"A fab romance novel I have read and re-read is Cry No More by Linda Howard, a classic! Written at a time when most romantic heroines were preternaturally pretty, the headstrong, wilful, yet utterly average Jane is a subversive breath of fresh air or should we say Eyre? This playful romcom reminded me of the pillars of romance: juicy conflict, lovable characters, and pacing that never quits. From iconic scenes like the balcony soliloquy, to legendary one-liners (A plague o both your houses, anyone? the flawed but indomitable human spirit. Dante is an open-hearted know-it-all, still figuring out who he is. Plus, did I mention this is set in 14th century Scotland? heroine Trixie Nguyen is determined to make her sex toy business a successand prove her traditional Vietnamese . The storyline, the richly described setting, and her flawed but likable characters, has made this a must-readand a re-readfor me. Topics are things like World War 1, dinosaurs, grief, or jazz. Its 1987 and a hot summers day in El Paso, Texas, when Ari and Dante meet at a swimming pool. This is no easy task for a wealthy, successful woman like Stella, who also happens to have Asperger's. I second Beautiful Player by Christina Lauren and How Not to Fall by Emily Foster that others have mentioned, along with {The Countess Conspiracy by Courtney Milan} and anything by Rachel Grant (she writes romantic suspense and all her heroines are very smart), The Countess Conspiracy (Brothers Sinister, #3), By: Courtney Milan | 309 pages | Published: 2013 | Popular Shelves: romance, historical-romance, historical, historical-fiction, fiction | Search "The Countess Conspiracy by Courtney Milan", 88413 books suggested | Bug? By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Caustic, dashing Cavalier commander Justin Ambrose is posted to Bunbury in Oxfordshire to cool his heels after insulting one of the Kings favourites. Despite his dalliances and the passing of decades, when the man who married his childhood sweetheart dies, a now elderly Florentino seizes the opportunity to declare his love once more. A nave white man who needs rescuing from a whorehouse, hes the perfect man for her job. romantic love, Lady Meriel de Vere is a noble-born Norman, but circumstances force her into pretending to be a Welsh commoner. The best historical romance novels must all make great TV, because heres another one that inspired a super sexy series. One of the most well-known and well received historical romance novels of all time, this regency read has had readers seriously hot under the starched collar for 25 years. (Case in point: the elevator scene.) When Ransom, Lord Falconer arrives to meet the reclusive inventor, hes stunned to discover that its a beautiful woman. as one of their favorite books, and they share Convincing Anh that Olive is dating and well on her way to a happily ever after was always going to take more than hand-wavy Jedi mind tricks: Scientists require proof. A highflying mathematician, shes never put much thought into finding a romantic partner. Reid delivers on smart romance where both characters push each other to grow and this was a great new adult romance series from her. Stella is a beautifully smart character who approaches love the way she approaches econometrics, which means she has everything to learn from her fake date/escort who becomes very real in short order. Readers looking for a tentative slow burn and a strong female lead will find a perfect match in Roberts charming Vision in White. One of my faves :). A grittier take on young adult romance, More Happy Than Not goes deep into themes of depression, homophobia, and suicide, while exploring the scientific possibilities of the not-too-distant future. If theres one thing more exciting than erotic fiction, its vintage erotic fiction. The bastard daughter of an innkeeper, Felicia knows she is destined for an uneventful life. why you should read it. Annabelle needs a rich husband, and fast. A gothic novel of intense passion, betrayal, and bitter vengeance underpinned by the quiet beauty of Bronts lyricism Wuthering Heights is an iconoclastic masterpiece that has inspired film-makers, novelists, poets, and song-writers for generations. 45 Billionaire Romance Novels Featuring Hot Heroes with Big Bank The entire concept of her training and occupation makes this one of the more unusual historical romances! 15 Romance Books about Disability that aren't like Me Before You Something went wrong with your request. So I just finished reading Heavy by Cate C Wells about a hacker heroine with autism and the president of a motorcycle club. When the unpopular businessman Gregory Matthews suddenly dies, the police immediately suspect his whole family. Her (very) distant cousin Iain, Lord Randal could not be more different: hes a sophisticated, urbane Englishman who treats Scotland as basically just a hunting box, although his ancestry stems from there too. Debut author Sally Thorne bursts on the scene with a hilarious and sexy workplace comedy all about that thin, fine line between hate and love. Very few other books are so intrinsically connected to a place like this one is. They meet when Jocelyn moves to Edinburgh and takes up an apartment in a building owned by Braden. As the seasons change, and Tess changes with them, its clear that she identifies most with the natural world and it is here that the intensity of Hardys imagination comes into its own. . Enter: Augustus Waters. Albertallis feel-good novel is still able, however, to flirt with some bigger questions about homophobia and the experience of being a closeted teen in the American South. Early on heroines tended to be normatively slim with perky breasts. Keep an eye on your inbox. As she grows closer to the Duke of Jervaux, Maddy begins to realise his playboy facade conceals hidden depths. why you should read it. Shes spent the last 12 years being a criminal, as bad as any in the gang. 4 Remedial Rocket Science The race to the moon is on, and engineer Eugene Parsons has two enemies: danger and distraction. Can the two find any common ground, or will misunderstanding keep them at odds? pages | Published: 2014 | Popular Shelves: romance, new-adult, kindle, contemporary, contemporary-romance | Search "imperfect chemistry by mary frame", 88333 books suggested | Bug? I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Through their parallel experiences of love and heartbreak, will these two young women learn to strike a balance between wearing your heart on your sleeve and concealing your true feelings? He expects to be bored stiff. Under a veneer of good-natured idiocy lies a master manipulator who does not intend to let the most interesting woman hes ever met out of his grasp. Add one sharp-tongued mathematician to an aloof, handsome nobleman. Who says math cant be sexy? For three years, Hazels life has been nothing but terminal. Its also absolutely brimming with emotion its so well-written that I find reading some parts of it physically painful, because of how much it affects me. Handsome, charismatic, genius--his image is pure millennial-marketing gold for the White House. A member of a wealthy, free Black family, Galen Vachon has a lot to lose when he decides to become a member of the Underground railroad network, and join the effort to free enslaved Southerners. The best romance novels with brilliant, brainy heroines - Shepherd A controversial presentation of Civil-War era America, Gone With the Wind explores the complexities of both romantic and platonic love. 1 Theres no way he can risk everything hes built up for Eddy, a young black woman he saves from death in the desert. Bonus if its a biker or mafia romance with an alpha male hero of course. Her twin sister Wren used to be the same, But now theyre in college, Wren has lost interest in geeky pursuits shes far too busy partying, making friends, and being cool. If youve seen the incomparable Vivien Leigh bring her to life on screen, its time to meet Scarlett on the page. They are witty, fun romps about a turn of the century, independently wealthy, self-made egyptologist/archeologist. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Luckily for you, Aciman released a sequel last year so you wont have to say goodbye to Elio and Oliver just yet. But as they work on restoring a rundown traveling circus, their growing influence on each other becomes impossible to ignore. Its as gorgeous as it was groundbreaking. It takes place during the 12th century Anarchy, the period of English civil strife when Matilda battled Stephen for the crown. Luckily, handsome doctor Carlos is there to sweep her away from the frenzy and into an epic rebound of food, fun, and fantastic sex. Shes also lost interest in Cath. Its 1986 when Eleanor arrives in her new town, all chaotic red hair and mismatched clothes. 91 Chapters Every 2.2 Day (s) 854 Readers 6 Reviews 03-02-2023. India, 1857: Englishwoman Emmaline Martin is falling in love with Julian Sinclair, the future Duke of Auburn. So I just finished reading Heavy by Cate C Wells about a hacker heroine with autism and the president of a motorcycle club. Brainy/Genius Romantic Heroes For all those genius, highly intelligent, scientific-minded, critically-thinking heroes in romance! Perfect to read on vacation without freaking yourself out even if youre staying at a cabin in the woods? Despite agreeing to nurse Galen back to health, their clashing personalities lead Hester to wonder whether she can keep her promise not to mention the hostile forces that have started to come looking for him. Trigger warnings for attempted rape scenes. The emotional heart of the novel lies in the illicit relationship between Meggie, the daughter of the family, and Ralph, a priest in the local parish. as one of their favorite books, and they share Princess Ai Lee is forced to flee home before her wedding, armed only with a pair of delicate butterfly swords. When she comes across Ryam, a jaded blue-eyed warrior, she hires him to help her get back to her family and warn them of the impending danger. ), By: Emma Barry, Genevieve Turner | 244 pages | Published: 2016 | Popular Shelves: romance, historical, historical-romance, romance-historical, ebook | Search "Earth Bound by Emma Barry". Thats what happens to Lara Jean, a sixteen-year-old girl whose life is turned upside down when letters shes written to all the boys shes ever loved letters that the recipients were never supposed to see are sent. 24 Unusual Historical Romances. With a publication date of 1958, this is the second-oldest book on my list and one of the absolute best. Is it worth another shot? In sexy bitesize chunks, Nin regales us with stories of torrid love affairs and passionate trysts, told in what Nin herself refers to as women's language, seeing sexual experience from a woman's point of view. Its a charming and sweet read, but, be warned its another Sparks tear-jerker. 80s Wife Is Sweet and Sassy. In the eyes of the town, Delilah Desmond is the devils daughter. Her task is to collect aura of a female lead and prevent each world from collapsing. And some people love books about falling in love. Happy Endings guaranteed. A modern classic of LGBT+ literature, this exploration of first love and sexual awakening is vividly realised, and astonishingly honest. Brainy/Genius Romantic Heroines For all those genius, highly intelligent, scientific-minded, critically-thinking heroines in romance! show more. The story of Eva, a sexual assault survivor navigating her way to a healthy romantic life is surprisingly heartfelt. Its that pure, fear-laced, heartbreaking kind of love you only experience when youre sixteen and trust us, your heart will melt. She takes a seat on the school bus and finds herself next to Park quiet, understated, and impossibly cool. . The silver devil himself is also a completely unique character, but probably the truest representation of a Machiavellian antihero in fiction. Things quickly become unsettling, as the protagonist learns of the troubling questions surrounding Maxims previous wife, Rebecca, whose spectre haunts their relationship. Lists are re-scored approximately every 5 minutes. If youre a die-hard fan of the television phenomenon Poldark, youll be delighted to hear that there are twelve (yes, twelve) novels to consume. Will they? The quintessential love story that has spawned countless retellings and inspired who knows how many writers, Shakespeares Romeo and Juliet the story of two star-crossed lovers from rival houses wrote many of the rules of tragic romance. Hes been passing as white and is even engaged to a wealthy white woman. Christabel LaMotte and Maud Bailey in Possession by AS Byatt. For those inspired by stories of love in the time of war, Birdsong evokes classics like War and Peace, wrapping wartime drama in a healthy coating of romance, intrigue, and sacrifices for the greater good. is how we fund this project for readers and authors (learn more). Her life is suddenly anything but uneventful as she enters the violent politics of Renaissance Italy. First we have Peggy Grahame, a 17-year-old girl who goes to live with her uncle Enos. It might be a classic romance trope, but this knotty love triangle will have you on the edge of your seat to the very end. And for his part, Jeremys the guy you love to hate until you just fall for him completely. A recent release thats already considered vintage Allende, A Long Petal of the Sea is suffused with a vibrant sense of time and place as it traces its story through forty years of authoritarian rule in Spain. show more. Their attraction is dangerous, forbidden and difficult to resist. Hazelwoods book is funny, human, quirky, swoony, and delicious from page one. Its stifling, but in the best way. Weve compiled a list of our all-time favorite romance novels, from historical regency romance to contemporary novels tackling love in the digital age. With every launch, their secret affair grows thornier. Despite her Quaker upbringing and the brutality of their surroundings, the unlikely pair find themselves swept up in a passionate and intense love affair. Type your search request after where it says site:reddit.com/r/romancebooks. When Sophia Stanton-Lacy is dropped on her aunts doorstep by her diplomat father, shes not quite what any of her extended family were expecting. Sally Rooney was recognised as both a gifted writer and a perceptive and nuanced observer, when she released her debut novel Conversations With Friends. In the course of her duties she meets Colin Faulkner, Earl of Clifton. Theres a strong historical element with the presence of Robert the Bruce as a character. Another Rainbow Rowell novel met with critical acclaim, Eleanor & Park is an urgent, breathless, gut-punch of a love story about two teen misfits and one life-changing school year. why you should read it. Dont sleep on this one! Brainy/Genius Romantic Heroes flag All Votes Add Books To This List Previous 1 2 3 Next Readying herself to compete for the prestigious Rosewood Prize for Mathematics, she is suddenly asked to take on another responsibilitymanaging Athenas Retreat, a secret haven for Englands women scientists. When Anna runs away with the handsome Count Vronsky, excitement gives way to paranoia, isolation, and regret, as we witness the unravelling of their relationship, and of Anna herself. If youre one who enjoys indulging in dark romance plots with thriller or mystery elements, du Mauriers novel may be one for you. The third and final instalment in our ode to romance titan Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility is a novel of lies, secrets, and seduction. Its the book that led a generation of teenage girls to genuinely debate whether vampires or werewolves were hotter, and that launched an entire renaissance of paranormal romance books. A spoof fairy tale, a sharp satire, and a rocket-powered fantasy, all brilliantly disguised as a love story theres absolutely nothing fluffy about The Princess Bride. Will Sebastian do whats right to save Jessicas reputation, or is he really as unscrupulous as she always suspected? Everyone except for coldly efficient, impeccably attired, physically intimidating Joshua Templeman. A PopSugar and BookBub Most Anticipated Romance of 2022!How do you solve the Perfect Equation? No matter what the critics say, its the definitive high school romance turned struggle against a vampiric death cult so why not revisit Twilight mania, and see what all the hype was about? 2 As our mysterious, elderly narrator unpacks these nesting dolls, we gradually learn about the love affair between our protagonists. On more than one occasion she proves herself willing to murder those she loves, and its a long while before she comes to terms with the atrocities which were done to her. An internet phenomenon that has a special place in the hearts of superfans everywhere, Rainbow Rowells young adult romance is as charming as it is candid. Thats not to say hes been bored: hes passed the time by having no fewer than 622 love affairs, which he has painstakingly recorded in his notebooks. 535 books Enter Michael, a handsome escort, who usually doesnt do repeat customers. A charming, and unremarkably handsome amputee with an alarming optimism for life, Gus is a much-needed plot twist in the story of Hazel Grace. Space junk has a female protagonist who's a rocket scientist. She doesnt reluctantly tolerate him. Self-assured, confident, and more than a touch rebellious, the beautiful and charismatic Sophy sweeps through London like a breath of fresh air. 50 Best Romance Novels of 2021 So Far - Oprah Daily Now theyre up for the same promotion, and this bitter workplace rivalry is about to reach boiling point. On the face of things, they have nothing in common. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our website. * Instant NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY bestseller ** GOODREADS CHOICE AWARD WINNER for BEST DEBUT and BEST ROMANCE of 2019 ** BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR* for VOGUE, NPR, VANITY FAIR, and more! Teenage sweethearts, they broke up when Harriet moved away to college, breaking Sallys heart. Go to jail or marry the mystery man her father has set her up with headstrong Daisy Devreaux chooses the latter. Heroine is a very smart and awkward undergrad in her last semester, about to go off to get an MD-PH.D at Harvard/MIT. Her family are in dire financial straits, and she must use every tool at her disposal to save them. Both are intensely reserved, struggle with expressing their emotions, and end up with charming heroes strong enough to withstand their ice. Her appearance is unapologetically masculine shes tall and bony, which is why she gets away with her disguise for so long. This refreshingly honest presentation of teenage sexuality was deeply controversial because of its raunchy subject matter its even been banned from several libraries but it remains a classic. But they can never be together, because the year is 1811, and an entire continent plus her loyalty to her father lie between them. DM me! In India, they call him a traitor. Hero by Samantha Young This slow burn, hate-to-love romance tells the story of a photographer's assistant trying to make up for her father's indiscretions and the corporate mogul who doesn't want to forgive her for her family's mistakes. Felicite lives in New Orleans, a tense place to be while the France is transferring its colony Louisiana to Spain (1770s). Over the years, and long before Barbie got her new body, romance novels also changed the portrayal of women's bodies. Probably the best romance novel of 2019, Casey McQuistons queer, royal love story didnt just take the New York Times bestseller list by storm, it broke the internet. Popular and outgoing class president Landon doesnt think he has much in common with the preachers daughter Jamie, until circumstance forces them together. This is a fairly short novella, but worth reading for its depiction of an early modern woman of colour. So begins Judy Blumes Forever Is it any wonder that this YA book has been a favorite under-the-covers read ever since its release in the 70s? Chef heroine has escaped an abusive relationship and returned home to start a food truck; falls for the gruff-but-kind chef next door. by. She has only one goal: to take revenge on the FitzHughs who murdered her family. r/RomanceBooks is a discussion sub for readers of romance novels. list created December 21st, 2013 Its an intimate love story of deceptive simplicity: Marianne and Connell are two mismatched young people unlikely friends, unlikely lovers who share a profound understanding. In this book, watching Melody hold her ground in the face of wayward Jeremy made my heart happyshes funny, smart, and willing to put her heart on the line when it matters. Hmph. Amazon | Goodreads | My Review Been There Done That The action begins at a royal wedding, when Alex is told to play nice with his childhood nemesis, the Prince of Wales. Diagnosed with incurable cancer at the age of thirteen, shes never had the chance to experience the thrilling awkwardness of being a teenager. Recently left quadriplegic by a motorcycle accident, his formerly fast-paced life has ground to a halt. This looks like an average Regency noble, complete with duke, butit has the wackiest plot ever. As the famous pair fake a bromance for the cameras, behind the scenes well, you know where this is going. But dont be fooled. Dripping with longing and regret, and steered by two deeply vulnerable characters, this novel remains immensely readable one of the best romance novels of the 21st century. Academy Fantasy World Possession Romance Fantasy. and our Top 10 flawed romantic heroines | Top 10s | guardian.co.uk Books This wonderful, wonderful book delivers two romantic heroines for the price of one: Christabel, the 19th-century poet who pays the . Tragically, she died in a car crash in the mid-80s, so these are her only two books. why you should read it. Request sparked by listening to the acoustic version of the Jason Mraz song "If It Kills Me" earlier this morning haha. This story of recovery even shows up in comedies. In It Had To Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips, winner of 1994 Best Romance Award, the first chapter is set at the funeral of the heroine's father, a ruthless businessman and owner of the Chicago Stars NFL team. Before the summer is out, January must write the next great work of literary fiction, while Gus has to pen a bestselling romance novel.