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Naver Webtoon, Munpia Announce Winners of 2026 Web Novel Contest
7,400 writers participated, including about 6,600 first-time authors with no prior paid serialization experience
― Naver Webtoon and Munpia announced the 37 winners of the 2026 World's Largest Web Novel Contest on July 22. The annual competition, jointly organized by the two platforms, received more than 10,000 submissions, a roughly 35% increase from last year. A total of 7,400 writers participated...
Manga Creator Kyō Yoneshiro Launches New Manga Based on Junichirō Tanizaki's Naomi Novel
Yoneshiro to launch Netsuzō: Chijin no Ai manga on August 3
― This year's 35th issue of Shogakukan's Weekly Big Comic Spirits magazine announced on Monday that manga creator Kyō Yoneshiro will launch a new manga titled Netsuzō: Chijin no Ai (Fabrication: A Fool's Love), based on Junichirō Tanizaki's 1924 novel Chijin no Ai (published in English under the title Naomi) in the magazine's next issue on A...
Though I Am an Inept Villainess Volumes 1-10 Light Novel Review
Abused and despised, one Maiden plots to take over the life of the Prince’s favorite, only to find that “the grass is greener on the other side of the fence” can have deadly consequences for them both.
― Let's start with the content warning: If you are chronically ill and/or disabled, you may find these novels way too real, despite the magic and silliness. Depictions of chronic illness and the emotio...
Yen Press Licenses 'Watching the Angel Sleep, Drowning in Bed Together' Yuri Light Novel; 9 Manga
#ImLookingForZombies, Mane Mane Nichi Nichi, Champignon Witch, other manga licensed
― Yen Press announced at its panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2026 on Friday that it has licensed one light novel and nine manga titles.Title: Watching the Angel Sleep, Drowning in Bed TogetherCreators: Tetsuto Uesu (story), Minori Chigusa (illustration)Summary: Ayana Yukihira is a second-year in high school, and after he...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, July 19-25
Bad Girl anime; Alice in Borderland Retry, Taika's Reason manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Bad Girl BDPlease Sentai Filmworks US$41.99 July 21 Girl's High BDCite Media Blasters US$24.99 July 21 Otoboku - Maidens Are Falling for Me! BDAnimeNewsNetwork Media Blasters US$24.99 July 21 World War Blue BDPlease Media Blasters US$19.99 July 21 Yamibo BDPlease Media Bla...
Summer 2026 Light Novel Guide
Looking for a new book to read? We've got you covered! Check out our reviewers' thoughts on a Lovecraftian Korean novel, two separate books about space orcs, and the much-anticipated print release of sci fi danmei classic Little Mushroom!
― Welcome to Anime News Network's Summer 2026 Light Novel Guide, the companion to our manga guide! Every included novel was published in June or July or is an upco...
Yen Press Licenses 'Let's Begin, a Battle Without the Hero,' The Weakling Who Died a Million Times Light Novels; The Dragon Prince's Ill-Mated Betrothal Manga
Also: audiobook of Wolf Children: Ame & Yuki novel announced
― Yen Press announced on Thursday that it has licensed two light novel series under its Yen On imprint, and one manga title. Yen Press also announced the audiobook of the novel adaptation of Mamoru Hosoda's Wolf Children: Ame & Yuki film, under its Yen Audio imprint.Title: Let's Begin, a Battle Without the Hero vol. 1 light novelCreators: T...
Shikiso Utsuzawa's 'Because I, the True Saint, was Banished, that Country is Done For!' Novels Get TV Anime in 2027
Masumi Tazawa, Taku Yashiro star in Tsumugi Akita Anime Lab series
― A website opened on Thursday to announce the television anime adaptation of Shikiso Utsuzawa's Because I, the True Saint, was Banished, that Country is Done For! (Shin no Seijo de Aru Watashi wa Tsuihō Saremashita) light novel series, slated for debut in 2027. The website also revealed the anime's teaser visual, and main cast and st...
Cross Infinite World Licenses Assassin Empress Bellreuge, The Villainess' Journal, 2 More Light Novels
Also: From Bumbling Prodigy to Villainess, From Corporate Drone to Mincemaster!
― Cross Infinite World announced on Wednesday that it has licensed the following light novels for release in August-October. Title: Assassin Empress Bellreuge
Creators: Aoi Miyamae (story), Hatori Kyouka (art)
Release Date: August 31 (digital)
Synopsis: Bellreuge is just a handmaiden working for the first princess of the ...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, July 12-18
Witch Watch, DAN DA DAN anime; Mobile Suit Gundam the Witch from Mercury—Vanadis Heart, Star Wars Visions: Tsukumo manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, REALLY Love You Season 2 BDPlease Crunchyroll US$69.98 July 14 DAN DA DAN Season 2 BDCite Shout! Studios US$54.98 July 14 DAN DA DAN Season 2 Collector's Editio...
ANN Manga and Novel Summer Reading List 2026
Remember those summer reading lists you used to get as a kid? While they could have a few gems, for the most part, they weren't all that exciting. But what if your teachers had given you manga and light novels to read?
― Remember those summer reading lists you used to get as a kid? While they could have a few gems, for the most part, they weren't all that exciting. But what if your teachers had give...
The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects Novels Listed as Entering Last Arc
Fuurou launched story in 2018; anime adaptation debuted on July 3
― Amazon's listing for the 16th volume of Fuurou's The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects (Ryōmin 0-nin Start no Henkyō Ryōshu-sama) light novel series states the series is entering its last arc. The 16th volume will ship on September 16. J-Novel Club publishes the novel series and its manga adaptation in English, and it describe...
Megami Tensei Creator Releases Promised English Translation of Novels
Aya Nishitani: “Three years ago, I promised an American reader that I would translate Megami Tensei into English myself."
― Megami Tensei creator Aya Nishitani announced on Sunday that he is in the process of translating the Megami Tensei (Digital Devil Story) novel series into English. The author states in an X (formerly Twitter) post, "Three years ago, I promised an American reader that I would tra...
Mushoku Tensei: Redundant Reincarnation Epilogue Novels End With 4th Volume
4th volume in epilogue series to ship on November 25
― The official X/Twitter account for Kadokawa's MF Books light novel label announced on July 2 that the fourth and final novel volume for Rifujin na Magonote's Mushoku Tensei: Redundant Reincarnation (Mushoku Tensei - Dasoku-hen) light novel series will ship on November 25.Seven Seas Entertainment is releasing the novel series in English, and it de...
Kakao Ent. Launches Tomb Raider King Sequel Across Webtoon, Web Novel
Sequel continues story of Joo-heon Seo after events of original series
― Kakao Entertainment has launched Tomb Raider King: End Line, a sequel to its hit Tomb Raider King franchise, on KakaoPage. The webtoon debuted on July 5, followed by the web novel on July 6. (Note: The following paragraph contains spoilers for the original series.) The sequel continues the story of Joo-heon Seo after the events...
Cosmic Princess Kaguya! Novel Tops Oricon's Monthly Light Novel Ranking for June 2026
Classroom of the Elite: Year 3 4th volume drops to #2, Ryohgo Narita's DON'T BLEACH MY FIST novel debuts at #3
― Oricon Inc. announced its Monthly Light Novel Ranking for June 2026 on July 2. The data tracks estimated print sales at retail outlets across Japan from June 1 to June 28. The novel adaptation of Shingo Yamashita's Cosmic Princess Kaguya! (Chō Kaguya-hime!) anime film by writer Naruto Kiri...
Victoria of Many Faces Volumes 1-3 Light Novel Review
Fans of Haven't You Heard? I'm Sakamoto, Ya Boy Kongming!, and other hypercompetent characters will immediately adore Victoria, who relies on her intellect to always choose the exact skill in her impressive arsenal to be her own rescuer.
― Sick of magical isekai adventures? Tired of high school heroines? Meet Victoria, a covert operative who we meet when she is 28 years old and a new mom. By the seco...
One Piece novel HEROINES Volumes 1-2 Light Novel Review
Every option is on the table, and nothing is too trivial for these airy little vignettes.
― The women of One Piece have always been an area of missed potential. They're maximized for sex appeal first and foremost, drawn with interchangeable silhouettes and allowed to kick ass so long as they duly cede the spotlight to the story's male characters immediately afterward. This makes One Piece: Heroines, ...
J-Novel Club Reveals 7 Light Novel, 2 Manga Licenses, 13 Print Releases
'Sorry Darling, but You Won't Kill Me Again!', A Young Maiden's Growing Pains, Last Summer Sparkle, more licensed
― J-Novel Club announced licenses for seven light novel series and two manga at its Anime Expo panel on Friday. The first two parts of the first volume for all new light novel series and the first chapter for all new manga are available now. The company also revealed print releases for th...
Writer Damu Amato, Illustrator Shirabii's Heir to a Monstermancer Novel Series Gets TV Anime
Manaka Iwami, Chiaki Kobayashi, Akio Ōtsuka star in project No.9 anime
― Hakuhodo DY Music & Pictures announced on Friday that writer Damu Amato and illustrator Shirabii's Heir to a Monstermancer (Mamono Tsukai no Musume: Midori no Hitomi no Shōjo, the anime uses the English title Monster Master Girl) novel series is getting a television anime adaptation, and revealed a teaser visual and the anime's ...
Dark Horse to Release 2nd Edition of Yoshitaka Amano's Deva Zan Artbook Novel With New Illustration
Amano also working on anime project ZAN based on his art
― Dark Horse announced during artist Yoshitaka Amano's panel at Anime Expo on Friday that it is releasing a second edition of Amano's Deva Zan artbook novel. Amano is illustrating a new cover for the release. The company initially released the first edition in English in hardcover in January 2013 with the cover pictured right. ZAN, artist Yoshi...
Yen Press Licenses Planarian Humans, Takane-san and Arashi-chan, Zeta Gundam Define, More Manga & Novels
Also: The Chef of the Adventurers' Tavern, A Flower in Black Crude Clothes, The 11th Cat Is Nene!, more
― Yen Press announced during its panel at Anime Expo on Friday the following six manga and two novel licenses: Title: The Chef of the Adventurers' Tavern (Bōkensha Sakaba no Ryōrinin) novel
Creators: Hagane Kurodome (story), Kururi (illustrations)
Summary: A Quest That Begins in the Kitchen! Yoishi...
Exclusive: Square Enix Manga & Books Reveals 8 Manga, 2 Final Fantasy Book Releases
My Classmate James, Final Fantasy XIV: Me and the Cornservant, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: Dear Destiny
― Square Enix Manga & Books announced during its panel on Thursday at Anime Expo the following eight manga and two book releases: Title: Not Quite Love manga
Author: Daisuke Hagiwara
Release: April 2027
Description: In a twist of fate, high schooler Umi Sayama finds herself moving in with the Hiroi ...
Japan's Anime Revolution! Twenty Animated Films That Changed The World Book Review
Author Jonathan Clements takes us on an entertaining, in-depth tour through anime movie history.
― Japan's Anime Revolution! is a very good book by Jonathan Clements, one of the most respected English-language authorities on anime. It's worth saying that right off, as this book is saddled with an issue that might deter readers from picking it up in the first place. The cover, by all appearances, is A...
AI Animation Company Puri Prince Announces Dennō Isu Tantei Charlotte ~Dead Man's Hand~ Short Anime
Hina Yomiya, Tomokazu Sugita, more star in anime based on noriyang's web novel Dennō Isu Tantei Charlotte
― Tokyo-based AI animation company Puri Prince announced on Thursday the second installment of its anime project titled Dennō Isu Tantei Charlotte ~Dead Man's Hand~ (Cyber-Chair Detective Charlotte: Dead Man's Hand), a short anime series based on noriyang's web novel Dennō Isu Tantei Charlotte, a...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, June 28-July 4
Dr. Stone Science Future, Patlabor anime; Geniearth, Al the Adventurer: That Magic Shouldn't Work! manga ship
― The weekly North American Anime, Manga Releases article will be off for the week of July 7-13 and will return in mid-July. Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Dr. Stone Science Future Part 1 BDPlease Crunchyroll US$79.98 June 30 I Don't Like You At All, Big Brother!! ...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, June 21-27
I Left My A-Rank Party to Help My Former Students Reach the Dungeon Depths! anime; Sentenced to Be a Hero, The Daughter of the Demon Lord Is Too Kind!! manga ship
― The weekly North American Anime, Manga Releases article will be off for the week of July 5-11, and may also be off next week. Either way, the article will return in mid-July. Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Chiv...
New Studio Intelligent Animation to Adapt 2 Tapas Webtoons Into Animated Series
Intelligent Animation to combine "traditional animation, visual effects, AI technologies" to animate The Dragon Prince's Bride, The Prince's Personal Physician
― New animation studio Intelligent Animation (IA) officially launched on June 23, announcing its first two productions will be animated adaptations of Tapas webtoons.The Los Angeles-based studio revealed that The Dragon Prince's Bride and The ...
I'm in Love with the Villainess' Inori Pens New Yuri Novel
Inori's new novel Poison for the Moon, Medicine for the Night—An Assassin Who Longs for Death and a Vampire Marked for Death slated for simultaneous German, Japanese, English digital release in December
― German publisher Dokico announced on Thursday (Yuri Day in Japan) its first original light novel series titled Poison for the Moon, Medicine for the Night—An Assassin Who Longs for Death and a Vampi...
Gacha Girls Corps Light Novel Series Gets TV Anime in January 2027
Daisuke Sakaguchi, Miyu Tomita, Iori Noguchi star in anime
― A website opened on Thursday to announce that author Chinkururi and illustrator Yasutaka Isegawa's Gacha Girls Corps (Gacha o Mawashite Nakama o Fuyasu: Saikyō no Bishōjo Gundan o Tsukuriagero) light novel series is getting a television anime adaptation that will debut in January 2027. Micro Magazine had announced in May 2025 that an anime ...
Arc System Works Announces Qliphah in Providence's Shadow Game
"Tactical counter-timeline RPG" launches on PS5, Switch, PC on September 24
― Arc System Works announced the new Qliphah in Providence's Shadow game during the "ARC SYSTEM WORKS Showcase 2026 - June 24th" livestream on Wednesday. The game will launch for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store on September 24. The game features two protagonists and is fully voice act...
Abrams ComicArts' Kana Licenses Qtonagi's Hotel Astrology Book
Astrology, horoscope book ships in fall 2027
― Abrams ComicArts' Kana imprint announced on Monday that it has licensed Qtonagi's Hotel Astrology book and will release it in fall 2027.The book uses illustrations to show astrology through horoscopes, and also includes the 10 planets and their aspects, the 12 astrological houses, and traits from zodiac signs as paired and contrasted with other traits, s...
Read It First: Manga, Light Novel Sources for Summer 2026 Anime
From A Witch in Mongolia to a kaiju-sized girl, read Anime News Network's reviews of the original manga and light novels behind the upcoming summer anime season. Sponsored by BookWalker!
― It's hardly a rule that you have to read the source material before you watch the adaptation, but what if you want to? A decade ago, anime fans who wanted to read the manga or light novel before the show debuted w...
Uzumaki Novelization Ends
Masaru Satō's adaptation of Junji Ito's manga launched in 2019
― The July issue of Shogakukan's Big Comic Original Zōkan magazine published the final chapter of Masaru Satō's novelization of Junji Ito's Uzumaki horror manga on June 12. The compiled novel will ship at a later date. Satō launched the novelization in Shogakukan's Big Comic Original Zōkan magazine in February 2019. The 1998-1999 manga f...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, June 14-20
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, Colorful Stage! The Movie: A Miku Who Can't Sing anime; Assassin's Creed Shadows: Tales of Iga, Gladiator Battle Life manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Assassination Classroom: The Complete Series BDPlease Crunchyroll US$89.98 June 16 Berserk: The Golden Age Arc - Memorial Edition BDCite Crunchyroll US$74.98 June 16 Colorful Stage! T...
Seven Seas to Release Fluffy Café in Another World, Reborn as an Assassin's Apprentice Audiobooks, Skip and Loafer Box Set
Skip and Loafer manga gets 5-volume boxset in December
― Seven Seas Entertainment announced on Wednesday that it will release the following titles:Title: Fluffy Café in Another World audiobook
Creators: Punichan, Tobi
Release Date: July 16 (volume 1, Siren imprint)
Summary: Taichi Arima is your average office worker going through the motions of life until one fateful encounter with a mysterious white...
Jun Nishikawa's Maken no Deshi wa Munō de Saikyō! Manga Adaptation Ends
Manga adaptation launched in 2021
― Square Enix's Manga Up! platform published the final chapter of Jun Nishikawa's manga adaptation of Sametarō Fukada's Maken no Deshi wa Munō de Saikyō! Eiyū-ryū no Shugyō de Bannō ni Naretanode, Saikyō o Mezashimasu (The Demon Sword Disciple is Incompetent and the Strongest! I Will Aim for the Top After Becoming All-Powerful Through Hero Training) novels on Saturda...
Classroom of the Elite: Year 3 Light Novel Tops Oricon's Monthly Light Novel Ranking for May 2026
Novel adaptations of anime films Cosmic Princess Kaguya!, Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway rank 2nd & 3rd
― Oricon Inc. announced its Monthly Light Novel Ranking for May 2026 on June 4. The data tracks estimated print sales at retail outlets across Japan from May 4 to May 31. The fourth volume of writer Shogo Kinugasa and illustrator Shunsaku Tomose's Classroom of the Elite: Year 3 light ...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, June 7-13
Alien Nine, Hotori: Simply Wishing For Hope anime; The Babe at My Back Has Her Eye on Me. I'm Done For., Let's Run an Inn on Dungeon Island! (In a World Ruled by Women) manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Alien Nine BDPlease AnimEigo US$29.95 June 9 Hotori: Simply Wishing For Hope BDCite AnimEigo US$19.95 June 9 Sailor Moon Crystal Seasons 1-3 Collection BDAnimeNew...
Yen Press Licenses Witches Can't Be Collared, 'Alma-chan Wants to Be a Family!', Yamada's Class Diary, More Manga/Novels
Also: Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? Familia Chronicle Episode Asfi, Mafia, more
― Yen Press announced on Friday that it has licensed eight manga, six novel series, and one box set for release in December 2026. Title: Witches Can't Be Collared manga
Creators: Makuei, Yuri Yumemi (original story), Wata (character design)
Summary: The Las Lilte Empire, with boundless magic power at t...
Alleged Operator of Webtoon Piracy Website Newtoki Extradited From Japan to S. Korea
Event marks 1st time Japan has extradited one of its own nationals to S. Korea under bilateral agreement
― The suspected operator behind Newtoki, one of South Korea's largest illegal webtoon distribution sites, was extradited from Japan to Korea, marking a major breakthrough in its efforts to combat global digital piracy. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) announced the 37-year-old s...
Fluffy Paradise Light Novel Series Listed as Ending in 21st Volume
Web novel debuted in 2012, inspired manga adaptation in 2017 which in turn inspired 2024 TV anime
― Online retailers are listing the 21st novel volume of Himawari and Kirouran's Fluffy Paradise (Isekai de Mofumofu Nadenade Suru Tameni Ganbattemasu) novel series as the final volume. The volume will ship on August 10.Cross Infinite World is releasing the novel series digitally in English, and it descri...
Web Novel Series 'Got Dropped Into a Ghost Story, Still Gotta Work' Gets Webtoon Adaptation
Series follows rookie employee on field investigation team at Baekilmong Company, who explores urban legends while developing survival strategies
― Kakao Entertainment has announced that the web novel Got Dropped Into a Ghost Story, Still Gotta Work will be adapted into a webtoon, which debuted on Kakao Page on June 5. The adaptation marks the first visualized version of the widely popular original ...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, May 31-June 6
NANA anime; Billy Bat, I'm No Angel, Secondhand Sisters manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Dark Future BDCite Kitty Media US$29.98 June 2 NANA - Complete Collection BDAnimeNewsNetwork Sentai Filmworks US$99.98 June 2 Print Manga Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Always a Catch! How I Punched My Way into Marrying a Prince Graphic Novel (GN) 7Plea...
Bungo Stray Dogs Gets New Spinoff Manga on July 3
Shikiji Sorakura's spinoff manga adapts "Dazai o Hirotta Hi" novel
― The July issue of Kadokawa's Young Ace magazine revealed on Thursday that Shikiji Sorakura will launch a new spinoff manga for the Bungo Stray Dogs franchise in the magazine's next issue on July 3. The manga is an adaptation of the "Dazai o Hirotta Hi" (The Day I Took In Dazai), a moviegoer bonus novel for the 2022 Bungo Stray Dogs ...
Final Fantasy IX Picture Book: Vivi and Grandpa's Memories for the Sky Book Review
While it skews far younger than the average fan of Final Fantasy IX, it's nevertheless an adorable little book and a great little story to share with your children.
― As part of Final Fantasy IX's 25th anniversary, the original event designer sat down and gave the world a charming little picture book, all about the early days of the adorable and fan-loved Black Mage Vivi. You can almost imagine this ...
Haibara's Teenage New Game+ Novels End Main Story
Story ended in 11th volume, but upcoming 12th volume will have epilogue
― Kazuki Amamiya's Haibara's Teenage New Game+ (Haibara-kun no Tsuyokute Seishun New Game) light novel series ended its main story with the 11th volume on Monday. Amamiya previously stated on May 21 that there would be a 12th volume including an epilogue. Hobby Japan shipped the first volume in December 2021. The series won the g...
Rakuda's 'Shujinkō no Osananajimi ga, Wakiyaku no Ore ni Guiguikuru' Novel Series Gets Manga Adaptation
Manga launches on June 29 in Dengeki Daioh G magazine
― The official X (formerly Twitter) account for Kadokawa's Dengeki Daioh G magazine announced on May 27 that Rakuda's Shujinkō no Osananajimi ga, Wakiyaku no Ore ni Guiguikuru (The Protagonist's Childhood Friend is Aggressively Coming After Me, a Supportive Character) light novel series will get a manga adaptation beginning in volume 154 on June 2...
Heroine? Saint? No, I'm an All-Works Maid (And Proud of It)! Volumes 2-6 Light Novel Review
Reborn into a game world with no understanding of the rules, Melody Wave becomes the perfect maid and whips the game into tiptop shape while making the perfect cup of tea.
― One must begin this series with a pure heart, willing to accept anything. And should one attain that state before beginning, Heroine? Saint? No, I'm an All-Works Maid (And Proud of It!) will reward the reader time and time again....
North American Anime, Manga Releases, May 24-30
From Bureaucrat to Villainess: Dad's Been Reincarnated! anime; Every Adventure Needs a Weapon!, Love from the Tip of the Tongue, The Scum Laugh manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date From Bureaucrat to Villainess: Dad's Been Reincarnated! BDAnimeNewsNetwork Sentai Filmworks US$69.98 May 26 Print Manga Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date The Adventure ...
Yū Shimizu's Howling Blaze Fantasy Light Novels Get Manga
koko draws manga launching on June 26
― The July issue of Kadokawa's Comic Alive magazine revealed on Wednesday that Yū Shimizu's Howling Blaze: Sōen no Kenshi to Fushi no Majo (Howling Blaze: The Funeral Flame Blade & The Immortal Witch) light novel series is inspiring a manga adaptation by koko that will launch in the magazine's next issue on June 26.The fantasy manga's story is set in a world bein...
Yu Hibari's 'Kokō na Kanojo to, Kanojo no Heya de Shiteru Koto' Light Novel Gets Manga
Mugiko launches manga on June 27
― The July issue of Kadokawa's Comic Alive magazine revealed on Wednesday that Yu Hibari's Kokō na Kanojo to, Kanojo no Heya de Shiteru Koto light novel is inspiring a manga adaptation by Mugiko that will launch in the magazine's next issue on June 27.The novel centers on two opposites: the beautiful ice queen Kotori Nabata, and the introverted Takumi Hashio. Though c...
Kei Takano's Dōtei Dakedo Akuyaku Kizoku ni Tensei Shita no de Harem o Tsukuru Isekai Story Gets Manga
pastime774 launches manga on June 26
― The July issue of Ichijinsha's Comic Rex magazine revealed on Wednesday that pastime774 will launch a manga adaptation of Kei Takano's Dōtei Dakedo Akuyaku Kizoku ni Tensei Shita no de Harem o Tsukuru... Hazu Datta no ni Nazeka Sekai o Sukuu Seijin ni Nattemashita (Namida) (I'm a Virgin that Reincarnated as an Evil Aristocrat, So I'm Making a Harem... Or At Leas...
The Ryuo's Work Is Never Done Light Novels' 21st, Final Volume Listed With July 15 Release
GA Bunko announced 21st volume as final volume in January earlier this year
― SB Creative is lsiting the 21st and final volume of Shirow Shiratori's The Ryuo's Work Is Never Done! light novel series with a July 15 release date. SB Creative's GA Bunko light novel label revealed on January 4 earlier this year that the 21st volume will be the final volume. The novels' main story ended with the 20th vol...
Live-Action Series The Legend of Kitchen Soldier Sparks Increase in Web Novel, Webtoon Readership
Views of original web novel rise 170 times in week after series debuts
― The live-action series The Legend of Kitchen Soldier is driving a sharp resurgence in the original web novel and webtoon. According to Naver Webtoon on May 20, views of the original web novel surged 170 times in the week after the series debuted, compared to the week prior to its teaser video rollout. The webtoon saw a 61-fold ...
Yen Press Licenses Wistoria: Wand and Sword, Honey Lemon Soda Novels, 7 Manga
Also: Snowmelt and Agapanthus, Witch and Cat, Sinful Is the Angel Who Loves manga
― Yen Press announced on Friday during its panel at this year's Anime North event that it has licensed seven manga and two novel series for release in December 2026 and winter 2027. Title: Wistoria: Wand and Sword novel
Creators: Fujino Omori (story), Yunagi (illustrator)
Summary: Will and his childhood friend Elfaria e...
Betrayal of Dignity Volume 1 Novel Review
If you aren’t a fan of jerk romantic interests, I’d recommend looking for a different book.
― This is a beautifully written and well-translated book about an absolute horror show of a man. Betrayal of Dignity, whose webtoon adaptation is also available to read on Manta's site and app, is an impressive combination of light novel and old school romance novel, which makes it almost aggressively readable...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, May 17-23
Scarlet, Maoyu anime; Magical Karina, Shinjuku 69 Heaven manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Maoyu BDPlease Sentai Filmworks US$59.98 May 19 Naruto Shippuden Set 10 BDCite Viz Media US$44.98 May 19 Scarlet BDAnimeNewsNetwork Sony Pictures US$24.96 May 19 Scarlet SteelBook 4K UHDPlease Sony Pictures US$44.99 May 19 Print Manga Releases Title Publisher Suggested Reta...
HYBE Expands Dark Moon Franchise With Werewolf-Centric Multimedia Project
The Witch of Yerasah centers entirely on werewolf characters; explores themes of fate, identity, self-determined love
― HYBE announced on Monday it is expanding its original story IP Dark Moon with a new installment, DARK MOON: The Witch of Yerasah, marking the first time the series focuses exclusively on a werewolf-driven narrative. The project is being rolled out as a large-scale multimedia initia...
Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Novels End in Next Novel
13th novel shipped on April 20
― The 13th volume of Isle Osaki's Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers (Shinja Zero no Megami-sama to Hajimeru Isekai Kōryaku or Clear the world like a game with the zero believers goddess) light novel series announced on April 20 that the series will end in the next volume.J-Novel Club licensed both the novel series and its manga adaptation, ...
Yen Press Licenses Moscow 2160, Love at the City's Edge on a Moonlit Night, Terrarium in a Drawer, 14 More Manga/Novels
Also: He Was My Brother, egg: I'm Your Child, After-School Duty, more
― Yen Press announced on Friday that it has licensed 11 manga and seven novel series for release in November. The company also revealed that it will release an audiobook for Keiichi Hikami's Elden Ring- themed novel See You at That Site of Grace After Work in November. Title: Moscow 2160 manga
Creators: Kumo Kagyu (story), Koutarou...
Odayaka Launches Manga Adaptation of Mashimesa Emoto's Novel Series
Odayaka draws manga of Emoto's Goodbye, Horrible Fiancé, Hello, Fun Magic School Life! light novel series
― The June issue of Square Enix's Monthly Shonen Gangan magazine announced the advance launch of Odayaka's manga adaptation of Mashimesa Emoto's Goodbye, Horrible Fiancé, Hello, Fun Magic School Life! (Konyakusha o Sutetara, Tanoshii Mahō Gakkō no Seikatsu ga Matteimashita!) novels on Square Enix...
Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint Volume 3 Novel Review
When is a little knowledge more of a problem than none at all?
― When is a little knowledge more of a problem than none at all? Dokja Kim is about to find out. In the middle of navigating the Capture the Flag scenario in what used to be the webnovel Three Ways to Survive the Apocalypse (TWSA), Dokja finds himself faced with a group of self-proclaimed Renouncers – people who read some of the novel, bu...
Seven Seas Licenses Pendulum: The Beastmen Omegaverse Saga, The Cat Who Didn't Believe in 'What-ifs,' Goetia Shock, More Titles
Also licensed: Good Night, My Little Bird; The Tomorrow I Want to See with Kako: A Time-Loop Romantic Comedy; Wandmaker of the Ruined World; more
― Seven Seas Entertainment announced that it has licensed the following titles on Wednesday:Title: Pendulum: The Beastmen Omegaverse Saga (Pendulum: Jūjin Omegaverse) mangaCreator(s): Hana HasumiRelease Date: March 2027 (BL label)Summary: In a world inhabit...
True Love Fades Away When the Contract Ends Volume 1-2 Novel Review
If you're looking for an accomplished heroine, a hero with more feelings than he's aware of, and a comfortably realized world, this is the series for you.
― If you didn't know True Love Fades Away When the Contract Ends was a light novel, I doubt you'd recognize that fact by reading it. Kosuzu Kobato's fourth English-language release, following I'd Rather Have a Cat Than a Harem, Making Jam in the Wo...
Korea Fair Trade Commission Launches Probe into Webtoon, Web Novel Industry Practices
Commission plans to survey more than 100 companies including major domestic platforms, content providers
― The Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) has launched a full-scale investigation into the revenue structures and business practices of the webtoon and web novel industry, aiming to address long-standing concerns over unfair contracts and profit distribution. According to reporting from Korean onl...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, May 3-9
Bloom Into You anime; Stella Must Die, Ultimate Exorcist Kiyoshi, Witch Hat Atelier: Grimoire Edition manga ship
― The weekly North American Anime, Manga Releases article will be off next week, and will be back in two weeks. Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Bloom Into You BDAnimeNewsNetwork Sentai Filmworks US$69.99 May 5 Print Manga Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail...
Seven Seas Licenses Record of Chrono's War, The Dangers in My Heart Spinoff, 7 More Titles
Also licensed: A Serious Error in Chihaya-chan's Reputation, The Horizon Will Soon Shine, The Clingy New Hire Keeps Asking Me Out, more
― Seven Seas Entertainment announced the following licenses on Wednesday:Title: Record of Chrono's War: Apparently I'm Only the Strongest in Bed (Chrono no Senki: Isekai Teni Shita Boku ga Saikyō na no wa Bed no Ue Dake no Yō Desu) mangaCreator(s): Ayumu Saito (origi...
Lord El-Melloi II-sei no Bōken Light Novels to End in 13th Volume
Sequel to Fate spinoff novel series Lord El-Melloi II's Case Files launched in December 2020
― Writer Makoto Sanda reported on Saturday that he is now writing the 13th volume of the Lord El-Melloi II-sei no Bōken (The Adventures of Lord El-Melloi II) sequel series to the Lord El-Melloi II-sei no Jikenbo (Lord El-Melloi II's Case Files) mystery novel spinoff. Sanda posted a photo of the volume's draft...
Kakao Entertainment to Launch Webtoon Adaptation of Suji Kim's The Forgotten Meadows Web Novel
New story takes place in same universe as Under the Oak Tree
― Kakao Entertainment announced on April 29 it will release a webtoon adaptation of The Forgotten Meadows, a new web novel by Suji Kim, on May 5 via KakaoPage and Kakao Webtoon. The project has drawn attention as the latest work from Kim, the author behind the global hit Under the Oak Tree, which became the first Korean web novel to enter ...
Korea's Largest Illegal Webtoon Site Newtoki Shuts Down Ahead of Crackdown
Operator of Newtoki announced all affiliated platforms would cease operations
― One of South Korea's largest illegal webtoon distribution sites, Newtoki, has abruptly shut down its services just weeks before the government rolls out a new rapid blocking system targeting copyright infringement. According to industry sources on April 27, the operator of Newtoki announced that all affiliated platforms ...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, April 26-May 2
Yandere Dark Elf anime; DOGGO, Grendizer U: The Inception, My Super-Cute Black Mage! manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way from Another World! BDAnimeNewsNetwork Sentai Filmworks US$69.98 April 28 Print Manga Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Ako and Bambi Graphic Novel (GN) 7Please Yen Press US$15.00 Apr...
Re:Zero Light Novels Cross 16 Million Copies in Circulation Worldwide
45th compiled volume of Tatsuhira Nagatsuki light novel series will ship on June 25
― Kadokawa's listing for the 45th compiled volume of Tatsuhira Nagatsuki's Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World light novel series states that the series has crossed 16 million copies in circulation worldwide, including digital copies sold. The volume will ship on June 25.Nagatsuki launched the story on the Shōset...
Naver Webtoon, Munpia Launch 'World's Largest Web Novel Contest'
Contest to offer total prize pool of 380 million won
― Naver Webtoon and Korean web novel platform Munpia announced on Monday the launch of the 2026 "World's Largest Web Novel Contest," offering a total prize pool of 380 million won (approximately US$258,000) as the companies seek to discover and support the next generation of web novel creators. Submissions will be open from May 13 to June 21, with...
Spring 2026 Light Novel Guide
The Spring Light Novel Guide is one of the companions to our Spring Manga Guide - come browse our selection of books and decide if your next read will be a mystery, a sci fi thriller, or an isekai treat!
― Welcome to Anime News Network's Spring 2026 Light Novel Guide, the companion to our manga guide! Every included novel was published in March or April or is an upcoming May release. This guide focu...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, April 19-25
Shangri-La Frontier, Tada Never Falls in Love anime; KILLING ME / KILLING YOU, Bug Ego manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 BDCite Crunchyroll US$79.98 April 21 Tada Never Falls in Love BDAnimeNewsNetwork Sentai Filmworks US$69.98 April 21 Print Manga Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date The Ancient Magus' Bride: Wizard's...
How to Hold Someone in Your Heart Novel Review
Mizuki Tsujimura writes without turning emotions into gooey sentimentality, capturing humans’ inner lives in all of their bruised beauty.
― “It is a gift,” the last person Ayumi helps in this sequel to Lost Souls Meet Under a Full Moon tells him, “to live in the world at the same time as the person you have in your heart.” These words are a distillation of Mizuki Tsujimura's duology. Although everyon...
Ayano Takeda's 'Sono Hi, Akane wa Sora o Tonda' Novel Gets Manga
Kanan Yamada adapts novel by Sound! Euphonium author in manga debuting on May 1
― The official X/Twitter account for Gentosha's Comic Boost manga website revealed last Friday that author Ayano Takeda's Sono Hi, Akane wa Sora o Tonda (That Day, Akane Fell From the Sky) novel is inspiring a manga adaptation by Kanan Yamada that will launch on Comic Boost on May 1.Takeda's original novel's story begins ...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, April 12-18
Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Freedom, Colorful Stage! The Movie: A Miku Who Can't Sing anime; Koharu and Minato: Happy Life with My Girlfriend, The Prince's Keeper manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Colorful Stage! The Movie: A Miku Who Can't Sing Collector's Edition BDPlease Shout! Studios US$74.98 April 14 Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Freedom 4K BDCite Crunchyroll US$74.9...
Yen Press Licenses 'Full Metal Panic! Family', Two A.M. at the Dining Table, N Manga, More Titles
Also: See You at That Site of Grace After Work, Your Castle's Little Helper novels
― Yen Press announced on Friday that it has licensed six manga and three novel series for release in October. Title: See You at That Site of Grace After Work novel
Creators: Keiichi Hikami (story), lack (illustrations)
Summary: Wataru Aida struggles with communication, yet somehow he ended up with a job in sales. His s...
Live-Action Korean TV Series Perfect Crown to Receive Web Novel Adaptation on KakaoPage
Series is set in alternate version of modern-day S. Korea where constitutional monarchy still exists
― A web novel adaptation of the Korean live-action television series Perfect Crown is set to launch in May, expanding the series into digital publishing. The live-action series, which premiered on April 10, is set in an alternate version of modern-day South Korea where a constitutional monarchy still...
How Ace Combat Inspired the Sentenced to Be a Hero Author
After six years, Sentenced to Be a Hero has achieved an impressive amount of success: eight published volumes, a manga adaptation, and an anime adaptation by Studio Kai. With the first season wrapped, we reached out to creators Rocket Shokai and Mephisto to get more insights into their views on its success.
― Sentenced to Be a Hero is a light novel series that has been in publication since 2020. Afte...
Joker Game Gets 4th Stage Play
10th anniversary show runs in February 2027
― The staff for the stage play adaptations of Production I.G's Joker Game spy anime series announced on Friday the series will receive a new stage play titled Joker Game IV next year in February. The play will run in Tokyo and in the Kansai region. The fourth show celebrates the 10th anniversary of the stage series.The returning cast includes:Yūsuke Yata as...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, April 5-11
Dungeon Elf: What's a Dungeon without Treasure Chests? manga, Banished from the Hero's Party, I Decided to Live a Quiet Life in the Countryside audiobook ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Farming Life in Another World Limited Edition Steelbook BDCite Sentai Filmworks US$99.98 April 7 One Piece Season 14 Voyage 9 BD/DVDAnimeNewsNetwork Crunchyroll US$44.98 April 7 Print...
I Made Friends with the Second Prettiest Girl in My Class Novels to End in 10th Volume
Story launched in 2020; anime adaptation debuts on Tuesday
― The ninth volume of Takata's Class de 2-ban Me ni Kawaii Onna no Ko to Tomodachi ni Natta (I Made Friends with the Second Prettiest Girl in My Class) light novel series announced on April 1 that it will end in its 10th volume. Takata also noted that the possibility that they might write a spinoff story is "not zero."Yen Press is publishing ...
The Villainess Is Adored by the Prince of the Neighbor Kingdom Light Novel Series Ends in 15th Volume
Final volume ships on June 15
― Kadokawa is listing the 15th volume of Punichan's The Villainess Is Adored by the Prince of the Neighbor Kingdom (Akuyaku Reijō wa Ringoku no Ōtaishi ni Dekiai Sareru) light novel series as the final volume. The volume ships on June 15. The romance story follows a protagonist who is reincarnated as Tiararose, the villainess of the protagonist's favorite otome romance ...
86's Asato Asato Launches New Light Novel Series in June
necomi draws illustrations, Imari Ozaki draws worldview illustrations for "spiritual techniques x near future action" story
― Kadokawa's Dengeki Bunko imprint is currently listing that it will release the first volume of a new light novel series by Asato Asato on June 10 titled Yaebuki Kikan: Senmanjō Tō Tōha Roku (roughly, "Yaebuki Agency: Record of Traversing the Senmanjō Tower," but "Senmanjō" cou...
J-Novel Club to Release English Audiobook for The Apothecary Diaries Novels
RB Media oversees production; 1st volume slated for release this year
― J-Novel Club announced at Anime Boston on Saturday that it will release an English audiobook adaptation for Hyuganatsu's The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) light novel series. Audiobook publisher RB Media is overseeing production of the audiobook. The first volume is slated for release later this year. Hyuganatsu is ...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, March 29-April 4
Lupin III VS Cat's Eye, Voltes V anime; MF Ghost, Sun-Ken Rock manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Lupin the 3rd TV Specials Collection 1 BDPlease Discotek US$59.95 March 31 Lupin III VS Cat's Eye BDCite Discotek US$29.95 March 31 Voltes V BDAnimeNewsNetwork Discotek US$69.95 March 31 Zone of the Enders Perfect Collection BDPlease Discotek US$59.95 March 31 Print M...
Fate/strange Fake Novels' Final Volume Ships This Summer
Novel series launched in January 2015, inspired TV special, recently concluded TV anime
― The official X/Twitter account for Kadokawa's Dengeki Bunko label announced on Sunday that the 10th and final volume of Ryohgo Narita's Fate/strange Fake spinoff novels will debut this summer. In the afterword of the ninth volume in March 2024, Narita noted that he decided to adjust the novels' finale after deci...
North American Anime, Manga Releases, March 22-28
Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, Loner Life in Another World anime; Fluffy Cafe in Another World, Statues: Junji Ito Story Collection manga ship
― Anime Releases Title Publisher Suggested Retail Price Date Himouto! Umaru-chan Season 1 Collection BDPlease Sentai Filmworks US$69.98 March 24 Loner Life in Another World Limited Edition Steelbook BDCite Sentai Filmworks US$99.98 March 24 RWBY: Volume 9 BDAnimeNew...
The Condemned Villainess Goes Back in Time Novels Get Anime
Story centers on woman sold off to brothel who goes back in time after death
― TO Books announced on Friday that author Bakufu Narayama and illustrator Ebisushi's The Condemned Villainess Goes Back in Time (Danzaisareta Akuyaku Reijō wa, Gyakkō-shite Kanpekina Akujo o Mezasu) light novel series has an anime adaptation in the works. TO Books did not provide any other details. Seven Seas Entertainment ...
Seven Seas Licenses Trapezium, A Quirky Girl is Inviting Me to Bed, 5 More Titles
Also licensed: The One-Eyed, One-Armed, One-Legged Sorcerer; Your Meteor, Hidden in Flowers; more
― Seven Seas Entertainment announced the following licenses on Wednesday: Title: Magical Buffs: The Support Caster is Stronger Than He Realized! audiobook
Creator(s): Haka Tokura, Eiri Shirai
Release Date: April 16 (volume 1, Siren imprint)
Summary: Wim Strauss isn't a flashy fighter—he's a granting cast...
Mages. to Launch The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten Game on July 23
Game to launch for Switch, Switch 2
― Mages. announced on Sunday that Saekisan's The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten (Otonari no Tenshi-sama ni Itsu no Ma ni ka Dame Ningen ni Sareteita Ken) light novel series is getting a game adaptation titled Otonari no Tenshi-sama ni Itsu no Ma ni ka Dame Ningen ni Sareteita Ken Memorial Vacation, which will launch for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 on July 23. Pr...
DanMachi: Astrea Record Spinoff Light Novels Get Manga
Karu Yoneshiro draws prequel manga launching on May 25
― The official X/Twitter account for Square Enix's Monthly Big Gangan magazine revealed on Saturday that Fujino Ōmori's Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? Astrea Record (Astrea Record Dungeon ni Deai o Motomeru no wa Machigatteiru Darō ka) spinoff light novel series is inspiring a manga adaptation that will debut in the magazine's ...
Kakao Entertainment, Naver Webtoon Win Civil Lawsuit Against Major Piracy Site Agitoon
Court accepted both companies' claims of 1 billion won each
― Kakao Entertainment and Naver Webtoon won a civil lawsuit on March 11 against the operator of Agitoon, one of South Korea's largest illegal webtoon and web novel distribution sites, with the court awarding a total of 2 billion won (about $1.33 million) in damages. The court fully accepted both companies' claims of 1 billion won each, hold...
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