Not Your Idol, Vol. 1

This manga was dark and I felt emotional because of what Nina went through. I'm happy that Nina was someone who stayed quiet and did nothing when something happened. I'd say that Nina is a strong person after what she went through. 

This cover tops of begin an idol. Reading what idol had put up with was horrific. 

This manga was a surprise. It is so insightful, and the message is so much bigger than a manga series. Within these pages, Karen, an ex-idol, is dealing with trauma from an assault at a hand-shaking event. She has shut herself away, changed her name, and her appearance in an attempt to hide from the man who hurt her. She has moved and gone to school under an assumed name and is just trying to be invisible. This all changes of course, and I won't spoil it for you, but in a world where #MeToo has become necessary, this manga brings to light the effects of crass and inappropriate behaviors on women, and even touches on the way women have been brought up to endure this behavior. I'd like to give all my kudos to this author, and I am very much looking forward to reading vol. 2.

I received this as an ARC from @Netgalley, in exchange for my honest review.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thought and opinions are my own.

It isn't often I fall upon a psychological thriller in manga form, even more so when it is shoujo. Add in that this one deals with fan and idol culture and I knew I had to check it out. There are some great characters here, great build up of suspense, and cute artwork. I did think the attack on her would be... more considering the trauma she is going through, but I think I get it. The artwork is also... it is cute, but sometimes it doesn't feel right for what we are reading. Perhaps that is the point... 

Anyhow a great first volume!