Once I started on the final volume of this great series, I found that I could not put it down. I was up until the late hours of the night just to find out how the story ended. It does not disappoint. The tension, the drama, and the action are all revved up as the number of survivors is down to the last few. And just when you think things may be wrapping up, you get a twist. And yes, the inevitable confrontation between Kiriyama and Souma happens in here as well. The scary thing is not so much the horror and thrills of the story, but the fact that it happens in a near future. To be honest, we may well be a few steps away, given how reality television shows and certain sporting events (MMA anyone?) happen now, from something like The Program becoming popular. Bread and circuses. And that commentary from the series may be the scariest part. As for the story itself, excellent thrill ride.

In terms of reading appeal, if you like works like Orwell's 1984, Burgess's A Clockwork Orange, and a lot of violent action, this is certainly for you. I should note that it is not just violence for the sake of violence, but it goes along with the story, thus adding to the horror. The series overall combines plenty of action, violence, a good dose of sensuality with the commentary and substance of good dystopian fiction. Definitely one of the best manga series I have read. And a series worth rereading also. However, I will note, this is not for the faint of heart or the puritanical. Those folks should read something else. Otherwise, if you like an edge to your reading, hop right in.

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