Seamlessly mixing secret agent-type action with slice-of-life vignettes and fish-out-of-water comedy, “Shimazaki in the Land of Peace” is the charming alternate history political thriller you never knew you were dying to read. Utterly unique, with stunning artwork, this hit series promises to keep the thrills and surprises coming even as it warms even the coldest heart.

Shingo Shimazaki, kidnapped as a child and forced to become a covert operative for the terrorist League for Economic Liberation, is trying to leave his life of violence behind—but the LEL has other ideas. After a bloody skirmish, Shimazaki makes it home wounded but alive. Returning to the smaller yet no less significant battles of everyday life brings its own challenges, however, along with a succession of firsts: shopping for clothes, raising a puppy, becoming a mascot for the local shopping district…?!