The light novel series Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian has recently achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 5 million copies in circulation.
This achievement (via OtakuMori) not only highlights the series’ widespread appeal and growing popularity but also sets a new record for a romantic comedy within the 36-year history of the Sneaker Bunko imprint, the publishing label behind the series.
Written by SunSunSun and illustrated by Momoco, the story revolves around the daily life of a high school student named Masachika Kuze and his beautiful, half-Russian classmate, Alisa “Alya” Mikhailovna Kujou.
Alya, known for her cold and distant demeanor, occasionally reveals her true feelings in Russian—a language her classmates don’t understand, but Masachika, who has a background in Russian, secretly does.
This unique dynamic has captivated readers, blending romantic tension with cultural nuances that make the interactions between Alya and Masachika both endearing and complex.
Since its debut in 2021, the series has quickly gained a large following, leading to the release of multiple volumes. The most recent volumes continue to explore and deepen the relationship between the two protagonists.
The success of the novels has also paved the way for an anime adaptation, which has further broadened the series’ fanbase. The anime has been praised for its faithful representation of the novel’s key moments, the chemistry between the characters, and its visual portrayal of Alya’s dual cultural identity.
In terms of reception, “Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian” holds a solid rating on MyAnimeList.net, where it currently stands at 8.03. This rating reflects the generally positive feedback from both readers of the light novel and viewers of the anime adaptation, highlighting its strong appeal among fans of the genre.
The series’ success can be attributed to its charming characters, engaging plot, and the exploration of cultural identity and unspoken emotions that define teenage relationships.
With over 5 million copies now in circulation, “Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian” stands as a prominent example of contemporary light novels that resonate deeply with readers both in Japan and internationally, while also breaking new ground within its publishing label’s history.
