English Title: Monster Tamer Japanese Title: モンスターのご主人様 — “Monster no Goshujinsama” Author: Minto Higure — 日暮眠都 Illustrator: Napo — ナポ Translator: Hikoki Genre: Action, Fantasy, Isekai Original Run: August 2014 – ongoing English Run: June 2020 – ongoing Japanese Publisher: Monster Bunko (Futabasha) English Publisher: J-Novel Club Volumes in Japanese: 16 (In Progress) Volumes in English: 1 (In Progress)
Note: Also available to read online through a J-Novel Club subscription. This series is currently digital-only.
Synopsis: One thousand Japanese high school students are suddenly thrust into an unfamiliar world rife with dangerous monsters. Their survival becomes dependent on those who awaken to unexplainable powers. Majima Takahiro, a normal second-year student, does not get any such power. Instead, he joins the majority of students building the homestead. But when a group of empowered students revolt, Takahiro is left wandering the forest on the verge of death. Having lost all faith in humanity, he finds salvation from an unlikely source: monsters!
Volume 1 Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released TBA — ASIN: **********
Volume 2 Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released TBA — ASIN: **********
Volume 3 Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released TBA — ASIN: **********
Reviews of Monster Tamer
(forthcoming)
Illustrations Sampler
Anime Adaptation
None
Manga Adaptation
MAL Entry — (Japan) Began publication October 2017 – Ongoing (English Release) Not currently licensed.
If you liked Monster Tamer, you might also want to try…
ROLL OVER AND DIE: I Will Fight for an Ordinary Life with My Love and Cursed Sword!
English Title: ROLL OVER AND DIE: I Will Fight for an Ordinary Life with My Love and Cursed Sword! Japanese Title: 「お前ごときが魔王に勝てると思うな」と勇者パーティを追放されたので、王都で気ままに暮らしたい — “Omae Gotoki ga Maou ni Kateru to Omou na” to Gachizei ni Yuusha Party wo Tsuihou Sareta node, Outo de Kimama ni Kurashitai” Author: Kiki – キキ Illustrator: Kinta – キンタ Translator: TBD Genre: Action, Fantasy, Horror Original Run: July 2018 – ongoing English Run: August 2020 – ongoing Japanese Publisher:GC Novels (Micro Magazinesha) English Publisher: Seven Seas Volumes in Japanese: 4 (In Progress) Volumes in English: 1 (In Progress)
A dark and bloody light novel series about two women fighting fate and finding love in each other–and don’t miss the manga adaptation, also from Seven Seas!
Flum Apricot was never meant to be a hero. Despite zero stats across the board and a power she can’t even use, she somehow finds herself included in a party of heroes. But Flum’s life hits rock bottom when the party’s renowned sage, Jean Inteige, decides that the useless girl is dead weight, and arranges to have her sold into slavery.
Tossed to monsters to be feasted upon for her master’s entertainment, Flum makes the desperate choice to reach for a cursed weapon…and something new awakens within her. A grimdark tale about one woman’s blood-soaked quest to reclaim her life!
Volume 1 Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker eBook Released August 27, 2020 — ASIN: B088P9NGN6
Volume 2 — Title Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — RightStuf Releasing TBA — ISBN-13: ###-##########
Volume 3 — Title Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — RightStuf Releasing TBA — ISBN-13: ###-##########
Reviews of Roll Over and Die
(forthcoming)
Illustrations Sampler
Anime Adaptation
None
Manga Adaptation
MAL Entry — (Japan) Published December 2018 – ongoing (English release by Seven Seas) Published February 2021 – ongoing Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — RightStuf
If you liked Roll Over and Die, you might also want to try…
English Title: Koyomimonogatari Part 2 (Part of the Monogatari Series) Japanese Title: 暦物語 Author: Nisio Isin — 西尾 維新 Illustrator: VOFAN Translator: Daniel Joseph Genre: Supernatural, Mystery, Urban Fantasy, Romance, Harem, Comedy English Publisher: Vertical
Koyomimonogatari – Part Two
Koyomimonogatari Part 2 was originally paired with Part 1 as a single book in Japan. Though they were originally published as one, this second English volume represents a departure from the first half in both tone and theme.
Like the volume before it, Part 2 tells six short stories, each set in a different month, with the final two occurring after Tsukimonogatari, which was the most recent volume that moved the main story forward. While the stories throughout the two volumes are enjoyable for their character moments, it is the final two stories which make this book a mandatory read before proceeding with the rest of the series.
Stories one and three are the fluffiest of this bunch, with the first involving Tsukihi wanting her brother’s reassurances about a ghost in her clubroom, and the third seeing Koyomi and Shinobu fighting over homemade donuts from Senjogahara. Both stories are light reads that don’t have much in the way of plot outside advancing character relationships or reminding us how volatile Tsukihi is and the cringe-factor of Koyomi’s sister-complex. Still, they’re fun and in a sense help lighten the emotional load of the other four tales. Not to mention I’m always in the mood for more Shinobu snark!
For the remainder of the book, we get stories much more tied into the events of the main story.
In the second tale, we have Ogi and Koyomi visiting the shrine which has been central to the series. Ogi’s discussion about the lack of balance in the town is very telling given what we know. And the epilogue of this story, where Nadeko says the shrine will be probably be fine if “Mr. Snake” er The Snake God takes up residence again. Foreshadowing!
In the fourth short, we have Koyomi helping Yotsugi look for…something? This one takes place during the events of Koimonogatari and the sense of impending doom hanging over Koyomi is palpable.
Finally, stories five and six take place as sequels to the previous complete book, Tsukimonogatari. They involve the enigmatic specialists Kagenui and Gaen. With Kagenui, Koyomi seeks her aid in surviving without his vampire powers as well as trying to understand her relationship with the aberration Yotsugi, as he knows he and Shinobu will be connected for life. By the time Gaen enters the stage for the final story, it’s clear things are not right in the Monogatari universe. And Gaen is determined to fix things, no matter how hard it might prove to be. This final story ends with a crazy cliffhanger, the likes of which we really haven’t experienced in the series to date. It also means these two stories make this book required reading.
Overall, I felt this volume focused much more on the lies people tell out of consideration for others. If Part One was about revisiting the past, Part Two seems more concerned with looking to the future. Also, since much of this book takes place during Nadeko’s death-sentence, Koyomi’s almost-vampirification, and the looming date of his entrance exam, it makes everything seem heavier and full of consequences. Seeing as how Nisioisin planned for this season to be the last, the four stories in particular in this volume truly felt like they were heading toward a definite conclusion.
Nisioisin mentions in the afterword of this one that he wanted to return to the series’ beginning before facing its end. There is a definite nostalgia factor to these stories, particularly those in Part One. While some will consider Vertical’s decision to break this book into two as nothing more than a cash-grab, I found I appreciated being able to put distance between the two halves. I think it would’ve been much harder to reach the meatier stories of Part Two if the book was an intimidating 600+ pages. Not to mention that the stories in this second half do feel like their own beast compared to those of Part One.
Overall, I enjoyed this volume more than Part One. Probably because it felt like we had returned to events which matter and seeing Koyomi during stories where he wasn’t the narrator (such as Koimonogatari) gave some insight to his emotional state during that time. While I struggled to get through the fluff of Part One, this volume left me anxious to read more of the series.
Definitely the two parts of Koyomimonogatari are for true fans. It’s arguably the weakest part of the series as it does little to move the cast forward. But, it was fun to visit them in simpler times when they could just talk nonsense and worry about how to pay off Meme Oshino. And it ended on a breathtaking note that made me glad I already have the following volumes.
Justus R. Stone has been running a light novel dedicated YouTube channel since 2014. He’s also the founder of the Light Novel Podcast, one of the first English language podcasts dedicated to Light Novels. In addition to his love of Japanese light novels, he is also the author of his own light novel-inspired series, The Bleeding Worlds.
Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear Volume 2 (eBook)(print to release September 22, 2020) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker eBook Released June 18, 2020 — ASIN: B087M3QMZL
The Invincible Shovel Volume 2 (eBook)(print to release September 29, 2020) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker eBook Released June 18, 2020 — ASIN: B086W1JNYB
The Epic Tale of the Reincarnated Prince Herscherik
English Title: The Epic Tale of the Reincarnated Prince Herscherik Japanese Title: ハーシェリク — “Herscherik” Author: Nobiru Kusunoki — 楠のびる Illustrator: Arico — あり子 Translator: Adam Seacord Genre: Isekai, Fantasy, Gender Swap Original Run: April 2016 – February 2018 English Run: June 2020 – ongoing Japanese Publisher: M Novels f (Futabasha) English Publisher: J-Novel Club Volumes in Japanese: 5 (Complete) Volumes in English: 1 (In Progress)
Note: Also available to read online through a J-Novel Club subscription. This series is currently digital-only.
Synopsis: The life of Ryoko Hayakawa, a hard-core otaku, came to an abrupt end the day before her 35th birthday, before she was reincarnated as a beautiful prince in a fantasy world. However, her dream-like royal life didn’t last long, as she soon uncovered the depths of politics and corruption of her kingdom. To protect the king and his people, Ryoko, reincarnated as Prince Herscherik, resolved to conquer the darkness within his country. The problem was, the prince had no physical strength or magical powers, and even his stunning looks were surpassed by every other member of the royal family. Still, the prince persevered, using the skills he acquired during his previous life—the experience of an office worker, Ryoko’s drive for change, and her otaku brain.
Volume 1 — The Reincarnated Prince and the Kingdom in Woe Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released August 10, 2020 — ASIN: B089T927FH
Volume 2 — Title Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released TBA — ASIN: **********
Volume 3 — Title Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released TBA — ASIN: **********
Reviews of The Epic Tale of the Reincarnated Prince Herscherik
(forthcoming)
Illustrations Sampler
Anime Adaptation
None
Manga Adaptation
MAL Entry — (Japan) Published Deceber 2018 – ongoing (English) No English License
If you liked The Epic Tale of the Reincarnated Prince Herscherik, you might also want to try…
English Title: Yes, No, or Maybe? Japanese Title: イエスかノーか半分か — “Yes ka No ka Hanbun ka” Author: Michi Ichiho – 一穂ミチ Illustrator: Lala Takemiya – 竹美家らら Translator: TBD Genre: BL, Romance, Slice of Life Original Run: November 2014 – ongoing English Run: July 2020 – ongoing Japanese Publisher: Dear+ Bunko (Shinshokan) English Publisher: Seven Seas Volumes in Japanese: 4 (Complete)(There are additional side/sequel volumes) Volumes in English: 1 (In Progress)
The fan-favorite Boys’ Love novel about the secret lives of men who work in television–soon to be an anime!
Kunieda Kei is the up-and-coming Prince Charming of the evening news. Inside, he’s the opposite: brash, hot-tempered, and prickly as can be. For years, Kei has successfully juggled his private and professional personas―until a chance meeting with a stop motion animator threatens to bring it all crashing down. But is that really as frightening as the possibility that someone might love and accept both sides of who he is?
Volume 1 Amazon — Apple — Kobo — Google — Bookwalker eBook Released July 9, 2020 — ASIN: B0882Q5VWJ
Review: Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
English Title: Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai Japanese Title: 青春ブタ野郎シリーズ — “Seishun Buta Yarou Series” Author: Hajime Kamoshida — 鴨志田 一 Illustrator: Keeji Mizoguchi — 溝口ケージ Translator: Andrew Cunningham Genre: Comedy, Romance, School Life Original Run: April 2014 – ongoing English Run: April 2020 – ongoing Japanese Publisher: Dengeki Bunko English Publisher: Yen On (Yen Press)
Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is one of those books that uses the odd or supernatural to address real life issues. It is also a surprisingly sweet slice of life light novel with engaging characters.
Our story begins when main character Sakuta Azusagawa finds something very strange at the library. One of his senpais, famous childhood actress Mai Sakurajima, is wandering around in a bunny-girl costume. Perhaps even stranger is the fact no one else seems to notice. As Sakuta and Mai become closer, he discovers she suffers from a mysterious affliction called Adolescence Syndrome. And that particular syndrome seems to be causing more people to not notice her.
For a story with a supernatural event at its core, Rascal spends a surprising amount of time focusing on the everyday, slice-of-life, aspects of Sakuta’s and Mai’s relationship. The tone is often sweet and funny.
Sakuta is very straightforward. The kind of character who has little in the way of filters and gives little thought to the words coming out of his mouth. Part of this is in response to his personal withdrawal from the “rules” of society. While I heard him compared to the likes of Araragi from Monogatari and Hachiman from My Youth Romantic Comedy is Wrong as I Expected, I would say he’s the better of the three as he’s less cringy and less damaged. What we are given of his backstory makes him relatable and provides a good foundation for his character.
Mai flirts with the tsundere archetype, but never gets there enough to truly be one. Like Sakuta, her backstory informs who she is as a character. Growing up in show business, feeling used by those close to her, or having lip-service paid toward her has left her with a prickly defensiveness.
These two work because they seem like sincere results of the backstory they’ve been given. The way their opposite personalities compliment each other makes their dialogue a treat. Overall, their relationship was a highpoint I was pleased to see the book dedicate most of its time to. It provided a stronger emotional tie to the characters and so made me more invested in the solution to Mai’s problem.
While the book dips its toe into Quantum Mechanics to try and explain its supernatural element, it thankfully never goes too deep–even the science-oriented character who proposes the theory isn’t sold on it. But what it does demonstrate is there are dangers with subverting our own sense of self with the beliefs of others. The negative ways others see us is hurtful, yes, but the greatest destruction happens when we believe it ourselves and live our lives in service to it. It’s a solid and timely theme even though this volume was written six years ago. There was also something refreshing about the main challenge being more personal and intimate as opposed to “save the world,” “save the kingdom,” or “save the town.”
About the only minor complaint I would have with this book is that it leaves a number of characters, mysteries, and to an extent the syndrome itself, underdeveloped. However, looking at future covers, it seems pretty clear we’ll be seeing far more of those characters and their issues with Adolescence Syndrome. I think the author wanted to use this first volume to setup Sakuta’s and Mai’s relationship, while also getting a number of pieces into play for later in the series (including a cliffhanger ending that sets up volume 2). It would be a larger complaint had this been a single volume release.
Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai works on a number of levels. It is a romance, a sweet slice of life, and a supernatural mystery. With decent pacing, engaging characters, some laughs, and a solid theme, it’s a fun and rewarding read that I look forward to enjoying more of.
You can purchase your own copy of this book from these retailers:
Justus R. Stone has been running a light novel dedicated YouTube channel since 2014. He’s also the founder of the Light Novel Podcast, one of the first English language podcasts dedicated to Light Novels. In addition to his love of Japanese light novels, he is also the author of his own light novel-inspired series, The Bleeding Worlds.
Here are all the light novels releasing during the week June 22-28, 2020
Remember you can see all the upcoming light novel releases on our preorders page.
Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 2 Volume 4 (eBook)(print will release later) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released June 23, 2020 — ASIN: B086V6CST5
Woof Woof Story: I Told You to Turn Me into a Pampered Pooch, Not Fenrir! Volume 4 (paperback, ebook) Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — Rightstuf Releasing June 23, 2020 — ISBN-13: 978-1975386726
The Genius Prince’s Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt (Hey, How About Treason?) Volume 3 (paperback, ebook) Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — Rightstuf — BAM! Releasing June 23, 2020 — ISBN-13: 978-1975309985
I’ve Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level Volume 7 (paperback, ebook) Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — Rightstuf Releasing June 23, 2020 — ISBN-13: 978-1975312916
Toradora Volume 10 (eBook)(print will release August 4, 2020) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released June 23, 2020 — ASIN: B087LS1YLK
Magic User: Reborn in Another World as a Max Level Wizard Volume 2 (ebook)(paperback will release later) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Nook — Bookwalker Releasing June 25, 2020 — ASIN: B086W24V3K
An Archdemon’s Dilemma: How to Love Your Elf Bride Volume 10 (eBook)(print will release later) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released June 27, 2020 — ASIN: B0868YH1J6
My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! Volume 6 (eBook)(print will release later) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released June 28, 2020 — ASIN: B0873C2929
After the trouble during the trombe removal, Myne’s life just seems to be getting busier. With the Spring Prayer approaching, a new bodyguard appointed and the imminent birth of her baby sibling on the horizon, its hard for a girl to keep up! Plus, all is not as it seems as forces far beyond Myne’s expectations have gained an interest in the oddball apprentice blue shrine maiden.
The Apprentice Shrine Maiden arc of Ascendance of a Bookworm continues with volume three; the sixth novel within the series overall. Written by Miya Kazuki and illustrated by You Shiina, English translation was done by Quof for J-novel Club’s edition. The digital ebook release was published in April 2020, with a print edition following in November.
As this Apprentice Shrine Maiden arc has continued to develop over the past several books, it has become obvious that despite all the knowledge of future technologies and modern life Urano has from her past it can’t help her within a society with such a segregated class structure. Her previous lessons and warnings about the futility of challenging the status quo are starkly proven throughout this book, making it that much more obvious how hard change will be. The paired circumstances of her reincarnation and her potent Devouring allowed her the opportunity to make small changes and spread relatively revolutionary ideas amidst her peers without too much backlash, but this third volume shows exactly what the larger consequences of that has been within the upper echelons of society.
First things first is the successful development of the metal type by the young and talented Johann, following Myne’s complicated and detailed order. Whilst the completion of the set is a cause for Myne’s celebration (and affectionately renaming the young apprentice to Gutenberg), the excitement is rapidly soured when further development has to be halted. Ferdinand explains that the ease of mechanised printing will directly encroach on scribe work for nobles, and as such cannot be permitted—the vested interests much more powerful than those Myne has encountered in the past.
It’s not just the printing press that has been causing waves within high society, and as more and more powerfully dangerous have been taking notice the High Priest has been working hard to protect her.
His solution and ultimatum for our protagonist is her adoption into a noble family. Within two years she is expected to leave her commoner past behind and join the house of a trustworthy Lord. In this decision Myne doesn’t have a choice—leaving her family, friends and way of life behind in order to protect them from noble ire. This hits especially hard knowing how excited she is to be a good older sister.
These aren’t paranoid fears that Ferdinand has though, and it truly does feel like the priest is working with Myne’s best interests in mind. Without the protection of a noble name supporting her and her ideas, she’d very likely be imprisoned, enslaved or killed immediately for causing problems. This point is made even more obvious when the carriage procession for the Spring Prayer is attacked en route—with Myne as the obvious target. It’s only with the combined effort of Myne, Ferdinand and the newly introduced, aggrivatingly childish Sylvester that the worst is avoided. The untimely death of the Ink Guildmaster who had been investigating Myne and her methods also comes as a terrifying warning. Because of all of this, its deemed too dangerous for Myne to travel without a guard at all times—the newly-appointed Damuel forced into the role.
That’s not to say everything is doom and gloom in the book though, as the exciting arrival of Myne’s newest sibling caps off the main story. Aside from being the sweet introduction of baby Kamil, bringing the little family even closer, it’s an fascinating opportunity for world-building. Showing the celebration of new life along with the very real risks of childbirth and infant mortality amongst the lower classes.
Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 2: Apprentice Shrine Maiden volume 3 signifies a real turning point to the consequences of Myne’s actions thusfar. Up until now her main adversaries towards her goal were a lack of physical health and pre-existing methods or materials. Now she’s coming face to face with the overt power imbalance within a class society, and how dangerous it can be defying it.
English Title: In the Land of Leadale Japanese Title: リアデイルの大地にて — “Leadale no Daichi nite” Author: Ceez Illustrator: Tenmaso – てんまそ Translator: TBA Genre: Fantasy, Isekai Original Run: January 2019 – ongoing English Run: October 2020 – ongoing Japanese Publisher: Enterbrain English Publisher: Yen On (Yen Press) Volumes in Japanese: 4 (In Progress) Volumes in English: 1 (In Progress)
Synopsis: The last thing she can remember is her life support beginning to fail. Her body had suffered terribly after a fateful accident and the only freedom left in her life came from the VR world of Leadale. How did she end up in a place that looks exactly like her game except that 200 years have apparently gone by?
English Title: High School DxD Japanese Title: ハイスクールD×D Author: Ichiei Ishibumi – 石踏 一榮 Illustrator: Zero Miyama – みやま 零 Translator: TBA Genre: Action, Supernatural, Ecchi, Harem, Comedy Original Run: September 2008 – March 2018 English Run: October 2020 – ongoing Japanese Publisher: Fujimi Fantasia Bunko English Publisher: Yen On (Yen Press) Volumes in Japanese: 25 (Completed) Sequel Series Shin High School DxD Volumes in English: 1 (In Progress)
Synopsis: Most of Issei Hyoudou’s perverted life has been filled with dreams about having a harem, so it’s not a great sign when one of his dates ends with his murder! He’s fortunate enough to be revived by a beautiful girl, but his luck ends after he discovers his school is filled to the brim with deadly angels and demons!
Volume 2 Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — RightStuf Releasing TBA — ISBN-13: ###-##########
Volume 3 Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — RightStuf Releasing TBA — ISBN-13: ###-##########
Reviews of High School DxD
(forthcoming)
Illustrations Sampler
Anime Adaptation
Season 1 – High School DxD — MAL Entry — 12 episodes — Aired January 2012 – March 2012 Amazon — RightStuf Note: Adapted volumes 1 to 2 of the light novel series
OVAs High School DxD OVAs — MAL Entry — 2 episodes — Aired September 2012 and May 2013
Season 2 – High School DxD New — MAL Entry — 12 episodes — Aired July 2013 – September 2013 Amazon — RightStuf Note: Adapted volumes 3 to 4 of the light novel series
Season 3 – High School DxD BorN — MAL Entry — 12 episodes — Aired April 215 – June 2015 Amazon — RightStuf Note: Adapted volumes 5 to 7 of the light novel series. Included some anime original content for final episodes.
Season 4 – High School DxD HERO— MAL Entry — 12 episodes — Aired April 2018 – July 2018 Amazon — RightStuf Note: Adapted volumes 9 to 10 of the light novel series
Here are the light novels releasing this week, June 29-July 5, 2020.
If you want to see the complete list of upcoming releases, be sure to visit our Preorders page.
Full Metal Panic! Volume 7 (eBook)(print will release later) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released June 29, 2020 — ASIN: B0872KZ582
Neon Genesis Evangelion: ANIMAVolume 3 (ebook)(paperback will release August 25, 2020) Amazon — iBooks — Nook — Bookwalker Releasing June 30, 2020 — ASIN: B07X7ZY8J4
Hello, I am a Witch and my Crush Wants me to Make a Love Potion! Volume 1 (ebook) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Nook — Bookwalker Releasing June 30, 2020 — ASIN: B087FXLWLH
The Ryuo’s Work is Never Done!Volume 12 (ebook)(Bookwalker exclusive) Bookwalker Releasing June 30, 2020
The Hidden Dungeon Only I Can Enter Volume 1 (eBook)(print to release October 12, 2020) Amazon — iBooks — — Kobo — Google Books — Bookwalker Released July 2, 2020 — ASIN: B087M8FPLS
Hello everyone! Here are the light novels making their debut during the month of July, 2020.
Thanks to Covid-19 delays, this month is pretty heavy with new releases as Yen On is shipping four! new series. We also have several new digital advance releases from Seven Seas, Viz with a light novel series based on a popular manga/anime franchise, and J-Novel Club with a gender-bending isekai series!
First up is an advance digital release from Seven Seas. It’s a fantasy series with a main character whose cheat ability will undoubtedly result in him being OP and exceeding everyone’s low expectations of him.
A fantasy light novel series about a new hero exploring a secret labyrinth–and don’t miss the manga adaptation, also available from Seven Seas!
Noir is the son of a minor noble with very little to his name other than a job offer–which is canceled before he can even start his first day. He does possess one rare trait, though: the magical ability to consult with a great sage, even if using the skill gives him terrible headaches! Unsure of what his future holds, he accesses the sage for advice on how to move forward and is directed to a secret dungeon filled with rare beasts and magical items. It is here that Noir will train, compiling experience and wealth, until he’s powerful enough to change his fate.
(eBook)(print to release October 12, 2020) Amazon — Bookwalker Released July 2, 2020 — ASIN: B087M8FPLS
Next up is the rare light novel release from Viz. But, like most of Viz’s light novel releases, it ties into a series they already release the manga for. In fact, this series has recently ended and this light novel is set after the manga’s events. With a new anime supposedly coming for this series, will we see this story hit TV screens?
The bestselling paranormal action adventure manga series Bleach continues in novel form as an all-new threat arises!
The Quincies’ Thousand Year Blood War is over, but the embers of turmoil still smolder in the Soul Society. Tokinada Tsunayashiro, elevated to head of his clan after a slew of assassinations take out every other claimant to the title, has a grand plan to create a new Soul King. His dark ambitions soon sow the seeds of a new total war across the realms, but all is not lost. There is one unlikely Soul Reaper who holds the key to defusing the conflict—Shuhei Hisagi, Assistant Captain of the Ninth Company and reporter for the Seireitei Bulletin!
The next release is a bit of a cheat on my part. I confess I missed mentioning it when it came out in digital pre-release, so I figured I’d mention it now that it’s becoming available in print. It’s from the same author as I Want to Eat Your Pancreas and At Night I Become a Monster. So prepare to have your heart pulled!
A layered coming-of-age story from the author of I Want to Eat Your Pancreas and At Night, I Become a Monster.
An unhappy girl who engages in self-harm, a woman ostracized by society, and an old woman looking to live out her twilight years in peace―what could three such different people have in common? That’s what grade schooler Koyanagi Nanoka is trying to find out. Assigned by her teacher to define what “happiness” means to her, Nanoka sets out to get to know these three strangers―and through them, perhaps, to know herself too.
The following light novel series is another digital advance release by Seven Seas. I think it might be our first true BL light novel series officially released in English. Feel free to correct me in the comments if I’m wrong.
The fan-favorite Boys’ Love novel about the secret lives of men who work in television–soon to be an anime!
Kunieda Kei is the up-and-coming Prince Charming of the evening news. Inside, he’s the opposite: brash, hot-tempered, and prickly as can be. For years, Kei has successfully juggled his private and professional personas―until a chance meeting with a stop motion animator threatens to bring it all crashing down. But is that really as frightening as the possibility that someone might love and accept both sides of who he is?
(eBook)(print to release October 6, 2020) Amazon — Bookwalker eBook Released July 9, 2020 — ASIN: B0882Q5VWJ
Next up is J-Novel Club’s lone new release for the month. It’s another in the line of series where the main character awakens in the game they’ve been playing. But the twist here is that not only has some time passed in the game, but the character they played was a) a tyrant and b) the opposite sex of the main character. So a gender-bending, isekai, MMO-based series.
The year is 2800 and Lufas Maphaahl – The Black-Winged Tyrant, Great Conqueror, and leader of the Twelve Heavenly Stars – has returned. A man wakes up in the body of his MMO character 200 years after her defeat during an player-made event in the game, Exgate Online. Now, he’s stuck in her body. But this isn’t a game, it’s real. With her reign long over, and her legacy one of fear, Lufas must journey through the world of Exgate, looking for answers, possible comrades, and all the monsters her “death” unleashed upon the world…
The remaining releases are all from Yen On. And they all drop on the same day. Prepare your wallet! There are two isekai titles, one of which had a recent anime adaptation. The third is a “reborn” series, but the character is being reborn in their own world, only as a monster! And the final title is a pure fantasy series about a long-raging war which is about to be forever changed by a weapon that can erase people from existence!
After crash landing in a foreign land filled with magic and monsters, most people would wonder what to do next. For seven of Japan’s greatest high school geniuses, the real question is how much are they allowed to mess around? This world might not last long enough for these insane prodigies to go home…
After dying in a fight against the forces of evil, a knight found himself reincarnated as one of the most powerful monsters in the world: a behemoth! Problem is, he has to grow up before he can really strut his stuff, and a baby behemoth looks an awful lot like…a housecat?! And when an elf adventurer decides to take him in, she may need his help as much as he needs hers!
One big fat lie and a few twisted truths Even in his past life, Cid’s dream wasn’t to become a protagonist or a fi nal boss. He’d rather lie low as a minor character until it’s prime time to reveal he’s a mastermind…or at least, do the next best thing-pretend to be one! And now that he’s been reborn into another world, he’s ready to set the perfect conditions to live out his dreams to the fullest. Armed with his overactive imagination, Cid jokingly recruits members to his organization and makes up a whole backstory about an evil cult that they need to take down. Well, as luck would have it, these imaginary adversaries turn out to be the real deal-and everyone knows the truth but him!
For a hundred years, East and West have waged a ferocious war with everything from tanks to witchcraft. On this savage battlefield, one young soldier from the East learns of the daemon’s bullet-and that anyone struck by it will disappear from the world as if they had never existed…
So those are all of the light novel series making their debut during the month of July, 2020. Which of these titles has piqued your interest? Leave your thoughts in comments!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Justus R. Stone has been running a light novel dedicated YouTube channel since 2014. He’s also the founder of the Light Novel Podcast, one of the first English language podcasts dedicated to Light Novels. In addition to his love of Japanese light novels, he is also the author of his own light novel-inspired series, The Bleeding Worlds.
Today, Yen Press announced several manga and light novel titles plus one art book. All of these titles will be of interest to light novel fans as the manga and art book are based on existing light novel properties and the light novels are spin-off, or side-story, material of popular series.
Yen Press will be announcing additional titles during the Yen Press Industry Panel at Anime Expo Lite on July 3rd.
A Certain Magical Index SS
Story by Kazuma Kamachi
llustrations by Kiyotaka Haimura
Kamijou Touma faces his roughest challenge yet-a classroom hot pot party! Meanwhile in London, the women’s dorm in a base of magicians may never see another day as wild as this one. And in the underbelly of Academy City, Accelerator stumbles upon someone who has been waiting for him all this time…? Here begins the supplementary SS series of A Certain Magical Index!
Originally published in Japan during the serialization of A Certain Magical Index, A Certain Magical Index SS was the first spin-off of the popular light novel series. The side stories featured in A Certain Magical Index SS are led by fan favorite characters such as Touma, Hamazura and Accelerator.
The White Cat’s Revenge as Plotted from the Dragon King’s Lap
Story and Aki
Art by Yamigo Kureha
My life was pretty ordinary. Go to college, live in an apartment, hang out with people. But because of that pompous, irritating girl I grew up with, I got dragged into a huge mess. As usual. Now I’m in another world where she’s a well-respected shrine maiden…and I got turned into a cat. How did it come to this?!
Adapted from an online novel, The White Cat’s Revenge as Plotted from the Dragon King’s Lap falls into the growing category of shojo isekai titles. This adorable and beautifully illustrated manga will appeal to a large audience of shojo fantasy fans eager for more.
Keito Koume Illustrations: Spice & Wolf – The Tenth Year Calvados
Art by Keito Koume
Never before has the stunning color art of the manga adaption of Spice and Wolf been seen like this! As a compendium of the illustrations delivering a story that ran strong for ten years, this is a must-have for any fan of everyone’s favorite apple-loving wolf!
Over a decade ago, the series Spice & Wolfbecame one of the first light novels to gain mainstream popularity, a series that remains a fan favorite to this day. Keito Koume Illustrations: Spice & Wolf – The Tenth Year Calvados is a deluxe collection of Spice & Wolfillustrator Keito Koume’s artwork for the manga adaptation which includes cover art and a full color manga excerpt.
Wolf & Parchment (manga)
Story by Isuna Hasekura
Art by Hidori
When Col leaves the cozy mountain village of Nyohhira aspiring to become a full-fledged member of the clergy, a certain impetuous wolf can’t help stowing away aboard his ship to follow him for a chance to have a grand adventure of her own!
A gorgeous manga adaptation of the light novel, Wolf & Parchmentis a spin-off of Spice and Wolf taking place 10 years after the end of the original series. The ongoing series features Lawrence and Holo’s travelling companion Col as well as their daughter Miyuri.
Sword Art Online Project Alicization (manga)
Story by Reki Kawahara
Art by Koutarou Yamada
Original Illustrations by abec
Deep in an unfamiliar forest, Kirito awakens with sensations far too convincing for a virtual world… With memories of a life he doesn’t remember living. A boy and a girl…and a name that sticks in his mind: Alice.
Sword Art Online Project Alicization is a manga adaptation of Sword Art Online’s Alicization Arc, the basis of the ongoing anime titled Sword Art Online: Alicization. Fans of the anime have been eagerly anticipating the release of the Sword Art Online Project Alicization manga along with the upcoming Season 2 of Sword Art Online: Alicization.
Goblin Slayer Side Story II: Dai Katana (light novel)
Story by Kumo Kagyu
Art by lack
Not a soul knows how the death and destruction started. Only one thing is certain—it came from the north. Deep within the Dungeon of the Dead is where the the Demon King resides and the only hope humanity has of defeating this great evil rests on the shoulders of a handful of adventurers. This tale of Sword Maiden’s past smells of ash and sounds like the ringing of bare steel.
Goblin Slayer Side Story II: Dai Katana takes place a decade prior to the events of the original series. The spin-off series tells the story of Sword Maiden and her party of six as they journey to slay the Demon King, a feat which made her a legend in the world of Goblin Slayer.
About Yen Press, LLC
Yen Press, LLC is a joint venture between Kadokawa Corporation and Hachette Book Group. Founded in 2006, Yen Press has quickly risento become one of the largest and most prolific publishers of manga and original graphic novels in the North American marketplace and adriving force in the introduction of light novels and Japanese literature to new readers through its Yen On imprint. For more information, visit www.yenpress.com.
Cross Infinite World has announced their latest acquisition, the one-shot light novel, Past Life Countess, Present Life Otome Game NPC?!
The book is a play on the current reincarnation in an otome game genre. Only this time, the main character is a fantasy character reborn into a modern-day Japan based otome game. And, instead of being the heroine, or even the villain, she’s an NPC!
Oh dear, it seems I was reincarnated into a modern otome game from a fantasy world!
All I ever wanted was to be free of my responsibilities as a countess and I finally got my wish when I was reborn as a commoner in modern Japan. Everything was going perfect, except it turns out this is the world of an otome game and some crazy girl who goes around calling herself the “heroine” is upset at me for stealing all her “events” with the “love interests”… Now she wants me to team up with her against the “villainess”. I’m supposedly just a random NPC, so why am I being dragged into this?!
The book is written by Sorahoshi, with illustrations by Yuki Kinami. It is schedule to release on September 11, 2020. You can preorder it on Amazon now.
Over the past three days, Seven Seas has been having a “No Panel, No Problem” event on their Twitter account. Over the course of the event, they announced they had licensed the following light novels.
Muscles Are Better Than Magic!
Story by DORANEKO, with illustrations by Relucy
For ten years, Yuri has lived alone in the forest, training his muscles day and night to hone his body into the ultimate fighting machine. But when the beautiful elf Filia stumbles upon his home, she begs him to help her escape the forest. There’s just one problem: Yuri’s never left the woods, and besides, this odd couple can’t seem to agree on anything. It’s the beginning of a wacky journey through strange lands and stranger adventures!
Seven Seas also licensed the manga of this title.
Volume 1 of the light novel will be released in print in January 2021
Failure Frame: I Became the Strongest and Annihilated Everything With Low-Level Spells
Story by Kaoru Shinozaki, with illustrations by KWKM
Touka Mimori and his classmates are abruptly catapulted into a fantasy world, summoned by the resident goddess to serve as heroes. The good news? Most of the students display amazing skills upon arrival! The bad? Mimori is the worst of the lot, bottoming out at a measly E-rank. Incensed, the goddess tosses him into a dungeon to die–but it turns out that Mimori’s skills aren’t so much worthless as they are abnormal. Abnormally powerful, perhaps!
Seven Seas has also licensed the manga.
Volume 1 of the light novel will be released in print in March 2021
Berserk of Gluttony
Written by Isshiki Ichika, with illustrations by fame.
Fate Barbatos has never tasted real power. Born with the magical skill Gluttony, he constantly hungers in a way that can’t be satiated, and has been shunned and looked down upon his entire life. One day, while working as a gatekeeper for a noble family and fighting a trespassing thief, he discovers Gluttony’s true power: when he kills someone, he devours their skills and feeds his gnawing hunger at last. In that grisly realization, Fate is awakened to his true potential. How many lives will he feed on to satisfy this hunger, and is the world ready for the frightening warrior he’ll become?
Seven Seas has also licensed the manga.
Volume 1 of the light novel is set to release in January 2021.
Ride Your Wave
Written by Masaaki Yuasa, with illustrations by Mika Toyoda
New college student Hinako, who moved to a small seaside town to surf and have fun, finds herself falling in love with firefighter Minato after he saves her from a fire. Their young romance comes to an abrupt end when Minato drowns…but in her grief, Hinako discovers that singing a song they used to perform as a duet summons Minato into the nearest body of water–be it a puddle, glass, or bathtub. Will Hinako be able to reach Minato again? Originally released as an anime movie by visionary director Masaaki Yuasa–which ran in North American theaters in early 2020–these books are the perfect companions to the film, coming to English-language Blu-ray on August 4 from Shout! Factory.
Seven Seas has licensed both the light novel and the manga adaptation.
The light novel is set to release in February 2021.
Many of the titles achieved high-rankings on this year’s Kono Light Novel ga Sugoi!
Today, Friday July 3, 2020, Yen Press took to the Anime Expo Lite Twitch stream to reveal a number of newly acquired titles. Many of the titles are notable as they placed in the most recent edition of Kono Light Novel ga Sugoi. In fact, two of the announced titles placed number 1 on their respective lists.
The World’s Finest Assassin, Reincarnated in a Different World as an Aristocrat
世界最高の暗殺者、異世界貴族に転生する
Written by Rui Tsukiyo with illustrations by Reia
When a great assassin is reborn in another world, he finds himself the heir to a long line of killers from the shadows. With both his modern-day knowledge and experience and the special magic and techniques of this new world, he could very well become the most unstoppable assassin in history…!
This quirky isekai light novel series follows a reincarnated assassin who is tasked with killing the hero of another world. As an unconventional story told from the point of view of an anti-hero, this series appeals to fans of recent light novel hits such as The Genius Prince’s Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt. (Source YP)
There are currently 4 volumes released in Japan
The Place Promised in Our Early Days
雲のむこう、約束の場所
by Makoto Shinkai
At the end of World War II, Japan was split and a great tower was erected that reached the skies. For three friends, Hiroki, Takuya, and Sayuri, memories of their summer spent together would stay with them forever. During that precious time, the three promised to one day travel to the tower in the skies on the wings of a white plane — to finally see its brilliance and the surrounding land of Ezo — but when Sayuri suddenly disappeared from their lives, the promise that once was made was broken. Though time continues to pass, will the three ever meet again some day?
The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten
お隣の天使様にいつの間にか駄目人間にされていた件
Written by San Saeki with illustrations by Hazano Kazutake
Amane lives alone in an apartment, and the most beautiful girl in school, Mahiru, lives just next door. They’ve almost never spoken—until the day he sees her in distress on a rainy day and lends her his umbrella. To return the favor, she offers him help around the house, and a relationship slowly begins to blossom as the distance between them closes…
The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten is a school-life romance story, a category that has had a resurgence in popularity in the world of light novels. A series that tells the tale of a boy who finds himself in a budding relationship with the most popular girl in school, this series appeals greatly to fans of Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki. (source YP)
Currently 2 volumes released in Japan.
Unnamed Memory
Written by Kuji Furumiya, with illustrations by Chibi
“As long as you’re the master of that sword and I’m a witch, someday you’ll have to kill me for real.”
As a child, Oscar, Crown Prince of Farsas, had been cursed to be childless. At the age of 20, he paid a visit to Tinassha, the strongest witch in the continent, to break the curse. He came back bringing Tinassha along as his protector, and in the one year until his contract with her expired, he got embroiled into her past, and an even greater destiny. (Source NU)
Currently 5 volumes released in Japan.
King of the Labyrinth
迷宮の王
Written by Shien Bis, with illustrations by Yoko Meguro
On the tenth floor of the labyrinth awaits the minotaur. Many brave adventurers have challenged this great beast, all have thoroughly failed. “More!” Demands the powerful monster. “Send me more powerful opponents!” This creature blindly pursues strength at any cost. Perhaps it will even grow strong enough to surpass the rules of the labyrinth itself! Can any adventurer hope to stand against such a mighty creature?
An unconventional story that is told from the point of view of a powerful dungeon monster, King of the Labyrinth is an intriguing light novel series that puts a twist on the popular genre of dungeon-crawling fantasies such as Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? (Source YP)
There are currently 3 volumes released in Japan
Reign of the Seven Spellblades
七つの魔剣が支配する
Written by Bokuto Uno, with illustrations by Ruria Miyuki
Spring. In the prestigious magic school of Kimberly, this year ushers in another wave of new students. Clothed in black robes with a white cane and sword strapped to the hip, within his chest he hides pride and a mission.
As the sakura flutter in full bloom, the budding magicians are welcomed by a parade of magic creatures. However, they were allowed only a moment of leisure. An underground labyrinth that swallows up students on whim, upperclassmen that resemble monsters, and a faction that opposes human rights for demi-humans. While trying to survive in an ominous and terrifying place with his companions, Oliver forms a connection with a single girl with a Japanese sword strapped to her hip, the samurai girl Nanao. The story where their two swords clash, begins now.
There are currently 6 volumes released in Japan
In addition to the light novels, fans of Overlord, particularly the anime, might be interested in the three volume artbook series Yen Press licensed.
Overlord: The Complete Anime Artbook
By Hobby Book Editorial Department
A deep dive into the planning and making of the hit anime adaption of Overlord reveals delicately crafted settings and the incredible detailed outfits and accessories that breathed life into everyone’s favorite cast of not-so-good guys!
This series of artbooks features hundreds of illustrations—character designs and concept art that went into the production of all three seasons of the Overlord anime series. Also included are interviews and commentary from the production staff.
J-Novel Club Announces the Acquisition of Thirteen New Series at Anime Expo Lite!
Nine new light novel series and four new manga series are coming to J-Novel Club!
(SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – July 3, 2020) – J-Novel Club LLC is excited to announce the acquisition of thirteen new titles following their latest announcement livestream held on July 3, 2020, at Anime Expo Lite. Eight brand-new light novel series and three new manga series were announced to have digital launches the same day with parts of Volume 1 being available to J-Novel Club Members. One light novel title will be launching at a later date. In addition, several of these series are under the J-Novel Heart shoujo label. A free preview of all of these brand-new additions will be available for everyone to enjoy.
J-Novel Club Membership is only $4.50 a month for an annual membership and gives you a new chapter a week from more than 50 ongoing series, including Invaders of the Rokujouma!?, Ascendance of a Bookworm, Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest, Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash, Seirei Gensouki: Spirit Chronicles, In Another World With My Smartphone, How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom, and many more!
Announced Title List:
The Bloodline by Taketeru Sunamori with illustrations by hakus
ブラッドライン
After the fall of civilization, a hierarchical society was born where blood determines everything. The rich steal both the blood and lifespans of the poor, rejoicing in their now-eternal lives.
Nagi is a commoner fated to die, while Saya is royalty, gifted with eternal youth. When fate brings their unlikely paths together, their innocent love set the gears in motion to tear down the walls of a society built upon tremendous inequality and racial discrimination.
Publishing first on J-Novel Club!
Slayers by Hajime Kanzaka with illustrations by Rui Araizumi
スレイヤーズ
Beautiful and brilliant sorcerer girls just can’t have nice things, huh? All I wanted to do was swipe a little bit of bandit treasure. Now suddenly I’m being chased around by icky trolls, nasty demons, mean mummies, and brooding golem bad boys. And for what? A tiny little artifact that can bring about the end of the world? Hah! I’ll show them there’s a reason you don’t cross Lina Inverse…
Part 1 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
I Love Yuri and I Got Bodyswapped with a Fujoshi! (Manga) by Ajiichi
ハーシェリク 転生王子の英雄譚
Meet Reiji Yoshida: a yuri otaku that loves yuri more than anything else in the world. All he wants is to enjoy his hobby in peace, but trouble ensues when he crosses paths with Mitsuru Hoshina, a fujoshi who is obsessed with boys’ love. Hijinks ensue, and a vengeful ghost residing in their school’s manga club swaps their bodies!
Polar opposites in both personalities and hobbies clash in this exciting first volume—follow the adventures of their comedic body swap experiences!
Chapter 1 of Volume 1 Now Available to Read on J-Novel Club!
My Instant Death Ability is So Overpowered, No One in This Other World Stands a Chance Against Me! by Tsuyoshi Fujitaka with illustrations by Chisato Naruse
即死チートが最強すぎて、異世界のやつらがまるで相手にならないんですが。
Awaking to absolute chaos and carnage while on a school trip, Yogiri Takatou discovers that everyone in his class has been transported to another world! He had somehow managed to sleep through the entire ordeal himself, missing out on the Gift — powers bestowed upon the others by a mysterious Sage who appeared to transport them. Even worse, he and another classmate were ruthlessly abandoned by their friends, left as bait to distract a nearby dragon. Although not terribly bothered by the thought of dying, he reluctantly decides to protect his lone companion. After all, a lowly Level 1000 monster doesn’t stand a chance against his secret power to invoke Instant Death with a single thought! If he can stay awake long enough to bother using it, that is…
Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
WATARU!!! The Hot-Blooded Fighting Teen & His Epic Adventures in a Fantasy World After Stopping a Truck with His Bare Hands!! by Simotti with illustrations by RELUCY
トラック受け止め異世界転生ッ！熱血武闘派高校生ワタルッッ！！
It’s a wonderful day for Wataru Ito, high school student, master martial artist, honorable and humble teenager, and all-around awesome guy. During his daily run to school he happened to get hit by a large truck barreling around a corner.
Not that this is the kind of event that would be the end of the likes of Wataru, of course, but when a truck runs into you, you get sent to another world. That’s just the way things are sometimes. Still, Wataru’s not about to take this kind of thing lying down! The first thing he sets out to do is find who’s the toughest hombre in this land and go up against the greatest challenges this new world has to offer!
Oh, and the greatest fighter in this place also happens to be the Demon Lord who is kidnapping people all across the kingdom in an attempt to wipe out humanity? Even better! Wataru’s main interest is in facing a tough battle; saving the world in the process is just icing on the cake!
Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
Record of Wortenia War (Manga) by Yukari Yagi with Scripting and Layouts by Fumi Arawi
Original Novel by Ryota Hori and Original Character Design by bob
ウォルテニア戦記
Ryoma Mikoshiba, an ordinary high-schooler adept at martial arts, one day finds himself summoned to another world. The ones who summoned him, the O’ltormea Empire, cite the fact that ‘when those summoned kill another living being, they can absorb a fraction of their strength and make it their own’ as their reason. But upon learning the empire uses those they summon to strengthen themselves by foul means, Ryoma is consumed by hatred and slays an important member of the O’ltormean court.
Attempting to escape the Empire’s borders while keeping his identity a secret, he is accosted by two twin sisters— one golden-haired, the other silver-haired— in a meeting that sets the gears of fate in motion. The curtain rises on a record of the wars of a young supreme ruler in this other world fantasy!
Chapter 1 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
A Lily Blooms in Another World by Ameko Kaeruda with illustrations by Shio Sakura
異世界に咲くは百合の花
Miyako Florence isn’t sad when her fiancée breaks off their engagement after two years. It’s all according to plan! Whisked to the world of her favorite otome game, Miyako frees herself from a dull noble to pursue her true soulmate: the game’s villainess Fuuka Hamilton. Proud Fuuka only has eyes for their mutual ex-fiancée! Miyako confesses her love to Fuuka and proposes that they run away together.
Fuuka agrees on one condition: Miyako must make her say “I’m happy” in 14 days. With conniving nobles, strange diseases, and magical rituals pulling them apart, can Miyako win the villainess’s heart? A tentative bud blossoms in this twisting romance from the author of Sexiled: My Sexist Party Leader Kicked Me Out, So I Teamed Up With a Mythical Sorceress!
A J-Novel Heart title! Part 1 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
Mapping: The Trash-Tier Skill That Got Me Into a Top-Tier Party by Udon Kamono with Illustrations by Hitomi Shizuki
外れスキル【地図化（マッピング）】を手にした少年は最強パーティーとダンジョンに挑む
Note Athlon was really looking forward to becoming an adventurer with his best friend (and crush) Miya. That is, until he drew Mapping—a rare skill with practically no purpose. In other words, it’s trash. This kicks off a vicious spiral for Note, who plummets further and further into the depths of self-loathing despair when Miya leaves him. He now spends his days drinking away his earnings, wondering how things might have been different if only he’d pulled a better skill…
But little does he know his trash-tier skill is about to score him an invite to a top-tier adventuring party! Note’s now determined to find his way through life—and a dungeon!—in order to make something of himself.
Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
Mapping: The Trash-Tier Skill That Got Me Into a Top-Tier Party (Manga) by Savan
Original Novel by Udon Kamono and Original Character Design by Hitomi Shizuki
外れスキル【地図化（マッピング）】を手にした少年は最強パーティーとダンジョンに挑む
The manga adaptation of Mapping: The Trash-Tier Skill That Got Me Into a Top-Tier Party.
Chapter 1 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
The Sorcerer’s Receptionist by Mako with illustrations by Maro
魔法世界の受付嬢になりたいです
In a world of everyday magic, Nanalie has always dreamed of becoming a receptionist at the prestigious Sorcerer’s Guild. To achieve her goal, she needs to attend a magic school full of princes and the daughters of nobles. Determined to prove that a commoner can be the number one student, she must compete with Rockmann, the son of a duke. When she graduates, she lands her dream job and they go their separate ways.
Nanalie enjoys spending each day alongside her familiar Lala and her kind co-workers, but it seems that fate won’t let her escape her entanglement with Rockmann that easily…
A J-Novel Heart title! Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
Black Summoner by Doufu Mayoi with illustrations by Kurogin (DIGS)
黒の召喚士
Waking up in a strange new place with no memory of his past life, Kelvin learns that he’s bartered away those very memories in exchange for powerful new abilities during his recent transmigration. Heading out into a whole new world as a Summoner — with his first Follower being the very goddess who brought him over! — Kelvin begins his new life as an adventurer, and it isn’t long before he discovers his hidden disposition as a battle junkie.
From the Black Knight of the Ancient Castle of Evil Spirits to the demon within the Hidden Cave of the Sage, he revels in the fight against one formidable foe after another. Join this OP adventurer in an exhilarating and epic saga as he and his allies carve their way into the annals of history!
Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
Black Summoner (Manga) by Gin Ammo
Original Novel by Doufu Mayoi with Original Character Design by Kurogin (DIGS)
黒の召喚士
The manga adaptation of Black Summoner.
Chapter 1 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
Holmes of Kyoto by Mai Mochizuki
京都寺町三条のホームズ
Half a year after moving to Kyoto, high school girl Aoi Mashiro brings her late grandfather’s old scrolls to Kura, an antique store nestled in Kyoto’s Teramachi-Sanjo shopping arcade, for an appraisal. One thing leads to another, and she winds up working there part-time. The manager’s son, Kiyotaka Yagashira—nicknamed the “Holmes of Kyoto”—is uncannily perceptive, and together, they solve strange cases relating to the antiques brought to them by clients.
A J-Novel Heart title! Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1 now available to read on J-Novel Club!
ABOUT J-NOVEL CLUB
J-Novel Club is a digital publishing company started by translators and fans like you! By focusing on digital releases and providing a membership service to let people read our books as they are being translated, our goal is to build a growing community of light novel and manga readers so that more and more releases can be officially licensed and translated. J-Novel Club has published over 450 volumes of light novels and manga in 3 years.
The Genius Prince’s Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt (Hey, How about Treason?)
Written by Toru Toba with illustrations by Falmaro. Released in English by Yen On with a translation by Jessica Lange.
“Holy. Her boobs are huge… He was the worst of the worst.” – Toru Toba As aptly stated by our narrator, this light novel’s titular protagonist’s motivations doesn’t rank high on the ‘admirable’ scale.
The Genius Prince’s Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt (Hey, How About Treason?), Vol. 1 is the introductory entry for a fantasy light novel series in which the prince regent of a small kingdom plots to sell off his position and nation for money and a lazy life… but fails spectacularly at every step. It’s a tale that combines an OP character, a peculiar motivation, and the underdog story archetype. Despite the seemingly contradictory foundational tropes, Toru Toba successfully spins a solid story with a good mix of comedy, intrigue, and action.
Volume 1
To start, let us discuss the world-building; one of the light novel’s strongest points. Despite my initial reservations (e.g. long title, third colour insert), I was pleasantly surprised by the density and quality of the introductory chapters. In the span of about thirty-three pages, I felt like I had a solid grasp of: (1) the geopolitical relationship between the titular kingdom and its superior Empire, (2) current key events occurring in both nations, (3) the relevant history surrounding them, and (4) the two protagonists’ roles and their relationship. That’s a lot to cram in without sounding dry. However, the depth and breadth of the setting are either seamlessly weaved into dialogue or described in an engaging manner. The comedic aspect further maintains the reader’s attention. Unfortunately, there are some occurrences of somewhat unnatural speech but they are few and far between. Overall, Toru Toba does an excellent job setting the scene and adeptly keeps this momentum through the entire volume.
Impressively, the large focus on the world doesn’t go to waste. Given this world lacks fantastical elements, conflicts are determined through resource quantity and effectiveness (i.e. manpower/information and strategy/intrigue). Thus, it is important that we understand a situation to really appreciate its development and resolution. The entertainment in this case comes from trying to figure out the prince’s plans. Coupled this with a sprinkling of comedy and one has multiple layers to enjoy. However, there are some cases where too much information is withheld and this can leave conclusions feeling undeserved. Hopefully this particular issue becomes less frequent in future entries.
Moving on, the short length of this entry (about 160 pages) leaves Toru Toba limited in the plot progress they can make with sufficient detail. However, as is with the world-building, the density is impressive. Without venturing into spoiler-territory, The Genius Prince’s Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt (Hey, How About Treason?), Vol. 1 covers enough to set up the important plot points without dragging on. The flow of the writing and dialogue also gives life to possibly boring sections of exposition and keeps a comfortable pace throughout. Unfortunately, the occasional time-skips and conveniences (read: OP incidents) that occur to help push the story forward leaves me disappointed at times. At its worst, a couple of weak setups result in their associated payoffs failing to satisfy.
Another issue with the volume’s length is the character development. The world-building and plot progression are well done but everyone’s characterization falls a little flat. This is a particular issue for the protagonists and those fiercely loyal to the prince. While certain scenes flesh out special relationships, individual motivations are left in the dark. Most key secondary characters can be summed up with ‘loyal to the kingdom and has their reasons.’ I wish we could delve more into the ‘why’s but I suppose those reveals can wait for future volumes and/or side stories.
As a sort of consolation for the length, there are many beautiful illustrations scattered among the pages. Falmaro does an amazing job at capturing the physical beauty of the depicted characters and gives them a well-varied collection of expressions. However, they don’t make up for the lost setup impact and character development time. In fact, they seem wasted on some of the scenes into which they are inserted. If instead they were better placed at critical moments, they could get more value from the illustrations.
Admittedly, I really enjoyed this book. I ended up finishing it in one sitting and it’s brevity left me wanting so much more. Despite the short comings in setup and character development, the writing flow and excellent world-building more than makes up for them. In fact, rather than the characters driving the plot, one could perceive them as actors playing out the consequences of key triggering events. With this mindset, I’m excitedly waiting to dive into Vol. 2. Sadly, I’m only giving this a 4.4/5 due to the concluding conflict’s resolution leaving a bad taste in my mouth (and souring an otherwise great dish).
Rating: 4.4 / 5 – Highly Recommended
Recommended for: Readers looking for a fun take on an unwilling hero in a decent fantasy world. Readers captivated by beautiful, white-haired, red-eyed heroines.
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to read my review (even if you scrolled straight to the bottom). I hope that you take home even a little of what I’ve written down.
I’m 春華 or Haruka, aspiring novelist and light novel reviewer. I’ve only started diving into light novels, so please bare with my naiveté. You can follow my Twitter for updates on my reviews and writing progress. Let’s all get along!
Light Novel Releases for the week of July 6-12, 2020
Here are all the new light novels releasing during the week of July 6-12, 2020.
To see the complete list of new releases, be sure to visit the Preorders page.
Arifureta Zero Volume 4 (eBook)(print will release later) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released July 06, 2020 — ASIN: B085T7RXXY
Chivalry of a Failed Knight Volume 4 (eBook)(print will release later) Amazon — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released July 07, 2020 — ASIN: B089QV663Z
Infinite Dendrogram Volume 12 (eBook)(print will release later) Amazon — iBook — Kobo — Google Play — Bookwalker Released July 07, 2020 — ASIN: B0872L15HG
My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! Volume 2 (paperback)(ebook released earlier) Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — Rightstuf Releasing July 07, 2020 — ISBN-13: 978-1718366619
Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest Volume 8 (paperback)(ebook released earlier) Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — Rightstuf Releasing July 7, 2020 — ISBN-13: 978-1645054351
If It’s For My Daughter, I’d Even Defeat a Demon Lord Volume 9 (paperback)(ebook released earlier) Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — Rightstuf Releasing July 07, 2020 — ISBN-13: 978-1718353084
Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life? Volume 9 (paperback)(ebook released earlier) Amazon — Barnes and Noble — Book Depository — Rightstuf Releasing July 07, 2020 — ISBN-13: 978-1645054870
Yes, No, or Maybe? Volume 1 (eBook)(print to release October 6, 2020) Amazon — Bookwalker eBook Released July 9, 2020 — ASIN: B0882Q5VWJ
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Volume 7 (eBook)(print to release October 13, 2020) Amazon — Bookwalker eBook Released July 9, 2020 — ASIN: B087LSY8DL
