A Heartbreaking Beginning
Roar: A Star in the Abyss begins with Misato, a young girl living in the countryside who has a natural talent for acting. Her small role in a TV show changes her life dramatically, but not in a good way. Soon after her episode airs, her family’s house burns down. Instead of finding comfort with her neighbors, a stranger appears, claiming to be her real mother, and takes her away to the mainland.
What follows is a terrible experience for Misato, with flashbacks that reveal the secrets of her birth and childhood. Misato doesn’t know that her past is filled with mystery and lies. Instead of finding answers, she faces abuse from her new “family,” especially her adoptive mother and sister, Ayane. Only at the end of the first volume does she manage to escape.
Secrets and Lies
While Roar: A Star in the Abyss doesn’t reveal all its secrets in the first volume, the setup is already captivating. This manga is incredibly sad and tragic, comparable to the most emotional moments in “Candy Candy” and “Idol Densetsu Eriko.” “Oshi no Ko” is another obvious comparison, although the showbiz aspect is only hinted at in this first volume.
Despite everything she goes through, Misato holds onto hope by cherishing the memories of her childhood. She keeps her rural accent even after living away from home for ten years. She also brings joy to herself and her disabled “brother” by reciting stories from her childhood. As the first volume concludes, it’s one of these recitations that finally brings her positive attention.
What Awaits Misato?
Roar: A Star in the Abyss started in May 2023 and is still ongoing. Therefore, we don’t know exactly how the story will unfold. We have learned some of Misato’s tragic history, but some parts remain unclear. There is clearly a larger plot at play, even beyond what we, as readers, are aware of. Misato herself knows even less than we do. The possibilities are endless as Misato uncovers secrets and eventually starts to take action.
Ai Okaue’s artwork begins with a cute style in the early chapters, but it effectively conveys Misato’s sadness and the cruelty of her tormentors. Both beautiful and chilling to look at and read, this manga is a must-read for fans of drama.
Roar: A Star in the Abyss Vol. 1 goes on sale June 3.
Deeper Dive into Misato’s World
The strength of Roar: A Star in the Abyss lies not only in its dramatic plot but also in its richly developed characters. Misato is a compelling protagonist whose resilience shines through even in the darkest of times. Her unwavering hope and determination to hold onto her past provide a glimmer of light amidst the overwhelming despair. The supporting characters, particularly her cruel adoptive family, are equally well-crafted, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
The manga also explores themes of identity, family, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity. Misato’s struggle to reconcile her past with her present and future is a central conflict that drives the story forward. The mysteries surrounding her birth and childhood create a sense of intrigue that keeps readers guessing and eager to uncover the truth.
Artistic Brilliance
Ai Okaue’s artwork is a crucial element in the success of Roar: A Star in the Abyss. The artist’s ability to capture a wide range of emotions, from Misato’s innocent joy to her heart-wrenching sorrow, is truly remarkable. The character designs are distinct and memorable, and the backgrounds are detailed and immersive, creating a vivid and believable world. The use of light and shadow is particularly effective in conveying the mood and atmosphere of each scene.
The contrast between the cute, innocent style of the early chapters and the darker, more intense style of the later chapters is a deliberate choice that reflects Misato’s transformation and the increasing darkness of her circumstances. This artistic shift enhances the emotional impact of the story and makes it even more compelling.
Why You Should Read It
Roar: A Star in the Abyss is a manga that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. Its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and stunning artwork make it a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re a fan of drama, mystery, and stories of resilience, this is a manga that you won’t want to miss. The first volume is just the beginning of Misato’s journey, and there’s no telling what secrets and challenges await her in the future.
The manga’s exploration of complex themes, such as the nature of family and the pursuit of dreams, adds depth and meaning to the story. It’s not just a tale of revenge; it’s a story about finding your place in the world and fighting for what you believe in. Misato’s unwavering spirit in the face of adversity is an inspiration, and her journey is one that will resonate with readers of all ages.
Final Thoughts
Roar: A Star in the Abyss Vol. 1 is a promising start to a captivating manga series. With its compelling characters, intriguing plot, and stunning artwork, it’s a must-read for fans of drama, mystery, and stories of resilience. Be sure to pick up your copy on June 3rd and prepare to be swept away by Misato’s unforgettable journey.