<![CDATA[A-to-J Connections - Anime/Manga/Film]]>

<![CDATA[A-to-J Connections - Anime/Manga/Film]]>Fri, 19 Apr 2024 03:28:04 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Seven Seas Announces New Manga & Novel Acquisitions (March 2024 #4)]]>Thu, 28 Mar 2024 03:56:16 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/seven-seas-announces-new-manga-novel-acquisitions-march-2024-4

It's that time of the week again, when our friends at Seven Seas reveal their latest license acquisitions, and they have quite the lineup this time around! This week they have four manga titles, a webtoon, and a novel series for everyone to look forward to! Details, covers, and more for these titles can be found below!

Someone’s Girlfriend

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the manga series Someone’s Girlfriend by Nikumaru. This sexy tale follows one young man’s forbidden entanglement with his best friend’s girlfriend!

About Someone’s Girlfriend:
Riku can’t get Shizuku out of his head to the point where she’s invaded his dreams. Then, one day, she stops by his house and comes on to him hard: “Do whatever you want to me.” The catch? She’s his best friend’s girlfriend. In their last year of high school, a dangerous romance brews!

Someone’s Girlfriend Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $13.99 USA / $17.99 CAN, with the series available in single-volume editions. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

I Quit My Apprenticeship as a Royal Court Wizard to Become a Magic Item Craftswoman

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the manga series I Quit My Apprenticeship as a Royal Court Wizard to Become a Magic Item Craftswoman by Sei Kamiizumi, EDO, and Hatori Kyoka. In this fantasy manga based on the light novel, a contract with the king of Hell makes one young woman’s career change easy-peasy!

About I Quit My Apprenticeship as a Royal Court Wizard to Become a Magic Item Craftswoman:
After forging a contract with Berial, the king of Hell, young Illya obtains an incredible education in the art of magic. Her skills grow by leaps and bounds, catching the attention of the royal court and qualifying her for an elite apprenticeship. But court life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Illya quickly grows tired of the manipulative machinations of nobles and the scheming of the high court wizard. Her only choice? To quit! Leaving her post and the entire country, Illya now searches for something new. Could crafting magical items be her true destiny?

I Quit My Apprenticeship as a Royal Court Wizard to Become a Magic Item Craftswoman (Manga) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $13.99 USA / $17.99 CAN, with the series available in single-volume editions. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Do You Like Big Girls?

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce, through the Ghost Ship Imprint aimed at older male readers, the re-release of the manga series Do You Like Big Girls? by Goro Aizome in omnibus format. This Mature-rated manga about one guy’s chance to try to score with an entire ladies’ volleyball team will now be available in 2-in-1 collections!

About Do You Like Big Girls?:
The big girl era has finally arrived!! Thanks to his sister’s scheming ways, Sota was roped into becoming the hall director for the girl’s varsity volleyball team. Being so short, he’s the perfect target for their merciless teasing. Can the diminutive Sota stand up to these amazons and conquer the high hurdles of life in an all-girls dorm? For Sota and his harem of big girls, it’s victory or bust!

Do You Like Big Girls? (Omnibus) Vol. 1-2 will be released in August 2024 for $24.99 USA / $32.99 CAN, with the series available in omnibus editions as part of Seven Seas’ Ghost Ship imprint. Single ebook editions are already available on digital platforms.

The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the manga series The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store by Tsuchika Nishimura. Retail work has never been wilder than in this award-winning manga that inspired the anime movie–coming soon to North American theaters!

About The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store:
Working retail is tough enough with regular human customers, but what about when they’re owls, wolves, koalas…and a woolly mammoth? Welcome to the Hokkyoku Department Store, where new employee Akino’s customers are talking animals–including extinct species! Just like any shopper, each has their own complicated request that Akino must strive to satisfy. From a wealthy laughing owl searching for the perfect present to delight his wife to a thespian sea mink attempting to find a gift for a long-awaited reunion with her father, Akino must learn to meet their needs, while also dealing with her challenging coworkers and elusive floor manager.

The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $13.99 USA / $17.99 CAN, with the series available in single large-trim editions. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Beetle Hands

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the full-color webtoon/comic series Beetle Hands by Herhumanist. This thrilling English-original horror tale—published digitally on Naver’s WEBTOON platform—follows two friends fighting for survival in a realm where their worst nightmares come to life!

About Beetle Hands:
Welcome to the Heartland, a nightmarish realm where your memories literally come back to haunt you—and hunt you down. Dragged into the Heartland by the terrifying Beast that lives inside it, Matthew must survive long enough to free himself and his best friend, Kenma, before the Beast consumes them both. Better run fast, Matthew, before the Beast can catch you.

Beetle Hands Vol. 1 will be printed for the first time in August 2024 for $19.99 USA / $24.99 CAN, with the series available in full-color, large-trim editions as part of the Seven Seas Webtoons label.

Lout of Count's Family

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the novel series Lout of Count's Family by Yu Ryeo-Han, the wildly popular Korean novels that inspired the hit webtoon! A man who wants nothing more than to kick back and relax must use his wit and wiles to survive the fantasy novel he’s fallen into.

About Lout of Count's Family:
All Kim Roksu wants is a peaceful life. Unfortunately for him, he nods off while reading an action-packed novel—only to wake up inside it! Worse yet, he’s in the body of Cale Henituse, a count’s handsome slacker son destined to take a serious beating from the novel’s hero. Leeching off the count’s wine and wealth is fine and all, but there’s no way he’s going to be the hero’s punching bag…or worse! In this world of dragons, magic, and deception, can Kim Roksu change the novel’s plot to get off scot-free and enjoy the finer things in life?

Lout of Count's Family (Novel) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $19.99 USA / $25.99 CAN, with the series available in large-trim editions with new covers. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

About Seven Seas Entertainment
Established in 2004, Seven Seas Entertainment is an award-winning publisher that specializes in bringing the best of Japanese manga and light novels to English-language audiences alongside the hottest danmei, webtoons, and other books from around the globe, as well as producing audiobooks, original comics, and youth literature. All of Seven Seas’ print book imprints are distributed throughout the world by Penguin Random House Publisher Services. For more information, visit sevenseasentertainment.com

]]><![CDATA[Film Review: Rascal Does Not Dream Double Feature]]>Fri, 22 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/film-review-rascal-does-not-dream-double-featureBy J.D.

Warning: This review contains spoilers for the anime series Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai and the film Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl.

On March 14th 2024, I got the opportunity to watch the double feature of Rascal Does Not Dream of a Sister Venturing Out and Rascal Does Not Dream of a Knapsack Kid at the Aratani Theater in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, CA. Sister Venturing Out had been shown in the U.S. at Anime Expo last year but this was the U.S. debut of Knapsack Kid. Both films are part of the Rascal Does Not Dream series based on the light novels of the same name and earlier adapted into the television anime Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai and the film Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl.

For those who don’t know, the basic premise of the series is the main character Sakuta Azusagawa helping people around him going through Puberty Syndrome which manifests itself in various ways. For the television anime’s titular bunny girl senpai, Mai Sakurajima, taking a hiatus from her acting career triggered her Puberty Syndrome. That made her invisible to just about everyone which caused her to walk around in a bunny girl outfit to find someone who can see her. In a very similar to Monogatari or CLAMP’s xxxHolic, this seems to happen to everyone around him and by "everyone", I mean mostly girls around his age who seem to have or develop romantic feelings for him.

Anyway, now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk the movies.

Rascal Does Not Dream of a Sister Venturing Out

In the first film of the double feature, Sakuta’s younger sister Kaede decides she wants to go to the same high school as her big brother but she’ll need to ace the exams to counterbalance her poor attendance and grades due to her previous shut-in lifestyle caused by being bullied.

Yeah, this is the odd film out. It doesn’t really deal with Puberty Syndrome itself but with the aftermath of Kaede’s storyline from the last few episodes of the original television anime where it was revealed she had dissociative amnesia from the bullying and returned to her old self forgetting the last two years. It shows the effects all of this has had on Kaede’s mental health and her struggles with depression, anxiety and a really bad case of impostor syndrome.

The film deals with the idea “being normal” and going against society’s expectations of what that is supposed to mean. Because Kaede is still easing out of being a shut-in, her school’s councilor suggests she go to a high school that offers online classes (The light novel this was based on came out in 2018 and in hindsight, seems prescient) but Kaede’s desire to be “normal” and fulfill the dream of the other Kaede, pushes her against this.

It's also about the relationship of an older brother and a younger sister. Sakuta’s role in this film is mostly as an advisor to Kaede as he does his best to both support her lofty dreams and be there for if they can’t be achieved. As someone with a younger sister with her own mental health issues, I felt this made the film really resonate with me making it my favorite half of the double feature.

Rascal Does Not Dream of a Knapsack Kid

This movie picks up right at the end of the last one. After both his girlfriend Mai and his younger sister Kaede have graduated from high school and middle school respectively, Sakuta learns that his mother, who suffered a mental breakdown two years from the stress of Kaede’s problems and has been in a hospital ever since, is finally ready to come home and wants to see him and Kaede again. This seems to trigger Puberty Syndrome in Sakuta and sends him to an alternate timeline where Kaede’s problems never happened, his mother never had her breakdown and everything seems as good as it could be. There’s just one problem: no one can see him. Now, he has to get back to his timeline and become visible once again.

Whereas Sister Venturing Out was centered on the brother-sister relationship, Knapsack Kid is focused on the mother-son relationship and this is where it stumbles the most for me. Mrs. Azusagawa, I don’t think her first name is ever given, feels like such a nonentity in the film. Other than her breakdown, I don’t think we learn anything about her or about her relationship with Sakuta. It just felt really unconvincing to feel Sakuta getting so strained over his strained relationship with his mother when there’s barely anything to it. As someone who lost his mother own mother just over two years ago, as I watched the events of the film unfold, I expected this relationship to hit me like a ton of bricks. Instead, it felt more like a wet noodle.

On top of that, the “Sakuta ends up in a different timeline and no one can see him” part of this film was done better in Dreaming Girl where the relationship between Sakuta and Mai was developed enough that it was more convincing he would take such drastic measures.

If there’s one thing that I think Knapsack Kid does better than Sister Venturing Out, it’s the humor. Some of the jokes in both movies didn’t land for me but the rest of the audience was laughing along to them so maybe it’s just me. Knapsack had fewer of those moments. A character accidentally opening the door when two other characters are in a “This isn’t what it looks like!” situation will probably never fail to get a laugh out of me. These moments of humor help defuse the tension without destroying it entirely.

Science Fiction, Double Feature

These are definitely best seen as a double feature. Probably due to the serial nature of the original light novels, there are a few plot points from Sister Venturing Out like Mai’s attempt to get into her college of choice and Kaede’s choosing of a high school are brought up in Knapsack Kid. In addition, the stinger for Knapsack Kid teasing the next project (University Arc, confirmed!) with a revelation about a seemingly minor detail from the last movie. The film treats it like something major but like with Sakuta’s relationship with his mother, I feel like I don’t have enough context to treat it with the same weight the film does.

As for other parts shared by both films, those are all generally decent. The art and animation are both good but there’s only maybe one standout moment in Knapsack Kid and the rest is just serviceable. It’s a kind of plain style that just fades into the background while you focus on the story and voice acting. Speaking of the voice acting, it’s all good conveying the emotions well even if it’s sometime let down by my problems with the story. The special premiere was subtitled but I’m excited to see how the dub cast does as well. Kayli Mills, Kaede’s English VA, claims they cried recording Sister Venturing Out so I’m excited to hear them carry the emotional weight of that film on their back.

In conclusion, I think most people already know if they’re going to see these films in theater or not. Fans of the Rascal Does Not Dream series will come to see the continuation of the franchise and that same reason will probably be enough for people who aren’t fans to do the opposite. For those that do attend this double feature, you’ll find one good movie just short of greatness and one good enough movie.

For More Information on Rascal Does Not Dream:
https://rascaldoesnotdream.com/

Scores:
Rascal Does Not Dream of a Sister Venturing Out: B+
Rascal Does Not Dream of a Knapsack Kid: C+

+ Good use of the double feature format to tell two connected, serialized tales.
+ The brother-sister relationship is well realized.
- The mother-son one not so much.
- Teases of future plot points don’t seem as important as the story makes them out to be.

]]><![CDATA[Seven Seas Announces New Manga & Light Novel Acquisitions (March 2024 #3)]]>Thu, 21 Mar 2024 03:15:06 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/seven-seas-announces-new-manga-light-novel-acquisitions-march-2024-3

Wednesday usually means that it's time for our friends at Seven Seas to reveal their latest license acquisitions, and this Wednesday is no different! This week they have four manga titles, a light novel series, and a manhua for everyone to look forward to! Details, covers, and more for these titles can be found below!

The Strange House

Seven Seas Entertainment is thrilled to announce the license acquisition of the horror manga series The Strange House by Uketsu (Asukashinshakan) and Kyo Ayano. Based on the hit novel, this series follows a chilling mystery about a house designed for murder—which is now a live-action movie!

Please enjoy this introduction to the series:
“I’ve always had a fascination with the occult; you might even call it my specialty. I’ve been brought in as a consultant on many supernatural and strange mysteries. But nothing could have prepared me for this house. It seemed so ordinary at first, except for that one room. It had no doors, no windows, and was tucked away, leaving anyone to think it was just a wall. I knew that there was something more to it. It shouldn’t be there, it shouldn’t exist, and yet... Just what is this house, and what dark secrets does it hold?”

The Strange House (Manga) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single-volume editions. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

I Abandoned My Engagement Because My Sister is a Tragic Heroine, but Somehow I Became Entangled with a Righteous Prince

Seven Seas Entertainment is thrilled to announce the license acquisition of both the light novel and manga series I Abandoned My Engagement Because My Sister is a Tragic Heroine, but Somehow I Became Entangled with a Righteous Prince by Fuyutsuki Koki, Haduki Futaba, and Masuke Mawata. In this fantasy romance, a saint under scrutiny is forced to live under the watchful eye of a justice-obsessed prince.

About I Abandoned My Engagement Because My Sister is a Tragic Heroine, but Somehow I Became Entangled with a Righteous Prince:
Leia’s life is turned upside down after her younger sister claims she’s a cruel villain. Leia’s fiancé breaks off their engagement, leaving her no choice but to throw herself into her saintly duties. But when confronted by the righteous Crown Prince Eric, she finds herself under his scrutiny. He’s determined to suss out her true nature, but why does it involve living in the palace with him?!

I Abandoned My Engagement Because My Sister is a Tragic Heroine, but Somehow I Became Entangled with a Righteous Prince (Light Novel) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in October 2024 for $15.99 USA / $19.99 CAN, with the series available in single large-trim editions as part of Seven Seas’ Airship imprint. Ebook editions will also be available (early) on digital platforms.

I Abandoned My Engagement Because My Sister is a Tragic Heroine, but Somehow I Became Entangled with a Righteous Prince (Manga) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $13.99 USA / $17.99 CAN, with the series available in single-volume editions. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Monster Marriage Shop

Seven Seas Entertainment is thrilled to announce, through its Ghost Ship imprint aimed at older male readers, the license acquisition of the manga series Monster Marriage Shop by Kaworu Watashiya. A marriage advisor has his work cut out for him when he winds up the matchmaker for sexy, single monster ladies.

About Monster Marriage Shop:
After growing up watching an endless parade of losers date his mom, Nakao Yuto focuses his unhealthy obsession with her on matchmaking. One day, he stumbles into the hidden gem of Monster Town, where he meets all sorts of supernatural single ladies in need of his services. A rich werewolf, a call girl succubus, a small-time idol vampire, and a yaoi-obsessed gorgon beg for help with their love lives. However, Yuto quickly finds himself on everyone’s potential match list!

Monster Marriage Shop Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $13.99 USA / $17.99 CAN, with the series available in single-volume editions as part of Seven Seas’ Ghost Ship imprint. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Chotto Dake Ai ga Omoi Dark Elf ga Isekai Kara Oikakete Kita

Seven Seas Entertainment is thrilled to announce, through its Ghost Ship imprint aimed at older male readers, the license acquisition of the Mature-rated manga series Chotto Dake Ai ga Omoi Dark Elf ga Isekai Kara Oikakete Kita by Nakanosora. This sexy isekai rom-com follows an accomplished hero and how he handles a sensual dark elf who’s slightly obsessed with him.

About Chotto Dake Ai ga Omoi Dark Elf ga Isekai Kara Oikakete Kita:
Hinata did it. He got reincarnated into another world, took up the mantle of Hero, and slew the dreaded Demon Lord alongside his party of fellow adventurers. As his reward, he’s returned to Earth to resume a normal life. Or it would be if it wasn’t for the fact that his dark elf companion Mariabelle decided to travel to Earth to come and live with him! Now she uses her arcane talents to ward off any potential romantic rivals and capture Hinata’s affection.

Chotto Dake Ai ga Omoi Dark Elf ga Isekai Kara Oikakete Kita Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single-volume editions as part of Seven Seas’ Ghost Ship imprint. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

I Ship My Rival x Me

Seven Seas Entertainment is thrilled to announce the license acquisition of the Chinese manhua series I Ship My Rival x Me by PEPA and Qualia. This full-color comic adaptation of the danmei/Boys’ Love novel is a lighthearted romantic comedy about two actors who might just bring their shipping rumors to life.

About I Ship My Rival x Me:
Wei Yanzi and Gu Yiliang debuted together three years ago, from the same agency, so it was inevitable that they’d be considered rivals by their fans. Unfortunately for Wei Yanzi, while Gu Yiliang has phenomenal acting skills to go with his idol-tier good looks...Wei Yanzi only has the idol-tier good looks. He’s so tired of reading online hate comments accusing him of scheming to undermine Gu Yiliang that when he stumbles across a community of people who fervently believe the two actors are an item, it’s not just a shock—it’s a relief! Moved by these fans’ passion and thrilled to find a community where nobody’s trash-talking him, Wei Yanzi becomes addicted to their posts analyzing his and Gu Yiliang’s every move for shipping fuel.

Of course there’s nothing actually going on between the two of them...but as he spends more time with Gu Yiliang on the period drama they’re filming together, why is Wei Yanzi starting to feel like the shippers might actually be onto something?!

I Ship My Rival x Me (The Comic / Manhua) Vol. 1 will be printed for the first time in the English language in November 2024 for $19.99 USA / $25.99 CAN, with the series available in full-color, large-trim editions as part of the Seven Seas Webtoons label.

]]><![CDATA[Socially Conscious Manhwa The Awl Set to Debut May 11]]>Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/socially-conscious-manhwa-the-awl-set-to-debut-may-11

Comics publisher ABLAZE has a really interesting new release coming up in the form of The Awl. This manhwa tells aims to tell a story centered on the struggles of workers at an oppressive Korean big box superstore as they strive for better lives and working conditions. Details and more can be found below.

The series launches in English digitally and in-print of May 11th and is a recipient of the Korean Cartoon of Today Prize. This is a visceral and engrossing story of the struggle of works against the greed and ill deeds of corporations. It speaks to an ongoing fight that many people around the world face, and in Korea especially. As these topics continue to top news cycles, The Awl provides an insightful commentary on this continuing social and economic struggle.

The Awl Vol. 1
Story & Art by Gyu-seok Choi
SRP: $9.99 · 248 Pages · Available May 29th

The Awl is a story of ordinary folks struggling to be treated as humans.

In the face of corporate greed and reprehensible actions, a bond of respect has formed between young executive Yi Su-in and union activist Gu Go-sin. Seeing what his employers are capable of, Yi joins Gu in trying to establish a union for the company’s employees. But despite the unacceptable working conditions, the workers are reluctant to go through with it…until they witness a shocking situation involving one of their fellow employees.

For More Information:
https://www.ablaze.net/products?p=G9781684971909

]]><![CDATA[Seven Seas Announces New Webtoon & Light Novel Acquisitions (March 2024 #2)]]>Thu, 14 Mar 2024 03:08:21 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/seven-seas-announces-new-webtoon-light-novel-acquisitions-march-2024-2

It's that time of the week once again! Wednesday means that our friends at Seven Seas reveal their latest license acquisitions and this Wednesday is no different! This week they have three webtoon titles, and two light novel series, for everyone to look forward to! Details, covers, and more for these titles can be found below!

An Autumn in Amber, A Zero-Second Journey

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce, through its Airship light novel imprint, the license acquisition of the light novel An Autumn in Amber, a Zero-Second Journey from award-winning author Mei Hachimoku with illustrations by KUKKA. This supernatural drama from the same creative team as The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes, is about setting aside differences to solve the mystery of a world frozen in time.

About An Autumn in Amber, a Zero-Second Journey:
Socially awkward loner Kayato has an intense fear of being touched and finds making friends extremely difficult. When he and his high school classmates visit Hakodate for a field trip, he suffers through some attempts to engage with the others, until...

Time stops for the entire world, but not for him.

All the hustle and bustle of the city fades into an eerie veil of silence, leaving him the only soul left in motion–until he finds another in Akira, a sharp-tongued local delinquent. Though she’s his total opposite, she begrudgingly agrees to help him solve the mystery. Their only lead is something Kayato’s uncle said just before he died about a “world plucked out of time,” as if preserved in amber. Hoping to find a clue among his late uncle’s possessions in Tokyo, the two teens must travel through the frozen world.

An Autumn in Amber, a Zero-Second Journey (Light Novel) will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the book available in a single large-trim edition as part of Seven Seas’ Airship imprint. An ebook edition will also be available (early) on digital platforms.

Perfect Buddy

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce the license acquisition of the full-color Boys’ Love webtoon/manhwa Perfect Buddy by Lash and daki. In English-language print at last, this popular and full-color comic series—also known as XXX Buddy—follows two co-workers and their not-safe-for-work relationship!

About Perfect Buddy:
As the new Design Team lead for the prestigious men’s magazine, City Casual, Seo Hyunsoo wants nothing more than to live a simple, routine life. But Planning Team lead, Baek Youngchan, is proving to be an irritating complication. The two constantly butt heads, and Hyunsoo cannot stand the other man’s sunny disposition! Try as he may to avoid Youngchan, Hyunsoo ends up catching the man doing something very not safe for work in the men’s bathroom. What’s worse, Youngchan won’t leave him alone after the awkward encounter! Can Hyunsoo keep his work on track, or will things heat up at the company retreat? Recommended for Mature Audiences.

Perfect Buddy Vol. 1 will be printed for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $21.99 USA / $28.99 CAN, with the series available in full-color, large-trim editions as part of the Seven Seas Webtoons label.

I’m the Heroic Knight of an Intergalactic Empire!

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce, through its Airship light novel imprint, the license acquisition of the light novel series I’m the Heroic Knight of an Intergalactic Empire! by Yomu Mishima and Nadare Takamine, the exciting spin-off to the hit series, I’m the Evil Lord of an Intergalactic Empire!

About I’m the Heroic Knight of an Intergalactic Empire!:
Emma has just taken her first step as a knight. Emma’s new job? Commander of a squad of useless layabouts. Just as her efforts start to change minds, a pirate base is discovered on Alias. What will happen when an elite force is sent in from the home planet to eliminate them?! An epic new tale of a failure’s rise to glory in the Intergalactic Empire begins!

I’m the Heroic Knight of an Intergalactic Empire! (Light Novel) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $15.99 USA / $19.99 CAN, with the series available in single editions as part of Seven Seas’ Airship imprint. Ebook editions will also be available (early) on digital platforms.

The Big Apple

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce the license acquisition of the full-color Boys’ Love webtoon/manhwa series The Big Apple by Harusari and Hodot. This supernatural action comic is coming to English-language print for the first time!

About The Big Apple:
Joachim Hjerpe has a deadly secret: he’s the lone sniper for the Secret Intelligence Agency—an organization of people with magical abilities. Working in the shadows, Joachim is a pro who takes on dangerous missions and executes them with perfection. Yet, despite his aptitude for the job, Joachim hates it! He’s constantly caught up in daydreams about quitting his risky life and trading it all for peaceful bliss with his handsome and generous lover, Juergen Eisler. But quitting the SIA is easier in dreams than in reality.

When his latest mission goes awry, putting his personal life and secret at risk, Joachim is determined to do whatever it takes to keep Juergen safe—even if that means breaking things off and disappearing. Except Juergen isn’t ready to give him up so easily. Can Joachim protect his one bit of happiness without revealing his secret, or is this a love story set to end in tragedy? Recommended for Mature Audiences.

The Big Apple Vol. 1 will be printed for the first time in the English language in November 2024 for $21.99 USA / $28.99 CAN, with the series available in full-color, large-trim editions as part of the Seven Seas Webtoons label.

The Lady and Her Butler

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce the license acquisition of the full-color webtoon/manhwa series The Lady and Her Butler by Jade. The highly relatable hit comic about a woman avoiding romance and the man she takes in will finally be available in English-language print!

About The Lady and Her Butler:
Lim Sooha is an independent woman who has it all: a busy career, a brand-new home, and an ever-growing pile of household chores. And the last thing she needs is a man to mess things up. But that all changes when one walks through her front door—literally! Homeless and desperate for a break, Taesoo begs Sooha to let him stay in exchange for keeping house. Tempted by the idea of coming home to a warm meal, clean sheets, and ironed clothes, Sooha agrees after Taesoo shows just how capable he really is...and also claims to be gay. Could this be the perfect arrangement, or will Taesoo’s lie and Sooha’s conflicted feelings make a bigger mess?

The Lady and Her Butler Vol. 1 will be printed for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $21.99 USA / $28.99 CAN, with the series available in full-color, large-trim editions as part of the Seven Seas Webtoons label.

]]><![CDATA[Seven Seas Announces New Manga Acquisitions (March 2024)]]>Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/seven-seas-announces-new-manga-acquisitions-march-2024

It's Wednesday my dudes! That means it's time for our friends at Seven Seas to outline their latest license acquisitions! This time they have five new manga titles, all with a BL edge to them, for everyone to look forward to! Details, covers, and more for these titles can be found below!

Hate Me, but Let Me Stay

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the Boys’ Love series Hate Me, but Let Me Stay by Hijiki, a Mature-rated omegaverse manga where love blossoms even in the darkest of times.

About Hate Me, but Let Me Stay:
Ever since the assault that led to his unexpected pregnancy as a teen, Koga Naoto, an omega, has harbored a deep fear and distrust toward alphas. He’s even convinced himself that he doesn’t need a mate. After all, hasn’t he raised his daughter, Shizuku, just fine on his own?

Still, at the behest of his concerned mother, Naoto reluctantly attends a matchmaking party. There he meets Tsuchiya Hazuki, a teenage alpha who declares that Naoto is his destined mate. Naoto does his best to ignore the young man’s advances, but he can’t deny the way he feels in Hazuki’s presence. Can Naoto overcome his fear and admit that maybe, just maybe, he might not hate this one alpha?

Hate Me, but Let Me Stay Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single editions as part of the Seven Seas BL label (Boys’ Love titles). Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

How My Daddies Became Mates

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the Boys’ Love series How My Daddies Became Mates by Mikkamita, a Mature-rated omegaverse manga where sparks and fists fly in this spin on the “how I met your father” trope!

About How My Daddies Became Mates:
As teenagers, Kuroga Akane and Shirosaki Aoi couldn’t have been more different. An alpha and an omega from rival schools, their initial meeting wasn’t exactly love at first sight. In fact, it was downright brutal! Fast forward to adulthood, and not only are they mated and married, but they even have an adorable daughter! How did these former delinquents go from wanting to beat each other to a pulp to falling in love?!

How My Daddies Became Mates Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single editions as part of the Seven Seas BL label (Boys’ Love titles). Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Hatsukoi Note

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the Boys’ Love manga Hatsukoi Note by Amekiri, a Mature-rated tale that shows how playing matchmaker can lead to a mess of feelings!

About Hatsukoi Note:
Shouya, a high school boy whose heart has never known romance, comes across an internet diary filled with wistful whispers of love toward the writer’s same-sex crush. A photo posted to the page provides a hint as to the blog’s owner: Tsubame, a fellow classmate known for being a lone wolf. Shouya realizes that his friend Ryuu is the object of the diary writer’s affections, so he attempts to play matchmaker...but where will his own feelings take him in the process?

Hatsukoi Note will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the book available in a single large-trim edition as part of the Seven Seas BL label (Boys’ Love titles). An ebook edition will also be available on digital platforms.

Our Sweet One-Room Apartment

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the Boys’ Love manga Our Sweet One-Room Apartment by Kamoburger, a Mature-rated romance about miscommunication, cohabitation, and love between two college students in Hokkaido!

About Our Sweet One-Room Apartment:
Kaname and Shima have been living together for a year. They have sex almost every day, and things are going well for the couple—at least until Kaname begins to think he’s a sex addict and starts avoiding sex with Shima. Shima, on the other hand, mistakenly believes Kaname is bored of him. Will their long-awaited trip to Tokyo resolve this misunderstanding before it snowballs into an avalanche?

Our Sweet One-Room Apartment will be released for the first time in the English language in December 2024 for $13.99 USA / $17.99 CAN as part of the Seven Seas BL label (Boys’ Love titles). An ebook edition will also be available on digital platforms.

At 25:00 in Akasaka

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the award-winning Boys’ Love manga At 25:00 in Akasaka by Hiroko Natsuno. This Mature-rated series about actors “researching” a relationship will finally be available in English print!

About At 25:00 in Akasaka:
Yuki Shirasaki finally landed his big break. But the pressure is on when he’s cast alongside current superstar (and his former classmate!) Asami Hayama. Determined to do his best, Shirasaki decides to dive deep into researching playing the role of a gay man and visits a gay bar for a one-night stand. To his surprise, Hayama is there and gives Shirasaki the shock of his life by suggesting they become friends with benefits! Can Shirasaki keep his attention on the role, or will he be captivated by Hayama’s good looks and irresistible charm?

At 25:00 in Akasaka Vol. 1 will be printed for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single editions as part of the Seven Seas BL label (Boys’ Love titles). Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

]]><![CDATA[Seven Seas Announces New Manga & Light Novel Acquisitions (February 2024 #3)]]>Thu, 29 Feb 2024 01:23:59 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/seven-seas-announces-new-manga-light-novel-acquisitions-february-2024-3

It's that time of the week once again! Wednesday usually means that our friends at Seven Seas reveal their latest license acquisitions and this Wednesday is no different! This week they have three new manga titles, and a light novel series, for everyone to look forward to! Details, covers, and more for these titles can be found below!

She’s the Strongest Bride, But I’m Stronger in Night Battles: A Harem Chronicle of Advancing Through Cunning Tactics

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce, through its Ghost Ship imprint aimed at older male readers, the license acquisition of the manga series She’s the Strongest Bride, But I’m Stronger in Night Battles: A Harem Chronicle of Advancing Through Cunning Tactics by Singyougaku, Arinokamati, and Won. In this Mature-rated isekai, an ordinary man becomes a military genius and the hottest lover in the realm—in another world!

About She’s the Strongest Bride, But I’m Stronger in Night Battles: A Harem Chronicle of Advancing Through Cunning Tactics:
Compelled to marry a royal demoness and put to work—on the battlefield, and in her bedroom—Albert finds his new life in another world anything but peaceful. Yet thanks to his knowledge of Earth’s history, Albert is able to launch a revolution, and is having a ball doing it alongside his sexy demon bride!

She’s the Strongest Bride, But I’m Stronger in Night Battles: A Harem Chronicle of Advancing Through Cunning Tactics Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single volume editions as part of Seven Seas’ Ghost Ship imprint. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Alpha Wolfgirl x Omega Wolfboy

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce, through its Steamship imprint dedicated to sexy romance for women, the license acquisition of the manga series Alpha Wolfgirl x Omega Wolfboy by Natsuha Kasazaki. In this Mature-rated omegaverse manga, the new lady at work shows the bossy guy there that she’s on top!

About Alpha Wolfgirl x Omega Wolfboy:
Nobody realizes Ohkami Ichirou is an omega. At his high-class restaurant job, he poses as an alpha to advance his career and status. Everything is going smoothly until a new trainee, Oukami Ako, becomes a thorn in his side. When he tries to show her who’s boss, she reveals she’s secretly an alpha. If he doesn’t submit to her will, his life will be ruined.

Alpha Wolfgirl x Omega Wolfboy Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single large-trim editions as part of Seven Seas’ Steamship imprint. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Killer Shark in Another World

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce the license acquisition of the manga series Killer Shark in Another World by Kuboken, an unhinged parody that jumps the shark from chapter one!

About Killer Shark in Another World:
Everyone thought Shiromi Lovecut-Toothrough was the worst summoner in the world. But after she summons Sharkiller, a creature capable of transforming into Hollywood’s most ferocious B-movie sharks, nobody’s laughing now! In fact, they’re running for their lives! With her bloodthirsty buddy chomping at the bit to kill everyone in sight, can Shiromi defeat the Demon King and end his reign of terror? Or maybe the realm would be better off if she didn’t...?

Killer Shark in Another World Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $13.99 USA / $17.99 CAN, with the series available in single-volume editions. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Ripping Someone Open Only Makes Them Bleed

Seven Seas Entertainment is pleased to announce, through its Airship light novel imprint, the license acquisition of the novel Ripping Someone Open Only Makes Them Bleed from award-winning author Yoru Sumino. Experience a brand-new, tender coming-of-age story about the tangled lives of teenage girls.

About Ripping Someone Open Only Makes Them Bleed:
Seventeen-year-old Akane has everything she could ever want: friends, a boyfriend, and an all-round perfect life. No one knows that her every move is a calculated performance dictated by a compulsive need to be liked. Her flawless act is disrupted when she meets a man named Ai, who looks and sounds exactly like the protagonist of Akane’s favorite novel. Can this be a coincidence? And if not, what does it mean?

This ensemble drama of fragile hearts and intersecting fates comes from Yoru Sumino, bestselling author of I Want to Eat Your Pancreas and I Had That Same Dream Again—also available from Seven Seas.

Ripping Someone Open Only Makes Them Bleed (Light Novel) will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $15.99 USA / $19.99 CAN, with the book available in a single large-trim edition as part of Seven Seas’ Airship imprint. An ebook edition will also be available (early) on digital platforms.

]]><![CDATA[Square Enix Announces New Manga & Art Book Releases for Fall 2024]]>Mon, 26 Feb 2024 20:10:46 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/square-enix-announces-new-manga-art-book-releases-for-fall-2024

Square Enix recently announced three new titles that are slated to drop in Fall 2024. These will all be part of their Square Enix Manga & Books imprints and are available for pre-order now. All available details can be found below, complete with pre-order links.

Dragon And Chameleon Vol. 1

When a veteran manga creator inexplicably switches bodies with his jealous assistant, their clashing artistic ideals will rock the entire industry! Garyo Hanagami is a best-selling artist praised as a genius of the craft. Shinobu Miyama is a bitter rookie with a knack for copying other people’s art styles. When an accident causes the two to switch bodies, Miyama is more than happy to take Hanagami’s place, forcing the veteran to rebuild his career from the ground up. Now, the dragon must reclaim his throne from the chameleon who replaced him!

Dragon And Chameleon Vol. 1 ($12.99 USD) will be on sale November 2024 and is available for pre-order today.

For More Information:
https://sqex.to/D6gPt

Always A Catch! How I Punched My Way Into Marrying A Prince Vol. 1

A zany romantic comedy starring Maria, the daughter of a duke, who grew up believing she would one day inherit her father's dukedom. Accordingly, she focused her attentions on honing her martial arts prowess, while thoughts of marriage fell by the wayside. Now that she’s decided it's time to marry after all, she’s arrived a little late to the game! Are there even any eligible bachelors left?! Enter Renato, the crown prince of a neighboring country, who may have a thing for ass-kicking young ladies...

Always A Catch! How I Punched My Way Into Marrying A Prince Vol. 1 ($12.99 USD) will be on-sale November 2024 and is available for pre-order today.

For More Information:
https://sqex.to/dM0ro

My Happy Marriage Art Book

This deluxe hardcover edition offers over a hundred pages of gorgeous artwork by the My Happy Marriage manga artist, Rito Kohsaka, along with behind-the-scenes commentary on some of the most iconic illustrations. Exclusive story expansions written by the series author, Akumi Agitogi, appear throughout the volume. With a foil-stamped dust jacket, vellum chapter title pages, and exclusive content, this beautiful collection is an absolute must-have for fans of the My Happy Marriage!

My Happy Marriage Art Book ($27.99 USD) will be on-sale Winter 2024 and is available for pre-order today.

For More Information:
https://sqex.to/q4vsO

About Square Enix, Inc.
Square Enix, Inc. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX® and TAITO® branded entertainment content throughout the Americas as part of the Square Enix group of companies. The Square Enix group of companies boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including: FINAL FANTASY™, which has sold over 185 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 88 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix, Inc. is a U.S.-based, wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.

Official Website: square-enix-books.com
Official Twitter @SquareEnixBooks

]]><![CDATA[TokyoPop Reveals Details On New Manga Releases (Q2 2024)]]>Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/tokyopop-reveals-details-on-new-manga-releases-q2-2024

TokyoPop recently released details regarding their upcoming releases for Q2, 2024. These are quite the varied titles and include BL, slice-of-life manga, and even an all-ages Disney Manga. Detais on all the releases, as well as their current covers which are subject to change, can be found below!

Far Cry: Cull The Herd (FCBD EDITION)

By Ryan Nichols ∙ Print SRP: $4.99 ∙ For Teen Audiences ∙ Available May 4th

Villains from popular Far Cry games are transported into prehistoric times by the priestess Batari, who has pulled them from their lives before they've committed their most heinous crimes. Now, they're tasked with fighting against the dangers of a prehistoric world and challenging their supposed destiny. Will the unusual circumstances encourage them to come together, fight against each other, or go rogue?

This nature-versus-nurture narrative examines popular characters in a new context. The series features appearances from Anton Castillo (Far Cry 6), Vaas Montenegro (Far Cry 3), Pagan Min (Far Cry 4), and Batari (Far Cry Primal).

A Smart And Courageous Child

By Miki Yamamoto ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Mature Audiences ∙ Available Jun 18th

Winner of the 24th Manga Division Excellence Award at the 2020 Japan Media Arts Festival

Every young couple has high hopes for their unborn child, and Sara and Kouta Takano are no different. But only days away from giving birth, Sara learns about the tragedy of Malala Yousafzai's attempted assassination at the hands of the Taliban, and her pure and innocent belief in the future is shaken. If such a smart and courageous child can be hurt so badly by the world, how can she keep her own baby safe? With Sara now in a state of shock, will the young couple be able to bridge the widening gap between them, or will it tear their family apart?

The reality of this world, as seen through the eyes of an author that has spent years illustrating the women and their lives.

Scarlet Secret Vol. 1

By Tomo Serizawa ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Mature Readers ∙ Available April 16th

With his crimson eyes and uncanny ability to predict the weather, Shiki has always been the odd child out in his village. Despite his quirks, he's cherished by the village chieftain's impetuous son, Yamato, and they grow up together as the dearest of friends. But when the Shamaness Himiko, ruler of Yamatai, selects Shiki as a ritual sacrifice, the two are torn apart. Yamato spends years searching in vain hope for any sign of Shiki, only to find him alive and well... at the center of Himiko's court?

Disguised as the Shamaness and inheritor of her divine power, Shiki is no longer human and can no longer act upon human desires. Despite that, Yamato is eager to swear himself into 'her' service and stand by the Shamaness' side to safeguard and lead their people. But can Shiki resist his love for Yamato, even if it means going against the will of the gods...?

A Beast's Descent Into Love

By Rui Asajima ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Mature Readers ∙ Available April 16th

After sneaking into a black-market auction, the thief Kalim accidentally steals one of the most highly priced goods: a beautiful demi-human with beast ears and a tail named Asena. Now, Kalim must take responsibility and shelter Asena in his home for one month until the ship that can take him back to his homelands arrives. Asena, who despises humans for the way they’ve subjugated demi-humans, treats Kalim coldly at first, but then something Kalim never could’ve expected happens: Asena goes into heat!

Watch Dogs Tokyo Vol. 1

Story by Seiichi Shirato, Art by Shuuhei Kamo ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Teen Readers ∙ Available April 30th

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government decided to introduce J-ctOS, an urban infrastructure management system developed by Blume Japan. People's lives have changed completely due to the convenience of improved infrastructure, and the ease of interconnectivity. Everything is fine, if they don't think too hard about what lurks in the shadows behind closed doors at the Blume corporation...

A Beast's Love Is Like The Moon

By Guri Nojiro ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Mature Audiences ∙ Available May 7th

Tired of the fast-paced city life, Izuki has agreed to take care of his uncle's house in the mountains, which are said to be "visited by yokai."

Izuki, dismissive of superstition, goes exploring — only to be attacked by a yokai in the woods. He's saved by a beautiful man named Haku, who claims to be the incarnation of a komainu guardian dog. He pledges himself to Izuki and begs him to be his master. Izuki refuses at first, wanting to return to the city as quickly as possible, but is swayed by Haku's lonely eyes and brings him back to the house. Gradually, he falls into a comfortable rhythm with the pushy but devoted Haku while living under the same roof, and Izuki wonders if he really wants to return to the city as he thought.

However, Haku harbors a secret that could put Izuki's life at risk. Will Izuki and Haku come together in the end, or will Haku succumb to the loneliness that he's held at bay for centuries...?

This Reincarnated Cross-Dressing Princess Won't Be Looking For A Fiancé

Story by Akino Shiina, Art by Saki Tsukigami ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Mature Audiences ∙ Available May 7th

One day, Princess Alicia, who cross-dresses to attend the male only Magic Academy, realizes that the world she is currently in is the setting of the BL novel she was reading in her previous life.

Her purpose at the academy is to get married to one of the candidates her mother has prepared for her, so that she can avoid a political arranged marriage. However, all the candidates are members of the novel's protagonist's harem. Close to giving up hope, she's spotted by a man she'd never heard of... a new character in the story! The handsome summoner Lucius demands her hand, and before she knew it, Alicia was falling for him!

The Man Who Shattered My World

By Osamu Moriya ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Mature Audiences ∙ Available May 21th

Tachibana is a handsome top who exclusively has no-strings-attached sex with slender, pretty men. When he picks up the brawny, confident Kuzumi on a whim, he doesn't expect much to be different... except Kuzumi flips the script on him, telling Tachibana: "I love turning men like you into my little bitch."

Kuzumi is merciless in his attentions, and Tachibana finds himself helpless to resist. In one night, everything Tachibana thought he knew about sex and desire gets turned on its head, and he finds himself coming back for more. But can he trust Kuzumi with more than just his body - or will he be discarded by the other man as soon as he gets bored?

The Genius Puppeteer Loves The Holy Knight Fiercely

By Hatoba Kogarashi ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Mature Audiences ∙ Available May 28th

As a high-ranking general captured after the end of a war, the Holy Knight Gilbert braces for execution... when at the last moment, his life is saved by Chris, the enemy nation's master artificer and puppeteer. An arrogant, wickedly playful man who surrounds himself only with dolls of his own making, Chris claims to admire the beauty of Gilbert's soul and intends to use him to create his newest masterpiece.

When Gilbert refuses to go along with Chris's plan, he is forced to choose between certain death and forsaking his faith to become an immortal doll. Hoping to buy enough time to make his escape, Gilbert instead offers himself up to Chris as a slave. But if that's the game this knight wishes to play, then Chris fully intends on toying with him until Gilbert breaks to his will...

Sweet For Sweets And Foreigners Vol. 1

By Marina Sano ∙ Print SRP: $13.99 ∙ For Teen Readers ∙ Available Jun 18th

Ami Satou works for Cobara, a company that specializes in sweets. While she may be good at sales, her confidence in pretty much everything else is low, which is why she hasn't even thought about dating since college. Instead, she fills up her imagination with romantic scenes from shoujo manga.

When she meets Alain Giraud, a handsome, older French man in charge of a new project she's assigned to work on, she begins to struggle to keep that romantic imagination in check... especially with Alain being so overly friendly! Ami keeps reminding herself that it's just because he's French, but will she be able to resist his romantic charm?

Disney Manga: Descendants: Mal's Royal Challenge

Story by Jason Muell, Art by Natsuki Minami ∙ Print SRP: $15.99 ∙ For All-Ages ∙ Available June 25th

Opening the bridge between Auradon and the Isle was the easy part – bringing two disparate cultures together will be the real challenge that Mal must face. Realizing that she needs help, Mal brings on as consuls the two people who best personify their respective homes: Audrey for Auradon and Uma for the Isle of the Lost. They’re charged with helping Mal introduce their own cultures to a whole new audience… but how?

As far as Mal sees it, they can only really truly understand the issues that the people of Auradon and the Isle of the Lost will face by first experiencing it for themselves, which means that Audrey will need to live a day in Uma’s life on the Isle and Uma in Audrey’s shoes in Auradon. This experience – full of embarrassing missteps and unexpected situations – opens up Audrey and Uma’s eyes to just how inattentive they’d been to the challenges faced by those who’d grown up elsewhere and inspires them to join forces with Mal to find a better solution to truly integrate their cultures.

Wild Best Forest House Vol. 1

By Irma R. ∙ Print SRP: 19.99 ∙ For Teen Readers ∙ Available June 25th

"Wild Beast" is the only place in the forest where wild animals can rest under the promise of not hurting each other. When the owner, a wolf called Ragnar, receives the unexpected visit of Yule, a domestic cat, he foresees the boy's going to bring him trouble. But maybe something else too...?

About TOKYOPOP, Inc.
Founded in 1997, TOKYOPOP brings Asian pop culture to Hollywood and beyond. TOKYOPOP established the market for manga in North America, introducing the term to the English language in the process, and expanding the market in Germany, publishing thousands of books in both languages, distributing anime and Asian films on home video and television, licensing merchandise to consumer goods and companies, and creating graphic novels of both original content and major IP adaptations. TOKYOPOP’s core values focus on multiculturalism and diversity; aestheticism and artistic integrity; and passionate and positive storytelling.

For More Information:
https://www.tokyopop.com/

]]><![CDATA[Seven Seas Announces New Manga & Light Novel Acquisitions (February 2024 #2)]]>Wed, 14 Feb 2024 23:18:38 GMThttp://a-to-jconnections.com/animemangafilm/seven-seas-announces-new-manga-light-novel-acquisitions-february-2024-2

It's once again that time of the week where our friends at Seven Seas outline their latest license acquisitions and they have quite a few! This week they have six new manga titles, a webtoon, and a light novel series, for everyone to look forward to! Details, covers, and more for these titles can be seen below!

Handsome Girl and Sheltered Girl

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the complete manga collection Handsome Girl and Sheltered Girl by mocchi-au-lait and majoccoid. A case of mistaken identity blossoms into love in this lighthearted yuri/Girls’ Love manga!

About Handsome Girl and Sheltered Girl:
When Okuma Satomi’s friend seeks her help wrangling guys for a crossdressing cafe, Satomi winds up with a boyfriend! Sort of. After asking her handsome and aloof classmate, Kanda Mizuki, to help out in the cafe, Mizuki agrees, but on one condition: the two of them must go on a date. Satomi eagerly agrees, delighted to have such a good-looking guy interested in her, but Mizuki realizes that Satomi has completely misunderstood something crucial: Mizuki is a girl! Will this case of mistaken identity blossom into something beautiful, or will the truth leave both girls brokenhearted?

Handsome Girl and Sheltered Girl: The Complete Manga Collection will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $21.99 USA / $28.99 CAN, with the series available in a single large-trim omnibus as part of the Seven Seas GL label (Girls’ Love/yuri titles). An ebook edition will also be available on digital platforms.

After School Etude

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the Boys’ Love manga series After School Etude by Hirune Cyan. Love hits the right notes in this BL manga about two unlikely dance partners who make the perfect pair.

About After School Etude:
When Minobe Chihiro is admitted to a private arts academy to study ballet, the last person he expects to train with is surly second-year student Ichinomiya Shun. Yet by some stroke of luck, the two are paired up for their school’s mandatory pas de deux practice. While Minobe has fallen at first sight for Ichinomiya’s superior dance sense, the second-year’s attitude leaves a lot to be desired. For Ichinomiya, being paired with Minobe as a dance partner is just one of the ways he’d like to be together with his new partner. It’s not just grades that have Ichinomiya dancing with Minobe—he’s head over heels, and he’s after Minobe’s heart! Recommended for Mature Audiences.

After School Etude Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single large-trim editions as part of the Seven Seas BL label (Boys’ Love titles). Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Loved by Two Fiancés

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce, through its Steamship imprint dedicated to sexy romance for women, the license acquisition of the manga series Loved by Two Fiancés by Chizu Aoi and Mia Yuduki. This sweet and spicy Mature-rated tale is about a man with two very different personalities—and a woman determined to navigate them both!

About Loved by Two Fiancés:
Café barista Hayase Hinako lives with her handsome fiancé Kagaya Seiya, a hotshot lawyer she met in her coffee shop. He’s everything she could ever want in a future husband: sweet, caring, and handy in the kitchen as well as in the bedroom. But just when she thinks it’s all smooth sailing, her loving partner transforms from a gentleman into a tyrant overnight! He may look the same on the outside, but he’s not the Seiya she knows and loves...so who is he?!

Loved by Two Fiancés (Manga) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single large-trim editions as part of Seven Seas’ Steamship imprint. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Otonari Complex

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the manga series Otonari Complex by Saku Nonomura. Don’t miss this endearing manga about childhood best friends—a “girly” boy and a “boyish” girl—working through their feelings about identity and love.

About Otonari Complex:
Kuji Akira and Ninomiya Makoto are childhood friends and neighbors. Since Akira is “handsome” for a girl and Makoto is “pretty” for a boy, their gender presentation is often confused. As they try to untangle their complex feelings about themselves and each other, they find out their friends are crushing on them, too. It’s a complicated childhood friend love story!

Otonari Complex Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in September 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single large-trim editions. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Love is an Illusion! - The Queen

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the print license acquisition of the full-color manhwa webtoon series Love is an Illusion! - The Queen by Fargo. This Mature-rated sequel/spin-off to the hit Boys’ Love omegaverse webtoon from Lezhin follows Park Dojin’s older sister, alpha Do-gyeom, on her quest to find true love!

About Love is an Illusion! - The Queen:
Park Do-gyeom, a free-spirited alpha and the older sister of Park Dojin, has finally decided to put her promiscuous past behind her and settle down. As a 39-year-old woman, however, her options for marriage have dwindled. Luckily she has her beleaguered omega secretary, Lee Seung-ah, to do most of the work of finding a marriage partner for her. It shouldn’t be a problem, even if Seung-ah and Do-gyeom have harbored secret feelings for each other for years. In fact, arranging Do-gyeom’s marriage may just be the catalyst for the two of them to finally admit their attraction...unless another alpha gets in the way!

Love is an Illusion! - The Queen Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in print in the English language in October 2024 for $29.99 USA / $39.99 CAN, with the series available in full-color, large-trim editions as part of the Seven Seas Webtoons label.

Too Many Losing Heroines!

Seven Seas Entertainment is excited to announce the license acquisition of the light novel and manga series Too Many Losing Heroines! by Takibi Amamori, Imigimuru, and Itachi. This award-winning romantic comedy about a boy helping girls find love inspired the upcoming anime!

About Too Many Losing Heroines!:
Plain, boring, and friendless Nukumizu Kazuhiko has witnessed something completely baffling: popular girl Yanami Anna was friend-zoned by her childhood friend and crush! In fact, all the popular girls around him are getting similarly rejected by the boys they like. Without realizing it, Kazuhiko becomes entangled in the relationship drama where all the leading heroines are losing out on love! Can he keep their spirits up and help them find happiness?

Too Many Losing Heroines! (Light Novel) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $14.99 USA / $18.99 CAN, with the series available in single large-trim editions as part of Seven Seas’ Airship imprint. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

Too Many Losing Heroines! (Manga) Vol. 1 will be released for the first time in the English language in August 2024 for $13.99 USA / $17.99 CAN, with the series available in single editions. Ebook editions will also be available on digital platforms.

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