Square Enix Licenses Apothecary Diaries: Xiaolan's Story and 8 More
Square Enix Manga & Books has announced an impressive fall 2026 lineup of English print releases, bringing fan-favorite franchises, fresh rom-coms, and highly collectible art books to bookstores later this year. From The Apothecary Diaries spin-off to charming new BL and rom-com manga, the slate mixes official tie-ins and standalone gems that will interest collectors and casual readers alike. Below we break down each announced title, release timing, and what makes each volume worth pre-ordering — plus where to read some of these series digitally. ([squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com](https://squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com/?utm_source=openai))
Why this fall’s Square Enix slate matters
Fall 2026's announcement is notable for its variety: historical spin-offs, campus rom-coms, boys’ love love triangles, and an artbook for a classic tactical JRPG. The lineup is designed to reach multiple fandoms — collectors seeking deluxe prints, readers looking for lighthearted romance, and fans of established IPs. Many of these series are already available digitally through Square Enix’s Manga UP! service, making it easy to sample the stories before committing to physical copies. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manga_Up%21?utm_source=openai))
The Apothecary Diaries: Xiaolan’s Story (Volume 1) — October 2026
Creators: Art by Itsuki Nanao, story by Natsu Hyūga, character designs by Touco Shino. Why you should care: Told from Xiaolan’s viewpoint, this official spin-off expands the palace perspective fans love, tracing Xiaolan’s journey from hardship to life inside the imperial rear palace. Fans of the main series will appreciate the deeper character work and the new slice-of-palace-drama beats that enrich the world. ([squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com](https://squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com/?utm_source=openai))
Boyish Girlfriend (Volume 1) — September 22, 2026
Creator: Gyūnyūmugigohan. Premise: Akira, a lifelong tomboy, starts dating her childhood friend Daichi — and keeps surprising him with charms he never expected. This sweet high-school rom-com explores identity, fashion, and the delightful tension between how others perceive you and who you really are. Expect festival hijinks, warm character beats, and a focus on authenticity over forced change.
My Ex-Boyfriend Loves Boys’ Love! (Volume 1) — September 8, 2026
Creator: Mugimo. Premise: Office worker Momo Akado’s quiet BL bookstore trip turns explosive when she spots a familiar face — her high school ex, now unexpectedly a BL fan. This feel-good otaku comedy plays with nostalgia, second chances, and the shared joy of fandom, offering an accessible entry point for BL-curious readers and a cozy romp for established fans.
Stalker Stalks Stalker (Volume 1) — October 20, 2026
Creator: Yuo Yodogawa. Premise: A comedic BL love triangle with a twist: three college students are each stalking another, leading to a chaotic loop of obsession and misunderstandings. The premise leans into absurdity and dark comedy while still delivering heartfelt moments as the characters untangle their feelings.
Yang Can’t Live Alone (Volume 1) — September 15, 2026
Creator: sooncha. Premise: A grounded slice-of-life/romance about Yuu, an earnest college student, and Yang, a bright Chinese exchange student. When Yang enlists Yuu as a protective bodyguard, their "professional" arrangement evolves into something warmer — a study in cultural exchange, slow-burn attraction, and personal growth.
My Dress-Up Darling XOXO! (One volume) — October 13, 2026
Creators: Shinichi Fukuda, Choboraunyopomi. What to expect: This official spin-off collection returns to the rom-com’s beloved cast with extra comedy and character-focused vignettes. Fans of Marin and Wakana will find new moments, gags, and cosplay-driven shenanigans — plus cameo appearances from familiar faces.
My Dress-Up Darling Season 2 Official Anime Fanbook — November 17, 2026
Creator: Shinichi Fukuda. Highlights: A must-buy for collectors — this fanbook features production notes, episode commentary, voice actor interviews, costume design breakdowns, and galleries of promotional art from the second season. Printed like a premium artbook, it’s perfect for readers who enjoy behind-the-scenes context and high-quality visuals. ([squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com](https://squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com/?utm_source=openai))
The Art of Final Fantasy Tactics (Artbook) — November 10, 2026
About the book: This hardcover collector’s artbook compiles concept art, never-before-seen sketches, map designs, and character/job illustrations from FINAL FANTASY TACTICS and related releases — a treasure for fans of Ivalice-era design. Expect archival-quality printing and a volume intended for display on a collector’s shelf. ([squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com](https://squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com/en-us/product/9781646094356?utm_source=openai))
Where to read digitally and pre-order info
Many of these titles are already available digitally through Square Enix’s Manga UP! platform (the publisher’s official digital manga service), so readers can sample chapters before buying physical copies. For pre-orders and retail availability, Square Enix Manga & Books lists details on its official site and retail partners. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manga_Up%21?utm_source=openai))
Read on Manga UP! (official) | Square Enix Manga & Books (official)
Final thoughts
Square Enix’s fall 2026 print slate is an appealing mix of fan service, new voices, and collectible releases. Whether you’re following The Apothecary Diaries universe, hunting for feel-good rom-coms and BL titles, or adding a lavish Final Fantasy artbook to your collection, there’s something in this lineup worth watching. With digital preview options on Manga UP! and clear pre-order windows announced by the publisher, fans have plenty of opportunity to plan purchases and secure limited editions as they become available. Keep an eye on official retailer listings for pre-order bonuses and shipping windows as the release dates approach. ([squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com](https://squareenixmangaandbooks.square-enix-games.com/?utm_source=openai))
https://www.myanimeforlife.com/square-enix-licenses-apothecary-diaries-xiaolans-story-and-8-more/?feed_id=170368&_unique_id=69972558872f9
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