Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Tantei wa Mou, Shindeiru
"The Detective is Already Dead" certainly grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise: a former detective's assistant pulled back into the game after her death. After diving in and considering the opinions of other readers, here's my take.
First Impressions
Initially, I was expecting a melancholy story, heavy on reminiscing about the past. While that element exists, I quickly discovered that the plot is far more dynamic. Kimizuka, our protagonist, isn't just wallowing in grief; he's reluctantly dragged back into a life of mystery and adventure, seemingly destined to be more than just an assistant. The early volumes hooked me with their compelling characters and intricate plot, leaving me eager to see where the story would go.
What Works Well
The characters are undoubtedly a strong point. Siesta, the deceased detective, is captivating, and the author does a great job of making you feel like you knew her personally, despite her absence. The dynamic between Kimizuka and the new female lead, Nagisa, is also interesting, offering a different kind of partnership. The story blends genres effectively, weaving together mystery, romance, and even supernatural elements into a cohesive narrative. Many readers praise the plot's ability to keep you immersed, with each event drawing you deeper into the characters' feelings and the overarching mysteries. The supernatural elements, while unexpected, were a welcome addition that helped connect the dots in the story.
Areas of Concern
Volume 5 appears to be a sticking point for many. There are concerns about plot inconsistencies, character motivations, and a perceived shift in the main heroine focus, which left some feeling that the earlier volumes were misleading. Some found that the author seemed to change the characters' personalities and rewrite their relationships on a whim.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
The following section contains spoilers regarding plot developments in later volumes.
Several readers expressed disappointment with the revival of Siesta. The way it was handled felt rushed and riddled with plot holes. The shift in focus back to Siesta as the main heroine, after Nagisa's significant development, felt jarring and inconsistent. There are also complaints about the villain's motivations changing abruptly, and characters acting out of character.
Final Verdict
"Tantei wa Mou, Shindeiru" starts strong, with engaging characters and a compelling plot. However, based on some readers' experiences with later volumes, particularly Volume 5, the story seems to falter. While the initial volumes are worth a read, proceed with caution, knowing that the narrative may take unexpected turns that not everyone will appreciate. For now, I'm cautiously optimistic, hoping the author can address the concerns raised and steer the story back on track.
