There’s more to Eiichiro Oda’s smash-hit One Piece saga than just the anime, manga, or even the live-action show on Netflix. In Japan, One Piece has spawned an entire mini-publishing empire through its light novel spin-offs. These books, which are mostly text but often contain illustrations, help fill in gaps between One Piece chapters and episodes or highlight particular characters.
Now, One Piece fans in North America are getting an English adaptation of One Piece: Law’s Story, a novel focusing on the early adventures of Trafalgar Law, the famed captain of the Heart Pirates. Viz Media recently announced that the book, written by Shusei Sakagami, is set for release in Fall 2025.
Uncovering Law’s Mysterious Past
An Acclaimed Novel from Japan
Trafalgar D. Water Law, also known as the “Surgeon of Death,” first appeared in Chapter #498 of the One Piece manga and Episode #392 of the anime. Possessing the Ope Ope no Mi, considered to be the ultimate Devil Fruit, Law can perform incredible medical feats and combat maneuvers. Large chunks of his past remain largely unexplored in the main story, making Law’s Story a crucial addition for fans eager to learn more, especially after Law's crushing defeat at the hands of Blackbeard seemingly took him out of the main story.
Originally published in Japan in 2000 under Shonen Jump’s Jump Books label, One Piece: Law’s Story explores the events leading to the formation of the Heart Pirates. The novel delves into Law’s bond with his mentor, Wolf, and his complex relationship with Corazon. Japanese readers have praised the book, with many noting that it brought them to the verge of tears.
More One Piece Light Novels on the Way
Law ’s Ace and the One Piece Heroines
While Viz has only published two One Piece light novels in English so far (Ace’s Story Vol. 1-2), more are on the way. One Piece: Heroines Vol. 1, which highlights female characters like Nami and Robin, is set for release in April 2025.
With Law’s Story following later in the year, English-speaking fans will soon have even more opportunities to immerse themselves in the world of One Piece through these novelized adventures.
