & illustrated by Yuki Urushibara
This anthology series follows a laidback wanderer named Ginko. He can see spirits called Mushi, which exist within all walks of life. Each story has Ginko act as a mediator between the Mushi and anyone who has been negatively impacted by them, and helps to find a peaceful solution that benefits both parties.
The Case Study of Vanitas
Written & illustrated by Jun Mochizuki
Noe Archiviste is a vampire who has been looking for the Book of Vanitas; a book that belonged to Vanitas, an outcast vampire born under the blue moon.
It’s currently being used by her human apprentice, also called Vanitas, who uses it to cure vampires and return their “true names” to them. Together, Noe and Vanitas work to help other vampires, while searching for the “Charlatan” behind it all.
Honorable Mentions
D.Gray-man
by Katsura Hoshino
Noragami
by Adachitoka
Witch Hat Atelier
by Kamome Shirahama
Dorohedoro
by Q Hayashida
Pandora Hearts
by Jun Mochizuki
