Step into the gothic, blood-soaked world of Bloody Mary, a manga series by Akaza Samamiya that blends vampire lore with emotional depth and a dash of dark humor. This shojo masterpiece follows 'Bloody' Mary, a 400-year-old vampire desperate to die, and Ichiro Rosario di Maria, a teenage priest who can’t quite figure out how to grant that wish. Together, they forge an unlikely alliance, unraveling mysteries about their pasts while dodging bloodthirsty vampires drawn to Maria’s powerful blood. With stunning artwork and a fresh spin on the vampire genre, Bloody Mary is a must-read for fans of supernatural drama!
From its hauntingly beautiful panels to its complex characters, this series hooks readers with its blend of action, mystery, and subtle romantic undertones. Whether you’re a manga enthusiast or new to the genre, Bloody Mary’s unique take on immortality and human connection will keep you turning pages late into the night.
How Bloody Mary Began
Akaza Samamiya, born on November 7, launched Bloody Mary in 2013, serialized in the Japanese shojo magazine Asuka. Known for works like Hatsukoi Canvas and Torikago Syndrome, Samamiya brought her signature blend of emotional storytelling and intricate art to this series. Inspired by classic vampire tales but eager to subvert tropes, she crafted a vampire who rejects blood and craves death, paired with a priest who’s more clueless than heroic. Published by VIZ Media in English under the Shojo Beat imprint, Bloody Mary debuted in 2015, captivating readers with its gothic aesthetic and layered narrative.
The Heart of Bloody Mary
The series spans 10 volumes, each deepening the bond between Mary and Maria while unveiling dark secrets. Volume 1 introduces their pact: Mary protects Maria from vampires hunting his 'Blood of Maria,' while Maria searches for a way to exorcise Mary. Volume 2 dives into Maria’s suppressed 'Red Memories,' hinting at his family’s tragic history. By Volume 4, the mysterious 'Mary' within Mary emerges, tied to Maria’s father’s death, adding layers of intrigue. Volume 10 delivers a tear-jerking finale, resolving Mary’s quest for death and revealing his true name, a shocking twist fans adore.
Bloody Mary shines through its themes of love, loss, and the will to live. Set in Yokohama, the story’s gothic churches and shadowy streets amplify its moody vibe. Samamiya’s art—sparkling bishonen designs and floral tones—contrasts the heavy topics of suicide ideation and familial tragedy, creating a balance of beauty and pain. While not explicitly boys’ love, the series flirts with shonen-ai undertones, drawing BL fans with moments like Mary drinking Maria’s blood, charged with subtle tension.
Why Bloody Mary Resonates
Bloody Mary stands out in the vampire genre for its emotional depth and unconventional hero. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise its gorgeous art and satisfying conclusion, with Volume 10 earning raves for tying up loose ends. Though not a cultural juggernaut, the series has a loyal niche following, particularly among shojo and BL enthusiasts, for its nuanced take on immortality and redemption. Its exploration of heavy themes like depression, handled with care, resonates with readers seeking stories that blend heart and horror.
- Publication Years: 2013–2017 (Japan), 2015–2018 (English)
- Volumes: 10
- Publisher: VIZ Media (Shojo Beat)
- Genres: Shojo, Supernatural, Mystery, Drama
Ready to dive into a world of vampires, exorcists, and heart-wrenching twists? Grab Bloody Mary, Volume 1, and lose yourself in Akaza Samamiya’s spellbinding manga!