23 Romance Graphic Novels You Won’t Be Able to Take Your Eyes Off Of

Discover all the best romance graphic novels and romance comic books to read in the genre with this book list!

Romance graphic novels are unique happily-ever-after stories that come to life in stunning pictures. See which of these you should add to your reading list today.

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I could not contain my excitement on the day that I discovered romance graphic novels, aka romance comic books!

I’m no stranger to graphic novels since my kids devour them on the regular, but I honestly hadn’t really considered that there would be romance graphic novels that would appeal to the romance book lover in me.

But oh how I was wrong!

Romance graphic novels exist and I’m all about it. How about you?

Where Romance Graphic Novels Began

To give a bit of history, romance comic books began with the iconic duo, Joe Simon and Jack Kirby, widely known for creating Captain America.

Before Kirby moved onto Marvel Comics to work with Stan Lee, he and Simon created the Young Romance romantic comic book series in 1947 which ran for 124 issues until 1963 and then for another 84 issues with DC Comics.

Simon and Kirby’s collaborations, My Date (their earlier teen-centered comic) and Young Romance are widely considered the first romance comic books given the subject material and romance focus of the comics.

Variety in Today’s Romance Graphic Novels

When it comes to today’s romance comic books, there is definitely a wide variety that can appeal to any type of romance book reader.

You can find romance comic books that are clean or steamy, contemporary or historical, fantasy or paranormal, adult or young adult.

Some are autobiographical and others are pure fiction and many are in the LBGTQ+ genre.

So, whatever your fancy, I’ve included some of the best romance graphic novels worth reading below.

Check them out and let me know which is your favorite in the comments.

Know of a romance graphic novel that I missed? Share it below too!

Where to Find Romance Graphic Novels

If you’re interested in even more romance graphic novels and romance comic books, check out Comixology on Amazon.

With Comixology Unlimited, you can explore over 40,000 comics, graphic novels, and manga from top publishers.  

Romance Graphic Novels Worth Reading

Young Romance: The Best of Simon & Kirby’s Romance Comics

This collection is a reprint of 21 stories in full color, from 13 years of Simon and Kirby’s romance comics.

It also includes 200 pages of never-before, reprinted material. Start with this romance graphic novel to see where it all began!

After: The Graphic Novel
by Anna Todd
Illustrations by Pablo Andres

Tessa is a good girl with a sweet, reliable boyfriend back home. She’s got direction, ambition, and a mother determined to keep her on course.

But she’s barely moved into her freshman dorm when she runs into Hardin Scott, with his tousled brown hair, cocky British accent, and tattoos.

For all his attitude and insults, Tessa should hate Hardin, and she does―until something about his dark mood grabs her, and it’s only a matter of time before he ignites a passion in her that she’s never known before.

Fans of Todd’s popular romance novel won’t be able to resist the new romance graphic novel that depicts the start of the new adult love story between Tessa and Hardin.

This comic book includes twelve pages of behind-the-scenes and character profile bonus content, so be sure to snag it.

Heartstopper #1: A Graphic Novel
by Alice Oseman

Shy and softhearted Charlie Spring sits next to rugby player Nick Nelson in class one morning. A warm and intimate friendship follows that soon develops into something more for Charlie, who doesn’t think he has a chance.

But Nick is struggling with feelings of his own, and as the two grow closer and take on the ups and downs of high school, they come to understand the surprising and delightful ways in which love works.

After reading all the Heartstopper books in order of this young adult, romance graphic novel series, you’ll want to check out the TV series which was adapted for Netflix in 2022.

Miss Butterworth and the Mad Baron: A Graphic Novel
By Julia Quinn
Illustrated by Violet Charles

Born into a happy family that is tragically ravaged by smallpox, Miss Priscilla Butterworth uses her wits to survive a series of outlandish trials.

Cruelly separated from her beloved mother and grandmother, the young girl is sent to live with a callous aunt who forces her to work for her keep.

Eventually, the clever and tenderhearted Miss Butterworth makes her escape – a daring journey into the unknown that unexpectedly leads her to the “mad” baron and a lifetime of love.

Attention Bridgerton fans! Julia Quinn, with the help of Violet Charles, brings to you a nineteenth-century romp based on story snippets from a number of her books, originally mentioned in It’s in His Kiss—one of the Bridgerton novels.

If you’re a fan of historical romance novels, this should be the romance graphic novel for you and part of the Bridgerton books in order you must read.

The Exile: An Outlander Graphic Novel
by Diana Gabaldon
Illustrated by Hoang Nguyen

After too long an absence, Jamie Fraser is coming home to Scotland—but not without great trepidation. Though his beloved godfather, Murtagh, promised Jamie’s late parents he’d watch over their brash son, making good on that vow will be no easy task.

There’s already a fat bounty on the young exile’s head, courtesy of Captain Black Jack Randall, the British officer who’s crossed paths—and swords—with Jamie in the past. And in the mighty MacKenzie clan, Jamie is a pawn in the power struggle between his uncles.

And then there is Claire Randall—mysterious, beautiful, and strong-willed, who appears in Jamie’s life to stir his compassion and arouse his desire. 
 
But even as Jamie’s heart draws him to Claire, Murtagh is certain she’s been sent by the Old Ones, and Captain Randall accuses her of being a spy. Claire clearly has something to hide, though Jamie knows she is torn between two choices—a life with him, and whatever it is that draws her thoughts so often elsewhere. 
   
Discover the first-ever romance graphic novel for the Outlander series which tells the story from Jamie Fraser’s point of view.

Scott Pilgrim
by Bryan Lee O’Malley

Scott Pilgrim wants Ramona Flowers to be his girlfriend. However, she’s got baggage in the form of seven evil exes, all of whom Scott must defeat to win her heart!

The first two are Matthew Patel (and his demon hipster girls) and Lucas Lee (movie star famous for… skateboarding?). Can Scott focus long enough to take them out?

Check out the series that was the basis for the movie Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. This collection includes both Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Life and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World in a color edition.

Lore Olympus
by Rachel Smythe

Persephone, young goddess of spring, is new to Olympus. Her mother, Demeter, has raised her in the mortal realm, but after Persephone promises to train as a sacred virgin, she’s allowed to live in the fast-moving, glamorous world of the gods.

When her roommate, Artemis, takes her to a party, her entire life changes: she ends up meeting Hades and feels an immediate spark with the charming yet misunderstood ruler of the Underworld.

Now Persephone must navigate the confusing politics and relationships that rule Olympus, while also figuring out her own place—and her own power.

If you love contemporary retellings of Greek mythology stories, you’ll love this romance graphic novel which explores what the gods do after dark.

The popular webtoon series turned graphic novel series is a must-read. Discover all the Lore Olympus books in my ultimate guide.

Fangs
by Sarah Andersen

Elsie the vampire is three hundred years old, but in all that time, she has never met her match.

This all changes one night in a bar when she meets Jimmy, a charming werewolf with a wry sense of humor and a fondness for running wild during the full moon. 

Together they enjoy horror films and scary novels, shady strolls, fine dining (though never with garlic), and a genuine fondness for each other’s unusual habits, macabre lifestyles, and monstrous appetites. 

Paranormal and fantasy romance fans will devour Anderson’s romance graphic novel which is a sweet love story between a vampire and werewolf.

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The Prince and the Dressmaker
by Jen Wang

Prince Sebastian is looking for a bride—or rather, his parents are looking for one for him. Sebastian is too busy hiding his secret life from everyone.

At night he puts on daring dresses and takes Paris by storm as the fabulous Lady Crystallia—the hottest fashion icon in the world capital of fashion!

Sebastian’s secret weapon (and best friend) is the brilliant dressmaker Frances—one of only two people who know the truth: sometimes this boy wears dresses.

But Frances dreams of greatness, and being someone’s secret weapon means being a secret. Forever.

How long can Frances defer her dreams to protect a friend?

I love this romantic tale that explores identity and young love and so will you.

Bloom
by Kevin Panetta
Illustrated by Savanna Ganucheau

Now that high school is over, Ari is excited to move to the big city with his ultra-hip band—if he can just persuade his dad to let him quit his job at their struggling family bakery.

But while interviewing candidates for his replacement, Ari meets Hector, an easygoing guy who loves baking as much as Ari wants to escape it.

As they become closer over batches of bread, love is ready to bloom, if Ari doesn’t ruin everything.

This romance graphic novel has me at baking scenes and young love. A great LGBTQ+ comic to explore.

Blankets
by Craig Thompson

Under an engulfing blanket of snow, Craig and Raina fall in love at winter church camp, revealing to one another their struggles with faith and their dreams of escape.

Over time though, their personal demons resurface and their relationship falls apart.

This is a beautiful romance graphic novel about a young man coming of age and finding the confidence to express his creative voice.

It explores first love and first heartache in a graphic novel that has won several awards!

Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me 
by Mariko Tamaki
Illustrated by Rosemary Valero-O’Connell 

All Freddy Riley wants is for Laura Dean to stop breaking up with her.

The day they got together was the best one of Freddy’s life, but nothing’s made sense since.

Laura Dean is popular, funny, and so cute, but she can be really thoughtless, even mean. Their on-again, off-again relationship has Freddy’s head spinning — and Freddy’s friends can’t understand why she keeps going back.

When Freddy consults the services of a local mystic, the mysterious Seek-Her, she isn’t thrilled with the advice she receives.

But something’s got to give: Freddy’s heart is breaking in slow motion, and she may be about to lose her very best friend as well as her last shred of self-respect.

Fortunately for Freddy, there are new friends, and the insight of advice columnist Anna Vice, to help her through being a teenager in love.

This young adult, romance graphic novel explores what happens when we have the strength to ditch the toxic relationships in our lives.

Sunstone
by By Stjepan Šejić

Lisa’s tastes were always…unique. Longing to be restrained, without restrain.

Lisa always felt like something was missing from her love life─until she met Ally. Ally was implacably ordinary─successful job, nice house, an average childhood─except for her preference for bedroom domination.

For something a bit more steamy, this romance graphic novel explores a FF, BDSM relationship. 

Persephone: Hades Torment
by Allison Shaw

According to the ancient legend, the Lord of the Underworld took the innocent daughter of Demeter — or did he?

The truth is, Persephone is no damsel in distress, but a spirited young lady with an overbearing mother.

A failed scheme by Apollo leads Persephone to a chance encounter with the mysterious and handsome Hades, who is struck by love’s arrow.

Now Hades must wrestle with his aching heart before he loses total control of his feelings, but desire is raging inside Persepone herself.

Retellings of Hades and Persephone never get old, so why not check out this reimagining as a romance graphic novel in beautiful color?

Virtually Yours
by Jeremy Holt
Illustrated by Elizabeth Beals 

Welcome to Virtually Yours, a virtual dating app that provides all the proof of being in a relationship without actually being in one.

Eva Estrella joins Virtually Yours, after a nudge from her sister, to alleviate some family pressure as she continues to look for her dream job in journalism.

At the same time Max Kittridge, a former child star in the middle of a divorce, takes a gig at Virtually Yours servicing multiple clients as a fake boyfriend.

As they navigate their current circumstances, both Eva and Max find that sometimes what you’re looking for is right in front of you.

Check out this rom-com graphic novel that explores love in the digital age when all you need is an app to find love.

Mirka Andolfo’s Sweet Paprika
by Mirka Andolfo

Paprika is a successful businesswoman, a New Yorker of Italian origin. Job and career consume her, forcing her to neglect her personal needs as well as her friends and family.

Her heart is broken from a previous relationship and its consequences, and a rigid upbringing has made her a very introverted person.

She wants a romantic relationship, but she doesn’t know what she’s doing. Not like Dill, a naïve and suave delivery boy with an angelic attitude, handsome, and always surrounded by beautiful women falling for him.

He doesn’t have a worry in the world, and this makes Paprika very nervous. But he’s the guy who could help her with her feelings (and with…things in the bedroom).

Oh, how I love relationship coach romance books where one character needs a bit of help from another, but of course, they won’t fall in love with one another will they? 😊

If you too like that trope, then this is one of the romance graphic novels for you.

Money Shot Vol. 1
by Tim Seeley and Sarah Beattie
Illustrated by Rebekah Isaacs

Physicist Dr. Christine Ocampo is on a mission to discover distant worlds, encounter exotic civilizations, seek out strange species, and, well, get busy with them.

Space exploration is expensive business, but science calls and kinkiness pays.

So Christine, inventor of the Star Shot teleportation device, has come up with a big idea: She’ll travel to new worlds, engage—intimately—with local aliens, and film her exploits for a jaded earth populace trying to find something new on the internet.

OMG, I already love this romance graphic novel. I knew alien romance books were already a thing but now as a romance comic book? Yes, please!

I’m all over this story about scientists getting hot and heavy with aliens for money and the glory of mankind.

Cheer Up: Love and Pompoms
by Crystal Fraser
Illustrated by Val Wise

Annie is a smart, antisocial lesbian starting her senior year of high school who’s under pressure to join the cheerleading squad to make friends and round out her college applications.

Her former friend Bebe is a people-pleaser, a trans girl who must keep her parents happy with her grades and social life to maintain their support of her transition.

Through the rigors of squad training and amped-up social pressures, the two girls rekindle a friendship they thought they’d lost and discover there may be other, sweeter feelings springing up between them. 

If you’re looking for a high school romance, LGBTQ+ romance graphic novel that explores the ups and downs of teenage life, check this one out.

One of Those Days
by Yehuda Devir and Maya Devir

Yehuda and Maya Devir began illustrating their life in comics when they moved into their first apartment together in Tel Aviv as newlyweds.

In this collection—the first time that the Devirs’ comics have been compiled in one volume—they share stories that are heartwarming, hilarious, and universally recognizable. The Devirs’ challenges and triumphs are instantly familiar to anyone who’s had one of those days.

I love how this romance graphic novel chronicles the life and love of real-life married couple, Yehuda and Maya Devir.

Read this one if you want to commiserate with a couple on early marriage and new parenthood.

Roadqueen: Eternal Roadtrip to Love
By Mira Ong Chua

Leo’s the hottest senior at Princess Andromeda Academy, and her adoring fangirls have one goal: beat her in a road race and win the chance to date her!

Unfortunately for them, the only thing Leo loves more than breaking hearts is her faithful motorcycle, Bethany.

But when a mysterious girl named Vega takes Bethany away, Leo finds her heart may have been stolen, too.

This is one steamy, LGBTQ+ romance graphic novel! It’s the perfect enemies to lovers, rom-com worth reading.

Breaks
by Emma Vieceli and Malin Rydén

Cortland Hunt has made some dangerous mistakes. Now he’s waiting quietly for those mistakes to catch up with him.

Ian Tanner coasts through life denying the spark of anger beneath his laid-back exterior.

When school politics and personal lives become a battleground, the pair find that what they share may just be their only safe haven.

For those looking for an MM romance graphic novel, this one is a darker, enemies to lovers comic book.

Snug: A Collection of Comics About Dating Your Best Friend
by Catana Chetwynd

Snug is a celebration of the quirks and peculiarities of every one of us—and the magic that happens when we find our matching puzzle piece.

This is Chetwynd’s second collection of comics which features a collection of adorable comics about dating your best friend.

Bingo Love
by Tee Franklin
Illustrated by Genevieve Ft, Jenn St-Onge, Joy San

When Hazel Johnson and Mari McCray met at church bingo in 1963, it was love at first sight.

Forced apart by their families and society, Hazel and Mari both married young men and had families.

Decades later, now in their mid-’60s, Hazel and Mari reunite again at a church bingo hall. Realizing their love for each other is still alive, what these grandmothers do next takes absolute strength and courage.

I love how this romance graphic novel spans over 60 years and focuses on a romance between older characters which is rare to find.

Related Book Lists:

• Heartstopper Books in Order: The Ultimate Guide to this Graphic Novel Series
• Lore Olympus Books in Order