The Best Romance Manga of 2023

• Best Overall: I Want to Eat Your Pancreas: The Complete Manga Collection
• Best Budget: The Demon Prince of Momochi House, Vol. 1
• Best Value: Romantic Killer, Vol. 1 (1)
• Editor's Choise: Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku 1

• Best Frank Peretti Books
• Best Henry Rollins Books
• The Best Anne Lamott Books
• The Best Michio Kaku Books
• Best Tom Robbins Books 

#1: The Prince's Romance Gambit Vol. 12

Specs:

• Title: The Prince's Romance Gambit Vol. 12
• Author/Artist: Nikki Asada
• Format: Kindle & comiXology
• Pages: 178 pages
• Publisher: Kodansha Comics
• Publication Date: December 21, 2021
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1646594015
• ISBN-13: 978-1646594011

What we like:

• The 12th volume of "The Prince's Romance Gambit" is an engrossing and entertaining manga bound to please fans of the romance genre. The story is well-written and the illustrations are breathtaking, creating a visually spectacular reading experience. The relationships between the characters are plausible and complex. The plot is captivating and maintains the reader's interest from beginning to conclusion.
• One of our favorite aspects of this volume is the manner in which it ties up loose ends and concludes various narratives. The romance between the prince and his love interest is exquisitely crafted, and readers will advocate for them at every turn. In addition, the author does an excellent job of creating suspense and tension throughout the story, resulting in a genuinely immersive reading experience.

What we don't like:

• The fact that this is the final volume in the series is the only aspect of "The Prince's Romance Gambit Vol. 12" that we find disappointing. While this volume concludes the narrative, fans of this captivating and engaging series may be left wanting more.

Our Verdict:

Overall, we recommend "The Prince's Romance Gambit Vol. 12" to all manga aficionados who enjoy romance stories. The narrative is captivating, the characters are well-developed, and the imagery is breathtaking. The concluding volume of this series concludes the story satisfactorily, leaving readers with a sense of closure. This volume is a must-read for both seasoned fans of the series and newcomers to the world of romance manga.

 #2: I Want to Eat Your Pancreas: The Complete Manga Collection

Specs:

• Title: I Want to Eat Your Pancreas: The Complete Manga Collection
• Author: Yoru Sumino
• Illustrator: Idumi Kirihara
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 400 pages
• Publisher: Seven Seas
• Publication Date: January 22, 2019
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1626929218
• ISBN-13: 978-1626929218

What we like:

• I Want to Eat Your Pancreas is an uplifting and emotionally charged manga that explores love, friendship, and death. Two high school students, an introverted boy and an outgoing girl, establish an improbable bond after discovering that the girl has a terminal illness. Artwork that flawlessly captures the emotions of the characters and brings the story to life.
• One of the things we admired most about this manga is how it deals with difficult topics with sensitivity and candor. The story does not shy away from the harsh reality of terminal illness, but it also manages to find optimism and beauty in the face of tragedy. The characters are well-developed, and their relationships are realistic and complex, causing the reader to care about their voyage.

What we don't like:

• One of the few issues we had with "I Want to Consume Your Pancreas" is that it can occasionally be a little too preachy. Some readers may find the narrative to be overly sentimental because it can be quite emotional. In addition, the pacing can be sluggish at times, which may deter readers who prefer narratives with a faster tempo.

Our Verdict:

Overall, "I Want to Eat Your Pancreas" is a gorgeous and moving manga that is highly recommended for reading. The narrative is emotionally engaging and investigates significant themes in a sensitive and forthright manner. Characters are well-developed and the artwork is breathtaking, creating a genuinely immersive reading experience. The story is ultimately a heartfelt and uplifting one that will stay with readers long after they've completed reading it.

 #3: Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku 1

Specs:

• Title: Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku 1
• Author: Fujita
• Illustrator: Fujita
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 184 pages
• Publisher: Kodansha Comics
• Publication Date: April 17, 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1632367049
• ISBN-13: 978-1632367044

What we like:

• "Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku" is an endearing and humorous manga that examines the lives of four office employees who are also avid fans of anime, manga, and video games. The plot follows the relationship between two characters, Narumi and Hirotaka, as they traverse the ups and downs of dating and attempt to balance their personal and professional lives.
• This manga's celebration of otaku culture without ever feeling condescending or patronizing was one of our favorite aspects. The characters are fully realized and relatable, and their passion of popular culture is sincere and genuine. The artwork is also incredible, with a clean and polished style that perfectly conveys the story's humor and emotion.

What we don't like:

• While "Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku" is generally a delightful read, some readers may be turned off by a few aspects. The story's pacing is occasionally sluggish, and some readers may find the humor a bit peculiar. Moreover, although the characters are well-developed, some readers may find them to be somewhat stereotypical or one-dimensional.

Our Verdict:

Overall, "Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku" is a humorous and heartwarming manga that romance and pop culture lovers will enjoy. The narrative is well-written, with endearing characters and an abundance of humor and emotion. The artwork is also incredible, with a refined and expressive style that perfectly depicts the story's mood. While some readers may find the pacing to be sluggish or the humor to be niche, we strongly recommend this manga to anyone seeking a humorous and entertaining read.

 #4: Romantic Killer, Vol. 1 (1)

Specs:

• Title: Romantic Killer, Vol. 1
• Author: Makoto Kedouin
• Illustrator: Kudan Nazuka
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 192 pages
• Publisher: Yen Press
• Publication Date: September 21, 2021
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1975333596
• ISBN-13: 978-1975333598

What we like:

• The first volume of "Romantic Killer" is an exciting and suspenseful manga that examines the relationship between a hired murderer and a young woman who becomes his hostage. The narrative is riveting and full of unexpected turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The illustrations are incredibly detailed and expressive, capturing the tension and emotion of the story flawlessly.
• The intricate and nuanced depiction of the characters was one of our favorite aspects of this manga. Despite their violent and perilous circumstances, the killer and his hostage are depicted as fully realized, sympathetic individuals with their own aspirations and fears. Their romance is also compelling and unconventional, with a dark and twisted edge that adds to the story's tension.

What we don't like:

• Although "Romantic Killer, Vol. 1" is a well-written and entertaining manga, it may not be appropriate for all readers. Some readers may find the story too dark or disquieting due to the graphic and disturbing violence and sexual content. In addition, the pacing can be slow at points, and some readers may find the story to be too focused on the characters' inner thoughts and emotions.

Our Verdict:

Ultimately, "Romantic Killer, Vol. 1" is a compelling and intense manga that will appeal to fans of psychological suspense and suspense novels. The story is well-written, with intricate characters and a narrative that keeps the reader guessing until the very end. The artwork is also excellent, with intricate illustrations that precisely capture the story's mood and tone. While some readers may be turned off by the graphic violence and sexual content, we highly recommend this manga to anyone looking for an exhilarating and unconventional romance.

 #5: The Demon Prince of Momochi House, Vol. 1

Specs:

• Title: The Demon Prince of Momochi House, Vol. 1
• Author: Aya Shouoto
• Illustrator: Aya Shouoto
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 192 pages
• Publisher: VIZ Media LLC
• Publication Date: April 7, 2015
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1421579623
• ISBN-13: 978-1421579622

What we like:

• The first volume of "The Demon Prince of Momochi House" is an endearing and delightful manga that combines elements of romance, fantasy, and the supernatural. A young girl named Himari inherits an enigmatic and ancient mansion, only to discover that it is inhabited by a group of powerful spirits and demons. The illustrations are exquisite, capturing the story's fanciful and fantastical nature in exquisite detail.
• Characters that are endearing and relatable were one of our favorite aspects of this manga. Himari is a likeable and resolute protagonist, and each of the spirits and demons inhabiting the Momochi House is fascinating in its own way. The slow-burning tension that develops between Himari and the mysterious demon prince Aoi adds to the story's enchantment.

What we don't like:

• While "The Demon Prince of Momochi House, Vol. 1" is a lighthearted and entertaining manga, not all readers may find it appealing. Occasionally, the story's pacing is sluggish, and some readers may find it too cutesy or lighthearted. In addition, some readers who prefer more grounded or realistic romance stories may find the supernatural elements too fantastical.

Our Verdict:

The first volume of "The Demon Prince of Momochi House" is a charming and entrancing manga that will appeal to romance and fantasy fans. The story is well-written, with charming characters and an engaging, whimsical narrative. The artwork is also stunning, with illustrations that depict the magical world of the Momochi House in exquisite detail. Although some readers may find the pacing sluggish or the plot too fantastical, we highly recommend this manga to anyone seeking a heartwarming and enchanting romance.

• Consider the sub-genre: Romance manga comes in various sub-genres, including shoujo, shounen, josei, and seinen. Shoujo manga is primarily aimed at teenage girls and focuses on romance and emotional drama. Shounen manga is aimed at boys and young men and tends to feature more action and adventure. Josei manga targets adult women and explores more mature themes, such as relationships and career choices. Seinen manga is targeted towards adult men and covers a wide range of topics, including romance.

• Look for popular titles: Romance manga has many popular titles, such as "Kimi ni Todoke," "Ao Haru Ride," and "Fruits Basket." These titles have gained a large following and have been adapted into anime and live-action adaptations.

• Read reviews: It is always a good idea to read reviews of manga before buying them. This will give you an idea of what to expect from the story, the characters, and the art style.

• Consider the artwork: Manga is known for its unique artwork, so it is important to consider the art style when choosing a romance manga. Some manga artists have a distinct style that may appeal to you more than others.

• Check for age rating: Romance manga comes in various age ratings, so it is important to check the age rating before buying. Some manga may contain mature themes, violence, or sexual content, which may not be suitable for all readers.

What is manga romance?

Romance manga is a subgenre of manga that focuses on relationships and affection. It contains numerous subgenres, including shoujo, shounen, josei, and seinen.

What are some popular manga romances?

"Kimi ni Todoke," "Ao Haru Ride," "Fruits Basket," and "Your Deception in April" are examples of well-known romance manga titles.

What age range is romance manga appropriate for?

There are numerous age ratings for romance manga, so it is essential to verify the rating before purchasing. Some manga may contain mature themes, violence, or sexual content unsuitable for all audiences.

Anyone able to understand romance manga?

Absolutely, anyone can read romance manga. The genre investigates universal themes of relationships, emotions, and human connection, so readers of all ages and backgrounds can appreciate it.

Is romance manga exclusive to women?

No, romance manga is not exclusive to women. There are romance manga titles that appeal to boys, young men, adult women, and adult men, though shoujo manga is primarily aimed at teenage girls.

Popular romance manga examines themes of love, relationships, and human connection. Numerous sub-genres, including shoujo, shounen, josei, and seinen, make it appealing to readers of all ages and backgrounds. It is essential to consider the subgenre, popular titles, reviews, artwork, and age rating when purchasing romance manga. With so many excellent titles available, there is a romance manga for everyone.