Kadokawa is bringing fresh manga titles to English-speaking audiences this May, offering a blend of action-packed isekai adventure and a unique take on the hitman trope. “Isekai Samurai” and “The Hitman Stans” are set to debut on BookWalker Global, with print releases to follow from Yen Press in June. Here’s a closer look at these exciting new series.
“Isekai Samurai”: A Swordswoman’s Journey to Another World
“Isekai Samurai,” created by Keigo Saitō, throws a powerful Sengoku-era swordswoman into a brand-new world. Ginko, the strongest of her era, finds herself transported to another realm just as she despairs of finding a worthy opponent. Her arrival is met with the sight of a dragon, promising intense battles and challenges in this unknown land.
Release Details
- Digital Release: Available on BookWalker Global in chapter format starting May 13.
- Print Release: Yen Press will begin publishing the series in English on June 24.
- Original Launch: The manga initially launched in Kadokawa’s ComicWalker service in 2023.
Synopsis
As the Sengoku period nears its end, Ginko, a peerless swordswoman, yearns for a battle that truly tests her skills. Disheartened by the lack of strong opponents, she is suddenly whisked away to another world, where she encounters a dragon. This sets the stage for her new life filled with battles and adventures in a world unlike anything she has ever known.
“The Hitman Stans”: From Killing Machine to Idol Obsessive
“The Hitman Stans” (Koroshiya no Oshi), written and illustrated by Rintarou Ohshima, offers a comedic twist on the life of a retired hitman. Owaru Endou, known as “the Killing Machine,” abruptly retires from his deadly profession to dedicate his life to stanning his favorite underground idol.
Release Details
- Digital Release: Available on BookWalker Global in chapter format starting May 28, with pre-orders beginning on May 13.
- Print Release: Yen Press will also begin publishing the series in English on June 24.
- Original Launch: The manga launched in Kadokawa’s Harta magazine in November 2022.
Synopsis
Owaru Endou, the most formidable hitman in a massive underworld organization, decides to leave it all behind to become a dedicated fan of an underground idol. Despite his efforts to embrace a normal fan life filled with concerts and meet-and-greets, his past as a killer continues to haunt him. The series explores whether Owaru can truly escape his old identity and fully immerse himself in the world of idol worship.
Background
“The Hitman Stans” began serialization in Enterbrain’s Harta magazine on November 15, 2022. The chapters have been compiled into three tankōbon volumes as of February 2025.
Where to Read
Both “Isekai Samurai” and “The Hitman Stans” will be available on BookWalker Global in digital format. Yen Press will also release the series in print.
Additional Information
Kadokawa World Entertainment (KWE), a subsidiary of Kadokawa Corporation, holds a majority ownership in Anime News Network, LLC.
With these two new manga series, Kadokawa aims to deliver exciting and diverse stories to English-speaking manga fans. Whether you’re in the mood for otherworldly adventures or a comedic take on a hitman’s life, “Isekai Samurai” and “The Hitman Stans” offer something for everyone.
