Iwamoto-Senpai no Suisen is a historical fantasy work depicting mysterious phenomena and people with special abilities, set in an era that strongly evokes the atmosphere of history—the 1910s. At the center of the story is Army Seiho Middle School, a special school established by the Imperial Japanese Army. Here, investigations and research are conducted with the aim of militarily utilizing supernatural phenomena, presenting a unique world completely different from typical school manga. Because the historical background and fantastical elements blend together naturally, the more you read, the more you are drawn into the atmosphere of the work, and anticipation builds as to what mysterious events await ahead.

The protagonist, Iwamoto Kodou, travels to various places under orders from the military to investigate incidents involving supernatural phenomena and people with abilities. However, this work is not a simple story of exorcising apparitions. People with abilities who have different circumstances in each region they visit appear, and their respective lives and values are carefully depicted, allowing readers to enjoy a different flavor with each episode. I felt that what gives depth to the work is not only the mysterious nature of the abilities themselves, but also the depiction of the struggles and resolve of the people living while facing those powers.

What particularly caught my interest while reading this work was the existence of the letter of recommendation that Iwamoto presents to the people with abilities. At first glance, it may seem like a procedure to welcome them into the school, but one can sense an intention in that action that goes beyond mere recruitment. Iwamoto himself does not say much and appears to calmly carry out his missions, but his quiet behavior makes one wonder what he is thinking deep down. This mystery serves as a major pillar supporting the entire story, leading to an appeal that naturally makes readers want to keep reading to find out what happens next.

While there are many works dealing with the themes of supernatural phenomena and people with abilities, Iwamoto-Senpai no Suisen is impressive in that it depicts the people involved in them more carefully than the mysterious phenomena themselves. Even if terrifying events occur, it does not end there; the thoughts and backgrounds of each character add depth to the story. Furthermore, because the setting is not the modern era, a unique tension is created, and the atmosphere unique to an era where civilization has not fully developed makes the existence of apparitions feel more realistic. Since history, fantasy, and mystery are blended in an exquisite balance, I felt it is a work that is easy to enjoy regardless of which element you prefer.

This work does not draw readers in merely with flashy developments, but immerses them in the world of the story through gradually building mysteries and character portrayals. The structure, in which encounters with people with abilities bring about new incidents and each one connects to the overall mystery of the work, is highly satisfying to read. I was also captivated by the process of the protagonist's goals being gradually revealed, and my desire to know what happens next never stopped. It is a work where you can fully savor not only the appeal of a supernatural tale but also the human drama and historical atmosphere, so it is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fantasy manga or mysterious stories.