The Best Romance Novels By Genre
I’m a sucker for a good love story in any form. The quickest way to get me to read a book is to tell me there is an epic romance. I just love LOVE. That’s why it was so fun to make this list of the best romance novels of all time and list them by genre.
Romances have become so popular in the last decade. They are no longer books to hide away, as was the case through most of the 1990s and early 2000s. There are so many fantastic literary, historical, and fantasy romance books. I wanted to put them all in one place. This way, no matter what type of romance you love to read, I have you covered.
If you are someone who would rather read romances by trope, check out the Ultimate List of Romance Books by Trope. This organizes romances in a completely different way. And the best part, both of these romance lists have different books!
The Best Romance Novels by Genre
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
The Best Literary Romance Novel
Full Bloom by Francesca Serritella- Jump to Section
Best Contemporary Fiction Romance Novel
Dolly All the Time by Annabel Monaghan- Jump to Section
The Best Historical Fiction Romance Novel
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn- Jump to Section
The Best Classic Romance Novel
Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell – Jump to Section
The Best Romcozy Novel
Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto- Jump to Section
Best Adult Fantasy Romance
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas- Jump to Section
Best YA Fantasy Romance
The Faraway Inn by Sarah Beth Durst- Jump to Section
The Best Dystopian Romance
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins- Jump to Section
the Best YA Romance
Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon- Jump to Section
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Literary Romance Novels
Full Bloom
Author: Francesca Serritella
Year: 2025
Genre: Literary Fiction Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Iris is fresh out of a breakup with the man she thought was going to marry her, is facing stagnation in her job, and is stuck in life. She is desperately in need of a fresh start when she goes to her elderly neighbor and gets a custom perfume that has an almost magical effect on her body. With her newfound confidence, she gets a new account at work and attracts the attention of more men than ever before.
As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, she also finally addresses childhood trauma related to the death of her parents, her feelings toward her cousin (who has a drug addiction issue), and her quest to freeze her eggs so she can be a parent someday. Her custom perfume is the impetus for romantic entanglements that give her validation and create more drama than she can keep up with.
Is wearing the perfume and all its rewards worth the hassle? Should she go back to being boring old Iris? Can she figure out who she is at her core and, more importantly, what she wants out of life? And when she does, will she have the courage to reach for it? Each of these questions will be addressed when this book comes to a fantastic conclusion.
Trigger Warnings
Infertility, Fire
Why Kirsten loves it
My obsession with this book is real. I couldn’t put it down. The imagery was so beautifully written that I could picture each scene vividly in my mind as if I were watching a movie. The story is rich, the imagery is lush, and it’s easily one of my favorite books of the year. Gifted by Ballantine Books
Find this book in: Best Fiction Books of 2025 / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2025 Literary Romance Novels / Perfume Fiction Books
Finding Grace
Author: Loretta Rothschild
Year: 2025
Genre: Literary Fiction Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Honor, her husband, Tom, and their daughter Chloe seem like a perfect family. Still, Honor and Tom’s marriage is beginning to show the strains of repeated fertility issues, when something catastrophic happens that will forever alter their future.
Years later, Tom makes a decision that will impact every aspect of his life as he manipulates information, hides truths, and flat-out lies his way into someone’s orbit because of their connection with is family.
Trigger Warnings
Infertility
Why Kirsten loves it
I can’t say much about this story without ruining it, but I will say this. The end of the first chapter had me re-reading because I was so shocked. I cried, I winced, and I felt every moment of this deeply moving literary romance in my bones. I’ve never read a story quite like it. It will be one of my favorite books of the year. I just know it. #Gifted by St. Martins Press
Find this book in: Beach Reads 2025 / Best Books of 2025 / Literary Romance Novels
Dandelion is Dead
Author: Rosie Storey
Release Date: January 13, 2026
Genre: Literary Romance
More info: Debut Author
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
When Poppy breaks her phone, she decides to go to her late sister’s apartment to get her phone. Then she decides to respond to a stranger on Dandelion’s dating app and then meet him for a date on what would have been Dandelion’s 40th birthday. But the minute she meets Jake, she feels a connection to him, almost as if she pretends to be Dandelion, then Dandelion is not really gone.
Now, Poppy is living a double life. In one, she is in a committed long-term relationship with someone who loves her. And in the other, she is Dandelion- fun, carefree, and alive. She has to determine who she really is and what kind of life she wants for herself. Can she live her life when her sister is gone?
Trigger Warnings
Death of a sibling, grief
Why Jackie loves it
This is an unforgettable book about love, grief, and finding yourself and your path. It is also beautifully written and feels like the ups and downs Poppy experiences mimic real life. I was invested in the story the entire time with these imperfect characters whom I loved. #gifted
Find this book in: Novels About Grief / Literary Romance Novels / Romance Novels About Grief / Best Romance Books of 2026
Romance Novels by Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Dolly All the Time
Author: Annabel Monaghan
Release Date: May 26, 2026
Genre: Romance
More info: June 2026 GMA Book Club Pick
New York Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Dolly is a single mom who moves back to Whitfield, Rhode Island, for the summer to help her dad and her brother, who had a TBI when he was much younger. When she comes across Stuart Whitfield, with a flat tire and a dead phone battery, she decides to help him.
He needs someone to help him overcome his recent humiliating public breakup, and proposes that they fake date. Soon, Dolly and Stuart learn to lean on each other for friendship and support. Can Dolly finally depend on someone else?
Why Jackie loves it
This is my favorite book Monaghan has written. I loved the relationship between Dolly and Stuart. They learn to understand what the other needs in the relationship. This is not a knight in shining armor situation- even if there are parts that give “Pretty Woman” vibes. #gifted
Find this book in: Annabel Monaghan Books / Best Beach Reads 2026 / Best Romance Books of 2026
Our Perfect Storm
Author: Carley Fortune
Release Date: May 5, 2026
Genre: Romance
More info: #1 New York Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Frankie and George have been best friends since they were eight years old. They know each other better than anyone, so it is only natural that George be Frankie’s best man at her upcoming wedding. Everything in Frankie’s life seems perfect until her fiancé breaks up with her via a note two days before the wedding. George convinces Frankie that the two of them should go on her honeymoon together as the perfect way to heal her broken heart.
Why Jackie loves it
This is a friends-to-lovers romance that only Carley Fortune could write. It is slow-burn and utterly delicious in every sense! The descriptions of the food and the beautiful island of Tofino were fantastic. I love their relationship as well. Thank you, PRH Audio, for my copy of this book!
Find this book in: Carley Fortune Books / Best Beach Reads 2026 / Best Romance Books of 2026
The Pumpkin Spice Cafe
Author: Laurie Gilmore
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
More info: Dream Harbor #1
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Jeanie needs a change of pace, and it comes when her aunt leaves her a small-town cafe to run. Logan is the local farmer who is grumpy, handsome, and a loner, who is beloved by the town and not looking for love. When someone starts sabotaging Jeanie’s store, Logan can’t sit back and watch her struggle. Instead, he helps acclimate her to the town and catches feelings in the process.
Why Kirsten loves it
I had so many Gilmore Girls flashbacks with this one! I swear I was picturing Luke and Lorelai the entire time I was reading this charming story. I can’t wait to dive into the rest of this series!
Find This Book in: Cozy Fall Books / Coffee Shop Romance Books to Love a Latte
The Deal
Author: Elle Kennedy
Year: 2015
Genre: Romance
More info: Off-Campus #1
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
The first in a series of books set in college about hockey players is also the series that got me hooked on the college romance books sub-genre! This one features a bunch of bachelor hockey players who are the campus hotshots.
To get the attention of the man she really wants, Hannah convinces the cocky captain to go on a pretend date with her in exchange for her tutoring services. Garrett is desperate to get his GPA up so that he can stay on the hockey team and play professionally when he graduates.
But when one kiss leads to a STEAMY hook-up, Hannah needs to reevaluate which man she wants.
Trigger Warnings
Rape
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s very similar to the How to Date a Douchebag series, but it has a bit more heart and a little less humor. This is one of the steamy fake dating books EVER but I loved it.
Adaptation Information
The Off-Campus series is now going to be adapted for TV on Amazon Prime Video in a Bridgerton style, with each season focusing on a different love story. Louise Levy, Wick Godfrey, and Marty Bowen will be producing it. Each book in the series will be one season. Ila Bright and Belmont Cameli will star as Hannah and Garrett in Season 1. Other cast members include Josh Heuston, Antonio Cipriano (Season 3’s lead), Stephen Kalyn (Season 2’s lead), Jalen Thomas Brooks (Season 4’s lead).
Find this book in: College Romances / Sports Romances / Books Set in College / Books About Sports / Books like the Off Campus Series / Off-Campus Series Order
Plot
The story of Eva and Jim takes three separate paths. From when they first meet at University until they die, each time in their life unfolds in alternating stories.
A little hard to follow at first, it becomes increasingly easy as the stories depart in their various directions. The book was a study in the paths untaken. It also showed that what makes us happiest now, might be the worst for our future.
This book depicts real life and how love can change and grow or diminish. I cried at all three endings because I invested so much in Eva and Jim’s story.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a love story unlike any other. You can watch their love story unfold in three different ways.
Find this book in: Best Romance Novels of All Time / Nonlinear Narrative Novels
Historical Fiction Romance Novels
The Duke and I
Author: Julia Quinn
Year: 2000
Genre: Romance
More info: Bridgerton #1
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
There is something about Daphne and Simon that I adore. This book is a perfect historical romance. The Netflix book adaptation smashed records and caused a boom in book sales.
Daphne Bridgerton is the fourth of eight children and is beginning her first season in the ton. As young women of marrying age search for a husband, Daphne is not quite like other girls.
When the eligible Simon Bassett suggests they begin fake dating to allow them both a chance to breathe. However, things do not always go as planned. To make matters more complicated, Lady Whistledown always seems to know the truth, and the information is ready for everyone to read. This is one of our fake dating books of all time.
Why Jackie loves it
I watched the show and LOVED it so much. I previously read some of the others in the series, but I really wanted to read this first book in the Bridgerton book series, and I have to say, it was my favorite.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love a great historical romance, and this one had everything I was looking for – great characters, a steamy romance, and a happy ending.
Find this book in: Fake Dating Books / Bridgerton Books in Order / Best Netflix Adaptations of 2023 / Best British Books / Best Historical Romance Novels / Books like the Off Campus Series
Outlander
Author: Diana Gabaldon
Year: 1991
Genre: Historical Fantasy
More info: Outlander Series Book 1 of 9
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This epic story begins in 1945 when Claire Randall and her husband take a second honeymoon to the Scottish Highlands to celebrate being reunited after the war. When Claire touches one of the standing stones, she is transported to 1743.
This is when the real story begins. In order to stay safe as an English woman in Scotland, Clare must depend on Jamie Frasier for protection. Soon Clare finds herself living in a world she has only read about in history books and torn between two men that she loves. In addition to being a brilliant fiction that is rich in historical details, it is an epic love story as well. For me, this is magical realism at its finest.
Trigger Warnings
Rape, sexual assault, sexual violence
Why Kirsten loves it
How do I love Outlander? I cannot count the ways. There is a reason this is one of my favorite books of all time. I am a huge reader of historical fiction and this one checks all the boxes for me. The characters are rich, the plot is complex without being overly complicated and the epic love story make it almost perfect in my eyes.
Why Jackie loves it
Even though I am not a huge historical fiction connoisseur, I could not put this book down. Even at 640 pages, I did not want it to end and immediately picked up the next book in the series. I love the touch of magical realism that transported Clare back in time 200 years and Gabaldon’s story telling made the characters jump off the page.
Find this book in: Best Romance Novels of All Time / Ultimate List of Historical Fiction/ Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Magical Realism Books / Best Adult Fantasy Novels
Last Christmas in Paris
Author: Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb
Year: 2017
Genre: Historical Fiction
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This book is written entirely in letter form between two friends during WWI. You will fall in love with the characters as they fall for each other. Evie is struggling to find a way to help out during WWI, while Thomas, her brother’s best friend, is struggling with the realities of battle.
Why Kirsten loves it
I just recently started reading WWI books and this one is high on the list. It is such a wonderful holiday book, it truly captures the essence of wartime romance and how love can bloom in the darkest of times.
Find this book in: Best Christmas Books Of All Time/ Books Set in Paris / Epistolary Novels / Best Romance Novels / Christmas Book Club Books / Best Historical Romance Books / WWI Novels
Juliet: A Novel
Author: Anna Fortier
Year: 2010
Genre: Mystery
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 15+
Plot
What if Shakespeare’s Juliet was real and was actually a curse? Alternating between the “real” Juliet’s story and her modern-day descendant’s story, the book proves that love transcends time.
Julie receives a key to a safety deposit box in Italy after her aunt Rose dies. This journey will take her to Siena and to her ancestor, Giulietta Tolomei. The further she digs into her past, she more she learns about her family and the curse that has been following them for centuries.
It’s such a unique and amazing classic retelling and was a no-brainer pick for a list of the best romance novels of all time. The epic love story also makes it perfect for anyone who is looking for mystery, romance, and historical fiction in one book.
Why Kirsten loves it
I ADORE this book set in Italy and have read it numerous times. I can’t put my finger on why this story makes my top 10 favorite books, but it’s a comfort read that I go to whenever I need a pick-me-up. I re-read it again and again! It has a little bit of everything – romance, a mystery, a contemporary and historical element.
Why Jackie loves it
There is something so fairytale-like in this book. It is part historical fiction, part cozy mystery and 100% delight.
Find this book in: Books Set in Italy / Ultimate List of Romance Books / Books Like Outlander / Kirsten’s Favorite Books of All Time / Cozy Mystery Books / Books Set in the Italian Renaissance
Romance Novels By Genre: Classics
Gone with the Wind
Author: Margaret Mitchell
Year: 1939
Genre: Literary Historical Romance
More info: Winner of the Pulitzer Prize
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This is an epic historical literary romance set during the Civil War in Georgia. Scarlett O’Hara is a Southern belle who will secure her future at any cost during a turbulent time. Rhett Butler is determined to win Scarlett’s heart.
This book examines poverty and loss through a woman who was ahead of her time.
Why Kirsten loves it
This classic book has a solid place in a list of the best romance novels of all time. I read this book in college and absolutely fell in love with Scarlett and Rhett. His passion to win her and then her determination to win him back set my adolescent heart a flutter.
Find this book in: Literary Romance Novels / Best Romance Novels of All Time
Pride and Prejudice
Author: Jane Austen
Year: 1813
Genre: Classic Romance
Spice Rating:💋
More: December 2025 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
Age Range: 12+
Plot
We love this classic love story. This love story has everything you could want. Elizabeth Bennet is a smart and stubborn woman who was ahead of her time. With five Bennet girls, one of them must marry well to support the other sisters.
Why Kirsten loves it
There are so many new and wonderful adaptations of this novel, that we did an entire post on it. And you don’t want to miss the other Jane Austen adaptations in the post as well. Austen is a master of romances, and this book is the original enemies-to-lovers novel! It’s my favorite of all the Jane Austen books.
Adaptations
If you are a fan of the book, you probably have very strong feelings about which adaptation you like more – the 2005 Keira Knightley version or the 1995 version with Colin Firth. In 2025, filming started on the latest adaptation, which will become a series for Netflix. The cast includes Emma Corrin (Elizabeth Bennet), Jack Lowden (Mr. Darcy), and Olivia Colman (Mrs. Bennet). Rufus Sewell, Freya Mavor, Jamie Demetriou, Daryl McCormack, Rhea Norwood, Siena Kelly, and Louis Partridge are in the supporting cast.
Find this book in: Books About Sisters / Enemies-to-Lovers Books / Jane Austen Books in Order / Grumpy Sunshine Books / Classic Romance Novels / Books Like Bridgerton / Books Becoming Movies / Read with Jenna Book Club List 2025 / The Best Queen Camilla Book Club Books
Romeo and Juliet
Author: William Shakespeare
Year: 1598
Genre: Literary Romance
More info: The Original Classic Literary Romance
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Romeo and Juliet is usually covered during the high school years, but if you haven’t learned about this classic book, you need to read it!
Shakespeare’s beloved story is a tragic romance set in Verona, Italy. It’s about the children of two warring families, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet, who start meeting in secret away from their parents’ machinations.
In their attempt at finding a life together, tragedy strikes. This is the original star-crossed lovers story.
Trigger Warnings
suicide
Why Kirsten loves it
It is a classic for a reason. I read it in school, and it’s crazy to think that Juliet was supposed to be 13-years-old.
Why Jackie loves it
This play has a new meaning as an adult. I cannot believe how young Romeo and Juliet were. I have a new appreciation for this book after seeing the Broadway play, & Juliet.
Find this book in: Books Like Disney Movies / Classic Romance Novels / Literary Romance Novels
Plot
Are you a fan of Rose’s storyline from Downton Abbey? Well, our swinging-dancing, jazz-loving, rebellious debutante would be perfectly happy inside Fitzgerald’s famed novel.
The book might take place in America, but the same ideas of the class divide and resistance to change in the most opulent of settings could be felt in England too.
Trigger Warnings
Racism, Antisemitism, Classism
Why Kirsten loves it
Daisy and Gatsby’s story still seems so relevant today too. This tragic love story is a classic for a reason.
Find this book in: Books set in New York / Classic Books / 1920s Novels
Romcozy Novels
Dial A for Aunties
Author: Jessie Q Sutano
Year: 2021
Genre: mystery romance
More info: Aunties Book 1 of 3
NPR’s Best Books of 2021
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Meddelin Chen has an amazing, meddling Chinese-Indonesian family. Meddelin and her four Aunts run a wedding business together. When Meddelin accidentally kills her date and he ends up in a cooler at a wedding with two thousand people, what can go wrong? Did I mention that the wedding also happens to be at a hotel where her ex-boyfriend and love works?
Netflix is adapting this comedy of errors and if it is anything like the book, it will be amazing too.
Trigger Warnings
Murder, Car accident, Assault
Why Jackie loves it
I heard great things about this romantic comedy/ murder mystery mashup. It sounds like the weirdest combo, right? This book had me laughing out loud. The characters are flawed which makes them even more loveable, and the absolute chaos is hilarious.
Find this book in: Family Drama Books / Best Beach Reads / Best Books of 2021 / Beach Reads 2022
Plot
Melissa Ferguson writes the best clean romances, so I’m excited to read her mystery romance debut! It’s set on a cruise ship when Pip, organizer of an author cruise and personal assistant to a famed writer, finds her employer has been murdered. Soon, she’s using her amateur detective skills to solve the mystery with the help of Nash, her friendly Western author pal.
Why Kirsten loves it
This sweet story kept me guessing until the end. I’ve been loving the new RomCozy trend, and this clean story delighted! I was feverishly trying to solve the mystery alongside Pip while also swooning over Nash’s attempts to keep her out of harm’s way. Delightful as always, and the cruise ship setting was perfect for this one! #gifted by Thomas Nelson
Find this book in: RomCozy Books / Boat Books / Beach Mystery Books / Best Beach Reads 2026
Plot
I adored this story about a fixer-upper reality TV series and its female lead contractor. From the dead body and subsequent murder mystery to the detailed home renovation discussions, this book has it all.
Throw in a beach setting and some renovation romance, and it’s basically beach-read heaven. All hail Mary Kay Andrews and her amazing summer reads.
Why Kirsten loves it
The Homewreckers is basically HGTV with a dash of murder, and I AM HERE FOR IT!!!
Find this book in: Ultimate Beach Reads 2022 / Books like Fix Her Up / Reality TV Novels
Adult Fantasy Romance Novels
A Court of Thorns and Roses
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Year: 2020
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: #1 Bestselling series
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This book has a cult-like following for a reason. The first book in the series is a loose fairy tale retelling of Beauty and the Beast set in the world of Prythian. Magical creatures, humans, and fae are all prominent in the book.
When Feyre kills a wolf in the words, a creature arrives at her house to drag her to a magical land that she has only heard about in stories told to terrify children. Now, she must remain a captor of Tamlin, a fae, as retribution.
This is a fast-paced, addicting, fantasy romance series with a love triangle that develops by the end of the novel. Book two is jaw-dropping! This series is on its way to becoming a classic that you will want to binge in one week.
While this book is technically the first book in a YA fantasy series, the later books become very steamy. The first book is appropriate for YA but Jackie and I agree that the later books in the series are strictly for 18 and up. We are so excited this is going to be one of the Hulu book adaptations.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love a Beauty and the Beast retelling and love a good fantasy romance. Put them together in a book written by Sarah J. Maas and you get a fantastic story.
Why Jackie loves it
The first book is just a warm-up for the rest of the series. Initially, you think you know where this story is headed, but I promise that it will take so many twists and turns, that you will not want to put this book (and the rest of the series) down.
Find this book in: Popular Fantasy Book Series for Young Adults / Forced Proximity Trope Romance Books / Sarah J Maas Books in Order / Fairy Tale Retellings / Best Books by Jewish Writers / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / ACOTAR Books in order / Royal Fantasy Books
Fourth Wing
Author: Rebecca Yarros
Year: 2023
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: Empyrean Series Book #1 of 5
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
If you have not heard of this book and love fantasy, this is the book for you. Don’t be intimidated by the length of this dragon book. I started and finished this 528-page bad boy in a day and a half. I cannot remember the last time I did that!
Violet Sorrengail had spent her life studying to be a scribe until her father died and her mother, the commanding general, ordered her to join the dragon riders. Violet will become one of the hundreds of candidates who fight to the death to be a part of this elite group.
Unlike the other candidates who have worked towards this their whole lives, Violet is small and brittle and never meant for this to be her path. And other candidates do not have the children of rebel leaders waiting to take revenge.
This adult fantasy book has everything that you would want in a fantasy from epic world-building to amazing abilities, magical creatures, non-stop action, and romance.
Trigger Warnings
Graphic sexual content, death
Why Jackie loves it
I loved every second. It lives up to the hype and then some. The world-building is amazing and the book pulled me in from the first page. Usually the story begins with an event and the story commences after this catalyst moment. Fourth Wing begins after that crucial moment so I felt I was immersed in the story from page one.
Why Kirsten loves it
I don’t know why I waited so long to read this book, but Jackie was right when she told me how much I would love it. Even though I do not usually love world-building, fantasies like this, the plot line and romance throughout this book, kept me hooked the whole time.
Adaptation Information
It’s early days yet, but the rights to turn this book series into a TV series were acquired by Amazon Prime Video. The show will be produced by Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society production company.
Find this book in: Adult Fantasy Books / Fourth Wing Series in Order / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Books Like A Court of Thorns and Roses / Dragon Books for Adults / Books Inspired by The Life of a Showgirl
For More Books Like This: The Best Books Like Fourth Wing
The Time Traveler’s Wife
Year: 2003
Genre: Time Travel Fiction
More info: 2009 Movie starring Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:16+
Plot
Clare and Henry have an unusual love story. They’ve known each other since Clare was six and Henry was thirty-six but were married when Clare was twenty-three and Henry was thirty-one. Henry is an adventurous librarian who inadvertently travels through time.
He never knows where he will turn up and when he will disappear. He knows that he will travel suddenly and without warning. Will Clare and Henry be able to determine what causes the time jumps or is Henry destined to spend the rest of his life wondering and worrying?
Trigger Warnings
Sudden Death
Why Kirsten loves it
I adore how this story explores very real challenges that any couple faces. With the added time travel element, it becomes an unforgettable pick from our list of romance books.
Why Jackie loves it
The way Clare and Henry fight for their love shows a deep connection between the two that is unmatched.
Find this book in: Best Time Travel Books / Time Travel Romance Books / Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Best Romance Novels of All Time / Nonlinear Narrative Novels / Books About Librarians
Young Adult Fantasy Romance Novels
The Faraway Inn
Author: Sarah Beth Durst
Release Date: March 31, 2026
Genre: YA fantasy
More info: New York Times Bestselling author of The Spellshop
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 13+
Plot
Calisa is excited to go stay with her great aunt in Vermont for the summer. She needs to get away from the boy who broke her heart. Auntie Zee runs a bed and breakfast, but rather than the cozy inn she was expecting, it is rundown.
Her aunt is also less than welcoming and tells her she can only stay for three days before she has to go home. Calisa decides that we will help her aunt fix the inn and become invaluable. This way, her aunt will let her stay. She quickly realizes that there is something magical about it as well.
Why Jackie loves it
This is an absolutely adorable, cozy fantasy book. I wanted to curl up by the moving fire in the book and not put it down. I can tell that this book is YA because of the small plot points that feel different from Durst’s adult books. However, I loved it. The magical world that Durst creates is so unique and lovely- I wish it were real!
Find this book in: YA Witch Books / The Ultimate List of YA Fantasy Books / Fantasy Hotel Novels / Best Beach Reads 2026 / Best Fantasy Books of 2026
Heartless Hunter
Author: Kristen Ciccarelli
Year: 2024
Genre: YA Fantasy
More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller, Crimson Moth, book 1 of 2
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This new fantasy book is the first in a series and I am already dying to read the next one.
Witches were once the queens and rulers until the night of the revolution. Now, witches are hunted down and Rune must hide her true identity. During the day, Rune acts like a socialite with nothing on her mind other than parties and gossip. By night, she is the Crimson Moth, a rebel who rescues witches before they can be murdered.
After a rescue went very wrong, she needs info she can only get from Gideon, a witch hunter. The book becomes a deadly game of cat and mouse when Gideon and Rune start to fall for each other.
Why Jackie loves it
This fantasy romance kept me on my toes throughout. Gideon and Rune are the epitome of enemies to lovers with a side of fake-dating. The tension between these two is palpable and the story is page-turning.
Find this book in: Best Enemies-to-Lovers Books/ YA Fantasy Romance Books / Fantasy Duology Books
Children of Blood and Bone
Author: Tomi Adeyemi
Year: 2018
Genre: YA Fantasy
More info: Legacy of Orisha, #1
An Instant New York Times Bestseller, A TIME top 100 Fantasy Books of All Time, A New York Times Notable Children’s Books, A Kirkus Prize Finalist
Age Range: 14+
Plot
When magic disappeared from Orisha, Zelie’s world changed forever. When the king ordered all the Maji killed, Zelie was left without a mother or magic. She is on a quest to find revenge and bring magic back to Orisha (Orisha is a mythical Nigeria). This is one of the fantasy books for teens that builds a whole new world and brings young adult fantasy books to a whole new level.
Zelie must use the help of a princess to escape from the crown prince who wants to finish what his father started and erase all magic permanently. This book is filled with magic, spirits, and danger.
Why Jackie loves it
I enjoyed this book which is the first in a fantasy series for Young Adults. I listened to the amazing audiobook and I loved listening to the story the way that the story was intended to sound.
Find this book in: Fantasy Book Series for Young Adults / The Ultimate List of YA Fantasy Books / YA Books About Witches / 15 Novels About Africa / Books by Female BIPOC Authors / The Best Books Like Fourth Wing
Romance Novels by Genre: Dystopian Fiction
The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Year: 2008
Genre: YA Sci-Fi
More info: Hunger Games #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 10+
Plot
This is the first book in the Hunger Games series and it is epic! In the aftermath of what was once North America, there are 12 Districts surrounding the capital.
Each year, each district sends one boy and one girl to fight to the death in a competition called “The Hunger Games”. Katniss Everdeen volunteers as a tribute to save her younger sister, Prim, from certain death in the games where it is kill-or-be-killed.
Trigger Warnings
Death, Violence
Why Jackie loves it
This sci-fi book has everything, but at its heart, it is a book about family, love, and survival. This book has a heart while also being a total page-turner!
Why Kirsten loves it
I’m not usually a sci-fi girly, but Jackie convinced me to read this one and I finished the entire series in a week and immediately binged the movies!
Find this book in: Books Like The Hunger Games / Young Adult Fantasy Series / Sci-Fi Books / Books Like Fourth Wing / YA Dystopian Novels / Fun Books for Teens / Best YA Romance Books / Books for 11-year-olds / Reality TV Novels
The Selection
Author: Kiera Cass
Year: 2013
Genre: YA Sci-Fi Romance
More info: The Selection #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 12+
Plot
This incredible series is so much fun – think The Hunger Games meets The Bachelor. It’s a reality TV royal match-making contest in a dystopian world. But in this case, the bachelor happens to be the future king. America Singer, our leading lady, is selected against all odds to be a contestant, forcing her to leave behind her love, Aspen.
When America meets Prince Maxon by mistake before the start of the show, she isn’t expecting to be so enamored with him. Should she try to win his heart or stay true to her love for Aspen?
Why Kirsten loves it
I love royal stories, romances, reality TV books, and high drama so this book was made for me! The covers of the series aren’t bad on the eyes either. This series was pure magic and just so fun.
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of my favorite books about royals. It also happens to be the reason that Beyond the Bookends exists, but that is an entirely different story.
Find this book in: Books Like The Selection / Ultimate List of YA Fantasy / Books Like ACOTAR / Books Like the Hunger Games/ YA Dystopian Books / Fun Books for Teens / Best YA Romance Books / Books for 12-year-olds / Reality TV Novels
Romance Novels by Genre: Young Adult
Everything, Everything
Author: Nicola Yoon
Year: 2015
Genre: YA Fiction
More info: #1 New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 12+
Plot
Maddy is a 17-year-old girl who is allergic to everything. She has not been outside since she can remember. Then, one day, she sees a boy outside her window and everything changes. Suddenly, the confines of her house make her feel trapped for the first time in her life and she wants more. As the two become friends, Maddy begins to question what she is willing to risk to live life to the fullest.
Trigger Warnings
Chronic Illness
Why Jackie loves it
This is characterized as a young adult book but is equally compelling for adult readers. Yoon’s writing is smart, to the point and unlike any other author I’ve read. She can make serious, intimidating subjects relatable.
Find this book in: Epistolary Novels / Best Romance Novels of All Time
When Dimple Met Richi
Author: Sandhya Menon
Year: 2017
Genre: YA Romance
More info: A Time Best YA Book of All Time (2021)
New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 12+
Plot
This is a cute YA romance about a traditional Indian boy and a not-so-traditional Indian girl. The characters meet at a computer programming seminar where Richi is supposed to woo his unsuspecting future bride, Dimple.
What is the worst that can happen right? Dimple and Richi clash and connect throughout the story as they try to determine if they really are destined for each other. Their turbulent relationship is perfect for enemies-to-lovers books.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is sweet, fun, and romantic. It is easy to love the characters and cheer them on This YA book is perfect for books like The Kiss Quotient. Dimple and Stella are both women in STEM who know what they want.
Find this book in: Best YA Romance Books / Books by Female BIPOC Authors / Books Like the Kiss Quotient /
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
Author: Jenny Han
Year: 2014
Genre: YA Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 12+
Plot
Imagine if all your past crushes found out you liked them all at once. EEK! That’s what happens to the heroine, Lara Jean Covey when the love letters she wrote get mailed! Now, she’s reached an agreement with her former crush, Peter, to fake a relationship to make his ex jealous. But their relationship is fake—or is it?
Why Kirsten loves it
I love Lara Jean – she is quirky, cute, and reminds me of me in high school – except she gets to date the most popular boy at school. I love this innocent book for middle schoolers looking for their first romance, though as an adult, I enjoyed this one tremendously!
Find this book in: Fake Dating Novels / Coming-of-age Books for Teens / Netflix Book Adaptations / Female Bipoc Authors / Books set in High School / High School Romance Books / Best YA Romance Books / Books like the Off Campus Series
Expert Tip
Kirsten and I know there are so many books on this list. That can make it hard to pick your next book. If you are looking for a way to narrow it down, think about what you are looking for in your next book. Do you have a favorite genre of book you love to read? Did you want to try something new? There is something for everyone on that list. If you still cannot narrow it down, here are some things to consider:
- Have a look at the description, trigger warnings, and spice rating. Kirsten and I have read every one of these books. We give you our thoughts.
- You can check out the article about The Complete List of Romance Tropes. This gives a description of the tropes that are in each of these books. This way, you can also consider the trope when looking at the genre.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did you decide what books belong on a list of the Best Romance Novels of all time?
There are way too many books for Jackie and me to list all the best romances. We carefully selected a few books from each genre that we both loved and gave 5 stars. These are standout books. Some may be familiar, and some may be less familiar. But, all of them are must-reads in the genre.
Epilogue
What did we miss? What do you think are the best romance novels of all time?
