"Even if You Cry or Apologize, I Will Not Return to the Church!" Volume 1 of the Manga Series Released

A new breath in the fantasy manga world: The first volume of the series “Even if You Cry or Apologize, I Will Not Return to the Church! – My Second Life Begins When the Exiled Former Saint Candidate and the Also Exiled 'Sword God' Come to an Agreement” was released in Japan on June 26, 2024. The story is written by Hizuki Nodoka, with illustrations by Mayuzumi Koyo. The work follows a woman who was a former saint candidate and a warrior titled the 'Sword God' who meet after being exiled and together build a new life.

Let's take a closer look at the plot: Our main character is a young woman who was once chosen as a saint candidate by the church but was exiled due to an unknown incident. Just as she loses hope, she encounters the legendary warrior known as the 'Sword God,' who has also been exiled. The pair quickly come to an agreement and embark on a journey to change the world together. This 'second life' theme offers a fine example of the popular subgenres of 'post-exile revenge' or 'starting over' in recent years.

Author Hizuki Nodoka has previously written works in different genres such as “Koukyuu no Karasu” (The Raven of the Inner Palace). Illustrator Mayuzumi Koyo is better known for romantic comedy and fantasy genres, particularly noted for their vibrant illustrations in series like “Kanojo mo Kanojo”. This new partnership promises a visual narrative that blends action and emotional moments. The first volume of the series is now available in major bookstores and online platforms in Japan.

So why is this news important? Stories of exiled characters seeking revenge or a new beginning attract great interest, especially among fans of isekai and fantasy. “I Won’t Return to the Church…” adds a unique flavor by combining this formula with elements like the church and divine powers. Moreover, the protagonist being a 'saint candidate' offers a critique or at least a questioning of religious institutions. If you like this type of story, we recommend you not miss the new volume. The release date for the next volume has not been announced yet, but based on the reaction to the first volume, we can expect a quick second volume.