J-Novel Club has announced a fresh batch of manga and light novel licenses for April 2025, adding even more variety to their already impressive catalog. The new acquisitions span several genres, promising something for every type of reader. Here’s a rundown of the exciting titles joining the J-Novel Club lineup:
New Manga and Light Novel Licenses
J-Novel Club continues to expand its reach by licensing not only light novels but also manga adaptations, catering to a wider audience. Here’s a breakdown of the newly licensed titles:
Blade Skill Online: Crushing the Competition with My Abysmal Stats, Useless Class, and Garbage Weapon! (Manga)
This manga adaptation brings a unique twist to the isekai genre. The story follows Yuri, a high schooler who dives into the VRMMORPG “Blade Skill Online” with the hope of manipulating his luck stat. However, he ends up with the worst possible combination: an abysmal stat build, a useless class, and a garbage weapon. To make matters worse, his avatar is accidentally a hot girl! Despite these setbacks, Yuri’s determination and sheer luck might just be enough to turn this terrible build into a legendary one.
Zero Damage Sword Saint (Manga)
Another manga joining the J-Novel Club library, “Zero Damage Sword Saint,” tells the story of Eugene Santafield, who dreams of becoming a magic swordsman. Unfortunately, he lacks any attack spells, making him the laughingstock of his peers. However, fate intervenes, granting him unmatched defensive and healing magic. Now, Eugene finds himself serving a fallen Demon Queen and guarding a legendary Ifrit. This “failure” might just become the most unbreakable sword saint in history.
No Wife, No Problem: A Mage’s Life with His Beloved Daughter
This light novel presents a heartwarming tale of a mage’s life with his daughter. The title suggests a focus on family and the everyday adventures of a mage navigating life while raising his beloved daughter.
Engaging with the Plot: A Former Cat’s Attempt to Save Her Now Temporary Fiancé
This light novel offers a unique premise involving a former cat reincarnated into a human who must now save her temporary fiancé. The story promises a blend of fantasy, romance, and perhaps a touch of humor, as the protagonist uses her past-life knowledge to navigate complex relationships and plot twists.
Notorious No More: The Villainess Enjoys Feigning Incompetence
“Notorious No More” presents a twist on the villainess trope. The story revolves around a noble lady who, after a magical mishap, decides to feign incompetence. However, her attempts to live a quiet life are constantly foiled, and she inadvertently becomes the most unexpected star in high society.
In Another World with Household Spells
This light novel follows Kaoru Aoyama, who wakes up as ten-year-old Patience Granger, a noble girl in a struggling family. Armed with household magic and her past-life smarts, Patience must navigate the challenges of her new life and help her family prosper.
Take These Talents Elsewhere: A Delightful Demotion to the Countryside
Zen Leadon, after years of thankless work, is demoted to a quiet rural post. This seems like a dream come true until he’s tasked with protecting a princess and pretending to be her father. Zen’s peaceful retirement is disrupted by royal secrets and a connection to his first love.
The Bladesmith’s Enchanted Weapons
This light novel tells the story of Lutz, an unlicensed katana smith who forges a mesmerizing blade. When his only ally is in danger, Lutz is forced to use his deadly masterpiece to rescue them, thrusting him into a world of action and adventure.
Make It Stop! I’m Not Strong… It’s Just My Sword! (Manga)
This manga follows an individual whose power is derived from a sentient sword with a chaotic appetite. The wielder isn’t in control, adding a humorous and unpredictable element to the battles and situations they encounter.
My Quiet Blacksmith Life in Another World (Print Announcement)
J-Novel Club also announced a print release for the previously digital-only series, “My Quiet Blacksmith Life in Another World.” This series offers a cozy and relaxing story about a blacksmith who enjoys a peaceful life in another world.
Other Announcements
In addition to the new licenses, J-Novel Club made several other announcements:
Earth Star Sale
A sale on Earth Star titles is ongoing for a limited time.
Original Light Novel Contest 2025
The second round of judging for the Original Light Novel Contest 2025 is underway, with finalists to be announced in June and winners at Anime Expo. There were 50 total entries.
OLN 2024 Releases
Releases from the Original Light Novel Contest 2024 are coming soon.
J-Novel Knight
BL release announcements are coming in a few weeks.
J-Novel Club’s Growing Impact
J-Novel Club’s latest licensing announcements underscore its commitment to bringing a diverse range of manga and light novels to English-speaking audiences. With titles spanning various genres and themes, J-Novel Club continues to solidify its position as a key player in the localization of Japanese literature. From thrilling isekai adventures to heartwarming family stories, the newly licensed titles promise to deliver countless hours of reading pleasure for fans of manga and light novels.
