The Greatest Romance Books Since 1990

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 759 '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.

Follow on:

What should I read next?

Get personalized book recommendations based on your reading history and preferences. Our algorithm analyzes your favorite books and reading patterns to suggest your next great read.

Get Recommendations

Genres

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.

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Date Range

Filter books by their publication year. Enter the earliest year (Start) and latest year (End) to find books published within that period. Leave either field empty to search from the beginning of time or up to the present day.

Filter

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

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download
View: List Grid Table
Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
  1. 51. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne

    In this delightful romantic comedy, Lucy and Joshua are co-workers who despise each other. Constantly engaged in a battle of wits and pranks, their intense rivalry begins to blur the lines between love and hate. As they compete for a promotion, their relationship takes unexpected turns, revealing hidden feelings and a deeper connection. With a mix of humor, chemistry, and undeniable attraction, "The Hating Game" explores the thin line between love and hate in a workplace setting.

    The 6531st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 52. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

    Set during the California Gold Rush, the story follows Angel, a woman sold into prostitution as a child, who meets Michael Hosea, a devout farmer who feels called by God to marry her and show her unconditional love. Despite her initial resistance and struggles with self-worth and trust, Angel gradually learns to accept love and forgiveness, ultimately finding redemption and healing through faith and the transformative power of love. The narrative explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring strength of love in overcoming past traumas.

    The 6619th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 53. Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake by Sarah MacLean

    Love by Numbers

    In this historical romance novel, a spirited and unconventional lady named Lady Calpurnia Hartwell decides to break free from societal constraints by creating a list of nine daring rules to live by, including actions like firing a pistol and gambling at a gentlemen's club. Her quest for adventure leads her into the path of the charming and notorious rake, Gabriel St. John, the Marquess of Ralston. As Callie embarks on her journey of self-discovery, she and Gabriel find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other, challenging societal norms and discovering love in the most unexpected ways.

    The 6651st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  4. 54. Simon Vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli

    The book centers around a high school junior named Simon who is not openly gay and prefers to save his drama for the school musical. However, when an email falls into the wrong hands, his secret is at risk of being thrust into the spotlight. Now, Simon is being blackmailed, and he must step out of his comfort zone before he's outed against his will or worse, the privacy of Blue, the pen name of the boy he's been emailing, will be compromised. As he navigates through friendship, blackmail, and the prospect of love, Simon must find a way to be true to himself while also trying to decode the identity of the anonymous classmate he has fallen for online.

    The 6685th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  5. 55. The Mac Gregor Grooms by Nora Roberts

    In this delightful romance, the ever-meddling patriarch, Daniel MacGregor, is at it again, orchestrating love matches for his grandsons. Determined to see his family settled, he sets his sights on three of his grandsons, each with their own unique personalities and challenges. Through a series of charming and humorous encounters, the young men find themselves entangled in unexpected romances that test their hearts and resolve. With a blend of humor, warmth, and a touch of matchmaking magic, this story weaves together the lives of the MacGregor family, showcasing the power of love and the importance of family bonds.

    The 6708th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  6. 56. Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

    This novel unfolds the glamorous yet tumultuous life of aging Hollywood icon, Evelyn Hugo, as she decides to finally reveal the truth about her scandalous life and her marriages to seven men. Through an exclusive interview with an unknown magazine reporter, Evelyn's story traverses decades of her career, uncovering the ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love that defined her. The narrative delves deep into themes of identity, love, and the price of fame, as Evelyn's complex character—her triumphs and her failures—is laid bare against the backdrop of the golden age of Hollywood.

    The 6818th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  7. 57. Bared To You by Sylvia Day

    A Crossfire Novel

    "Bared To You" is an intense and passionate novel that explores the complicated relationship between Eva and Gideon, two damaged individuals with dark pasts. As they navigate their intense physical attraction and emotional connection, they must confront their personal demons and learn to trust each other. With steamy scenes and complex characters, this book delves into themes of love, trauma, and self-discovery.

    The 6892nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  8. 58. The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley

    In this captivating historical novel, a modern-day author, Carrie McClelland, travels to the rugged coast of Scotland to research her latest book, only to find herself inexplicably drawn to the ruins of Slains Castle. As she delves deeper into the past, she uncovers the story of her ancestor, Sophia, who lived during the early 18th century amidst the Jacobite uprisings. Through a series of vivid and haunting visions, Carrie experiences Sophia's life and love, blurring the lines between past and present. The novel weaves together themes of love, loyalty, and the enduring power of memory, creating a rich tapestry that spans centuries.

    The 6898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  9. 59. Raymond And Hannah by Stephen Marche

    The novel explores the intense and passionate relationship between two characters, Raymond and Hannah, who are separated by distance when Hannah travels to Jerusalem for a year-long study program. Despite the physical separation, their connection deepens through a series of emails and letters, revealing their innermost thoughts and desires. The story delves into themes of love, longing, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship across continents, capturing the emotional turbulence and growth experienced by both characters as they navigate their individual paths while trying to hold onto their bond.

    The 6902nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  10. 60. The Duchess by Bertrice Small

    Set in the opulent world of 18th-century England, the story follows the life of a young and spirited noblewoman who is thrust into a whirlwind of political intrigue, romance, and societal expectations. As she navigates the treacherous waters of aristocratic society, she must balance her desires for love and independence with the demands of her family and the pressures of her status. With her intelligence and charm, she challenges the norms of her time, seeking to carve out her own destiny amidst the glittering yet perilous world of the elite.

    The 6969th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  11. 61. Lord Perfect by Loretta Chase

    In this historical romance, a prim and proper nobleman finds his orderly life disrupted when he becomes entangled with a spirited woman and her mischievous niece. As they embark on a journey filled with unexpected adventures and challenges, the nobleman and the woman discover a deep connection that defies societal expectations. Their growing affection is tested by family obligations and personal dilemmas, leading them to confront their fears and desires. Ultimately, they must decide whether to adhere to the constraints of their social standing or embrace the possibility of love and happiness together.

    The 6988th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  12. 62. A Summer To Remember by Mary Balogh

    In this enchanting Regency romance, a young woman named Lauren Edgeworth, who has been jilted at the altar, finds herself unexpectedly drawn into a marriage of convenience with the charming and rakish Kit Butler, Viscount Ravensberg. As they navigate the complexities of high society and their own personal insecurities, what begins as a pragmatic arrangement slowly blossoms into a deep and genuine love. Set against the backdrop of the English countryside, the story explores themes of healing, trust, and the transformative power of love, as both Lauren and Kit discover that sometimes the most unexpected relationships can lead to the most unforgettable summers.

    The 7053rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  13. 63. A Court Of Mist And Fury by Sarah J. Maas

    In this fantasy novel, the protagonist, Feyre, grapples with the trauma and consequences of her past actions while navigating the complex political landscape of the faerie realms. As she adjusts to her new life and powers, she forms unexpected alliances and uncovers dark secrets that challenge her understanding of loyalty, love, and her own identity. The story delves into themes of empowerment, resilience, and the struggle for freedom, all set against a richly imagined backdrop of magic and intrigue.

    The 7080th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  14. 64. The Virtuoso by Margriet de Moor

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of 18th-century Naples, this novel weaves a tale of passion, music, and societal constraints. The story follows Carlotta, a young woman from a noble family, who becomes entranced by the mesmerizing voice of Gasparo, a celebrated castrato singer. As their lives intertwine, Carlotta is drawn into a world of emotional and artistic discovery, challenging the boundaries of her rigid upbringing. Through the lens of their intense and forbidden relationship, the narrative explores themes of love, identity, and the transformative power of art.

    The 7087th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  15. 65. Why We Love by Helen Fisher

    The Nature and Chemistry of Romantic Love

    Exploring the intricate dance of human emotions, this book delves into the biological and psychological underpinnings of romantic love. It examines the brain's role in love, drawing on scientific research and case studies to illuminate how love affects our thoughts, behaviors, and even our health. The narrative weaves together insights from anthropology, neuroscience, and psychology to explain why love is a universal experience, how it has evolved over time, and its profound impact on human relationships and society. Through this exploration, the book offers a deeper understanding of the complexities and enduring power of love in our lives.

    The 7123rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  16. 66. To All The Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han

    The novel centers around Lara Jean Song Covey, a high school junior who has written secret love letters to all of her past crushes, never intending to send them. However, her life turns upside down when the letters are mysteriously mailed out, causing her to confront her feelings and the repercussions of her past affections. In a desperate attempt to save face and avoid confrontation with one of her crushes, she enters into a fake relationship with another, which leads to a journey of self-discovery and the realization that sometimes love can be found in the most unexpected places.

    The 7136th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  17. 67. Magic In The Wind by Christine Feehan

    A Drake Sisters Novel

    In a quaint coastal town, the enigmatic Sarah Drake returns home, stirring whispers of her family's mystical legacy. As the eldest of seven sisters, each possessing unique powers, Sarah's presence is both a beacon of hope and a harbinger of change. Her return coincides with the arrival of Damon Wilder, a man haunted by his past and seeking solace. As danger looms, Sarah and Damon are drawn together, their connection igniting a powerful force that challenges the shadows threatening the town. Amidst the swirling winds of magic and destiny, they must confront their fears and embrace the strength of love to protect their world.

    The 7150th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  18. 68. Tempting The Beast by Lora Leigh

    Feline Breeds, Book 1

    In a world where genetic experiments have created a new breed of humans with animalistic traits, a fierce and enigmatic man grapples with his primal instincts and a haunting past. When a determined journalist stumbles into his life, seeking answers and refuge, their undeniable chemistry ignites a passionate and dangerous liaison. As they navigate a web of secrets, betrayal, and forbidden desires, they must confront their deepest fears and the powerful forces that threaten to tear them apart.

    The 7150th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  19. 69. The Loneliness Of Sonia And Sunny by Kiran Desai

    Sonia and Sunny are two lonely young people from India living on opposite sides of the Atlantic—Sonia a homesick college student in Vermont, Sunny a journalist trying to find his place in Brooklyn. Each wrestles with identity, desire, and dislocation while their extended families, back in India, try to shape their futures. The novel follows their separate journeys and the family ties, cultural expectations, and personal choices that bring them into uneasy contact.

    The 7155th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  20. 70. Beijing Comrades by Bei Tong

    Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing China in the late 1980s, this poignant narrative explores the intense and tumultuous relationship between two men from vastly different backgrounds. The story delves into the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations as the protagonists navigate their desires amidst a society that is both modernizing and deeply traditional. Through their passionate and often challenging journey, the novel offers a profound reflection on the intersection of personal freedom and cultural constraints, capturing the essence of a transformative era in Chinese history.

    The 7166th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  21. 71. The Perils Of Pleasure by Julie Anne Long

    A Pennyroyal Green Novel

    In this historical romance novel, a notorious rogue finds himself unexpectedly saved from execution by a mysterious woman with her own hidden motives. As they navigate the dangerous streets of 18th-century London, they form an unlikely alliance to uncover the truth behind a conspiracy that threatens both their lives. Amidst the intrigue and peril, they grapple with their growing attraction to each other, challenging their perceptions of love, trust, and redemption. The story weaves together themes of adventure, romance, and the transformative power of love.

    The 7185th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  22. 72. The Winter Rose by Jennifer Donnelly

    Set in early 20th-century London, the story follows India Selwyn Jones, a determined and progressive young doctor who defies societal norms by working in the impoverished East End. Her life intertwines with Sid Malone, a notorious gangster with a complex past, as they navigate a world of ambition, love, and betrayal. As India struggles to bring medical care to the underserved and Sid battles his own demons, their lives become increasingly entangled, leading to a dramatic and transformative journey that challenges their beliefs and alters their destinies. The novel weaves themes of social justice, romance, and personal redemption against a richly detailed historical backdrop.

    The 7185th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  23. 73. Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

    The book is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that follows the blossoming relationship between two British teenagers, Charlie and Nick, who attend the same all-boys school. Charlie, who is openly gay, finds himself developing feelings for Nick, a popular rugby player who is initially unsure about his own sexuality. As their friendship deepens, both boys navigate the challenges of self-discovery, acceptance, and the courage to embrace their true selves. The narrative beautifully captures the complexities of young love and the importance of friendship and support in overcoming personal struggles.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  24. 74. The Midnight Hour by Brenda Jackson

    In a tale of passion and intrigue, a successful businessman finds himself drawn into a web of desire and danger when he encounters a captivating woman with a mysterious past. As their lives intertwine, secrets unravel, and they must confront the shadows of their histories to forge a future together. Set against a backdrop of suspense and romance, the story explores themes of trust, redemption, and the transformative power of love.

    The 7582nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  25. 75. Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh

    A Guild Hunter Novel

    In a world where angels and vampires coexist with humans, a skilled hunter named Elena Deveraux is tasked with a dangerous mission by the powerful archangel Raphael. As she delves deeper into her assignment, Elena finds herself entangled in a deadly game of power and desire, uncovering dark secrets that could alter the balance between the supernatural beings. Her growing attraction to Raphael complicates matters, forcing her to navigate a complex web of emotions while confronting threats that challenge her strength and resolve.

    The 7638th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

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

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download