The historical manga series A Witch’s Life in Mongol, known in Japanese as Tenmaku no Jādūgaru, is set to switch to a bimonthly release schedule before entering a hiatus later this year. This change comes as the manga’s creator, Tomato Soup, prepares for maternity leave. Fans can expect the series to return in 2026.
Bimonthly Release Leading to Summer Break
Manga artist Tomato Soup made the announcement via X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, informing readers that A Witch’s Life in Mongol will transition to a bimonthly publication schedule leading up to a break in the summer. This hiatus is to accommodate the artist’s maternity leave. The series is slated to resume publication next year.
What is A Witch’s Life in Mongol About?
A Witch’s Life in Mongol is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Tomato Soup. It began serialization on Akita Shoten’s Souffle website in September 2021, and as of August 2024, four compiled book volumes have been released.
Synopsis
The story is set in the 13th century within the vast Mongol Empire, known as Yeke Mongol Ulus. The protagonist is Fatima, a woman from Persia renowned for its advanced medical techniques and scientific knowledge.
Sold into slavery in the city of Tus, Fatima was initially taken in by a family of scholars. Although she originally attempted to escape, the scholars enlightened her on the importance of knowledge. She later worked and studied in their home, however, after the heir to the family left for Nishapur to further his studies, the Mongols invaded Tus. Fatima was captured by Tolui’s army, and her master was killed while protecting her.
After being taken to Mongolia, Fatima contemplates avenging herself against the Mongols. She eventually finds herself in the service of Töregene, the sixth wife of Ögedei, the second Great Khan.
Production Notes
Tomato Soup initially considered Töregene Khatun as the main character but felt that Fatima would better represent the scale of the Mongol Empire and offer a more compelling narrative.
The author has mentioned attempting to emulate the “unrealistic” style found in medieval manuscripts in the manga’s illustrations.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
A Witch’s Life in Mongol has garnered significant praise and recognition:
- Topped the Kono Manga ga Sugoi! 2023 rankings for female readers.
- Ranked #11 in the 2024 rankings for female readers by Kono Manga ga Sugoi!
- Nominated for the 16th Manga Taisho Awards in 2023.
- Nominated again for the Manga Taisho Awards in 2024.
- Named “Best Manga of the Year” 2022, in the category of Historical Fiction by Apple Book.
Reviewers have lauded the manga for its setting, realistic characters, and compelling storyline, drawing comparisons to other acclaimed historical manga series.
English Release
Yen Press has licensed A Witch’s Life in Mongol for English publication, with the first volume scheduled for release on May 27, 2025. This will make the series accessible to a wider audience.
Publication Details
- Original Run: September 25, 2021 – present
- Magazine: Souffle (Akita Shoten)
- Parallel Serialization: Mystery Bonita (starting March 6, 2025)
- Volumes: 4 (as of August 2024)
- English Publisher: Yen Press
Themes and Setting
A Witch’s Life in Mongol is notable for its historical setting, exploring themes of knowledge, revenge, and the dynamics of power within the Mongol Empire. The manga delves into the life of women in the 13th century, set against the backdrop of the vast empire.
Where to Read
Fans can follow A Witch’s Life in Mongol on Akita Shoten’s Souffle website and, starting March 6, 2025, in Mystery Bonita magazine. English readers can look forward to the Yen Press release in May 2025.
Expert Opinion
Dr. Arianna D’Alessio, Professor of Asian History at Columbia University, notes the manga’s significance: “A Witch’s Life in Mongol offers a unique perspective on the Mongol Empire, focusing on the experiences of women and the exchange of knowledge during this period. Tomato Soup’s attention to historical detail and compelling character development makes it a standout work in the historical manga genre.”
