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Old Knight, New Post: From Retiree to Her Majesty's Blade; Worthless at Home, Whiz to the World; The Crown of Rutile Quartz; more titles added




During its Anime Expo panel on Thursday, J-Novel Club revealed that it has acquired nine new light novel licenses and five new manga titles.

The new light novel titles include:

Title: Guild Handyman? More like Mastermind! Using My Hidden Skills in the Shadows ( Guild no Zatsuyō-gakari ga Shin no Kuromaku Deshita ~Kakureta Sainō de Anyaku Musō~ )
Author(s): Sakaku Hishikawa (writer), Yu-nit (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
In summary, Tenes Lumel performs routine tasks such as paperwork management and manual labor as part of his job as a handyman in a remote location. He ensures that he completes his work on time.

Although Tenes maintains a modest appearance during the daytime, his true identity as the leader of a clandestine group with the goal of challenging the corrupt system is concealed.

Tenes, who was once banished from his noble family and forsaken by divine powers, remains resolute in his quest for vengeance against those who wronged him. He is joined in his crusade by three formidable allies: a battle-tested maiden, a notorious bandit, and a renowned dark elf. These allies support Tenes as he strategizes his next course of action in secret, using their unique skills and resources to further his goals. Tenes is prepared with several surprises up his sleeve to execute his plan effectively.

Title: The Accursed Chef and His Pair of Furry Foodies ( Noroware Ryōri-nin wa Meikyū de Mofu Mimi Shōjo-tachi wo Sodatemasu )
Author(s): Yuu Tanaka (writer), Llo (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
Koichi Suzuki, who valiantly gave up his life to protect a kid, is resurrected as Thor, a youth in a challenging new environment due to a divine entity known as "Indeed-Missy." As compensation, he gains a distinctive talent for conjuring beasts through culinary arts.

In this harsh reality, achieving success requires effort and determination. Despite being betrayed by his dishonest parents who almost sold him into slavery at a young age of four, Thor overcame his difficulties and learned to survive through his resilience and newly acquired cooking abilities.
As he neared his goal for survival, he encountered two female creatures with furry ears who were near death's edge. Assisting them might put him in danger too, but for someone who loved furry-eared beings in his past life, there was no other choice but to help them.

Thor refuses to give up on using beast ears in his cooking journey through the dungeon.

Title: Old Knight, New Post: From Retiree to Her Majesty's Blade ( Inkyo Kurashi no Ossan, Joōheika no Ken to naru ~Intai Kishi wa Musume no Tameni Ōkoku Hittō Kishi ni Kaerizaku~ )
Author(s): Hisago Amazake-no (writer), Akemi Mikoto (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
Watt Sears was once a renowned Mechsteel pilot but now he works as a station employee. He is close to forty years old and considers himself an "old man." He enjoys mentoring new pilots instead of seeking attention himself. His boss and others have urged him to become a Steelrider, one of the elite mech pilots who protect the city from monsters, but he is content with his current job.

But all of that changes when his storied past catches up to him.

One day, Watt encounters Anna, his estranged daughter from a past relationship. Determined to protect her, he takes her under his care. However, things take a turn when he becomes entangled in a fierce struggle for power in the kingdom. Amidst chaos, can Watt endure this new challenge?

Title: The Goddess Says, “Kill the Tsundere Witch!” ( Tsundere Majo wo Korose, to Megami wa Itta )
Author(s): Nagi Misaki (writer), Kasu Komeshiro (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
Rewritten summary: My pride as the largest tsundere supporter was shattered when I awoke from unsettling dreams to discover that I had transformed into a stick and was entombed in a woodland.

Thankfully, I was rescued by a stunning woman with silvery hair who had piercing eyes. I attempted to express my gratitude, but she retorted that she did not save me out of kindness or anything like that. In fact, her response was reminiscent of a classic tsundere line. It turns out that this magnificent example of a tsundere is none other than Stella, a student at Saint Antohsa Academy and wielder of a sacred magic staff-me. I suppose I will have to support her throughout my life now!

But wait, why am I a staff, anyway?

If you wish to regain your humanity by visiting the deity that governs our realm, she informs you that slaying Stella, the malevolent sorceress, is necessary for your request to be granted. You are faced with the dilemma of choosing between your timid lover and global tranquility. This decision is straightforward for you.

In this novel, the protagonist, who happens to be a teacher at a school, along with a tsundere girl, embark on a journey to transform society through their actions.

In this article titled "Blade Skill Online," I will discuss how I managed to become a top player in the game despite my low stats, unpopular class, and subpar weapon.
Author(s): Manzi Mazi (writer), Shimofuri ( Laplacian ) (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
Yuri has experienced bad fortune his entire life. With Blade Skill Online, a VRMMO that lets you control your own luck, he hopes to turn things around. He chooses the summoner class with a bow as his weapon and decides to allocate all of his stat points into the luck stat to improve his chances of success.

It seems like Yuri had planned to improve his gameplay by tweaking his build, but unexpectedly, he encountered some challenges. He found out that his stats were not up to par, his bow was not effective, and his summoners were not useful. To make matters worse, his avatar randomizer turned him into a hot girl, which attracted unwanted attention from other players. However, Yuri is determined to overcome these obstacles and succeed in the upcoming PvP event by perfecting his build and defeating his opponents.

Title: Zero Damage Sword Saint: I Enrolled in a Magic School and Wound Up in a Contract with the Demon Queen ( Kōgekiryoku Zero kara Hajimeru Kensei-tan ~Osananajimi no Kōjo ni Suterare Mahō Gakuen ni Nyūgaku Shitara, Maō to Keiyaku Suru Koto ni Natta~ )
Author(s): Isle Osaki (writer), kodamazon (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
Eugene Santafi eld wishes to become a skilled magic swordsman but lacks the ability to employ offensive spells. Despite this, he possesses exceptional defensive and restorative magic, which ironically sets him apart from his peers and subjects him to their mockery.

Eugene escapes from people aware of his shortcomings to the Lykeion Magic Academy where he encounters Erinyes, a former Demon Queen imprisoned there. Erinyes recognizes Eugene's potential and appoints him as her caretaker. Soon after, the academy head assigns Eugene as Sumire's guardian, a mysterious girl from another world who is also an Ifrit legend.
Is it true that with these two women by his side, he will definitely become known as a legendary swordsman in history?

Title: Flung into a New World? Time to Lift the 200-Year Curse! ( Isekai ni Otosareta... Jōka wa Kihon! )
Author(s): Honobonoru500 (writer), Yōsuke Ishibashi (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
Akira Tennou is a thirty-five-year-old janitor who has experienced several unfortunate events. He was hit by a truck, accidentally pulled into a spell that summons heroes, and now finds himself in a dark forest in another world. His sister's manga suggests that he may be cursed due to these events. The shadows in the forest add to his gloominess, especially when they are attached to a giant wolf that suddenly appears behind him.

Although there is a challenge associated with mastering magic without guidance, Akira is determined to use his powers for good by cleansing the forest of its cursed inhabitants. Despite the obstacle of figuring out how magic operates without instruction, Akira remains committed to achieving his goal of saving the adorable creatures of the woods.

Title: Worthless at Home, Whiz to the World ( Ie de Munō to Iware Tsudzuketa Ore Desu ga, Sekai-teki ni wa Chō Yūnōdatta Yō Desu )
Author(s): kimimaro (writer), Mokyu (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
Noa, who was brought up by his five older sister siblings in a strict household, embarks on an adventure in a distant land after leaving home. Despite being new to this type of journey, he consistently amazes experienced adventurers with his impressive physical prowess and magical abilities.

It makes perfect sense. You see, Noa's sisters possess exceptional abilities in magic, combat, diplomacy, and commerce. Despite their perception of him as insignificant, the world recognizes him for what he truly is - an exceptional talent.

With a resolve to chart his course independently, Noa embarks on a fresh journey in which he is recognized for his talents. However, will his sisters' efforts to retrieve him pose a threat to his newfound freedom?

According to the saying "worth is subjective," it means that what one person considers valuable may not be the same for another person. However, based on my observations, I believe that Noa has been undervalued and overlooked for too long.

Title: This Gyaru's Got a Thing for...Vampire Hunters?! ( Vampire Hunter ni Yasashii Gyaru )
Author(s): Wasan Kurata (writer), Kewi Hayashi (illustrator)
Release Date: Launches today with Parts 1 and 2 of Volume 1
In Ginka Shijunana's world, there were dangerous creatures that hunted at night and attacked without warning, while a select few possessed powerful abilities through rigorous training and dedication fought against them. This was their ongoing battle until it finally ended with a decisive victory.

Ginka has decided to transition into being a typical high school student after retiring from her role as a vampire hunter. Despite having excellent combat skills, she finds everyday interactions with other teenagers challenging. Nevertheless, she forms a bond with Ruka Moriki, who is fashionable and outgoing. However, when remnants of Ginka's past resurface unexpectedly, she may tempt Ruka to join her in the shadows or seek Ruka's assistance in staying in the light.


The new manga titles announced include:

Title: The Crown of Rutile Quartz ( Rutile Quartz no Taikan -Slaine to Ō to Eiyūtan- )
Author(s): Tai, based on Surume Enoki 's original light novel series
Release Date: Launches today with Chapter 1 of Volume 1
In Hasenvalia, Slaine resides as a typical citizen. However, after the palace fire destroys the royal family, he undergoes a transformation.

After learning that he is the king's illegitimate son and the sole surviving heir to the throne, Slaine faces challenges in ruling as he has no training or allies. He must navigate court politics, earn the trust of wary nobles, and learn how to rule a kingdom he never thought would be his.

Slaine, with Monica by his side, begins to embrace his role as king. However, not all are happy about a commoner ascending to the throne. Some welcome him with guarded optimism while others conceal their true intentions beneath pleasant facades. As dangers loom in the background, young Slaine must confront them head-on-otherwise, he may lose the crown before he even has a chance to wear it.

Title: Looks like a Job for a Maid! The Tales of a Dismissed Supermaid ( Maid Nara Tōzen Desu. Nureginu wo Kiserareta Bannō Maid-san ha Tabi ni Deru Koto ni Shimashita )
Author(s): Ayahito Kumagai, based on Yasuaki Mikami 's original light novel series
Release Date: Launches today with Chapter 1 of Volume 1
Nina is a maid who enjoys working for Count Mirkwood. However, she faces challenges when she is unjustly fired from her position. With no other options, she embarks on a journey to explore the world and make the most out of her newfound freedom.

Although she may seem plain at first glance, Nina possesses extraordinary abilities. It doesn't take long for her to encounter individuals in need of assistance. As a novice mage who struggles to harness her true magical potential, as well as an inventor struggling with bringing her inventions to fruition, Nina swiftly lends aid. Meanwhile, at House Mirkwood, chaos ensues as she tends to other matters.

This supermaid is on a mission—and she's sweeping everyone off their feet!

Despite being exiled from her homeland, Saint Evelyn remains highly revered by her followers. Her loyal companions continue to support her in her mission to spread love and compassion.
Author(s): Yanagiyamaro, based on Harunadon 's original light novel series
Release Date: Launches today with Chapter 1 of Volume 1 (a J-Novel Heart title)
Saint Evelyn had been revered by her people for many years due to her potent healing abilities. However, things took a turn when the first prince ended their engagement and removed her title as saint. To make matters worse, he named his incompetent half sister as the new saint. This left Evelyn feeling lost and uncertain about her place in the world after being cast out from the only life she had ever known.

When she discovers a street kid who introduces her to a new way of earning money using her healing abilities, fate is on her side. Soon after, she lands her first job-and then a wealthy count asks for her hand in marriage!

Evelyn faces challenges as political tensions rise within her royal family due to the prince's recklessness, while fans flood her with admiration. Meanwhile, she also experiences unexpected romantic feelings. However, she needs to understand how much she is loved by everyone around her.

Title: Scooped Up by an S-Rank Adventurer! This White Mage Is One Heck of a Healer ( Yūsha Party o Tsuihō Sareta Shiro Madōshi, S-Rank Bōkensha ni Hirowareru: Kono Shiro Madōshi ga Kikakugai Sugiru )
Author(s): Wasabi Mukuno , based on Sora Suigetsu 's original light novel series
Release Date: Launches today with Chapter 1 of Volume 1
In summary, Lloyd was a white mage who was trained by Lady Merlin and was part of the Hero's Party until he was kicked out for being "too weak." However, it turns out that he was actually very strong, and he was quickly recruited by an S-Rank Adventurer who recognized his talent and invited him to join her party.

Lloyd and his group embarked on a mission to track down a group of wolves, but they soon realized that their task was far more complex than it initially seemed.

Title: Old Knight, New Post: From Retiree to Her Majesty's Blade ( Inkyo Kurashi no Ossan, Joōheika no Ken to naru ~Intai Kishi wa Musume no Tameni Ōkoku Hittō Kishi ni Kaerizaku~ )
Author(s): han2go, based on Hisago Amazake-no 's original light novel series
Release Date: Launches today with Chapter 1 of Volume 1
In summary, Watt Sears used to be a renowned Mechsteel knight but now works at a train station. He excels at helping new pilots navigate their duties. However, his supervisor, the city baron, desires for him to return to his former role as a Steelrider who battles monsters and safeguards the city.

As he approaches his fortieth birthday, the renowned aviator prefers to assist others instead of seeking attention himself.

Watt was seeking tranquility when suddenly, his past caught up with him. Anna, his estranged daughter from a past relationship, approached him seeking assistance in a political conflict. Despite initial reluctance, Watt pledged to safeguard her. However, as threats loomed from all directions, fulfilling this commitment proved challenging. Amidst chaos in the kingdom, could this aging knight endure this newfound responsibility and ensure Anna's safety?


Sources: Press release, J-Novel panel at Anime Expo 2025



ANN's coverage of Anime Expo 2025 is sponsored by Yen Press and Ize Press!