Coffee Moon Volume 4, and the entire series so far, confuses one moment, then adds enough action and surprises to keep it interesting. The characters are starting to stand out more, but the few convoluted explanations still increase confusion. It’s easy to yell, “What is happening?” Coffee Moon Volume 4 builds some great moments, particularly in the latter half. However, some folks might bypass the series for a more straightforward tale.
Created by Mochito Bota, translated by Ko Ransom, and lettered by Phil Christie, this volume begins with Pieta realizing something is amiss as she spies the clock hands at the clock tower. With five chapters in the Yen Press manga, the buildup stops and starts at the beginning. However, as they encounter other people, some with powers, there’s danger and growth potential.
Coffee Moon Volume 4 Continues a Perplexing Mystery
At first, Coffee Moon seemed like a creepier version of Groundhog Day or Happy Death Day. Now, organizations are lurking in the shadows, and unknown factions of people with abilities —or “dilemmas” that are like shadow selves— are hellbent on destroying them. All of it does not tie in clearly. So, readers might have a case of spiraling eyes as they try to comprehend the larger situation. Its mystery is too broad and scarce with details, creating frustration.
While the Syzygy faction wants to kill them, there’s a group opposing them led by a woman with spiral glasses named Stephanie. However, introducing new groups and characters doesn’t help when the overarching questions still need to be answered. Who is Syzygy? Who is the new group? There’s too much happening that builds up confusion and uncertainty about what’s unfolding.
Characters and Art Keep It Flowing
The Doppelganger aspect adds a dimension to the characters. It’s like they are the physical manifestation of each character’s insecurities. When the original falls into despair, they are gone. This allows for a more ranged character, albeit inhabiting two different bodies. Coffee Moon Volume 4 balances exploring people, particularly Pieta and Chiaro.
Like the supposed haunting in Leona’s home, Chiaro’s interaction with Eugena creates comedic moments. But even while laughing, there is a perplexed facet to the mirth. It’s impossible to go from a magical girl car chase with Eugena trying to kill Chiaro, then transition to Chiaro teaching Eugena music, swimming, and the like. Coffee Moon Volume 4 might entertain, but confounding and drastic shifts cause whiplash.
The art style, saturated black and white, and the continued rain keep the noir style that maintains the series’ charm. The clothes each one wears cement it as a visually compelling story. Four volumes in and the artwork never gets old. Unfortunately, the series might start losing significant steam if it doesn’t explain this world readers find themselves in.
Characters and Style Might Not Be Enough
Coffee Moon Volume 4 has magical girl fights and hilarious, cutesy moments galore. But each volume only adds bewilderment as enigmas tack on one after the other with no answers. Even the little they attempt to explain needs more clarity. Coffee Moon Volume 4 ends with a shocking cliffhanger but diminished tension because the stakes are unclear. So, whether this series is worth the effort remains to be seen.
