THE ASSASSIN LAUGHS AT TWILIGHT Vol. 1
by MeguriKukuru, illustrated by Paneguma
Available September 15
Chisato trained to be a doctor so he could wake his beloved sister Kayo from her thirteen-year-long coma. But tragedy strikes on the day of the surgery, killing both siblings before the operation can take place. But it's not the end for Chisato. He finds himself reborn in the fantasy world of Aberrant. And like all isekai heroes, he's got an impressive new power... unfortunately for him, he's been reborn as a master assassin!
Accompanied by the soft-spoken Mil, Chisato seeks out jobs that blend his passion with his talent: autopsies and, if necessary, revenge. His new role sees him coming in contact with goblins, ghouls, angels, and much more. His prices are steep, but his results speak for themselves. And maybe, despite his change in fortune, he can do something to help others on his new career path.
I'm unfamiliar with the original light novel of The Assassin Laughs at Twilight, but that doesn't spoil one's enjoyment of the manga. It's a nice change from the typical isekai fantasy tropes. Yes, there's a superpowered reincarnation, but this series is (at least for now) free of so many of the now-bland building blocks that make this fantasy subgenre so samey. The chapters in this volume are about half setup, half mystery, and the mystery chapters are engaging. Notably, these are the types of mysteries you can play along with, with hints scattered throughout that an astute reader could pick up on.
While this is a darker title, that doesn't necessarily mean it's grim. Our protagonist has a lot of heart, even if his methods are unusual. This is one I absolutely recommend to readers who are burnt out on traditional isekai, or readers looking for that often-overlooked fantasy/mystery blend.
DRINK PAIRING: Elixir of Serenity
For a story set in a world where potions have effectively replaced physicians, a selection from Velvet Hammer felt appropriate! This is their evening blend, with ingredients designed to help you relax and get a good night's sleep. I love mixing this sparkly cherry-flavored powder with a decaf tea as I do some late-night writing!













