The critically acclaimed manga series Lonely Deaths Lie Thick as Snow (降り積もれ孤独な死よ, Furitsumore Kodokuna Shi yo), penned by Hajime Inoryū and illustrated by Shota Itō, is set to begin its highly anticipated final arc with the release of its 11th compiled book volume this winter. The announcement came through the 10th volume of the popular crime thriller, signaling the beginning of the end for its dark and suspenseful narrative.
The Road to the Final Arc for Furitsumore Kodokuna Shi yo
Lonely Deaths Lie Thick as Snow first began its serialization on Kodansha’s Magazine Pocket website in August 2021. Since its debut, the series has captivated readers with its intricate plot and gritty atmosphere, establishing itself as a significant entry in the noir, suspense, mystery, and crime genres. The manga’s narrative often features a unique blend of cinematic art and realistic storytelling, delving into terrifying mysteries and unexpected reversals.
As of August 2025, ten tankōbon volumes of the series have been released. The impending 11th volume will not only continue the story but also mark a pivotal turning point as it ushers in the manga’s concluding storyline.
Unraveling the Mystery: The Plot and Characters
The series is a dark police procedural that introduces Detective Jin Saeki. His journey into a world of bloody madness begins with a seemingly routine burglary call at an empty mansion, where he makes a gruesome discovery: the corpses of 13 children, alongside a mysterious symbol. This shocking revelation ignites a manhunt for Juzo Haikawa, the enigmatic absentee owner of the house, and plunges Saeki into an investigation that will take him across Japan and deep into the darkest corners of the human psyche.
The manga has garnered a strong following for its compelling character development and its unflinching exploration of crime and obsession. Readers have been drawn to the intense psychological elements and the constant twists that keep the story engaging.
Broader Reach: English Publication and Live-Action Adaptation
For international fans, Kodansha USA Publishing has licensed Lonely Deaths Lie Thick as Snow for English publication. The first English volume is expected to hit shelves in Spring 2026, or Q2 2026, allowing a broader audience to delve into its captivating mysteries.
Beyond its print success, the series also saw a live-action television drama adaptation. This drama aired for ten episodes from July to September 2024 on YTV and Nippon TV, further expanding the manga’s reach and popularity. The drama allowed fans to see the complex characters and compelling storyline brought to life, offering a new dimension to the already rich narrative.
As Lonely Deaths Lie Thick as Snow prepares to enter its final arc, fans eagerly await how Hajime Inoryū and Shota Itō will conclude Detective Saeki’s harrowing investigation and resolve the intricate web of crime and mystery they have meticulously woven over the past several years.
