Following on from the celebration of all things that continued throughout 2023, with the second and final blogpost, I’ll be looking back at all my favourite new light novel series that were released throughout the year.
10) If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
With the light novel market quickly becoming saturated by the villainess and Otome genres, you’d expect a level of exhaustion or quality drop to come into play. Thankfully, 2023 still managed to keep the high level of quality we’ve come to expect from the genre ever since they started coming to the West.
Marking the first of many from the genre to make my top 10 list of 2023, If the Villainess and Villain Met and Fell in Love takes the genre back to basics with a love story between two originally ill-fated characters.
Whilst a series of this calibre wouldn’t normally make the list, I was surprised by the story’s overall solid writing and in-depth spirit system, placing it well above average and well worth a read.
9) Lovestruck Prince! I’ll Fight the Heroine for My Villainess Finacée
Continuing with the villainess theme, this next title, released at the start of 2023, saw the genre come full circle.
Managing to make it to ninth on the list, Cross Infinite Worlds’ Lovestruck Prince follows the misadventures of Prince Vincent as he fights anything and everything that gets in the way of the romance between him and his supposed villainess fiancée.
Besides the promise of a cute, fluffy rom-com, which is right up my alley, the series combines a fresh twist to the genre alongside some interesting mystery elements. These positives also continue into the novel’s sequel, which gives the villainess of the story the spotlight.
8) Villainess Level 99: I May Be the Hidden Boss but I’m Not the Demon Lord
Completing the list of villainess light novels, for now, Villainess Level 99 makes it to eighth place on the list and the first to have had an anime on the series air or airing.
The story follows the tumultuous tales of Yumiella. Born as an Otome game’s hidden boss, she’s determined to keep out of the main game’s events, but this turns out to be a harder task than expected after discovering she’s at level 99 – one of the strongest humans on the planet.
Unlike the two previous Otome entries on this list, Villainess Level 99’s strength is drawn from its comedy. This series is filled with hilarious, memorable moments as Yumiella is drawn into increasingly crazy events and situations. Moreover, this series also features a cute romantic subplot, which serves as a nice bit of icing on the cake to this villainess kerfuffle.
Approaching the list’s halfway point and the next entry marks a change of genre.
Written by Fuurou, The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects falls into the category of a cutesy, slice-of-life story. Taking place on seemingly barren plains, the story sees Dias, the protagonist, learn to adapt to life after the war and attempt to grow his newly acquired territory.
Being one of several fish-out-of-water fluffy episodic adventure series, The Frontier Lord manages to stand out from the crowd and earn a place on this list through strong writing with a comedic undertone, a natural-flowing family dynamic between the main cast, and a well-developed tribal setting.
6) I Guess This Dragon Who Lost Her Egg to Disaster is My Mom Now
Earning its place at sixth and just missing out on a top-five spot, the next series on the list features a unique family dynamic.
I Guess This Dragon Who Lost Her Egg is a heartfelt story filled with betrayal and mystery. Following Lushera’s recent reincarnation, the story depicts the protagonist’s new life of danger and discovery as she learns to grasp what it means to be the child of a dragon.
Whilst this series is filled with interesting scenes of action and mystery, its interactions between the human child and dragon mother earned it a place on this list. From their early moments filled with miscommunication as two different species come to terms with one another to their eventual understanding and mutual fight on the mountain, their relationship is depicted with wonderful clarity.
Making it to the top five is a late arrival on the scene. Released at the end of December, Finding Avalon marks the first alternative Japan title to make the list.
Mixing a plethora of dungeon-crawler and mystery aspects, the story follows an avid gamer as he’s reincarnated into the game’s most hated character, Piggy. Faced with a world filled with unfortunate game events and an all too real in-game conspiracy, he’ll have to level grind like never before if he’s to protect both himself and his family.
Of all the new series I’ve read this year, this one shocked me the most. On paper, this series would have me running for the hills, but I was pleasantly surprised at how all the aspects of the series came together. A detail-orientated author, complex character dynamics and motivations beyond the usual harem antics make for one of the most engaging reads of the year.
Just missing out on a spot in the top three, The Crown of Rutile Quartz represents another late arrival onto the 2023 light novel scene – also premiering in late December.
A real culture shock affair, it’s a novel that focuses on a bastard son’s journey from everyday commoner to a nation’s prince regent. Half political drama and half war story, the first instalment of the series details Slaine’s troubled ascendancy to the throne as he soon discovers the true depths necessary to become a successful royal.
What makes this series one of the year’s highlights and deserving of a place on this list is how clear the author’s vision for the series was right from the word go. It’s a masterclass of balancing the themes of love, war and politics with the end product, creating a story where all the characters feel naturally human.
Reaching the top three, and finally, we’ve arrived at the brass tax section of the 2023 light novel celebration. Winning the bronze award is The Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey. A new title from Yen Press, it’s a story that mixes adventure alongside human drama.
Gaining a third chance in life, the story’s premise revolves around the newly summoned Setsuna. Having spent most of his life in a hospital bed, Setsuna is offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the world after another hero offers up their lifeforce to him. What follows is a journey of self-discovery, of meeting new people, and experiencing new places.
What made this series worthy of a spot in the top three – the author’s innate talent for writing characters. Complex, flawed, and always engaging, they make the fantasy world of Setsuna’s Journey come to life as a vivid spectrum of lived experiences.
2) Butareba – The Story of a Man Turned Into a Pig
My silver award winner and series narrowly missing out on the top spot, Butareba, is one that many may dismiss simply through seeing its title.
What at first seems like another gimmicky, weird reincarnation story soon unfolds into an interesting mix of dark fantasy and mystery. Following the story of a man unfortunate enough to eat a raw pig’s liver, it sees him reincarnate into the body of a pig under the care of a Yethma named Jess. Any illusions that this may be a comfortable second life for him are soon shattered, however, when he discovers that this world is hiding a cornucopia of dark secrets.
Beyond its slightly raunchy style of comedy, the series reveals an ever-twisting mystery that I couldn’t help but place high on the list. Dark, powerful and emotional, it fits alongside the developmental journey of Jess and Mister Pig completely, leaving you raw from the tragic decisions they must make by the volume’s end. It’s a series that perfectly encapsulates dark fantasy without making it too edgy.
1) Fake Saint of the Year: You Wanted a Perfect Saint? Too Bad!
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
Reaching the crème de la crème, the apex of the new series in 2023, and for me, there could only be one series that wins the coveted gold award – Fake Saint of the Year!
The general premise of the series follows the hijinks of a man reincarnated into the body of his least favourite character from an Otome game, the villainess Ellize. Given this unique opportunity, Niito decides to use this twist of fate to enact some of the wrongs of the game and enact a happy ending between his favourite characters, Verner and Eterna. Unfortunately, even as the strongest fake saint in history, he can’t predict the strange mysteries that lie within this fantasy world.
Comedy, mystery, romance, tragedy; this series has it all. Honestly, this series has no business being as good as it is. Cooking up deep philosophical questions alongside raunchy comedy and deranged otaku fantasy creates a story of pure magic that all light novel enthusiasts should check out.
Hello fellow light novel enthusiasts! Endeavouring to make these lists a continued annual occurrence, it’s once again time to celebrate all 2023 had to offer. Over a series of two blogposts, I’ll be looking at the new and the continuing, sorting through the generic to show you the truly special.
To start off this celebration, I’ll first look at our regulars and how they’ve continued to develop.
1) Full Clearing Another World under a Goddess with Zero Believers Vol. 10
Cover Illustration
With double-digit volumes under its belt, you would’ve thought that Full Clearing would be getting a bit long in the tooth by now. The series, however, has managed to defy expectations, continuing to be as strong as it ever was.
The tenth volume in the series, released during the second half of 2023, is a particular testament to the story’s longevity. Featuring a world of change for the series’ titular protagonist, the volume sees Makoto thrust into the past to face an almighty enemy threatening the present.
Whilst ditching everything this late in the game could be considered more than just a risky move, Isle Osaki manages to pull it off. Without the usual baggage, the series’ author can explore new themes and atmospheres out of place in its present, lighter setting. Moreover, with an arc exploring the past, the reader can experience first-hand the lore and background information slowly built over the past nine volumes.
After what had been a disappointing fifth entry into the series, the penultimate volume brings the story back with highs not seen since the series began.
As the story begins its sixth instalment, the threats against Kanata and Lunaere have started to reach their apex. No longer satisfied with sending in-world pawns to destroy their mistake, the Gods that control the world have decided to send in a few trumps cards to finally finish the job.
Key to this series’ return to form lies in the reunion between Kanata and Lunaere. Often serving the best moments from the early volumes, the sixth volume proves that the two haven’t missed a beat. Furthermore, there are some ace moments as the two fight alongside each other as equals, showing just how far Kanata has come from the early days in Cocytus.
The final entry on this list is, I’ll admit, a bit of a cheat. Having only started in 2023, I just had to put it on the list anyway due to the sheer improvements made between volumes one and two.
Following the successful resolution of a future royal marriage, the sequel volume of Apothecary Witch finds the protagonist duo venturing deeper into the world of divorce proceedings. As they attempt to solve more sinister cases, the two are slowly unwinding the truths behind their own tragic pasts.
No longer satisfied with being a slightly quirky fantasy detective series, the second outing for these total opposites finds the story adding more intricate layers as past and present become more involved in proceedings. A wider view of world-building and more involved motives from the protagonists hold the key to a promising future with this series.
JP Cover Illustration for Brunhild the Dragonslayer Vol. 1
2023 has been a busy year for fans of light novels. With more series than ever being licensed and in more genres than ever before, sometimes it can be difficult to keep track of all the different series being released, especially the ones earmarked for the future.
Bearing that in mind, and whilst I take a little bit longer to compile my own lists of my favourite new and continuing series of 2023, here’s a short list of series that I’m looking forward to with a release date for 2024.
(Please note that I haven’t added any series from J-Novel Club to this list because I’m reading their newest licenses in pre-pub format, and it wouldn’t be fair to add them to the list when I’ve already started to formulate an opinion of their general story already)
1. The Evil Queen’s Beautiful Principles (Seven Seas Entertainment)
First on the list is the newly announced title from Seven Seas Entertainment, The Evil Queen’s Beautiful Principles.
It was a toss-up whether to pick this series or Reincarnated as the Hero’s Friend for this list, but what clinched it for me was that this series is written by the same author as Accomplishments of the Duke’s Daughter, Reia. Given the well-thought-out story of the former, I’m intrigued to see how the author will tackle a series filled with revenge and royal schemes.
2. Rich Girl Caretaker (Monogatari Novels)
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
Moving away from revenge and royalty, the second series I’m looking forward to in 2024 is the rom-com Rich Girl Caretaker.
One of the premier titles from fledgling publisher Monogatari Novels, this long-running title, originally published by HJ Bunko, follows the misadventures of Itsuki as he ends up hired to look after one of his rich classmates, Konohana Hinako.
Having already read parts of the manga for the series, I’m looking forward to seeing its zany comedy come to life in novel format.
3. Brunhild the Dragonslayer (Yen Press)
For the final title on this list, we turn to Yen Press and the slew of titles they’ve announced over the year. Of these titles, however, the one that caught my attention the most is the Dengeki big-hitter, Brunhild the Dragonslayer.
Not knowing much about the series, I find myself putting it on the list simply from the hype it generated amongst light novel fans. A dark fantasy revolving around the concepts of revenge and justice, sign me up!
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You can check out any of the series I’ve mentioned in the post by following these links:
We’ve covered spicing up genres and travel logs in previous recommendation lists. Making it a trilogy, the third recommendation list is all about protagonists willingly heading into the fire.
Doom Be Damned focuses on Otome series, where the main characters actively seek out their own doom or pay no attention to their current predicament.
1) Fake Saint of the Year
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
The first Otome series on the list features a protagonist who doesn’t care about an upcoming bad end so long as he can get a happy ending for his favourite ship.
Fake Saint of the Year follows the story of Fudou Niito as he’s gender-bent into one of the most hated game characters of all time; the villainous, fake saint Ellize. Determined not to remain downhearted, he realises that being reincarnated in such a privileged position brings many advantages, one of which offers him the opportunity to save his favourite couple from the game and give them the happy ending they were never given.
What Makes This Series a Standout?
While this series may only be on its second volume in pre-pub form, it’s clear that it’s built on solid foundations.
The world of the game quickly becomes attention-grabbing. Detail-orientated, the author paints a vivid picture of a world filled with unimaginable tragedies. A curse marks the continent leaving it scarred through constant monster attacks and witch schemes. While the game would usually just show these tragedies through the perspectives of the main characters, the story goes one further, showing how these tragedies unfold in the general population. After all, these events don’t happen in a bubble.
As a result, when the story moves on how to take out the witch, the source of the majority of the issues, it can easily pose a series of ethical dilemmas and make it understandable why leadership would choose certain drastic measures.
Another standout is how the series deals with contrasts. Mixing Niito’s unfiltered nature and a comedic undertone alongside an extremely harsh world means there’s a healthy dose of both serious and fun moments.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volume 1
You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the J-Novel Club website.
2) Though I Am An Inept Villainess
Cover Illustration for Volume 2
If the standard medieval fantasy setting isn’t enough to float your boat, then maybe Inept Villainess’ take on a villainess series, packaging it into a Chinese setting, might be up your alley.
Many would view Kou Reirin’s new predicament trapped inside the body of court villainess Shu Keigetsu as disadvantageous at best, especially given her upcoming execution. For Reirin, however, having a healthy body is all she could’ve ever asked for.
No longer trapped by the limitations of her sickly body, Reirin’s looking to seize the day by trying everything she couldn’t do before in a tale filled with redemption and friendship.
What Makes This Series a Standout?
Two aspects of this series make it stand out from the crowd. The first is the overarching mystery on display throughout the first two volumes.
Igniting links between the past and present, it utilises the setting filled with backstabbing and schemes to the max. As a spate of poisonings plagues the court, this mystery turns into a story only Reirin can solve. Her friendly nature and overwhelming backbone lead to building bridges never thought possible. She even managed to get the original Keigetsu onside, allowing her knowledge of curses to put the final pieces into place.
Getting Keigetsu onside also allows the series to show its other great aspect, redemption. Many of the characters within the series are multifaceted, none more so than Keigetsu. Throughout the two volumes, the story shows her to be more than a clichéd villainess, but an innocent and originally kind-hearted girl using the villainess persona as a shield from those constantly criticising and abusing her.
More than just a change-up in setting, Inept Villainess adds an intriguing mystery alongside multifaceted characters to keep long-term reader engagement.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volumes 1-2
You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the Seven Seas website.
3) Young Lady Albert is Courting Disaster
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
The final series on the recommendation list sees the quirky antics of a villainess willingly wishing for her own demise and exile.
Hoping to set up a wild game restaurant, a reincarnated Lady Albert will act as much the haughty villainess as possible to unlock her exile ending. Unfortunately, Mary’s ideas on what constitutes a villainess are rather strange, and rather than gain enemies, Mary seems to be gaining friends and becoming more and more popular at an unfathomable rate.
What Makes This Series a Standout?
Characters are what drive this series to become a standout. Beyond the often well-timed comedy, it’s the interactions between the series’ main characters that’ll keep readers coming back again and again. From Mary and Adi’s romantic back and forths, Alicia’s overfamiliarity, and Parfette’s all too constant flipping from crying to pure adulation; each and every single character adds to the Otome setting coming to life.
Additionally, in case you’re worrying that Mary’s quirky character would disavow any chance of a true haughty villainess moment, then guess again. As it turns out, Mary’s inner villainess only makes itself known for the most heartwarming of reasons – protecting her best friends.
Young Lady Albert makes for a lively doom acceptance series filled with quirky but loveable characters and enough comedic and heartwarming moments to fill you for a lifetime.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volumes 1-2
You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the J-Novel Club website.
I hope you enjoyed my recommendations. Did I miss any series out? What are your thoughts on these series? Let me know down in the comments!
If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.
Continuing down the road of recommendations, with the season of summer holidays and travelling right around the corner, this next list is filled with light novels all about travel and exploration.
1) The Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
First on the list is a series all about having a second lease and jumping on the chance to explore a new world.
The Ephemeral Scenes of Setsuna’s Journey is all about exploration in the purest sense of the word. After spending two lifetimes worth of time in a hospital bed, thanks to the kindness of a travelling hero, Setsuna’s given a new healthy body and a second chance to enjoy all the world has to offer.
With his goals set, Setsuna embarks on a journey of self-discovery and unlocking all the mysteries of the new world.
What Makes This Series a Standout?
Even though this series currently only has one volume released in the West, it’s clear from the very outset that the author knows how to grab the reader’s attention.
Characters are placed front and centre in this series. Throughout the first volume, we’re introduced to several interesting side characters, and it doesn’t matter whether they’re given a few pages or a few chapters; the author characterises them well enough so that we might predict how they’ll react in any situation. The dynamics between father and son are also done particularly well.
Furthermore, the series uses unique forms of narrative devices in order to convey information. Setsuna’s methods for learning about the world around him take form, either through a hero’s teasing notes or by actually interacting with the people from the new world. Gone are the systems of a game-like menu teaching the protagonist everything, and instead, they are replaced by natural, human conversations.
Setsuna’s journey is a story about more than just the travelling or the location; it’s about the people he meets along the way, the stories they tell and the secret things they know about the world around them.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volume 1
You can purchase all the volumes in the series so far from the list of distributors found on the Yen Press website.
2) Dragon Daddy Diaries
Cover Illustration for Volume 2
The second series on the list also has a lot to do with parental dynamics, this time told in a more comedic fashion rather than a serious one.
Dragon Daddy Diaries can be considered a journey both in terms of travel and the time they spend to become a close-knit family. The series centres on the story of Eldraco, who has come into a new, unexpected chapter of his life after adopting a human child named Olivia. Unaccustomed to what it means to be a family, both Eldraco and Olivia embark on a journey to discover what works for them.
What Makes This Series a Standout?
Whilst this series may come over as fluffy and heartwarming in nature, much as in the first series on this list, there’s plenty of personal growth to go around.
Over the course of four volumes, each of the main and supporting casts goes through their own journeys of self-discovery. Helped by the undercurrent of a past war, at one point or another, each character is forced to face their fears or face up to their own rash judgements.
Some of the series’ best moments come through the characterisation journey of the Dark Queen. Finding herself on the wrong side of the war, she slowly descends into becoming a NEET. Throughout the story, we see this woman incrementally reintroduce herself to society, stand up to her family, and finally become someone worthy of being a leader.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volumes 3-4
You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the J-Novel Club website.
3) Reincarnated as the Piggy Duke
Cover Illustration for Volume 4
The final series on this list displays a journey of a very different variety and sees a character trying his best to improve every aspect of his life.
Mixing comedy, action and adventure, Reincarnated as the Piggy Duke follows Slowe Denning after having awakened memories of the future and realising he’s in the world of an anime. Knowing the horrors to come, Slowe casts off his villainous façade and swears to lose weight to both stop the future and finally confess his feelings to Charlotte.
What Makes This Series a Standout?
There are many aspects over ten volumes that could make this series a standout. To keep this review short and sweet, however, I’ll only talk about two in particular.
For one, Piggy Duke’s titular protagonist is one of the most determined I’ve personally seen in a light novel. Despite being overpowered, Slowe still comes off as being out of his depth, seemingly winning against enemies through sheer determination alone.
Moreover, the series goes a step further, often showing what happens when Slowe can’t rely on his determination showing the amount of stress he’s under constantly to ensure the future of the anime doesn’t come to pass.
Secondly, the series has a strong romantic aspect. While Slowe and Charlotte’s relationship takes some time to develop, it starts from a place of mutual respect. Through the confession scene, the author makes it clear that neither Charlotte nor Slowe’s love comes from something superficial but that they love each other for who they are, warts and all.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volumes 1-10
You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the J-Novel Club website.
I hope you enjoyed my recommendations. Did I miss any series out? What are your thoughts on these series? Let me know down in the comments!
If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.
Lacking inspiration on what to read next? Looking for your next favourite series? Or perhaps, just looking for something to scratch that particular itch? Well, look no further.
In my latest line of reviews, searching for the top picks and top 1os, I’m switching up the recommendations and looking at great series that fit a certain theme. This time, I’m focusing on a well-loved genre within the light novel community, the villainess, looking at series that stretch the genre to its limits by breaking tropes completely or reusing them imaginatively.
Here are four great series that fit this theme:
1) The Holy Grail of Eris
Cover Illustration for Volume 2
First on the list is a series filled with crime, conspiracies and the ghost of haughtiness past.
The Holy Grail of Eris twists the meaning of the villainess genre by going beyond the set structure in favour of bringing us a world where the titular villainess is already dead, used as a scapegoat to bring peace. Thus, the story itself focuses on Constance, a wallflower to end all wallflowers.
Thrust into a situation where she’s labelled a thief, Constance is saved by the lingering spirit of Scarlett. All she asks in return is that this novice of noble society helps her in getting revenge on those who had her killed. What follows is an ever-spiralling mystery filled with schemes and conspiracies that could bring down the entire continent.
What makes this series a standout?
Two things make this series so great. The first is the story’s overarching mystery. Simple yet effective, it expands the original mystery of Scarlett’s execution into several plot threads that culminate in a shocking and satisfying conclusion.
The second satisfying aspect comes through the characterisation journey of the three main characters. As the mystery progresses, each of the characters are able to accept and move past their flaws.
This sees Connie bloom from a shrinking wallflower into a confident young noblewoman who can survive the harsh social circles of nobility. Meanwhile, this progress has Scarlett confront her villainess actions as a shield and learn to let people in. Finally, investigating the conspiracy allows Randolph to move on from his grief healthily and productively.
What makes The Holy Grail of Eris a worthy read is that it doesn’t let the villainess genre define the story it wants to tell, and as a result, we, as readers see a story with a fascinating mystery and a true depth of character.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volumes 1-3
You can purchase all the volumes in the series so far from the list of distributors found on the Yen Press website.
2) Prison Life is Easy for the Villainess
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
If a heavier series filled with conspiracies and murder isn’t your thing, then perhaps a more comedic take on a villainess with the skills of a master manipulator might be right up your alley.
Unlike the villainess in the previous story, Rachel is more than happy to be falsely accused and thrown in a deep dark dungeon. From the luxury of her new home, she’s finally able to unburden her true personality – a vicious and unrelenting psychopath with enough connections to pettily turn the screws on everyone she perceives has done her wrong.
What makes this series a standout?
Beyond the well-timed comedy and Rachel’s ever-growing mischievous antics, the series never shy’s away from grey. Despite the prince and his posse’s actions toward Rachel being cruel, it doesn’t necessarily mean that she’s a victim.
Through scenes past and present, it’s clear that Rachel can also be seen as an aggravating factor. From an outsider’s perspective, she’s impossible to deal with, and her actions can come over as unjust. That is why it hits all the harder when Rachel has to face the consequences of her actions much in the same manner as those who tried to imprison her.
Prison Life Villainess spices up the genre by showcasing the distance a series can travel even through the four walls of a prison cell. Featuring a genuinely hilarious comedic style and a multi-faceted perspective that shows the actions of the protagonist as more than just black and white.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volumes 1-2
You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the J-Novel Club website.
3) Lovestruck Prince! I’ll Fight the Heroine for My Villainess Fiancée
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
Moving away from schemers and conspirators, the last two on the list fulfil the brief in a fluffier fashion.
Turning towards the villainess’ fiancé, Lovestruck Prince leaves the crown prince in charge of navigating the choppy waters of saving a villainess from her own doom. From a hyper-aggressive heroine to a nobility chomping at the bit, there’s a lot for Vincent to do before he can enjoy a lovey-dovey future with his fiancé.
What makes this series a standout?
Whilst this series may still be in its infancy, there are still a lot of great things to be found. One aspect, in particular, is how seamlessly the story manages to integrate the usual Otome elements into the world-building.
Through the power of words, a new future can come to pass. In this case, a novel directly correlating to the current misfortune of Vincent and Elizabeth amplifies the natural abilities of the heroine to create all the elements necessary for an Otome game situation.
Providing more than lovey-dovey cuteness, this series can more than stand up to the big players of the game through excellent world-building and narrative devices.
You can read the reviews on all the volumes in the series so far here: Volume 1
You can purchase all the volumes in the series so far from the list of distributors found on the Cross Infinite World website.
4) Endo and Kobayashi Live! The Latest on Tsundere Villainess Lieselotte
Cover Illustration for Volume 2
The final recommendation on the list is the most famous of the four with an anime released. It’s a series filled with cute rom-com moments and Otome obsessives.
Following the theme of villainess stories told from unique perspectives, Endo and Kobayashi Live finds two Japanese high schoolers playing the roles of deities. Now with an active role to play within the game world, their plan is to steer the main characters in the right direction to stop the inevitable death of their favourite tsundere villainess, Lieselotte.
What makes this series a standout?
Several aspects of this series make it stand out from an ever-increasing crowd of titles. The first concerns how the series plays to a fan’s imagination. Who amongst us hasn’t wished to change the fate of a certain character or change an ending they don’t like in their favourite series?
This series plays into this question well, utilising the two high schoolers’ information about the game sparingly to not break the flow of the original story and allow the resolution to take place naturally.
Furthermore, throughout the three-volume series, the author manages to create strong, well-rounded characters. The villainess, the heroine, and the prince break from the mould of the game to create complex and human characters.
You can read the review of the EX Disc volume here: EX Disc
You can purchase all the volumes in the series from the J-Novel Club website.
I hope you enjoyed my recommendations. Did I miss any series out? What are your thoughts on these series? Let me know down in the comments!
If you like what you read and what I do, why not consider supporting me through Ko-Fi. Any donation helps keep this site up and keep me writing.
Time for another ranking post! For the second rankings list of light novels, I’m looking back at some of the new licensed light novels released in 2022. Disclaimer: I did not read every new series and thus will only include my own personal favourites from the year.
10) The World’s Fastest Level Up
Cover Illustration for Volume 2
Synopsis:
Get ready for dungeon diving done quick in this modern adventure where Earth feels like an RPG!
Years have passed since dungeons sprung up around the world. When adventurer Amane Rin awakens to a unique skill called “Dungeon Teleporting,” the rules can’t touch him anymore. This is the tale of how he races to become the world’s strongest (and fastest-progressing) adventurer! (Source: SevenSeas)
Starting off the list is The World’s Fastest Level Up, a fast-paced, action-packed fantasy series featuring dungeons appearing in modern-day Japan.
Beginning more as a guilty pleasure with Rin managing to hack and slash everything in sight, the series has matured into something much more intriguing with each growing volume.
The mystery elements convinced me it deserved a place on this list. Creating more depth to the story’s world-building, the dungeon system is revealed to have some sort of intelligence and can control certain outside elements – providing the series with more scope for storytelling going forward.
This is on top of the author putting the puzzle pieces into place introducing several characters with abilities that would complement Rin’s fighting style should he ever decide to dungeon dive as a team.
These aspects make this a worthwhile pick-up for those looking for a fantasy series beyond the scope of the average fantasy world.
Read the series both digitally and physically on the SevenSeas website.
One day, Hiragi Seiichi’s entire school is transported to another world. As he wanders through a mysterious forest alone, however, he is ‘attacked’ by a gorilla.
“Me, never sleep with man before. Be gentle.”
All Saria wants is to be close to him. Just when he begins opening his heart to the feminine simian, however, tragedy strikes.
Can the strength of their bond—and the mysterious Fruits of Evolution they’ve both consumed—bring about a miracle? A lighthearted fantasy-comedy romp through a fantasy world! (Source: Hanashi Media)
Hanashi Media’s premier series makes it ninth on the list. Personally, this series represents a happy little bit of nostalgia. Taking me back to the beginnings of my anime journey, where I used to live for the slightly stupid fantasy-harem series and all its different little tropes.
The Fruit of Evolution takes this genre to its wacky apex. It’s absurdist and self-aware, which is more than enough reason why this series shouldn’t be dismissed or overlooked.
Moreover, the translation of this series has the comedy fit just right. As their first published series, they’ve clearly put a lot of effort into making sure they start their light novel journey off on the right foot.
Read the series digitally from the Hanashi Media website.
Yuna Momose and Rinka Aiba were made for each other, and their whole school knows it. Between Yuna’s princess-like elegance and Rinka’s prince-like charm, all their classmates see them as the ideal couple. Yotsuba Hazama is no exception to that, but she is exceptional in another way: she’s somehow managed to become fast friends with both of them! Having the whole school’s favorite ship as her two best friends isn’t exactly easy, though. Not only does it make everyone treat Yotsuba like a particularly obnoxious third wheel, it makes her feel like one too! Or at least it does, until one day, Yuna asks her out. And then Rinka asks her out too! And Yotsuba, whose social anxiety never seems to kick in until after she’s already messed something up…says yes to both of them, without sparing so much as a single thought for the consequences. Oops! Now Yotsuba only has one choice: keep her accidental two-timing under wraps and make both of her new girlfriends as happy as she possibly can! (Source: J-Novel Club)
Being familiar with Toshizou’s previous works and their unique style of writing, there was no way this series wouldn’t reach this year’s top-ranking list.
Chaos rules the roost here, and it’s such a fresh and interesting take on the usual series found within the rom-com genre. It’s one of the very few yuri series within the light novel space that wants to do the balls-to-the-wall type of funny.
There’s never a dull moment as Yotsuba’s actions constantly lead to her digging a deeper hole for herself. Whether it be trying to date both members of the sacrosanct or trying to manoeuvre around a very different type of sisterly love, she just can’t help causing trouble for herself and others.
As each volume raises the wackiness stakes, I look forward to what situation awaits Yotsuba next!
Read the series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.
Get ready for a high-energy prison comedy! Prince Elliott is engaged to Rachel, the daughter of a duke, but he has his eyes set on someone else. He decides to break off their engagement by accusing Rachel of a crime she didn’t commit and throwing her in prison. Little does he know, Rachel has already heard about his plans…and she is thrilled! To her, prison sounds like a fun vacation with no lessons and no annoying servants. She is more than ready to laze about and live the slow life! Surrounded by all the comforts she could want, Rachel thoroughly enjoys everything the dungeon has to offer while tormenting the prince however she pleases! Her free and merry prison life is just beginning! (Source: J-Novel Club)
At only two volumes in length, this series is the very definition of short and sweet.
Coming into a new year, I’ve come into a bit of a revelation – some of the best series within the villainess genre are the ones that go out of their way to put a unique spin on the usual scenario, Prison Villainess being no exception.
In this case, everyone in the series is, in one way or another, a complete, irredeemable psychopath and Rachel reigns on top of them all.
A broken engagement and imprisonment sets the real Rachel free and now she strives for revenge and a way to ensure she escapes from the queen’s education. The plans and schemes she comes up with as a result often had me laughing out loud.
Furthermore, the series’ ending is just perfect for the overall tone. Nobody gets redemption and nobody gets a happy end even Rachel. Consequences for everyone!
If you enjoy comedy and the villainess genre, this is a series you should definitely check out!
Read the series digitally on the J-novel Club website.
6) The Magical Revolution of the Reincarnated Princess and the Genius Young Lady
Cover Illustration for Volume 3
Synopsis:
Despite her supposed ineptitude with regular magic, Princess Anisphia defies the aristocracy’s expectations by developing “magicology,” a unique magical theory based on memories from her past life. One day, she witnesses the brilliant noblewoman Euphyllia unjustly stripped of her title as the kingdom’s next monarch. That’s when Anisphia concocts a plan to help Euphyllia regain her good name-which somehow involves them living together and researching magic! Little do these two ladies know, however, that their chance encounter will alter not only their own futures, but those of the kingdom…and the entire world! (Source: Yen Press)
Continuing the theme of unique twists on the villainess genre, Magical Revolution just misses out on a spot in the top 5.
What Magical Revolution exceeds at most is the level of maturity in its writing and themes. Deep-routed emotions and complex family dynamics are handled adeptly alongside lighter, more comedic moments and well-staged action sequences.
The series’ sibling rivalry is its main highlight. The issues between them are so ingrained that tragedy is inevitable. It’s an emotional battle scene that requires Anisphia to grow as a person and take finally take responsibility.
I would highly recommend this series as it blends mature emotional themes alongside its comedic and light-hearted moments. And now that this series is receiving an anime this season, it’s the perfect time to give this story a try.
Read the series both digitally and physically on the Yen Press website.
5) Now I’m A Demon Lord! Happily Ever After with Monster Girls in My Dungeon
Cover Illustration for Volume 1
Synopsis:
Yuki finds himself reincarnated as a demon lord in another world, and he’s been put in charge of a dungeon to boot! Once Yuki accepts that his fate hinges on the dungeon’s survival in a world where powerful monsters roam free and danger lurks at every corner, he begins gathering allies and bolstering his defenses. Within a few days, he takes on a legendary dragon, an adorable pet slime, and a vampire girl, but despite all his precautions, life as a demon lord in a dungeon constantly under threat…is surprisingly mellow? Of course, with such a colourful cast of characters (and possibly more on their way), Yuki’s bound to wind up in some trouble. Will he be able to pull off a reckless rescue mission? And how will he and his monster girls survive an invasion by a hostile human kingdom?! Join him as he juggles daily life, responsibilities as a freshly minted demon lord, and his growing family of monster girls and pets! (Source: J-Novel Club)
Getting to the top 5 and the first to reach this hefty milestone is a fluffy dungeon builder expertly mixing slice-of-life, comedy and action!
The true highlight of this series comes from its protagonist. Newly reincarnated in another world as a demon lord he takes it all in his stride – killing monsters, making mythical friends and uncovering royal schemes. This is all done through Yuki’s one-of-a-kind unfiltered thoughts.
The translators of Now I’m a Demon Lord! have gone the extra mile with this series. Yuki throws around some colourful insults throughout the first three volumes, “cumrags” and “dickweeds” litter the pages and it never fails to get a chuckle out of me.
Additionally, there are some great relationships developed throughout the series. Yuki and Lefi’s interactions are a treat and I love how well-paced their romantic endeavours are.
Read the series digitally on the J-Novel Club website.
Alisa Mikhailovna Kujou is Seiren Private Academy’s “solitary princess.” She’s a half-Russian beauty with silver hair, at the top of her class, student council accountant, and…completely unapproachable. For some reason, she’s also taken on the responsibility of reprimanding the slacker who sits next to her in class. Masachika Kuze is constantly frustrating her by falling asleep, forgetting his textbooks, and just being an overall unexemplary student. Or at least, that’s how it looks from the outside. She may put on a tough act, but she doesn’t mind Masachika as much as others would think. She even lets him call her by her nickname, Alya. Anyone hearing the comments she mutters in Russian under her breath might know how she really feels, but since none of her classmates understand the language, she’s free to say whatever she likes! Except…there is one person who knows what she’s saying. Masachika eavesdrops on her embarrassing revelations, pretending to be clueless, all the while wondering what her flirtatious comments actually mean! (Source: Yen Press)
Just missing out on a place in the top 3, Alya Hides Her Feelings is the first fluffy-style rom-com to make the list.
Well-balanced, the series strikes a good mix between high school drama and cute, fluffy moments. On the serious side, there’s great introspection in the first volume about what it means to have a purpose and motivation. It looks at whether Masachika should really help Alya with her student council president run or whether this is just selfishness on his part.
On the other side, the series gives ample time to its sugary goodness. Masachika and Alya have great chemistry and the scenes of them flirting are always a joy to behold.
Alya is a series that would satisfy both those looking for a bit of drama and those looking for 100% sugar.
Read the series both digitally and physically on the Yen Press website.
When the gorgeous Nanami Barato confesses to Yoshin Misumai, it seems too good to be true! Only, it is—and Yoshin knows it. How’s an introverted guy like him supposed to keep his cool when he knows this is all just a dare? Even more puzzling, despite her gaudy appearance, this supposed gyaru isn’t actually all that good with guys! Perhaps this is the perfect chance for this shy guy to pluck up his own courage and say yes to the guy-shy girl. So begins their new cushy life of morning meet-ups and handmade lunches. The thing is, judging by the way she’s acting, Nanami has fallen head over heels for him! From dares and dating to downright disasters, can these two first-timers figure out their feelings and maybe even fall in love—for real, this time?! (Source: J-Novel Club)
Just piping Alya to a place in the top three and winner of a bronze medal is one of JNC’s newest rom-com series.
The main reason why Hookup Hiccups has a higher rating than Alya is more a matter of taste rather than one series being worse than the other. Both are great series, the only difference being this series turns the sugar all the way up to 1000, and I love my series sugary.
Taking a closer look at the couple behind the sugar, Nanami and Yoshin are a great fit for each other. Both inexperienced, their clumsy ways of working through their relationship comes over as endearing and for those worrying about the pace of their relationship, you needn’t fear, there’s solid graspable development in every volume.
For those looking for a sugar fix, this is the series for you!
Read the series digitally on the J-novel Club website.
Prepare for swirling court intrigue in this magical “trading places” tale of maidens competing for the crown–and don’t miss the manga adaptation, also from Seven Seas!
In the Kingdom of Ei, five clans put forth their maidens as imperial consorts—but only one will be crowned empress. Just when frail and beautiful “court butterfly” Kou Reirin seems poised to marry the crown prince, jealous “court rat” Shu Keigetsu steals her body! Reirin wakes up in the dungeons as the conspirator, and things look dire…or do they? Now that she’s got a robust new body, not even the looming threat of execution can stop her! (Source: SevenSeas)
Taking the silver medal, Inept Villainess earns a place in the top three due to its intricate mystery weaving and fantastic world-building.
The complete arc portrayed in both its first and second volumes is what finally clinched this series a place on the list. Everything is just wrapped up so well; the twist and turns, the characters, and their friendships and rivalries. There isn’t a single aspect that I can find to fault this series on.
Reirin and Shu are the true stars of the show and often move beyond the tropes of the genre. Shu is an especially interesting character and her perspectives are always the ones I look forward to the most. Not actually malicious, instead she’s acting defensively as a product of her environment and experiences.
The author also uses the past as a parallel in this series. A lot of how the present dynamics come together are as a result of past clan members and these are entertainingly explained through immersive past sequences. I can’t wait to see how the series continues into a new arc.
Read the series both digitally and physically on the SevenSeas website.
As a viscount’s daughter, Constance Grail is an ordinary girl whose only notable trait is sincerity, leaving her with no real options when someone steals her fiancé and falsely accuses her of petty theft at a ball. While Connie awaits her undeserved punishment, a ghost appears to offer a bargain. The spirit is none other than Scarlett Castiel, a noblewoman once praised for her beauty, lineage, and undeniable charisma—and executed some ten years earlier for her wicked deeds. When Connie accepts this proposal, she is possessed by the infamous spirit who instantly turns the tide on her tormenter, thus saving the hapless girl from her miserable fate. It’s never wise striking a deal without knowing exactly what you’ve committed to, though…or you might find yourself bound to a ghost dead set on revenge against her own enemies! (Source: Yen Press)
Gold medal winner and my personal favourite series of 2022, The Holy Grail of Eris is a unicorn in the light novel world.
It’s very rare to find a light novel series like this, part murder mystery, part conspiracy, part supernatural, and part villainess story – it’s a wonder that it hasn’t been done sooner.
Enrapturing. It’s the only possible way to describe this series.
I’m constantly glued to the page as each passage gets us closer and closer to unwrapping the mystery behind Scarlett’s execution. I’m in awe at the amount of talent this author has, from writing engaging main characters to ensuring that every minor character has a part to play in the overall mystery. Nothing is overlooked.
Taking a closer look at the characters, the dynamic between Connie and Scarlet is truly a special one. Each has something to learn from the other. Connie lacks the confidence to enter the dangerous world of high society, and Scarlett provides the key. Scarlett is entrenched in her haughty ways and Connie’s empathy can help her see new perspectives.
The Holy Grail of Eris is the full package. Seldom have I found myself so shocked by a series’ ups and downs and as invested as I am in the characters of this novel. That is what makes this my favourite of 2022 and one that everyone, regardless of their tastes, should check out!
Read the series both digitally and physically on the Yen Press website.
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