Best 20 Gay Comics and Graphic Novels of All Time
Gay Comics represent a genre of media that explores intimate and romantic relationships between male characters. Much like their counterparts in gay anime, these comics utilize a series of illustrated panels to convey their narratives. Through text-based elements like speech balloons, subtitles, and onomatopoeia, they skillfully communicate dialogue, narration, and sound effects.
Regardless of whether the story centers on love, friendship, or another aspect of LGBTQ+ life, these comics offer an engaging and relatable experience for readers. In addition to traditional comics, LGBTQ+ creators have expanded their creative horizons to introduce unique subgenres like Furry Comics and Gay Comics, providing even more diverse and enjoyable stories that resonate with the LGBTQ+ community.
Join us as we explore the world of the Best Gay Comics, featuring a wide range of tales, from coming-out stories to intricate love triangles and much more.
Gay Comics and Graphic Novels:
1. Bloom by Kevin Panetta and Savanna Ganucheau
1 Volume
Set in a charming bakery in a small town, Bloom follows Ari’s captivating journey. Longing to break free from his family’s bakery, Ari dreams of the bustling big city. But fate has other plans, tying him to the bakery and family obligations.
Everything changes when Ari meets Hector, a passionate baker. Their friendship blossoms as they create delectable treats together. Through kneading dough and delighting customers, Ari embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
Bloom is a tender tale exploring loyalty to family traditions and pursuing personal aspirations. Reflect on the power of following your passion and embracing life’s twists.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 3/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 14/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
2. Letters for Lucardo by Otava Heikkila
1 Volume
Set against a historical backdrop, Letters for Lucardo artfully portrays the unconventional love story between Ed Fielder, a mortal scribe in his sixties, and Lucardo, an immortal vampire aristocrat. Together, they navigate the trials of societal judgment, particularly from Lucardo’s otherworldly peers in the Night Court.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 4/5
Score: 16/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
3. My Brother’s Husband by Gengoroh Tagame
4 Volumes
In the touching story of My Brother’s Husband, Yaichi’s ordinary life takes an unexpected twist when he encounters Mike, the Canadian spouse of his deceased twin brother. This heartfelt tale delves into the important themes of acceptance, cultural diversity, and empathy, offering a captivating exploration of human connection and understanding.
Join Yaichi on his journey of self-discovery as he navigates the complexities of familial relationships and embraces the power of love and acceptance. Discover the profound impact of this remarkable tale that celebrates diversity and promotes empathy.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 2/5
Score: 14/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
4. The Less Than Epic Adventures of TJ and Amal by E.K. Weaver
1 Volume
Amal decides to break off his arranged marriage, leading him to join TJ on a spontaneous road trip. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and blossoming love in the captivating narrative of The Less Than Epic Adventures of TJ and Amal. Get ready for an unforgettable tale filled with adventure, romance, and personal growth.
Romance: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Visuals: 5/5
Sex appeal: 4/5
Score: 19/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
5. Chef’s Kiss by Jarrett Melendez
1 Volume
Fresh out of college with an English degree in hand, Ben Cook embarks on a job hunt, hoping to find something—anything—related to his passion for literature and writing. However, as he navigates interview after interview and faces hiring committees, Ben quickly realizes that landing his dream job won’t be a walk in the park. Proofreading? Journalism? Copywriting? Experience required.
In fact, he seems to lack the qualifications even for a garbage collector! That’s when fate leads him to a restaurant with a “Now Hiring—No Experience Necessary” sign, offering a glimmer of hope and a chance to secure his first job. Besides, it’s an opportunity to continue his writing job search on the side. Surprisingly, Ben discovers he’s not half bad in the kitchen.
To secure a full-time position, however, he must pass a series of rigorous cooking tests. But surely, it’s just a temporary gig… right?
As Ben finds himself harboring a crush on Liam, one of the incredibly attractive chefs at the restaurant, and gradually distancing himself from his old college friends and original career aspirations, his professional path takes an unexpectedly uncertain turn.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 5/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 16/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
6. Confessions of a Former Teen Superhero: A Gay YA Novel
(Kid Quasar Saga Book 1)
In high school, Josh bore a secret identity as the renowned superhero KID QUASAR! However, his heroic duties left no room for friendships, let alone a romantic relationship.
Fast forward to today, Josh resides in his mother’s basement, wrestling with the challenges of landing his first real job after a near brush with academic failure in college. Achieving top grades becomes quite a feat when you’re interrupted by an alien arms dealer attack in the middle of your sociology final. And as his mother keeps reminding him, being a superhero doesn’t come with a paycheck.
To make matters worse, Josh is no longer the household name superhero he once was. A newcomer named Comet Boy swooped in, rescued a few celebrities, and became a sensation on social media. Suddenly, Kid Quasar is yesterday’s news.
Like many young adults, Josh grapples with a sense of directionlessness. He can’t revert to his high school persona, yet he’s at a loss for what to do next. Despite possessing this incredible gift that sets him apart, there’s no practical way to make a living from it. He’s an outsider struggling to find his place in the world.
Then, everything changes when Josh crosses paths with Rick, a man who might hold the key to his transformation. However, there’s one significant obstacle standing in their way…
Romance: 5/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 4/5
Score: 17/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
7. Heartstopper by Alice Oseman
Multiple Volumes (Ongoing)
Heartstopper is an endearing story set in an all-boys British grammar school. It beautifully depicts the evolving friendship and love between Charlie, an openly gay young man, and Nick, a rugby player. This series illuminates the themes of young love, societal expectations, and self-acceptance, making it a captivating read for all. Explore the depth of emotions and relatable experiences in Heartstopper.
Romance: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 4/5
Score: 18/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
8. Wuvable Oaf by Ed Luce
1 Volume
The gay scene of San Francisco with Oaf, an endearing bear. Join him as he navigates through amusing and unique situations in his quest for love. Wuvable Oaf is a delightful blend of humor, romance, and the joy of feline companionship. Immerse yourself in this charming tale today!
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 3/5
Sex appeal: 4/5
Score: 15/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
9. Stuck Rubber Baby by Howard Cruse
1 Volume
Stuck Rubber Baby is an engaging semi-autobiographical novel that explores the experiences of growing up gay in the South during the Civil Rights era. This captivating story skillfully weaves together themes of love, societal challenges, and personal development, making it a must-read for anyone interested in these topics.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 5/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 16/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
10. Fence by C.S. Pacat and Johanna the Mad
Multiple Volumes
Set in the highly competitive world of fencing, Fence takes readers on an exhilarating journey, delving into the lives of characters driven by their ambitions and unwavering determination. As rivalries ignite and passions intertwine, the story unveils a tapestry of unexpected relationships that blossom amidst the backdrop of fierce competition.
Prepare to be captivated by the intricate dynamics, heart-pounding action, and the captivating blend of romance and rivalry that make Fence an unforgettable experience.
Romance: 5/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 5/5
Sex appeal: 4/5
Score: 18/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
11. Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu
2 Volumes
In Check, Please!, Eric Bittle, a talented ex-figure skater who gracefully transitions into the world of hockey, embarks on an exhilarating journey through college life.
As he navigates the complexities of team dynamics and the process of coming out, Bitty’s narrative becomes a captivating blend of sports, love, and the art of baking mouthwatering pies. With each page, readers are treated to a heartfelt exploration of Eric’s passions and the delightful moments that shape his unique story.
Romance: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 17/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
12. Blackwater by Jeannette Arroyo
1 Volume
Tony Price is a prominent high school track star and occasional delinquent who longs for his father’s acceptance and attention. Eli Hirsch is a modest young man suffering from a chronic autoimmune illness that has severely harmed his health and social life.
What happens when these two unlikely buddies (and much more…) meet in the eerie village of Blackwater, Maine? Werewolf curses, shady connections with the football team’s quarterback, a ghostly fisherman haunting the port, and plenty of high school drama.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 2/5
Score: 14/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
13. Dead at Sixteen by D.A.E. Jackson
3 Volumes
Someone is determined to end his life, but Philip’s priority is unraveling the mystery of his own identity first.
At fifteen, Philip finds himself at a crossroads in his friendships when he encounters Mike, a senior who possesses all the qualities that Philip lacks. Mike carries a profound secret, one that Philip is yet to comprehend—they’ve been a couple through countless lifetimes, an enduring connection that spans ages.
The Knowers, who reincarnate repeatedly, hold within them a treasure trove of cherished memories from past lives. Mike eagerly awaits the moment Philip unlocks these memories so they can embark on yet another remarkable journey together.
Just as Philip begins to tap into his own history as a Knower, a menacing presence descends upon their tranquil Midwestern town, targeting the secretive Knowers for abduction and murder. Philip, Mike, and a few others set off on an exhilarating quest to thwart the Hunter before he can claim more lives.
Their extraordinary ability to foresee the future has been instrumental in averting disasters, but now they must employ their talents to outwit a deranged adversary. Amidst it all, Philip’s recollections of their shared lives intensify, and he falls deeply in love with Mike. Will they survive long enough to embark on their next journey together? Philip has his doubts, but the path to that destination is an enthralling one in this LGBTQ romance infused with paranormal thrills, perfect for young adult readers.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 5/5
Visuals: 5/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 17/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
14. Go For It, Nakamura! by Syundei
1 Volume
In this heartwarming and delightful story, Go For It, Nakamura! takes readers on a journey through Nakamura’s high school life as he navigates the ups and downs of his endearing pursuit of love. With his adorable clumsiness, Nakamura tries various creative methods to get closer to his crush, Hirose, hoping to find the courage to confess his feelings.
Join Nakamura in this humorous and captivating tale that captures the essence of high school romance and the beautiful complexities of young love.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 3/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 14/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
15. Jay’s Gay Agenda by Jason June
1 Volume (Graphic adaptation)
After moving to the vibrant city of Seattle, Jay Collier, a young and adventurous teenager, finally has the exciting opportunity to dive headfirst into all the gay firsts he missed out on while growing up in a small rural town.
In the captivating novel, “Jay’s Gay Agenda,” readers are taken on a delightful journey alongside Jay as he navigates the intricacies of love, relationships, and self-discovery. With every turn of the page, Jay’s story unfolds, immersing readers in a world of exploration, acceptance, and personal growth.
Join Jay as he embarks on this exhilarating adventure, discovering not only who he is but also the true meaning of love and happiness.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 15/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
16. North ranger by Rey Terciero
In the sweltering heat of a Texan ranch, sixteen-year-old Cade Muñoz finds himself irresistibly drawn to the enigmatic son of the ranch owner. But beneath the sun-kissed veneer lies a chilling secret that could change everything.
Cade’s refuge has always been the world of spine-tingling horror movies, a solace for a closeted queer teen navigating the challenges of rural Texas—where real-life horrors often eclipse the fictional ones.
Sent to labor on the ranch for the summer, Cade dreads each dawn and the daunting task of mucking out horse stalls. The sole bright spots are the companionship of the ranch’s two teenage inhabitants and, in particular, the ruggedly mysterious Henry.
As sparks of attraction flare between Cade and Henry, a shadowy veil cloaks Henry’s past, especially the circumstances surrounding his mother’s death. Cade can’t help but wonder what secrets lie beneath. Drawing inspiration from the gothic romance of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey, this modern love story is as captivating as it is eerie.
Romance: 5/5
Mystery: 4/5
Drama: 4/5
Intrigue: 5/5
Rating: 18/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
17. What Did You Eat Yesterday? by Fumi Yoshinaga
Multiple Volumes
This delightful series artfully merges the exquisite joys of Japanese cuisine with the ordinary yet extraordinary everyday life of a gay couple residing in the vibrant city of Tokyo.
As they navigate the beautiful complexities of their relationship, pursue their flourishing careers, and cultivate deep and meaningful friendships, each chapter in the captivating manga series What Did You Eat Yesterday? concludes with a mouthwatering recipe that seamlessly intertwines with the heartfelt narrative, leaving readers craving for more.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 3/5
Sex appeal: 2/5
Score: 13/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
18. The Sounds of Love
1 Volume
Three simple words hold the power to change everything for Jackson, if only he could utter them to the love of his life. Instead, he stumbles over his own name in a nervous frenzy. Jackson, a musical genius composing melodies for orchestras and gifted vocalists, pours his heart into every note, each one a silent declaration of love for his lifelong friend, Randy. However, Randy remains oblivious, scarred by a past heartbreak that left him doubting the existence of true love. Jackson watches from the sidelines as Randy toils away in an aging coffee shop, yearning for the day he can summon the courage to reveal his feelings.
Randy, in stark contrast, exudes confidence and aspires to open his own coffee shop, yet harbors hidden insecurities. His previous long-term relationship ended in ruins, leaving him disillusioned about love, considering it a mere fairy tale. He neither expects nor actively seeks it. After leaning on Jackson throughout his healing process, does Randy even want to embark on the journey of love again? When secrets surface, Randy finds himself faced with the painful task of hurting the one person who has stood by his side from the very beginning.
In “The Sounds of Love,” Jackson must confront his fears and gather the courage to not only confess his feelings to the love of his life but also risk two decades of friendship. With tragedy looming ominously, can true love find a way, or will Jackson’s heart continue to play a solitary tune, lost in a bittersweet daydream tainted by spilled coffee?
Romance: 3/5
Plot: 5/5
Visuals: 5/5
Sex appeal: 2/5
Score: 15/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
19. The Backstagers by James Tynion IV and Rian Sygh
Multiple Issues
The Backstagers takes place at Edgewater Academy, an esteemed all-boys private high school. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the drama club, where the magic behind the curtains unfolds. Explore the art of stagecraft, and witness blossoming romances, enduring friendships, and thrilling adventures that take place backstage.
From hidden passageways to encounters with magical creatures, this enchanting tale will mesmerize readers with delightful surprises at every turn. Discover the secrets and wonders waiting for you in this enthralling story.
Romance: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 4/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 15/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.
20. Midnight Rain by CTK
1 Volume
Ethan’s existence revolves around the relentless routine of settling his overwhelming debt, until the moment Mike stumbles into their local laundromat, wearied and downtrodden.
Two individuals grappling with their own distinct challenges, their paths converge amidst a fiery blaze of passion, yet the same struggles that unite them also loom threateningly, poised to drive a wedge between them.
Romance: 5/5
Plot: 4/5
Visuals: 5/5
Sex appeal: 3/5
Score: 17/20
You can buy the series on Amazon.