15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations

Highlights

  • English licensors have responded to fan demand for girls love manga, offering a wide genre and art style selection.
  • Stories beyond school settings in girls love manga explore love and growth in various stages of life and different worlds.
  • Unique titles like “The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn’t A Guy At All” offer fresh takes on budding romances with strong visual presentation.

As a lover of historical romance and girls’ love manga, I found myself captivated by these three titles that each offer unique perspectives on romantic relationships between women.


Fans of top-tier manga featuring girls now benefit from official English translations, as English licensors have acknowledged the demand from enthusiasts. With a variety of genres and artistic styles available, Yuri fans have numerous options to explore. For Shoujo ai admirers, there’s an abundance of choices ranging from one-shots, successful one to three volume series, to more extensive works.

A key point to note is that authentic, English versions of manga featuring girls offer narratives that extend beyond school settings. Characters such as office workers, mature individuals, and university-aged females experience love and personal development within these stories. The romantic themes in schoolgirl manga aren’t limited to the typical “will they, won’t they” or “I can’t like girls because I’m a girl” tropes. In some cases, readers follow the characters as they age and evolve over time.

15 The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn’t a Guy at All

Gyaru Unkowingly Falls In Love With Androgynous Classmate

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Yen Press
Japanese Name
  • 気になってる人が男じゃなかった
  • Ki ni Natteru Hito ga Otoko Janakatta
Genre(s) Romantic Comedy
Manga Volumes In English
  • Japanese version on Twitter & Pixiv Comic
  • (1st volume to be released in October 2024)
  • (2nd unannounced)

Aya is a vibrant and outgoing young woman with a keen eye for fashion, often found in her favorite record store where she’s smitten with the mysterious man behind the counter. However, this enigmatic figure is none other than Mitsuki Koga, Aya’s reserved classmate who prefers to stay out of the spotlight. The challenge lies in making him notice her.

The Character She Had Crush On Turned Out to Be Transgender, Distinguished by Its Green Pages and Bold Lines; Aya and Kouga’s Growth is Vividly Portrayed in This Comic, Thanks to the Artist’s Skill in Depicting Emotions. Moreover, the Manga’s Fast-Paced Chapters Keep Readers Eager for More as They Follow Aya and Kouga’s Blossoming Love Story.

14 The Summer You Were There

Loner Girl Pursued By Popular Girl After Writing Novel

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Japanese Name
  • 君と綴るうたかた
  • Kimi to Tsuzuru Utakata
Genre(s)
  • Romance
  • Slice of Life
  • Drama
  • Tragedy
Manga Volumes In English
  • 5 (as of July 2024)
  • (6th unannounced)

Shizuku Hoshikawa isn’t particularly outgoing, and she hasn’t fully overcome the heartbreak of her writing past that once filled her with passion. However, an unexpected event occurs when she deliberately destroys her first and only novel. The following day, popular girl Kaori Asaka discovers it and expresses her admiration for it. Impressed, Kaori implores Shizuku to write their story as the basis for her next novel, set in a romantic context.

Completely bewildered, Shizuku devotes her summer to a game of “feigned love,” as Kaori named it. The gradual clarification of Shizuku’s thoughts and the captivating mystery surrounding Kaori’s genuine feelings create an engaging dynamic. Their interaction is compelling enough to draw readers in and divert their attention from the foreboding title and opening scene of “The Summer You Were There“.

13 Throw Away the Suit Together

Living The Fantasy Of Running Away To A Tropical Island

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Japanese Name
  • 君としらない夏になる
  • Kimi to Shiranai Natsu ni Naru
Genre(s)
  • Drama
  • Romance
  • Bittersweet ending
Manga Volumes In English
  • 1 (as of July 2024)
  • (2nd to be released in October 2024)
  • (3rd unannounced)

Instead of merely joking about abandoning work, school, home, and everything else for a getaway, especially with someone dear, Haru and Hii-chan are not kidding. As the start of their post-college life looms, threatening changes, these lovebirds decide to leave it all behind and live together at Hii-chan’s aunt’s beach villa instead.

Haru and Hii-chan enjoy playing in the sun, work on renovating their villa, and share a loving relationship. However, they soon face the harsh truth of living in a nation that doesn’t legally recognize same-sex marriage, as well as strict gender roles. The title, “Discarding the Ties Together“, carries a powerful message.

12 Asumi-chan Is Interested in Lesbian Brothels!

Rare Adult Lesbian Harem Manga About Self-Discovery

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Japanese Name
  • 彩純ちゃんはレズ風俗に興味があります!
  • Asumi-chan wa Les Fuzoku ni Kyomi ga Arimasu!
Genre(s)
  • Comedy
  • Harem
  • Ecchi
Manga Volumes In English 4 (as of July 2024)

In English-licensed mangas alone, there are many stories where characters visit brothels, and it’s safe to assume that hundreds more exist in Japanese-only titles. However, it’s rare to find a female protagonist who exposes herself at a lesbian brothel. Asumi, however, stands out because she is attracted to a woman who resembles her childhood crush, leading her to visit such an establishment.

Asumi-chan Explores Lesbian-centric Brothels in Search of Her Old Crush, Mai: Asumi embarks on a journey to reconnect with her childhood friend Mai, leading her to explore a brothel filled with charming girls. Throughout this experience, which includes non-explicit encounters, Asumi gains insights into her sexual identity, preferences, and the unique world of lesbian communities.

11 A Witch’s Love at the End of the World

Prodigy Discovers Love And Life Outside School

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Yen Press
Japanese Name
  • 世界の終わりと魔女の恋
  • Sekai no Owari to Majo no Koi
Genre(s)
  • Josei
  • Fantasy
Manga Volumes In English 3

Alice Keating, a gifted practitioner of the arcane arts, is admired by both faculty and followers due to her exceptional abilities in witchcraft. However, it’s Mari Muguruma, a seemingly ordinary student, who captures Alice’s attention after demonstrating an uncommon skill in resurrection magic. Under Alice’s guidance, Mari discovers the secrets of a realm that harbors animosity towards mankind, as Alice’s affection for her grows simultaneously.

“A Witch’s Love in the Final Days” presents the captivating tale of Alice and Mari, two characters whose relationship unfolds against a richly detailed backdrop. The graphic style is uncomplicated, enhancing the charm of intricately illustrated scenes. Throughout the narrative, the storyline progresses at a steady pace, interspersed with an original take on witchcraft lore.

10 Pulse

Thai Webtoon Between Heart Surgeon & Heart Patient

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Thai Name None
Genre(s)
  • Drama
  • Romance
Manga Volumes In English 6

Doctor Mel performs an activity on a routine basis that most physicians typically need to arrange in advance: intimacy. However, for Mel, this act serves as a form of relief, and it doesn’t involve any emotional involvement in her life. That is until she encounters Lynn, a patient with heart issues who is resolute about living vibrant days, despite being close to the brink of death.

In a fresh, accessible rephrase: The reluctance of Lynn to endorse heart transplant documents, her tenacious spirit, and unique personality stir Mel’s heart for the first time in years. Pulse delves into Mel and Lynn’s complicated journey as they confront Lynn’s choices and impending destiny through a webcomic characterized by straightforward design and impactful visuals. The artwork improves with each successive set of ten chapters, while the writer’s ability to convey tragedy becomes more profound with every story arc.

9 Riddle Story of Devil

Bodyguard Romance But With Teen Assassin

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Japanese Name
  • 悪魔のリドル
  • Akuma no Ridoru
Genre(s)
  • Action
  • School Life
  • Adventure
  • Seinen
Manga Volumes In English 5

In the mystery romance titled “Enigma Love Story of the Demon“, the narrative unfolds with Azuma Tokaku enrolling at Myojo Academy with the intent to assassinate Haru Ichinose. Azuma, a member of Class Black, an exclusive class designed for child assassins, aims to eliminate Haru before anyone else, as part of their deadly competition.

As a devoted fan, I must say that when the character Azuma encounters Haru, who was brought up as a mark for assassins, she chooses to shield her instead. This narrative unfolds in the captivating series “Akuma no Riddle“, which showcases the allure of its characters, each with distinctive and relatable outlines. Notably, this band of females also experiences hints of romantic tension, while the pairing between Azuma and Haru develops substantially beyond such teases.

8 Assorted Entanglements

Anthology Of Women Falling In Love In Various Ages

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Yen Press
Japanese Name
  • 不揃いの連理
  • Fusoroi no Renri
Genre(s)
  • Drama
  • Romance
  • Slice of Life
Manga Volumes In English
  • 5 (as of July 2024)
  • (6th to be released in October 2024)
  • (7th & 8th unannounced)

As a self-confessed admirer, I’ve long been intrigued by the enigmatic Iori Tanaka – a woman with an intricate pattern of relationships with married gentlemen and a solace-seeking habit at the local bar to drown her regrets. However, life took an unexpected turn when, following a night of excessive drinking, I found myself in an unfamiliar situation – waking up next to Minami Sendou, the bar worker, minus my clothing. This incident served as a stark reminder, compelling me to reevaluate my actions and choices.

Iori and Minami are among the numerous lesbian couples entangled within the diverse spectrum of Assorted Entanglement. Navigating through intricate emotional landscapes, family dynamics, past relationships, and present circumstances, these women skillfully untangle life’s complications to reconnect with each other.

“This collection, titled ‘Assorted Entanglements,’ is a delightful read due to its variety of heartwarming love stories. The characters, each unique in age, life circumstances, and intricacies, add depth and interest. Furthermore, the soft, endearing character designs and visually appealing color scheme make it an enjoyable reading experience.”

7 Roll Over and Die

Girl Left To Die Embarks On A Revenge Quest

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Japanese Name
  • 「お前ごときが魔王に勝てると思うな」と勇者パーティを追放されたので、王都で気ままに暮らしたい
  • “”Omae Gotoki ga Maou ni Kateru to Omou na”” to Yuusha Party wo Tsuihou Sareta no de, Outo de Kimama ni Kurashitai
Genre(s)
  • Action
  • Dark Fantasy
Manga Volumes In English 5

Title rephrased: A Life Worth Fighting For: Love and the Cursed Sword – The Motto of Protagonist Flum Apricot, Following Her Enslavement from a Sold Party

In a new lease on life, following the revelation of her hidden ability, Flum struggles to endure in her tainted environment. Her beacon of hope, albeit initially unaware, is her former enslaved companion Milkit who picks up on their blossoming bond well before Flum does herself.

In terms of its tone, the series titled “Roll Over and Die” delves unapologetically into the bleak realities of a dark fantasy realm. The narrative underscores the value of Flum and Milkit’s bond, emphasizing how it serves as their sanctuary amidst the chaos of this harsh world.

6 Run Away With Me, Girl

Second Chance At High School Romance

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Kodansha USA
Japanese Name
  • かけおちガール
  • Kakeochi Garu
Genre(s)
  • Drama
  • Romance
Manga Volumes In English 3

In high school, on their graduation day, Midori ended things with Maki, asserting they had grown too old for dating girls. Fast forward a decade, and Midori, now engaged and expecting a child as an adult, finds herself drawn back to Maki. They rekindle their connection at the clinic where Maki is employed.

As a long-time manga enthusiast and someone who has spent many hours immersed in the world of Japanese comics, I can confidently say that “Run Away With Me, Girl” is a unique and compelling story that resonates deeply with me. The narrative’s exploration of regrets, buried sexuality, and second chances feels authentic and nuanced, reflecting the complexities of human emotions that often go unaddressed in everyday life.

5 After Hours

Femme Club Girl Winds Up In Love With Older Girl DJ

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor VIZ Media
Japanese Name アフターアワーズ
Genre(s)
  • Drama
  • Romance
  • Slice of Life
Manga Volumes In English 3

Emi isn’t typically the type who frequents clubs, but her friends still occasionally invite her. However, after an unpleasant encounter with a creepy individual that Kei rescued her from, she begins to appreciate the club scene. This fateful night sparks Emi’s interest in DJing, causing her to contemplate her future for the first time and consider the potential relationship between herself and Kei.

Among all these girls’ love manga, After Hours stands out for its captivating night scenes. The vibrant portrayal of nightlife in the twenties to thirties era seems to blur the boundaries between day and night, creating a sense of timelessness that resonates with Emi and Kei’s circumstances. This narrative set against an unpredictable timezone gives the story a fresh, mature, and uniquely adult feel.

4 Even Though We’re Adults

Single And Married Women Fall In Love & Navigate Adulthood

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Japanese Name
  • おとなになっても
  • Otona ni Natte mo
Genre(s)
  • Drama
  • Josei
Manga Volumes In English
  • 8 (as of July 2024)
  • (9th to be released in September 2024)

In a twist of events, Akari finds herself on the brink of potentially embarking upon an intricate journey with Ayano Ookubo, someone she frequently encounters at her preferred watering hole. The hiccup? Ayano is wed, yet the two seem to be inexplicably drawn towards one another. Their relationship, marked by its complexity, continues to be a challenge, and they struggle to adapt to the changing dynamics of their lives in their mid-thirties.

Although it may seem surprising due to our maturity, the art style of Even Though We’re Adults carries an 80’s shoujo aesthetic, characterized by large eyes, basic layout, crosshatching, and special effects. Simultaneously, its panel arrangement is contemporary, emphasizing spatial relationships and emotional depth. This unique approach makes the struggles of Ayano and Akari feel even more intense and heartrending.

3 Goodbye, My Rose Garden

Victorian Girls Love Between Reclusive Author & Fan

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Japanese Name
  • さよならローズガーデン
  • Sayonara Rose Garden
Genre(s)
  • Historical
  • Drama
  • Romance
Manga Volumes In English 3

Driven by her passion for writing and ambition to encounter enigmatic author Victor Franks, young teacher Hanako embarks on a voyage from Japan to England. Unexpectedly, this trip leads Hanako to work for Alice Douglas under the pretext of meeting Victor. However, Alice proposes an ominous condition: Hanako must kill her in exchange for the encounter with Victor. Instead, Hanako chooses to stay loyal to Alice amidst trials and tribulations, ultimately discovering the source of Alice’s deep-seated desperation.

Dr. Pepperco, the talented mangaka, skillfully brings to life extravagant architectural and costume details that are characteristic of the unique themes in “Goodbye, My Rose Garden”. While it only spans three volumes, Hanako and Alice’s romantic relationship unfolds in a way reminiscent of classic Victorian romances.

2 Whisper Me a Love Song

Freshman Falls In Love With Cool Senior In Band

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Kodansha Comics
Japanese Name
  • ささやくように恋を唄う
  • Sasayaku You ni Koi o Utau
Genre(s)
  • Slice of Life
  • School Life
  • Romance
Manga Volumes In English
  • 8 (as of July 2024)
  • (9th & 10th unannounced)

Freshman Himari Kino, much like any young woman who hasn’t yet acknowledged her lesbian identity, believes her feelings towards senior Yori Asanagi are just deep admiration. However, the way Himari expresses these feelings leads Yori to misunderstand them as love. Despite Himari clarifying the situation promptly, their interactions ignite a romantic relationship that significantly impacts both of their lives.

In the story titled “Whisper Me a Love Song“, both Himawari and Yori play significant roles, but they’re not alone in experiencing romantic issues. The narrative is brimming with teenagers grappling with the intricacies of young love. Among them, Shiho Izumi stands out as a third main character. Her love story provides a contrast, adding a touch of bitterness to the otherwise sweet tales of Himawari and Yori.

1 Bloom Into You

Love That Persists From School To Adulthood (And Side Characters)

15 Best GL Manga With Official English Translations
Publisher/Licensor Seven Seas Entertainment
Japanese Name
  • やがて君になる
  • Yagate Kimi ni Naru
Genre(s)
  • Slice of Life
  • School Life
  • Drama
  • Romance
Manga Volumes In English
  • 8 (main manga)
  • 2 (anthology

Yuu Koito never imagined that the ideal shojo manga confession she had always dreamed of would materialize, let alone from the student council president and epitome of perfection, Touko Nanami. The fact that Touko made a confession to her was utterly surprising, but it left Yuu contemplating the situation and eventually agreeing to join forces with Touko for the student council position.

Bloom Into You tells the story of Yuu and Touko’s developing feelings towards each other. Although their school life may not stand out, it provides a realistic backdrop for their unique relationship to unfold. The subtle progression of their romance avoids unnecessary prolongation while delving into the emotional, intellectual, and physical aspects of their bond.

Besides the captivating romantic narrative, “Bloom Into You” doesn’t just stay confined within the walls of high school. The story delves deeper, offering glimpses of Yuu and Touko post-high school life. Additional characters are also given a chance to shine, with anthologies and light novels expanding their stories even more. From my gaming perspective, it’s like unlocking new levels in a game, revealing hidden depths of the characters I’ve grown to love.

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2024-08-01 06:35