Wondering where the Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash anime leaves off in the light novel? You’ve finished the series and need to know exactly where the story picks up. It’s a common question for fans who are ready to dive deeper into Haruhiro’s journey.
The 12-episode anime series Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash adapts the first two volumes of the light novel and concludes at the end of Volume 2. To continue the story exactly where the anime leaves off, you should start reading from Volume 2, Chapter 17, although most fans recommend simply starting with Volume 3 for a clean break.
Based on analysis of the source material and community consensus, this guide provides the definitive answer. You’ll discover not only the precise starting point but also how the anime compares to the novels and what to expect next. This reveals why the light novels offer a much richer experience.
Key Facts
- Definitive Continuation Point: The anime’s story concludes at the end of Light Novel Volume 2, with the technical continuation point being Volume 2, Chapter 17.
- Anime Sequel Status: As of early 2026, there has been no official announcement for a second season, and one is considered highly unlikely given the time since its 2016 release.
- Light Novel Status: The original light novel series by author Ao Jūmonji is still ongoing, with the story progressing far beyond the events of the anime adaptation.
- Adaptation Faithfulness: The anime is a mostly faithful adaptation of the main plot but omits some key events, character introductions, and the extensive internal monologues present in the novels.
- The Manga Is Not an Option: The manga adaptation of Grimgar was cancelled very early on and does not cover events beyond what is shown in the anime, making it unsuitable for continuing the story.
Where does the Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash anime leave off in the light novel?
The definitive answer is that the Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash anime adapts the story up to the end of Light Novel Volume 2. The 12-episode series covers the entirety of the first two volumes of the original source material written by Ao Jūmonji. For viewers who want the most precise continuation point, the story in the light novel picks up immediately in Volume 2, Chapter 17.
While this is the technically accurate answer, practical experience shows that the final chapter of Volume 2 serves more as an epilogue to the Cyrene Mines arc, which the anime covers in full. Because of this, the overwhelming community consensus is to simply start fresh with Volume 3. This approach allows you to jump directly into a brand-new story arc without feeling like you’re reading the last few pages of a story you just finished watching.
This guide helps you understand not just where to start, but why certain starting points are recommended. It provides the context needed to make the best choice for your reading journey, ensuring you don’t miss any critical details while transitioning from the anime to the light novels [a media format that serves as the source material].
Why is Starting with Light Novel Volume 3 the Common Recommendation?
The main reason for starting with Volume 3 is that it marks the beginning of a completely new story arc, providing a clean and convenient entry point for anime-only fans. The anime provides a very conclusive and satisfying ending to the events of the first two volumes, primarily the Cyrene Mines arc and the conflict with Death Spots the kobold.
Here’s why jumping to Volume 3 is the most popular advice:
- ✅ Narrative Break: The end of Volume 2 concludes Haruhiro’s party’s first major trial after recruiting Mary. Volume 3 shifts the setting and introduces entirely new challenges.
- ✅ Minimal Overlap: Starting at Volume 3 means you won’t be re-reading the epilogue-style content of the last chapter of Volume 2, which wraps up the anime’s plot.
- ✅ Better Pacing: It feels more natural to begin a new book for a new adventure rather than reading the final few pages of a volume whose story you’ve already seen adapted.
Essentially, while Volume 2, Chapter 17 is the technical start, Volume 3 is the practical start. You miss almost nothing of significance by making this small jump, and it creates a much smoother transition into the next phase of the party’s journey.
How Faithful Is the Grimgar Anime to the First Two Light Novels?
The Grimgar anime is largely a faithful adaptation of the main plot, but it condenses or omits several key details to fit into its 12-episode runtime. While the major events—like the party’s initial struggles, Manato’s death, and Mary joining the group—are accurately portrayed, the light novels provide significantly more depth, context, and characterization. The most significant difference is the reduction of Haruhiro’s extensive internal monologues.
The novels offer a deep dive into Haruhiro’s constant self-doubt, anxiety, and minute observations, which builds a much more detailed psychological profile. The anime [a media format using visual storytelling] relies more on dialogue and visual cues, losing some of that nuanced internal struggle. Real-world implementation of adaptations often requires these changes.
Here is a direct comparison of key aspects between the light novels and the anime:
| Aspect | Light Novel (Volumes 1 & 2) | Anime Adaptation |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | Starts with Haruhiro waking up in the tower, followed by a slow exploration of Alterna. | Jumps forward to the party fighting goblins, then flashes back. Skips the initial town exploration. |
| Early Equipment | Characters start with very poor, hand-me-down gear. Moguzo has basic chainmail. | Characters have newer, better-looking equipment. Moguzo has plated armor. |
| Volume 2 Opening | Begins with an intense orc invasion of Alterna where Haruhiro is saved by Renji’s party. | This entire orc invasion sequence is cut from the anime. |
| Character Introductions | Introduces side characters who become important in later volumes. | Omits the introduction of these characters, as they are not relevant to the anime’s self-contained plot. |
| Characterization | Moguzo’s interest in cooking and woodcarving is only implied much later. | Moguzo is shown as the party’s cook and a skilled whittler early on. |
| Internal Monologue | Extensive focus on Haruhiro’s internal thoughts, self-doubt, and detailed observations. | More focus on visual storytelling and party dialogue, with less explicit internal monologue. |
What Key Story Events Happen in Volume 3 (Immediately After the Anime)?
Spoiler Warning: The following section contains a high-level summary of the main plot points of Light Novel Volume 3. It is designed to give you a taste of what comes next without revealing major twists.
Immediately after the events of the anime, Haruhiro’s party ventures into a dangerous new labyrinth known as the “Wonder Hole” in Volume 3. Having proven themselves in the Cyrene Mines, they are ready for a greater challenge, but they quickly discover they are unprepared for the bizarre and powerful new threats that await them.
The party’s teamwork and resolve are tested in several new ways. They encounter new types of monsters far stronger than the goblins and kobolds they are used to. Furthermore, they come into conflict with a rival party of adventurers known as the “Tokkis,” who operate with a ruthless and aggressive style. This new environment and the pressures from other adventurers force Haruhiro to grow as a leader and the party to confront their internal weaknesses.
An Introduction to the Wonder Hole Dungeon
The Wonder Hole is a vast, multi-level labyrinth that serves as the main setting for the next major story arc and represents a significant step up in difficulty. Unlike the relatively straightforward Cyrene Mines, the Wonder Hole is a bizarre, almost alien environment with its own strange ecosystem and rules. Its structure is far more complex, and the monsters within are more varied and intelligent.
This new dungeon [a type of explorable, monster-filled area in fantasy settings] forces the party to adapt their strategies completely. Their previous experiences offer only a basic foundation for survival here. The Wonder Hole establishes a new baseline for danger in the world of Grimgar and pushes the characters’ skills, teamwork, and mental fortitude to their absolute limits.
Where Can You Officially Read the Grimgar Light Novels?
The official English translation of the Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash light novel is published digitally by J-Novel Club and in print by Seven Seas Entertainment. Supporting these official releases is the best way to support the author and ensure the continuation of translations. You can find them on most major book-selling platforms.
Here are the primary places to find the novels:
- 📱 Digital Editions:
- J-Novel Club: You can read new chapters as they are translated by subscribing to their service.
- BookWalker: A popular platform for digital manga and light novels.
- Amazon Kindle: All volumes are available for purchase on the Kindle store.
- 📕 Physical Editions:
- Seven Seas Entertainment: The official print publisher; you can see release information on their website.
- Amazon: Physical paperback copies are available for order.
- Barnes & Noble: Available both online and in physical stores.
FAQs About Grimgar: Anime & Light Novel
Will there be a Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash Season 2?
As of early 2026, there has been no official announcement for a second season of Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash. The first season aired in 2016, and while not impossible, a sequel is considered unlikely given the amount of time that has passed. The anime served as a great introduction but did not receive an immediate follow-up.
Is the Grimgar light novel series finished?
No, the Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash light novel series is still ongoing. Author Ao Jūmonji has continued to release new volumes, expanding the story far beyond the events of the anime. As of late 2026, the series has over 20 volumes published in Japan, with English translations following.
What about the Grimgar manga? Where does it leave off?
The Grimgar manga adaptation is very short and was cancelled early. It only covers a portion of the events seen in the anime and does not continue the story past that point. Therefore, the manga is not a viable option for continuing the story after the anime.
Is it necessary to read the light novels from the beginning?
It is highly recommended but not strictly necessary. The anime is a faithful adaptation of the main plot, so you can start at Volume 3 and understand the story. However, you will miss some character introductions, world-building details, and minor events that were cut for time, so reading from Volume 1 offers a more complete experience.
How many volumes does the Grimgar anime cover?
The 12-episode anime series adapts the content of the first two light novels. Volume 1 covers the party’s formation and the death of Manato, while Volume 2 covers the recruitment of Mary and the exploration of the Cyrene Mines, concluding with the defeat of Death Spots.
What are the biggest differences between the anime and the light novel?
The biggest differences are the internal monologues and omitted content. The light novel provides much deeper insight into Haruhiro’s thoughts and anxieties. The anime also completely cuts a significant event at the start of Volume 2 involving an orc invasion and omits the introduction of several side characters who become important later.
Who is the official English publisher for the light novels?
J-Novel Club publishes the digital editions, and Seven Seas Entertainment publishes the physical print editions. You can buy the eBooks from platforms like J-Novel Club’s website or BookWalker, and the physical books from major retailers like Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
Does the story ever explain how the characters got to Grimgar?
The mystery of their arrival is a long-running plot point that is not immediately resolved. The story focuses more on the characters’ survival and development in the new world. While there are hints and developments regarding this mystery in much later volumes, it is not the central focus of the arcs immediately following the anime.
Are the characters stronger now than at the end of the anime?
Yes, the characters experience significant growth and become much stronger. The story follows their slow, difficult, and realistic progression from struggling novices into seasoned adventurers. Their development, both in terms of skill and emotional maturity, is a central theme of the entire series.
Is Ranta still in the party in the light novels?
Yes, Ranta remains a core member of Haruhiro’s party after the events of the anime. His abrasive personality and conflicting relationship with the group continue to be a major source of character drama and development throughout the subsequent volumes of the light novel.
Key Takeaways: Grimgar Anime to Light Novel Guide
- Definitive Starting Point: The anime ends after Light Novel Volume 2. To continue the story, start reading from Volume 2, Chapter 17, or more conveniently, begin with Volume 3 for a fresh arc.
- Anime is Faithful but Incomplete: The anime faithfully adapts the main plot but cuts an orc invasion arc from Volume 2, omits several character introductions, and simplifies some details like starting equipment.
- The Manga is Not an Option: The manga adaptation was cancelled early and does not progress further than the anime, making the light novel the only way to continue the story.
- The Story Continues and is Ongoing: The light novel series is still being published and contains over 20 volumes, taking the story far beyond the anime’s conclusion.
- No Season 2 in Sight: There has been no official news about a second season of the anime since it aired in 2016, making it highly unlikely.
- Official Reading is Accessible: Official English translations are readily available, with digital versions from J-Novel Club and print versions from Seven Seas Entertainment.
- Reading From the Start is Recommended: For the most complete experience, including all world-building and character nuances, starting from Volume 1 is the best course of action.
Final Thoughts on Continuing the Grimgar Journey
Transitioning from the Grimgar anime to the light novels is a rewarding decision for any fan. You now have all the information needed to confidently continue the story. You know the precise starting point, understand the key differences between the anime and its source material, and have a glimpse of the new challenges that await Haruhiro’s party.
The light novels offer a deeper, more detailed, and emotionally resonant experience. The world expands, the characters face even greater hardships, and their slow, painful growth becomes even more compelling. By picking up Volume 3, you are taking the next step into a much larger and richer world. Your journey in Grimgar has only just begun.
Last update on 2026-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
