Takeshobo to Release Melt in Your Color, My Father's Lover, and More BL Manga Digitally in English

Japanese publisher Takeshobo announced on May 28 that it will release three manga titles digitally in English, marking a notable expansion of their digital distribution strategy. The lineup consists entirely of boys' love (BL) titles, reflecting the genre's growing global demand.

The Titles

Melt in Your Color by hitomi — releasing May 29 — follows Hojo, a motorcycle courier who delivers to the apartment of popular novelist Aranami. When Hojo witnesses Aranami's male partner, he discovers a side of the novelist he never expected. The story explores unexpected connections and slow-burn romance.

My Father's Lover by Chil Shiomi — releasing June 5 — centers on high schooler Haruki, who lives with his novelist father and Junpei, a housekeeper he views as a big brother. Their peaceful three-person household hides a secret: Junpei and Haruki's father are in a hidden relationship, a discovery that threatens to upend everything.

Don't Stop Even If I Say So by Tamaji Ura — releasing June 2026 (volumes 1-2) — follows Soma, an office worker who has kept his desire to be held by a man buried deep inside. He finds himself drawn to his charming neighbor Yoshitaka, setting off a story of self-discovery and intimate connection.

Platform Availability

The manga will be available on Renta!, MangaPlaza, Coolmic, BookWalker, and Rakuten Kobo — ensuring broad digital distribution across the major English-language manga platforms.

Significance

Takeshobo, known primarily as a Japanese publisher of seinen manga and magazines, entering the English digital market directly represents an interesting shift. While larger publishers like Kodansha and Shueisha have established English digital pipelines through partners like Crunchyroll and Viz Media, smaller publishers are increasingly carving out their own distribution channels.

The focus on BL titles aligns with the genre's explosive growth in the global market. Boys' love manga has seen surging readership in English-speaking markets, with dedicated platforms like Coolmic and Renta! building substantial catalogs.

Community Reception

The announcement has generated positive buzz among BL manga fans, particularly for My Father's Lover, whose family-drama-meets-romance premise has drawn comparisons to popular domestic BL narratives. The availability across multiple platforms — rather than being locked to a single service — has also been welcomed by readers.