Harlequin Comics

Overview

Harlequin Comics is a manga imprint of Harlequin Enterprises, known for adapting its extensive catalog of romance novels into Japanese-style comics. Launched in 2006, the imprint collaborates with Japanese manga artists to transform popular Harlequin stories into graphic narratives, blending Western romance themes with Eastern artistic sensibilities.

What They Do

Harlequin Comics specializes in the adaptation of romance novels into manga format. The process involves selecting titles from Harlequin's vast library and working closely with Japanese artists to reinterpret the stories visually. These adaptations maintain the core romantic plots while incorporating manga-style artwork and storytelling techniques.

Notable Titles and Franchises

Harlequin Comics has produced over 1,300 manga adaptations, including:

• A Bed of Sand by Kyoko Sagara (illustrator) and Laura Wright (author)
• The Cinderella Solution by Kyoko Sagara (illustrator) and Cathy Yardley (author)
• The Sheikh's Reluctant Bride by Ayumu Asou (illustrator) and Teresa Southwick (author)
• Mistress Bought and Paid For by Junko Okada (illustrator) and Lynne Graham (author)
• The Seduction Bid by Kazuko Fujita (illustrator) and Amanda Browning (author)

These titles are available digitally through platforms like OverDrive and on Harlequin’s official website.

Creator Relationships

Harlequin Comics collaborates with a diverse group of Japanese manga artists, including Kyoko Sagara, Junko Okada, and Kazuko Fujita. These artists bring unique styles and interpretations to the adapted stories, contributing to the imprint’s distinctive blend of Western romance and Eastern art.

Cultural Impact

By merging Western romance narratives with Japanese manga artistry, Harlequin Comics has expanded the global reach of both genres. The imprint has introduced Harlequin’s stories to manga enthusiasts and brought manga-style storytelling to fans of romance novels, fostering cross-cultural appreciation and broadening the audience for both forms.