February 2023
Heroes in Love: Comic Romances
Hey there comic fans! It’s February, and that means that love is in the air. In honor of (or in spite of) Valentine’s Day, let’s talk about some of the best love stories in comic books. These aren't your typical "boy meets girl" stories—these are the real deal. Drama. Heartbreak. Inter-dimensional trysts.The kind of love stories that make you believe in the power of true love all over again (or for the first time—no judgment!).
1. Peter Quill (Star-Lord) & Gamora
First on our list is the classic love story between Star-Lord and Gamora. These two unlikely heroes have had one of the most epic romances in the Marvel universe. Their story is a perfect example of how love can conquer all, even in the face of intergalactic threats.
Star-Lord (Peter Quill) and Gamora first met in the pages of Marvel Comics' "Annihilation: Conquest" (2007) storyline, written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning. At the time, Star-Lord was leading a team of space heroes to stop the Phalanx, a race of cybernetic beings, from conquering the galaxy. During the mission, he encountered Gamora, the last remaining member of her species and a former assassin for the Mad Titan Thanos.
Despite their rocky start, the two eventually formed a close bond as they worked together to stop the Phalanx. Over time, their relationship grew into a romantic one, and they have been depicted as a couple in many Marvel Comics stories. What better setting could there be for a blossoming romance other than intergalactic strife?
Read more about Star-Lord & Gamora:
2. Midnighter & Apollo
Next up we have Midnighter and Apollo, characters from the Wildstorm universe created by Warren Ellis and Bryan Hitch. They are both powerful superheroes, with Midnighter having the ability to predict his opponents' moves and Apollo having superhuman strength and the power of flight.
They first met as members of a team called The Authority and their relationship developed over time—and like all relationships, it’s not always been a picnic. You know what they say, though: stay with the one who’s willing to travel into hell to reclaim your immortal soul!
Read more about Midnighter & Apollo:
3. Kate Kane & Renee Montoya
Third on our list is a love story that breaks the mold, Kate Kane (Batwoman) and Renee Montoya (AKA The Question). Their relationship is not only powerful and emotional but also groundbreaking. It is one of the first mainstream comic book relationships to prominently feature two lesbian characters.
Kate Kane and Renee first met in the pages of DC Comics' "52" (2006-2007) weekly series, written by Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, and Mark Waid. At the time, Renee was a police detective in the Gotham City Police Department and Kate was just starting her career as Batwoman.
Their love story is a roller coaster ride of ups and downs, with themes of acceptance, coming out and the struggles of being a lesbian in a world that’s not always accepting. Theirs is a story that not only entertains but also educates and serves as an example of positive representation for the LGBTQ+ community in comic books.
Read more about Kate Kane & Renee Montoya:
3. Wiccan & Hulkling
Last but not least is the love story between Wiccan and Hulkling from the "Young Avengers" series. They first met as members of the Young Avengers, a team of teenage superheroes assembled to save the world. Wiccan, also known as Billy Kaplan, is a reality-warping superhero with the ability to manipulate magic. Hulkling, also known as Theodore Altman, is a shapeshifting superhero with superhuman strength and the ability to generate energy fields.
These two young heroes have had one of the most heartwarming love stories in the Marvel universe. Their love story is a perfect example of how love can flourish even in the face of danger and adversity.
Read more about Wiccan & Hulkling:
So, there you have it, folks. Some of the best love stories in comic books to keep you warm this month. These stories will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between. Grab a box of tissues (and maybe a pint of ice cream) and dive in with some of the above "Must-Reads!" from your friends at Oxford Comics. And remember: true love always prevails (even in a world of superheroes and villains).