Unwrap 10 Spellbinding Graphic Novels with Supernatural Elements
"So, you fancy a bit of mysticism in your life, eh? You've totally exhausted your paranormal TV shows and movies list on Netflix and everyairvoyant in town warned you to keep away for a while. Fear not, we've got a list of graphic novels with supernatural elements coming your way which are perfect for those who like to read about ghosts haunting houses, vampires craving a midnight snack, or just your friendly neighbourhood witches trying to make it through a day without hexing anyone.
These aren't your typical kiddie comic books or a study guide for supernatural science 101. Our list hails from the realm called 'grown-up graphic novels’ - a splendid domain where art, narrative, and good old-fashioned spookiness crash together in an explosion of thoroughly page-turning brilliance. Seriously, who needs movies or TV foreshadowing when you have a graphic novel in your hand, letting you anticipate the plot twists at your leisure. So, pop your reading glasses on, dim the lights, and be prepared to unwrap some spellbinding graphic novels loaded with supernatural elements."
Monstress
by Marjorie Liu
Why Monstress is on this list: Monstress is like the grand ice cream sundae of supernatural graphic novels. It's dripping with enchanting elements that weave a complex tapestry of magic, mystery and monstrous creatures.
Monstress follows the narrative of Maika Halfwolf, a teenage war survivor dwelling in a dystopian alternate Asia. Maika embarks on a journey to discover the secrets of her past while sharing a psychic link with a powerful monster. As it happens, this monster casually lives inside her. (Talk about having issues with your inner self!) The story is percolated with a rich, Lovecraftian blend of steampunk aesthetics, matriarchal societies, and mythical monstrosities.
What readers like: Fans have found themselves mesmerized by the intricately detailed Art Deco-inspired artwork and adored the morally complex characters. Many have been entranced by the magical themes and the badass female protagonist, Maika. Readers also enjoyed the steep and rewarding learning curve presented by Marjorie Liu's flawless narrative. If you like your graphic novels loaded with enigma, fiercely female, and downright gorgeous, then Monstress might be your cup of magical tea.
Check Price at AmazonThe Sandman: Overture
by Neil Gaiman
Why The Sandman: Overture is on this list:
To call 'The Sandman: Overture' a book seems a bit basic, don't you think? It's more a magical portal that transports you to dreamy landscapes and ethereal dimensions. A prequel to Gaiman's original Sandman series, this book reveals the long-awaited backstory of Dream, the divided master of the universe’s realm of dreams and stories, and his journey across galaxies, time and reality itself. Buckle up, for you're in for a celestial rollercoaster ride.
What readers like: The readers rave about its dazzling artwork that grabs you by the eyeballs and doesn’t let go. They praise Gaiman's mesmerizing storytelling capabilities and deep, complex characters. The intricate plot that takes you down the rabbit hole and around the universe, has a profound effect on the readers. For people who enjoy diving deep into a rich universe, this beautifully crafted symphony of words and images is a must-read.
Check Price at AmazonWitch & Wizard
by Svetlana Chmakova
Why Witch & Wizard is on this list: When it comes to blending the supernatural with the graphical, 'Witch & Wizard' breaks the mold, weaving an immersive spell that leaves you thirsty for more.
'Witch & Wizard' unfolds the thrilling journey of two siblings who discover their latent magical abilities and struggle to survive in a world where magic is banned. It's a page-turner, filled to the brim with tension, deceit, and power, all artfully illustrated with Svetlana Chmakova's distinctive style.
What readers like: Readers love the book's dynamic storyline that keeps you on your toes throughout. The characters are relatable and their trials and tribulations hit closer to home. And let's not forget the art—it's stunning. Each panel uncovers a new layer to the story, drawing you deeper into their world.
Check Price at AmazonDie, Volume 1: Fantasy Heartbreaker
by Kieron Gillen
Why Die, Volume 1: Fantasy Heartbreaker is on this list: Brought to life by the brilliant mind of Kieron Gillen, 'Die' is a richly illustrated graphic novel that masterfully blends the lines between fantasy and reality, while ooz with a mystical allure that is hard to ignore. If spellbinding supernatural elements are your cup of tea, then rest assured, this book won’t disappoint you.
'Die' is a pitch-black fantasy where a group of forty-something adults grapple with the returning, unearthly horror they barely survived as teenage role-players. This gripping graphic novel skilfully intertwines the darker side of fantasy realm with the harsh realities of life, probing deep into the human psyche, while leaving the readers in a state of breezy bewilderment.
What readers like: Readers often rave about Gillen's ability to weave intricate storylines packed with deep, complex characters, all cloaked under a mysterious, mystical ambiance. Its seductive artwork, fantastical elements, and network of narrative threads are known to pull readers in, making them feel as if they’ve truly stepped foot into another realm. Oh, and if you ever played Dungeons and Dragons, let's just say that you're in for a real treat.
Check Price at AmazonHellboy, Vol. 1: Seed of Destruction
by Mike Mignola
Why Hellboy, Vol. 1: Seed of Destruction is on this list: Hellboy's blend of supernatural intrigue, occult mysteries, and comic book stylings fits perfectly on this list. Plus, the name 'Hellboy' alone screams 'supernatural', doesn't it?
In 'Seed of Destruction', readers are introduced to Hellboy, a demon summoned to Earth during World War II who becomes a force for good, dealing with dark forces that go bump in the night. The story offers rich mythological backgrounds, occult symbols, and a heavily Lovecraft-inspired tale, peppered with deft humor and historic side-notes.
What readers like: Readers love Hellboy for its unique blend of folklore, mythology, and pulp-style storytelling. They appreciate its dark yet charismatic protagonist, the complex narrative, and Mignola's signature art style that creates an atmosphere as spooky as it is captivating.
Check Price at AmazonGhosts
by Raina Telgemeier
Why Ghosts is on this list: This graphic novel not only has supernatural elements, but is also named 'Ghosts'. Need we say more?
In Ghosts, young Catrina and her family move to the coast of Northern California due to her little sister's health. Cat isn't thrilled about the new move soon discovers there's more to their new town than meets the eye. Spooky, ethereal spirits, a Day of the Dead celebration, and a journey of shedding fears and embracing life's uncertainties - Ghosts has it all.
What readers like: Readers love the beautiful illustrations and Raina's unique storytelling style that effortlessly intertwines the supernatural with the struggles and victories of everyday life. The story's mix of comic relief, sentiment, and suspense with a tang of the supernatural makes it a must-read.
Check Price at AmazonLocke & Key
by Joe Hill
Why Locke & Key is on this list: This book chases ghosts right into the depths of a mysterious house, capturing the essence of chill and thrill that we love in supernatural stories. Beyond the usual spectral hauntings, there are magical keys, secret doors and other elements that will whisk you into an enigmatic world.
Following the gruesome murder of their father, the surviving members of the Locke family move into their ancestral home: The Keyhouse. This place is not your ordinary, spooky, old house - it hides various keys that unlock supernatural powers and secrets. If you’ve always dreamed of opening mystery doors like in Scooby-Doo but with things a bit more eerie on the other side, you’re in for a treat. The story is a heart pounding mix of horror, fantasy and family drama.
What readers like: Readers get seriously hooked on the intricate plot, high-octane suspense, the gripping illustrations and the realistic portrayal of family dynamics amidst all the spooky stuff. They love how it keeps them tumbling from one unexpected revelation to another, keeping them on their toes while they cheer for the Lockes. Plus, if you're one who likes getting over-attached to characters, be prepared - this book will likely have you feeling like you're part of the family.
Check Price at AmazonGideon Falls
by Jeff Lemire
Why Gideon Falls is on this list: Hauntingly beautiful, 'Gideon Falls' spins a tale that is filled to the brim with supernatural suspense, making it a spectacular fit for this list.
Gideon Falls is the kind of eerie supernatural thriller that might keep you up at night.'s set in a small reclusive rural town and big, bustling city simultaneously, where the common spine-chilling factor is the mysterious 'Black Barn.' An urban legend to some and a reality to others, the barn appears throughout history, bringing death and madness in its wake.
What readers like: Readers who fell in love with 'Gideon Falls' have praised it for its creepy charm combined with a complex, multi-layered plot. The stunningly detailed illustrations, along with eerie color palettes, beautifully accentuate the atmospheric storytelling. This is no happily-ever-after fairytale, but if you're after some spine-tingling chills, you'd be hard-pressed to find a graphic novel that does it better.
Check Price at AmazonThrough The Woods
by Emily Carroll
Why Through The Woods is on this list: Unleashed from the mind of Emily Carroll, 'Through The Woods' is a trip the shadowy corners of folklore, making it a perfect addition in our collection of spellbinding graphic novels with a supernatural twist.
In this graphic novel, Carroll crafts five spine-tingling short stories. It all starts with a simple phrase, 'It came from the woods...', and leads us through enigmatic journeys deep into the heart of the forest. Creeping monsters, sinister strangers, haunted houses, eerie landscapes - this book has it all. The stories are dark and filled with mystery, leaving readers to question the dangers of crossing through the woods.
What readers like: Readers have been raving about the perfect blend of fairy tale nostalgia and horror. They also loved the mesmerizing illustrations which add a whole new dimension of creepiness. But most of all, they enjoyed how the stories make you think, make you wonder, and give you that odd feeling that maybe you're not alone in the room. It's a chilling reminder that sometimes, the most terrifying monsters are just in your head.
Check Price at AmazonMy Hero Academia, Vol 1
by Kohei Horikoshi
Why My Hero Academia, Vol 1 is on this list: My Hero Academia, Vol. 1 is a perfect fit for this list. After all, what could be more supernatural than a bunch of teenagers coming of age in a world where virtually everyone has superpowers? And let's not forget the magical realness of these amazing graphics.
In a society inundated with superhumans, all eyes are on high schooler Izuku Midoriya who, despite being born without abilities, daydreams of becoming a hero. When a chance encounter with the top hero All Might offers him a chance to change his destiny, Izuku sets off down a path to shape his future and redefine what it really means to have a superpower. It's superpower relatability and teen angst mixed together, sprinkled with some epic battles and a dash of that adorable high school awkwardness.
What readers like: Readers are drawn in by the unique setup, the witty dialogue, and the diverse characters, each with their respective elaborate superpowers. But most of all, they love Izuku Midoriya's journey, and the questions it asks about what it means to be a hero. Plus, let's not discount the love for the stunning artwork being a major factor, too.
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