The popular Japanese light novel series, A Tale of the Secret Saint (転生した大聖女は、聖女であることをひた隠す, Tensei Shita Daiseijo wa, Seijo de Aru Koto o Hitakakusu), written by Touya and illustrated by chibi, is set to receive a television anime adaptation. This exciting news was announced by Earth Star Entertainment, promising to bring the enchanting world of Fia and her secret powers to life on screen.
A Knight’s Tale with a Saintly Secret: Unveiling the Plot
A Tale of the Secret Saint follows the journey of Fia, a young woman born into a family of knights who dreams of following in their footsteps. Despite being the least talented among her siblings, she perseveres in her training. However, during her initiation test, a near-fatal encounter awakens memories of her past life as a powerful Saint who defeated the Demon King. Haunted by her past life’s tragic end and the dangers associated with being a Saint, Fia vows to conceal her powers and continue her path to knighthood. The story explores how she balances her desire to keep her powers hidden with the temptation to use them for the greater good.
From Light Novel to Anime: The Journey So Far
The original story debuted on the user-generated novel publishing website Shōsetsuka ni Narō (“Let’s Be Novelists”) in January 2019. Earth Star Entertainment began publishing the novels in print in June 2019, featuring illustrations by chibi. As of March 6, 2025, ten volumes have been released, with the 11th volume slated to ship on March 14. The series has gained considerable popularity, ranking second in the Tankōbon and Novel rankings in Takarajimasha’s Kono Light Novel ga Sugoi! (This Light Novel Is Amazing!) 2025 edition.
Manga Adaptations and Prequel Series
The light novel series has also inspired a manga adaptation, illustrated by Mahito Aobe, which launched in Comic Earth Star in November 2019. The 12th volume of the manga is scheduled to ship on March 12. In addition, a prequel light novel series, A Tale of the Secret Saint ZERO (転生した大聖女は、聖女であることをひた隠す：ZERO), began publication in July 2022. The fifth volume of the prequel shipped on December 18. A manga adaptation of the prequel novels, illustrated by Shiina, is also underway, with the third volume set to release on March 12.
English Publication by Seven Seas Entertainment
Seven Seas Entertainment has licensed the light novel series, the main manga adaptation, and the ZERO prequel light novels for English publication. They describe the story as: “Born into a long line of knights, Fia is determined to become a knight herself, just like all her siblings. But a brush with death awakens memories of her past life as a Saint–a woman who wields rare, powerful healing and protection magic–along with the ability to use that magic herself! The downside is that Fia also remembers her past life’s untimely death, and the danger she will be in if anyone finds out what she really is.”
Meet the Cast: Voice Actors Announced
The anime adaptation will feature a talented cast of voice actors, including:
- Shion Wakayama as Fia Ruud
- Shinnosuke Tokudome as Zavilia
- Yūichirō Umehara as Saviz Náv
- Nobunaga Shimazaki as Cyril Sutherland
AnimeJapan 2025: Stage Event
Fans can look forward to a stage event at the Hakuhodo DY MaP Booth during AnimeJapan 2025 on March 22. The event promises to offer more insights into the anime adaptation and the world of A Tale of the Secret Saint.
Celebratory Illustrations
To commemorate the anime adaptation announcement, both Mahito Aobe, the artist behind the main manga adaptation, and Shiina, the artist for the A Tale of the Secret Saint ZERO manga adaptation, have created special celebration illustrations.
Expert Opinion
Touya, the author of A Tale of the Secret Saint, has crafted a compelling narrative that blends elements of fantasy, action, and romance. The protagonist, Fia, is a relatable and endearing character who must navigate the challenges of concealing her true identity while pursuing her dreams. The series explores themes of identity, duty, and the struggle between personal desires and the greater good. Chibi’s illustrations perfectly capture the charm and magic of the world, bringing the characters and settings to life.
