The Greatest Romance Books of All Time Set in California

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 401 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Romance

The Romance category of books typically involves stories that revolve around romantic relationships between two or more characters. These stories often explore themes of love, passion, and intimacy, and may include elements of drama, suspense, or humor. Romance novels can range from sweet and innocent to steamy and erotic, and may be set in a variety of time periods and locations. Overall, the Romance genre offers readers a chance to escape into a world of love and romance, where anything is possible.

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  1. 1. Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin

    "Tales of the City" is a collection of interconnected stories set in 1970s San Francisco, focusing on the lives and experiences of a diverse group of residents living in the same apartment complex. The narrative explores various themes such as love, friendship, sexuality, and identity, providing a vivid snapshot of life in this iconic city during a transformative period of social change. The book is known for its candid portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and issues, a groundbreaking approach at the time of its publication.

    The 1022nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Graduate by Charles Webb

    A recent college graduate, unsure of his future, begins an affair with the wife of his father's business partner. He later falls in love with her daughter, leading to a series of complicated and dramatic events. The narrative explores themes of disillusionment, rebellion, and the societal pressures faced by young adults.

    The 1426th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Bid Time Return by Richard Matheson

    The novel centers around a disenchanted and lonely playwright who, while staying at a historic hotel, becomes captivated by a photograph of a beautiful stage actress from the late 19th century. Obsessively drawn to her, he discovers a way to time travel and meets the actress in the past, where they embark on a deeply passionate and bittersweet romance. As he navigates the complexities of time and love, he must confront the heart-wrenching reality that their time together may be fleeting and that their love, while timeless, faces insurmountable obstacles.

    The 4135th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. If Only It Were True by Marc Levy

    The story revolves around Arthur, a young architect in San Francisco, who discovers a woman named Lauren living in his closet. To his astonishment, Lauren is actually in a coma in a nearby hospital, and her spirit has somehow found its way to his apartment. As Arthur grapples with the surreal situation, he and Lauren form a deep bond, embarking on a journey to uncover the mystery behind her condition and find a way to reunite her spirit with her body. Their connection transcends the boundaries of reality, exploring themes of love, hope, and the extraordinary possibilities that life can offer.

    The 4384th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Mark Of Zorro by Johnston McCulley

    The Curse of Capistrano

    This classic adventure novel is set in early 19th century California, under Spanish rule. It tells the story of Don Diego Vega, a seemingly effete and foppish nobleman, who leads a double life as the masked outlaw Zorro. Zorro champions the oppressed and fights the corrupt government and its officials, using his wit, swordsmanship, and acrobatic skills. The story weaves together themes of justice, honor, and romance, as Zorro navigates his secret identity, battles villains, and wins the heart of the beautiful Lolita Pulido. Through daring escapades and a quest for justice, Zorro leaves his mark as a symbol of hope and resistance against tyranny.

    The 4878th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Gift Of Gold by Jayne Ann Krentz

    A Novel of Suspense

    In this romantic suspense novel, a talented and independent art gallery owner finds herself entangled in a web of mystery and danger when she encounters a charismatic and enigmatic man with a hidden past. As they are drawn together by a shared quest to uncover the truth behind a series of art thefts, their relationship deepens, revealing secrets and vulnerabilities. Amidst the intrigue and deception, they must navigate their growing attraction and trust each other to overcome the threats that loom over them, ultimately discovering that love can be the most precious gift of all.

    The 5285th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Virgin River by Robyn Carr

    In this heartwarming romance novel, a recently widowed nurse seeking a fresh start moves to a remote town in Northern California, hoping for peace and solitude. Instead, she finds herself drawn into the close-knit community and its charming, yet gruff, local bar owner. As she navigates the challenges of small-town life and her own grief, she discovers unexpected friendships and a chance at new love, ultimately finding healing and a sense of belonging in the unlikeliest of places.

    The 6831st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Carter Beats The Devil by Glen David Gold

    Set in the early 20th century, this novel follows the life of a renowned magician, Charles Carter, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of deception and intrigue after he performs a trick on President Harding, who dies mysteriously hours later. Carter is forced to use his skills to clear his name, while also dealing with other challenges including a beautiful, elusive woman, a blind lion tamer, and a rivalry with Houdini. This historical novel weaves together a tale of magic, love, and suspense.

    The 6849th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

    The novel chronicles the meteoric rise and tumultuous fall of a fictional 1970s rock band, focusing on the complex relationships and personal struggles of its members. Through a series of interview-style narratives, the story delves into the creative and emotional dynamics between the enigmatic lead singer, Daisy Jones, and the band's charismatic frontman, Billy Dunne. As they navigate fame, addiction, and conflicting ambitions, the band's journey is marked by intense passion, artistic brilliance, and inevitable heartbreak, ultimately revealing the cost of their legendary status.

    The 7639th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory

    The story revolves around Alexa Monroe and Drew Nichols, who meet unexpectedly in a hotel elevator and agree to attend a wedding together as each other's date. What begins as a convenient arrangement quickly evolves into a deeper connection as they navigate the complexities of their personal and professional lives. Through a series of romantic and humorous encounters, they explore themes of love, commitment, and the challenges of maintaining a relationship across distances, ultimately discovering the importance of communication and trust.

    The 7800th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Bride Test by Helen Hoang

    The novel is a heartwarming romance that follows Khai, a young Vietnamese-American man on the autism spectrum who struggles with emotions, and Esme, a resourceful woman from Vietnam who is brought to America by Khai's mother in hopes of finding a bride for her son. As Esme navigates cultural differences and her own aspirations, she gradually breaks through Khai's emotional barriers, challenging his belief that he is incapable of love. Through their journey, both characters learn about acceptance, understanding, and the complexities of love, ultimately discovering that true connection transcends preconceived notions and societal expectations.

    The 7947th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Xeni by Rebekah Weatherspoon

    A Dirty British Novella

    In this contemporary romance, the protagonist finds herself in an unexpected situation when she must marry a charming Scottish musician to fulfill the peculiar conditions of her late aunt's will. As they navigate their unconventional arrangement, both characters confront personal challenges and past traumas, leading to genuine emotional growth and a deepening connection. The story explores themes of love, trust, and self-discovery, all while blending humor and heartfelt moments in a journey towards an authentic partnership.

    The 7947th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Margins by Terri de la Peña

    "Margins" is a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of identity, culture, and sexuality through the lens of a young Chicana lesbian living in Southern California. The protagonist navigates the challenges of coming out to her traditional Mexican-American family while seeking acceptance and understanding. The novel explores the intersections of her life as she deals with the pressures of societal norms, the dynamics of her close-knit community, and her personal journey towards self-acceptance and love. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s, the story provides a poignant look at the struggles faced by LGBTQ individuals within the Latino community, highlighting themes of resilience, empowerment, and the quest for one's place on the margins of mainstream society.

    The 8207th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Last Night At The Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo

    Set in 1950s San Francisco, the story follows a Chinese-American teenager navigating the complexities of identity, family expectations, and first love amidst the backdrop of McCarthy-era paranoia. As she discovers a hidden lesbian nightclub, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and romance, challenging societal norms and her own cultural constraints. The narrative explores themes of belonging, love, and the courage to embrace one's true self in a time of fear and repression.

    The 8478th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

    In this novel, a young transgender boy named Yadriel, determined to prove his identity to his traditional Latinx family, embarks on a journey to become a real brujo. After performing a ritual to summon the spirit of his murdered cousin, Yadriel accidentally summons the ghost of Julian Diaz, a rebellious classmate with unfinished business. As Yadriel and Julian grow closer while unraveling the mystery of Julian's death, they navigate themes of acceptance, identity, and love, ultimately challenging cultural norms and embracing their true selves.

    The 8736th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade

    The Sweetest Romance

    In this contemporary romance, a successful geologist and fanfiction writer named April Whittier decides to embrace her true self by posting a picture of her cosplay online, which unexpectedly leads to a date with her celebrity crush, Marcus Caster-Rupp, the star of her favorite TV show. As their relationship develops, both April and Marcus must confront their insecurities and the secrets they've been keeping, particularly Marcus's hidden identity as a fellow fanfiction writer. Through humor and heartfelt moments, the story explores themes of self-acceptance, the impact of fandom culture, and the courage it takes to be authentic in love and life.

    The 8736th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Idea Of You by Robinne Lee

    The novel centers on Solène Marchand, a sophisticated 39-year-old art gallery owner and single mother, who unexpectedly finds herself entangled in a passionate romance with Hayes Campbell, a 20-year-old member of a globally famous boy band. As their relationship intensifies, Solène grapples with the complexities of their age difference, the public scrutiny, and the impact on her personal and professional life. The story delves into themes of desire, identity, and the sacrifices one makes for love, ultimately questioning the boundaries of societal norms and personal fulfillment.

    The 10505th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

    The novel weaves together multiple storylines spanning across different eras, from the 1960s Italian coastline to modern-day Hollywood. It centers around an almost-love affair between a young Italian innkeeper and an American actress who is believed to be dying. The narrative explores the complex interplay between life and art, love and dreams, as it moves through time and space, connecting a diverse cast of characters whose paths intersect in unexpected ways. The story delves into themes of missed opportunities, the impact of the past on the present, and the enduring allure of fame and ambition, all set against the backdrop of a changing cultural landscape.

    The 12495th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Splendid Idle Forties by Gertrude Atherton

    Stories of Old California

    Set in the vibrant and culturally rich backdrop of 19th-century California, this collection of stories delves into the lives of the Spanish and Mexican elite during a period of transition and change. The narratives explore themes of love, honor, and societal expectations, capturing the essence of a bygone era with vivid descriptions and complex characters. Through a series of interconnected tales, the book paints a poignant picture of a world where tradition and modernity collide, revealing the intricate dynamics of a community on the brink of transformation.

    The 12475th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download