Stray

“Top 10 Must-Read Manga” Publishers Weekly, Fall 2025 “A brisk crime thriller with a soft heart and streetwise charm. […] It’s a swift and satisfying thrill ride.” Publishers Weekly“Hits hard and keeps you swinging until the last page.” Cynthia von Buhler (Minky Woodcock)“Take the best of epic Yakuza crime noir, sprinkle in dashes of The Professional and Lone Wolf and Cub, and you’ve got Ryu Kamio and Yu Nakahara’s STRAY. Brutal, heartfelt and action-packed, STRAY hits like a bare-knuckle brawler.” Dave Dwonch (The Loose End)“Mysteries within mysteries and heartbreak behind it all, as a hardened criminal and a 9-year-old girl take on the Yakuza. A memorable blend of violence and tenderness.” Charles Ardai (Gun Honey series, founder of Hard Case Crime) “The story is really good. The characters are well written. I enjoyed the mix of the past with the present that created this very interesting and cohesive story. […] Anyone who enjoyed action thriller series will very much enjoy Stray.” That Manga Dude“The perfect one-shot manga to take it easy and relax!” Chill with Eli“This is a fantastic example of how to draw the reader immediately into a story. […] It makes me want to go and seek out more of this creative team’s work.” Mainly Manga “If you like political drama, crime shows, or heart-warming snotty brat and dysfunctional dude stories, you’ll probably like Stray.” Anime News Network

Ryu Kamio is a seasoned writer known for his dynamic storytelling and deep character development. With a background in anime screenwriting, he has crafted compelling narratives that blend intense action with emotional depth. Kamio’s previous work on the hit baseball series Last Inning has garnered widespread acclaim, showcasing his knack for high-stakes drama and intricate plots. In Stray, he brings his signature tension and intrigue to the world of crime, betrayal, and redemption.