As an avid manhwa reader, Ize Press is easily one of my favorite publishers. Not only do they consistently license standout titles, but the physical quality of their books always justifies the price point. From premium paper to thoughtful design, Ize Press treats manhwa with the care it deserves. Below are my current top five Ize Press releases—titles I wholeheartedly recommend to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
The Villainess Turns the Hourglass
“The vile Aria Roscent is sentenced to execution for her cruel and vicious misdeeds against her angelic half-sister, Mielle. Even Aria believes she deserves it—until Mielle gleefully reveals that she was the true mastermind all along. As the blade falls, Aria’s final wish sends her back to her fourteen-year-old self, armed with the knowledge to rewrite her fate.”
The Villainess Turns the Hourglass is easily one of my all-time favorite villainess stories. Aria is a deeply satisfying protagonist—sharp, strategic, and unapologetically ambitious. Watching her outmaneuver her enemies and build a better future for herself never gets old. While she does possess a softer, more naïve side, the story introduces it at just the right moment, ensuring it enhances her character rather than undermines it. If you love smart, spine-having villainesses, this one is essential reading.
Not-Sew-Wicked Stepmom
“Once upon a time, there was a cruel stepmother—until a children’s clothing designer is reborn as the evil queen! Now, all Abigail Freidkin wants is to dote on her adorable stepdaughter, Princess Blanche, and give her the childhood she deserves…if only her terrifying smile and infamous reputation didn’t get in the way.”
God bless Abigail Freidkin and her impeccable comedic timing (and legendary RBF). Not-Sew-Wicked Stepmom is an endlessly charming, laugh-out-loud series that blends reincarnation, childcare, and emotional growth beautifully. I genuinely teared up watching Abigail—despite her best intentions—struggle against the reputation of her former self. The emotional payoff is worth every moment, and yes, I am impatiently awaiting the next volume with my hands outstretched.
Villains Are Destined to Die
“Easy mode lets you survive. Hard mode all but guarantees death. So what happens when you wake up inside the body of the villainess Penelope Eckhart, trapped in a deadly dating sim where one wrong dialogue choice could get you killed?”
I have a weakness for villainesses, and Penelope Eckhart sits firmly at the top of my list—second only to Aria. Villains Are Destined to Die moves at a slower pace than some series, but it uses that time to build tension and stakes masterfully. Penelope survives through caution, logic, and hard-earned experience, which makes her victories feel deserved. The mystery keeps you hooked, and fair warning: reading ahead will absolutely spoil some major twists.
See You in My 19th Life
“After living—and remembering—seventeen previous lives, Ban Jieum finds it nearly impossible to connect with anyone. That is, until she meets Seoha Mun. When tragedy strikes, Jieum reincarnates once more, determined to find him again and finally pursue the happiness she’s been denied.”
When Ize Press announced See You in My 19th Life, I think I actually screamed. Lee Hye’s writing never misses, and Jieum is a standout protagonist—clever, bold, and deeply lovable. Her unwavering determination to stand by Seoha’s side makes their story incredibly compelling. Fans of confident, cheeky female leads will find themselves instantly rooting for Jieum and hoping for her long-overdue happy ending.
The Remarried Empress
“Empress Navier and Emperor Sovieshu were once the empire’s perfect couple—until betrayal shatters everything. When divorce becomes inevitable, Navier makes a bold choice: she will remarry, and on her own terms.”
I’ve previously reviewed The Remarried Empress in its webcomic form, but the Ize Press print editions deserve their own praise. The books are stunning, with excellent formatting that preserves the flow of the original webtoon while offering the tactile satisfaction of a physical volume. While Navier’s journey is undeniably empowering, I’ll admit—perhaps controversially—that I remain one of Rashta’s original defenders (even if my review doesn’t highlight that). Still, the series delivers a deeply satisfying story of resilience, reinvention, and reclaiming one’s happiness.
Each of these titles showcases why Ize Press continues to be a standout publisher in the manhwa space. Whether you’re drawn to sharp villainesses, emotional reincarnation stories, or richly produced physical editions, these books deliver on every front. All of the titles listed above are available through Yen Press and wherever books are sold—and trust me, they’re well worth making room for on your shelf.
