Welcome to Kinokuniya’s “Monthly Staff Pick Sale!” Each month, the popular bookstore chain selects a few book titles that members can purchase at a 20% discount. The sale lasts the entire month, while supplies last, and is available in-store and online as well. For February 2025, Kinokuniya celebrates the month of love with the first manga volumes of My Happy Marriage and The Apothecary Diaries.
My Happy Romance (Art by Rito Kohsaka, Story by Akumi Agitogi)
The story takes place during an alternate version of Japan’s Taisho era. Spirits and magic are real, and one’s social standing is determined by their supernatural talent. However, Miyo Saimori was born with no such talent. She was forced to live a life of servitude at the hands of her wicked stepmother. When she becomes old enough to marry, her fiancée is revealed to be the cold-hearted commander Kiyoka Kudou. He’s garnered a reputation for being so cruel that his previous wives fled within three days of their engagement. Miyo quietly accepts her tragic fate, but soon discovers her husband-to-be is anything but cruel. As the two spend more time together, their hearts slowly soften. Perhaps there is a chance for happiness for these two wayward souls.
The Apothecary Diaries (Art by Nekokurage, Story by Natsu Hyuuga)
The setting is inspired by Imperial China and takes place in the Rear Palace where the emperor houses his favored concubines. Maomao used to be an apothecary living in the red-light district, until she was kidnapped and sold as a servant girl. Her plan was to work hard to pay off her debt and not draw attention. However, when it comes to medicine and disease, she can’t help but get involved. One of the concubines contracts a mysterious illness, and Maomao provides a cure. This catches the eye of Master Jinshi, a handsome official in charge of the Rear Palace. He promotes Maomao to taste tester, much to her annoyance. As more and more bizarre medical cases occur, Jinshi finds himself fascinated by Maomao. She couldn’t care less about anything other than medicine. It’ll be a long road before they realize their feelings for one another.
For more information on Kinokuniya’s membership program, please visit their website.
Want more recommendations to cozy up to during the month of February? Check out “10 Romance Anime to Watch This February” as well.
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