Manga Review: Touch Within the Abyss
The breathtaking cover of Touch Within the Abyss immediately captured my interest and prompted me to purchase a copy. I almost found it impossible to believe this manga is the debut work of Moyori Mori. As I continued reading, I found myself swept up in a sweet and gentle story between two men who feel trapped by the world around them.
Official Summary
"If you knew the real me... you'd be disappointed."
Hitman Chinatsu once failed to pull the trigger on his target and it cost him his brother's life. That day, the sole witness who took Chinatsu's trembling hand had clear eyes that stared right through him... straight into the abyss within.
Five years later, a purse-snatching reunites Chinatsu with his savior: Kasumi, a young blind man searching for a way out of his own lonely world. Chinatsu knows better than to get involved with a potential witness, but he can't help but be drawn to Kasumi's radiant smile. If Kasumi knew the truth of their provenance, could he ever forgive the sins of Chinatsu's past?
Quick Information
Mangaka: Moyori Mori
Publisher: Tokyo Pop
Published: March 25, 2025
Genre: Romance, Drama, Psychological
Rating: 16+
Series Status: Complete
Review
Chinatsu is forced to follow in his father’s footsteps as a hitman. Haunted by his lack of resolve that caused the death of his brother, Chinatsu feels lost, adrift without meaning and purpose. He feels trapped within the confines of the metaphorical dark abyss he finds himself in. The only image which brings him comfort is the one of a blind boy who was there the day Chinatsu lost his brother.
Years later, Chinatsu meets the blind young man, Kasumi, again and the two start up an unlikely friendship. Chinatsu knows he shouldn’t get involved, but he feels drawn to Kasumi’s light.
I cannot say enough about the beautiful artwork and the way it elevates the story. From Chinatsu’s character design alone, we can tell just how exhausted both physically and emotionally he is before we are given much information about his past. With dark rings around his eyes and a tight polite smile he forces at times, we the reader can fill in the gaps about the type of man he is. Kasumi, in contrast, has moments where his usual cheerful disposition slips and his own sadness and insecurities shine through.
The story’s slower pacing feels appropriate as both characters grow closer together and navigate their feelings alongside their fears and doubts. Both characters are haunted by loneliness and the weight of their responsibilities. The growing emotional connection between Chinatsu and Kasumi is gentle and sweet, and this same tenderness is reflected in how they treat one another. The affection these characters show each other was surprisingly heartwarming considering one of the characters is a hitman.
I appreciated the vulnerability in the depiction of Kasumi’s blindness, but at no point does he feel written as if he is an invalid. He has his own aspirations, dreams, places he wants to go, and selfish desires. He is very capable on his own, but he also lets Chinatsu dote on him. Life can still be enjoyed while living with a disability, and this theme really resonated with me.
Touch Within the Abyss by Moyori Mori captured me with its gorgeous artwork, touching story, and compelling characters. This is one of the most beautiful single volume stories I have ever read. If you are looking for a story that will tug on your heartstrings, this is a manga you shouldn’t pass on.