Can’t Stop Cursing You Vol. 4 ramps up the stakes in the supernatural murder mystery series, combining chilling curses with the eerie backdrop of idol culture. Saeyama, the ever-composed and sharp-witted Curse-Breaker, along with his assistant Yamazaki, is pulled into a new case involving the idol group “Maid On!”—a rising pop sensation that becomes the target of a deadly curse. The glittering world of fame is quickly overshadowed by bloodshed as the investigation reveals that one of the group’s members may be cursed, and the countdown to the next victim has already begun.
Right from the start, the volume grips you with the mystery of a public curse-kill threat issued to the police. The suspect is a new contractor—someone who has struck a sinister deal to curse another for personal gain—and the sense of urgency intensifies as Saeyama and Yamazaki work to uncover their identity before time runs out. The pacing is incredibly tight, building suspense through a series of increasingly intense discoveries, while never losing its razor-sharp focus on the psychological implications of the case.
A standout theme in this volume is the exploration of idol culture’s darker side. On the surface, “Maid On!” is a success story filled with fame, smiles, and fan adoration. But beneath that facade lies a high-pressure world of jealousy, obsession, and deep insecurity. The narrative peels back these layers, offering a sobering commentary on what individuals are willing to sacrifice for adoration and validation. These themes are seamlessly woven into the curse mystery, giving the story both personal and cultural relevance.
The relationship between Saeyama and Yamazaki remains a highlight. Their partnership, while professional, has grown to reflect genuine trust and camaraderie. Yamazaki shows real growth here—not just in her investigative abilities but in her emotional maturity. Her reactions to the unfolding horrors add a grounded layer to the story, and her dynamic with Saeyama brings needed levity and warmth amidst all the grimness. Their evolving bond adds a human dimension to the otherworldly tension.
Artistically, the volume shines. The contrast between the dazzling world of idols and the grotesque curse sequences is visually striking. Character designs are crisp and expressive, enhancing both comedic timing and dramatic weight. The horror elements are handled with precision—disturbing without being gratuitous—while the subtle use of shadows and tight paneling keeps the reader immersed in the growing dread. This visual storytelling does wonders to elevate the already compelling plot.
Plot twists are a key part of the series’ charm, and Volume 4 delivers them in spades. Just as you think you’ve solved the case, new revelations spin the story in unexpected directions. The psychological depth of both victims and suspects adds further complexity, challenging readers to consider not just “who” is behind the curse, but “why.” These layers of motive and manipulation give the series its signature blend of cerebral horror and supernatural thriller.
Reading Can’t Stop Cursing You Vol. 4 was absolutely riveting. The blend of mystery, horror, and emotional storytelling created an experience that had me glued from cover to cover. It’s rare to find a manga that dives into such dark themes while still giving you characters to root for, puzzles to untangle, and a narrative that lingers long after you’ve finished the last page.
I absolutely loved this volume and can’t wait to see how the series continues. Saeyama and Yamazaki have grown into one of my favorite investigative duos in manga, and the way this volume deepened their bond while raising the narrative stakes was nothing short of masterful. With each curse broken, the world they inhabit gets murkier and more fascinating—and I’m eager to follow them deeper into the shadows.
