19 of the Best Romance Novels
It’s no secret that I love a good Rom-com. Media doesn’t matter– TV, Movies, Books, etc. If there’s a strong romantic thread, I’m there. There’s just something so comforting and cozy about a cute and predictable romance novel. Are they formulaic? At times, but that’s part of the appeal. You know exactly what you’re going to get when you pick up a romance novel. Sometimes, it’s simply fun to read about a little far-fetched romance. Over the years, I’ve read more than a few romance novels, and I’ve compiled a list of the very best ones. Here are 19 of the best romance novels!
Contemporary Picks
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
P.H.D student Olive Smith is too busy for love– her focus is on finding a cure for pancreatic cancer. When her best friend doesn’t accept a busy work life as an excuse, Olive needs to find a solution fast. She never expected that her desire to avoid Anh’s matchmaking skills would lead her to spontaneously kiss icy science wunderkind, Dr. Adam Carlson. Even more surprising is when he suggests a mutually beneficial fake relationship. Now Olive needs to do everything in her power to avoid falling in love for real.
This is an extremely popular book that is definitely worth the hype. I’m not even embarrassed to say that Olive and Adam live in my head rent free. I devoured this book in a day and then proceeded to tell all of my friends to read it. This is a fun, classic, fake-dating, grumpy-sunshine romance, perfect for those looking for a light and entertaining read.
Readers should note that this one is Rated R.
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren
Love and Other Words is a second chance romance about Elliot and Macy, childhood friends turned lovers. Told in alternating timelines, the story picks up eleven years after the two mysteriously lost touch. When a chance run-in brings them back together, Macy is forced to question whether the predictable life she’s built is worth risking for the chance at true love.
I have to be totally honest here, this book is a bit of a sad one. It’s definitely a romantic drama, not a romantic comedy. I found myself crying at certain parts, and feeling sad for Macy and Elliot as they fumbled through life apart. However, there is an HEA, and their journey back to each other will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Readers should note that this one is Rated R.
Much Ado About Nada by Uzma Jalaluddin
Nada Syed is, according to her mother, quickly approaching spinsterhood. Stuck in an unfulfilling engineering job and mourning the lack-luster launch of her App, marriage is the last thing on Nada’s mind. When her best friend convinces her to attend the city’s popular Muslim convention, Nada is reunited with Baz, her former love. Nada hasn’t spoken to Baz in years, and seeing him again brings up everything she wishes would stay in the past.
With Nada as such a strong, intelligent, relatable protagonist, and Baz as the brooding, misunderstood love interest, it’s not hard to fall in love with this novel. Overall, Uzma Jalaluddin has expertly crafted a well paced and well written slow burn romance. If this is your favorite trope, or you love plays on Jane Austen’s Persuasion, this is the perfect read.
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
Khai Diep is perfectly content living his quiet and solitary life. He has a stable and fulfilling career, hobbies and family, and doesn’t feel a need for anything more. Although his autism diagnosis makes romance feel daunting and unappealing, his mother is determined to find him a match. When Esme Tran is selected as a potential suitor, she jumps at the opportunity to give her family a better life. However, the path to love is not as straight forward as Esme expected.
This is such an enjoyable, and at times emotional, read about love, family, and self-acceptance. This is the second book in Hoang’s Kiss Quotient trilogy, but you can definitely read it as a standalone.
Readers should note that this one is Rated R.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
I have to admit, enemies to lovers is one of my least favorite romantic tropes. I just can’t accept that two people who dislike each other that much can miraculously fall in love. Although I typically avoid enemies to lovers, The Hating Game by Sally Thorne is the exception to the rule.
The novel follows competitive co-workers Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman as they vie for the same promotion. Lucy and Josh are polar opposites, the only thing they share is their mutual hatred. But, as everyone knows, the line between love and hate is thin and it isn’t long before feelings start to form.
I devoured this book, despite it’s enemies to lovers premise. The character development and the overall lack of annoying miscommunication that tends to plague romance novels, made this one a refreshing and light-hearted read.
Readers should note that this one is Rated R.
Isn’t it Bromantic by Lyssa Kay Adams
Vlad Konnikov is desperately in love with his wife. The problem? She’s asking for a divorce. Elena Konnikova knows a thing or two about being a burden to the ones she loves. As much as she loves Vlad, she refuses to continue to trap him in what she feels is a pity marriage. Unwilling to give up on a happily-ever-after, Vlad enlists help from his bromance bookclub to woo his wife.
This sweet marriage of convenience novel is also somewhat of a second chance romance. Adams writes a compassionate, funny, and sweet tale of two broken hearts coming back together.
The American Roommate Experiment by Elena Armas
The novel follows Rosie Graham, a former engineer who recently took a huge career risk to follow her dream of becoming a romance writer. The book is told in dual perspectives and also follows Lucas MartÃn, cousin to Rosie’s bff. When he suggests that they go on practice dates to jump start Rosie’s romance creativity, Rosie must do her best to resist falling in love for real.
This is a classic forced proximity romance where both characters secretly harbor feelings for each other. Is it cheesy at times? Yes. But I don’t mind a little cheese in a cute rom-com. The characters are well fleshed out, both with pasts that add depth to their actions, and we get to see their relationship build day-by-day. It’s such a cute story with humor, heart, and of course, an HEA.
Readers should note that this one is rated R.
Code Name Charming by Lucy Parker
When the press wrongly assumes personal assistant Petunia is romantically involved with her married boss, the palace is thrown into crisis mode. The easiest way to return everything back to normal is for Pet to enter a fake relationship with palace body guard, Matthias. Naturally, what starts out as a fake dating ruse to protect the royal family, quickly turns into true feelings.
This is a wonderfully cute fake dating novel perfect for fans of grumpy-sunshine and bodyguard romance. Although there are many comedic and light hearted moments, Lucy Parker also address complex emotional themes with tact and grace. If you loved The Love Hypothesis, you’ll love this one.
Readers should note that this one is Rated R.
The Undomestic Goddess by Sophie Kinsella
Samantha Sweeting is a successful lawyer living in London and on the fast track to partnership. That is, until she makes a mistake so big, her career may as well be in the trash. Reeling from the aftermath of her mess, Sam gets on the first train out of the city. When she’s mistaken as a candidate for a housekeeping position for a wealthy family, Sam plays along. Even though she knows absolutely nothing about keeping house. Naturally, hilarity ensues. As Samantha figures out her new job, she simultaneously learns about herself and what it means to live a meaningful life.
This is a funny, heart warming, tale of romance and self discovery. Sophie Kinsella is one of my favorite romance authors, and this novel had me laughing out loud at Samantha’s antics, while also cheering for her happy ending.
Readers should note that this one is Rated R.
Something Blue by Emily Giffin
The sequel to Something Borrowed, this novel follows Darcy Rhone in the aftermath of her canceled wedding. Desperate to escape the mistakes of her past, Darcy moves to London in hopes of a do-over. Unfortunately for Darcy, her problems have followed her across the pond. As she starts a new life on her own, she learns to make mistakes, forgive herself, and fall in love.
This is such a sweet story of redemption, self-discovery, and true love. Although both novels in this duology are equally entertaining, I loved Darcy’s story so much more. Her development throughout the books transforms her into a well rounded character that you can help but love.
Romantasy Favorites
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
One of my favorite paranormal/fantasy novels! A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness follows Diana Bishop, a spellbound witch, as she is thrown headfirst into the dangerous world of the supernatural. With the lives of all magical creatures at stake, Diana must team up with mysterious vampire, Matthew Clairmont before it’s too late.
This book has it all– action, vampires, forbidden love! This is the first in a trilogy but I think that this is the best in the series!
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
A Court of Thorns and Roses is a Beauty and the Beast retelling and follows protagonist Feyre, as she navigates the ruthless world of the Fae. This first book was honestly a little difficult for me to get through. However, once I got to the second book I flew through the series!
Sarah J. Maas has crafted a beautiful fantasy world with complexity, depth, and character development that add so much to the plot. It’s such a wonderful fantasy series especially for those looking to ease themselves into the genre.
Readers should note that these are Rated R.
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
This novel follows Celaena Sardothien, a legendary assassin, as she takes part in a royal competition to win her freedom. When other contestants start turning up dead, Celaena discovers evil forces at play that reach beyond the competition.
This was the hardest of Maas’ series for me to get into and yet, it became my favorite. I found the first book to be dry as the desert. However, after pushing through, I easily devoured the rest of the series. The characters are well written, the world building is lush and expansive, and the romance is truly memorable. If you are new to the Maasverse, start with Throne of Glass. If you only read one of her series, this is it. It’s truly that good.
The Wrath and the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh
Marrying the Caliph of Khorasan is a death sentence. No bride survives past her wedding day. When Shahrzad’s closest friend becomes one of the fallen brides, she crafts a plan of vengeance. She’ll offer herself as a bride and kill the Caliph before any more lives can be lost. But when she enters the palace, Shahrzad realizes that things aren’t exactly as they seem.
This is a lush YA fantasy full of drama, romance and strong characters. I love Renée Ahdieh’s writing style, and I completely devoured this book and its sequel.
Best of YA
Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen
It wouldn’t be a list of 19 of the best romance novels without a book by Sarah Dessen.
Lock and Key follows Ruby, right after she’s abandoned by her mother and shipped off to live with her estranged sister, Cora. What ensues is a life filled with private school, rich neighbors, and new possibilities. Although she seemingly now has it all, Ruby can’t help but wait for the other shoe to drop. When she meets the cute and mysterious boy next door, she starts to see the good that can come from a little trust and an open heart.
This is a warm-hearted novel that touches on family, self-discovery, and second chances. Sarah Dessen writes her characters with depth, and tells a touching story of what it means to start over and learn to trust.
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith
Recently developed into a Netflix movie, The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight follows Hadley and Oliver as they turn a chance encounter into lasting love. When Hadley misses her flight to London, she meets Oliver while waiting at the gate. What starts out as a conversation between fellow passengers soon turns into a once in a lifetime spark. After losing touch in the crazy London airport, Hadley and Oliver’s reunion is left to chance.
This is a heart-warming story about first love and the small moments that have the power to change the trajectories of our lives.
Amy and Roger’s Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
After losing her father in a car accident, Amy Curry has avoided driving at all costs. When her mom needs her to bring their car from California to their new home in Connecticut, Amy isn’t sure that she has the strength. Luckily, family friend Roger is in need to a trip to the East Coast and is the perfect travel buddy. As they drive across the country, Amy and Roger work through their individual struggles, learn about each other, and fall in love.
This is a sweet story of first love, healing, and new beginnings. It also exudes summer and will have you planning your next roadtrip asap.
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood
After giving up chess forever, Mallory Greenleaf is convinced to make one final tournament appearance. When she defeats world number one Nolan Sawyer, it isn’t long before the sport she once loved, and it’s cash prizes, starts luring her back in. As Nolan and Mallory collaborate, sparks begin to fly on and off the chessboard.
Ali Hazelwood’s debut YA novel is as wonderfully entertaining as you’d expect from this romance author. Full of many of the quintessential Hazelwood tropes, this novel handles the world of chess, family drama, and first love with wit and heart. It’s a sweet, quick, read that will have you rooting for Mallory as she comes into her own.
Emergency Contact by Mary H. K. Choi
Penny Lee is moving away from home, starting college, and hopefully starting on the path to becoming a writer. Sam, on the other hand, is at rock bottom. Or at least what feels like rock bottom. Instead of directing movies like he always dreamed, he’s working and living at a cafe. When the two meet in an unconventional and somewhat embarrassing manner, it starts off a digital relationship that allows them to connect and grow…without having to endure the embarrassment of face to face contact.
I loved this book for it’s ability to accurately convey how painfully awkward it is to be young. Penny and Sam have such a sweet relationship that feels authentic and relatable, and I couldn’t help but love their unconventional ways. This is a tenderhearted telling of first love, and that scary, exciting, first experience of moving away from home.
That wraps up my list of 19 of the best romance novels. If you love the genre and your favorite isn’t mentioned on this list, feel free to drop the title in the comments! I’m always looking for more to read!
Xx, M
Looking for more bookish content? Check out my post, 5 Slightly Unrealistic But Totally Cute Fake Dating Novels!
