Magazine Pocket has just announced that Yae Utsumi, the creator behind gritty mystery dramas like Until Your Bones Rot and The Shadows of Who We Once Were, will begin a brand-new mystery manga titled Hundred Note -Ugly Duckling- on February 4. Fans of psychological suspense and tightly plotted mysteries have cause to be excited: Utsumi’s work is known for twisting narratives, moody art, and character-driven tension. Below we break down everything we know so far, what to expect from the new series, and where to read it when it launches.
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Yae Utsumi’s New Series: What We Know
Hundred Note -Ugly Duckling- is slated to begin serialization on Magazine Pocket on February 4. The announcement was posted via Magazine Pocket’s official X/Twitter account, accompanied by an illustration teasing the title. While plot details remain scarce at the time of the reveal, the subtitle “Ugly Duckling” and Utsumi’s track record point toward a mystery with psychological and possibly social themes—likely featuring an underdog protagonist, hidden pasts, and a slow-burn unraveling of secrets.
Where and When to Read
The series will be serialized on Magazine Pocket, Kodansha’s digital platform. International readers should check Magazine Pocket’s app or regional Kodansha outlets for availability. For the official announcement, see Magazine Pocket’s post on X/Twitter (link above).
Utsumi’s Past Works and Why This Matters
Understanding Utsumi’s previous work helps set expectations for Hundred Note. Her storytelling is notable for its mood, compact pacing, and willingness to explore uncomfortable truths—elements that often translate well into mystery and suspense manga.
The Shadows of Who We Once Were (Nare no Hate no Bokura)
Launched in Weekly Shōnen Magazine in January 2020 before moving to Magazine Pocket in November 2020, The Shadows of Who We Once Were ran until July 2021 and collected eight volumes. The series showcased Utsumi’s ability to blend character-driven drama with mystery elements, earning enough attention to warrant a live-action adaptation in June 2023. That adaptation highlighted the adaptability of Utsumi’s narratives to other media, a promising sign for future works.
Until Your Bones Rot (Hone ga Kusaru Made)
Serialized from 2016 to 2018 on Manga Box, Until Your Bones Rot spanned seven volumes and was released digitally in English by Kodansha USA. This earlier title helped establish Utsumi’s voice: gritty, atmospheric, and emotionally intense. Fans of this series will likely recognize thematic through-lines—morally gray characters, claustrophobic tension, and revelations that bite hard.
What to Expect from Hundred Note -Ugly Duckling-
Based on Utsumi’s established approach, Hundred Note is likely to include:
- Psychological mystery with an emphasis on character motivations
- Slow-burn reveals that reframe earlier events
- Atmospheric linework and panels that favor mood over spectacle
- Themes of transformation or identity (hinted by “Ugly Duckling”)
Utsumi often builds narratives that demand close reading; expect carefully placed visual and textual clues that reward attentive readers. If you enjoy thrillers that prioritize tension and moral ambiguity over action set-pieces, this will likely be a strong fit.
Adaptation Potential: Could Hundred Note Reach TV or Film?
Given the recent live-action adaptation of The Shadows of Who We Once Were, Hundred Note has a reasonable chance of attracting adaptation interest if it gains traction. Utsumi’s stories have cinematic qualities—tight plotting, striking dramatic beats, and strong character arcs—which translate well to live-action formats. However, adaptation typically depends on popularity and editorial backing, so early serialization performance will be key.
How to Follow the Release and Stay Updated
To follow Hundred Note -Ugly Duckling-:
- Follow Magazine Pocket’s official channels for announcements and chapter updates. The initial announcement was posted on Magazine Pocket’s X/Twitter. (Official post)
- Check digital platforms and Kodansha USA for English release information, as past Utsumi titles have seen English digital releases.
- Watch for tankōbon volume releases if you prefer collected print or digital volumes; these typically follow once enough chapters accumulate.
Why Mystery Fans Should Be Excited
Yae Utsumi’s storytelling consistently favors psychological depth and narrative twists, making her work a strong draw for mystery readers who prefer slow-burn suspense and character-centric drama. The “Ugly Duckling” motif promises explorations of identity, transformation, or societal perception—fertile ground for layered mysteries where appearances deceive and motivations are murky.
Reader Tips Before the Launch
- If you’re new to Utsumi, consider checking out Until Your Bones Rot or The Shadows of Who We Once Were first—both provide a good sense of her tone and strengths.
- Follow official channels for chapter release times to avoid spoilers and read in order—Utsumi’s plots often hinge on cumulative reveals.
- Look out for early volume announcements; publishers sometimes bundle extras or translated pages when an author gains attention.
For more on Utsumi’s past work and where earlier series were published, readers can explore the Manga Pocket archives and Kodansha USA’s digital catalog for English editions.
Final thoughts
Hundred Note -Ugly Duckling- is shaping up to be one of the more anticipated mystery debuts on Magazine Pocket this season. With Yae Utsumi at the helm, readers can expect a story that leans hard into psychological suspense, moral complexity, and carefully plotted reveals. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her work, mark February 4 on your calendar—this is one mystery series likely to reward close attention. Keep an eye on Magazine Pocket’s official updates for chapter releases and additional visuals as the launch approaches.
