Romance novels remain the most popular prose fiction genre, with contemporary readers worldwide falling in love with their characters today much like our ancestors did in the past. Since its rise in the early 19th century, the romance novel has undergone numerous transformations and evolved from targeting the sophisticated tastes of European aristocracy to appealing to the most common denominator among the 21st century public. And yet, despite these changes, classic and contemporary romance novels share two crucial characteristics that capture the essence of the genre:
- The plot of a romance novel revolves around a love relationship and leads to a happy ending while everything else is secondary. Passion is ubiquitous in every genre of prose and poetry; however, in romance novels, love relationships are both the driving force and the central theme of the story.
- The reader of a romance novel is involved in the relationship of the characters on an emotional level and experiences personal satisfaction from a happy ending. Thus, unlike with books of other genres, one’s emotional (as opposed to purely intellectual) involvement is integral to the reading process.
Another important hallmark of romantic novels is their focus on overcoming serious obstacles (such as social class differences) which usually provides powerful glimpses into multidimensional personalities of the protagonists. And, thanks to the happy ending, romance novels remind us of the unparalleled power of love and can bring joy to the passionate heart even in the darkest of times.
In this article, we will consider the best and the most popular (which is not always the same) classic and contemporary romance novels while trying to capture what makes them worth our curiosity, attention, and (sometimes) awe.
Contemporary Romance Novels
As we approach modern days, it becomes increasingly difficult to draw the line between the classic and contemporary love fiction. Some people think that, to count as contemporary, a work has to be written in the 21st century; however, this would not be fair to the masterpieces of 1990-s and 1980-s that did not yet earn the classical status. On the other hand, some of the romance novels written recently (for example, “Martina Flawd” by D. Rudoy) will become classics soon enough, so by waiting too long the modern reader may miss on an experience of her lifetime.
To solve this conundrum, in the contemporary romance novel section we focus primarily on the books written after 2000 while adding a couple of titles that have not become full-fledged love classics yet but have a good chance of making it in the next few decades.
Martina Flawd (2020) by D. Rudoy
Just as its title suggest, “Martina Flawd” by D. Rudoy does not turn out to be what it sounds like. Unlike the rest of the titles in this section, “Martina Flawd” is a work of high culture, so its target audience is a lot closer to 19th century aristocracy than to the average modern reader. Written at the intersection of a steamy romance novel, a literary bow to the best-writing classic Western authors, and a sorcery tale of power, “Martina Flawd” manages to get away with several risky subject matters and astonish the reader with a most unexpected ending which not only mocks all the raised eyebrows and rolled eyes but also prepares the ground for a sequel. It is unclear whether D. Rudoy intends to continue the adventures of his heroes, but if you are a brave reader who is up to reevaluating her idea of what a modern love story should be, “Martina Flawd” is a ride for you. As the author puts it, “You’ve never read anything like this before. The question is: can you take it?”
It Ends With Us (2016) by Colleen Hoover
Despite the hardships she has faced, Lily never gives up on her ambition for a better life. Surprisingly, a relationship develops between her and Ryle Kincaid, an attractive neurosurgeon who ignites something inside of her that makes her feel like all of her dreams have finally come true.
Questions regarding her blossoming relationship plague Lily, while memories of Atlas Corrigan, her first love and a window to the past she left behind, fill her mind. Without warning, Atlas suddenly reappears, putting everything that Lily has built with Ryle in peril.
The Love Hypothesis (2021) by Ali Hazelwood
Olive Smith, a third-year Ph.D. candidate who has never been one to believe in long-term relationships, finds herself in an intriguing predicament due to her best friend’s optimism and dreams of romance. Olive’s heart raced as she impulsively planted a kiss on the first man that met her gaze.
Olive is taken aback when Adam Carlsen, a renowned professor and notorious jerk, agrees to keep her masquerade a secret and even pretends to be her boyfriend. After all, this young hotshot reigns supreme at Stanford’s laboratory.
The Notebook (1996) by Nicholas Sparks
“The Notebook” by Nicholas Sparks is a contemporary romance novel that has captured the hearts of many readers. It tells the story of two young lovers, Allie and Noah, as they struggle with the complicated trajectory of their love story.
Their relationship is a rollercoaster filled with misunderstandings, doubts, and insecurities, and it also has to face family interference and external circumstances through every step of its development. Throughout the novel’s pages, we see how Allie and Noah confront adversity with courage and ultimately are willing to fight for what matters: their love.
The Duke and I (2000) by Julia Quinn
Following a passionate and moving story, readers are drawn into the world of Simon and Daphne Bridgerton as they battle their way to love in 18th-century England. From witty dialogue to unexpected plot twists, “The Duke and I” offer readers an incredibly crafted experience of adventure, romance, and humor throughout its pages.
Nothing shows this better than the complexities of a mischievous matchmaking mother, secrets from past wrongdoings, and the heartfelt moments between two people who long for one another’s company.
A Kingdom of Dreams (1989) by Judith McNaught
The spirited Scottish beauty Jennifer Merrick is abducted from her convent school and forced to confront the daunting Royce Westmoreland, otherwise known as “The Wolf.” With his intimidating name alone striking fear in all who challenge him, will she submit or bravely resist this formidable foe?
Despite her captor’s intimidating and confident demeanor, Jennifer is determined to resist the English warrior who holds her against her will. She obstinately opposes his every demand until he takes hold of her in a passionate embrace that ignites an undeniable passion within herself.
The Spanish Love Deception (2021) by Elena Armas
Catalina Martín is in dire need of a date for her sister’s wedding. Her fabricated story about having an American beau has been blown out of proportion, and now all the people she knows – even her ex-boyfriend and his fiancée – will be at the ceremony wanting to meet him!
Then, Aaron Blackford, her imposing and alluringly attractive colleague, surprisingly came forth with an offer to help her out. She wanted nothing more than to decline his proposal; after all, he was the most exasperating and insufferable person she had ever met!
It Happened One Summer (2021) by Tessa Bailey
“It Happened One Summer” is a 2021 novel that highlights the trials and tribulations of a popular girl in Tinseltown. Her name was Piper, and she spent a significant portion of her days running away from the media. Although Piper grew up rich, her family stopped funding her luxurious lifestyle seemingly out of nowhere. This was the turning point that prompted her to relocate to a modest community by the beach in the Pacific Northwest region of the country. Once she arrived there, she came across a cynical individual who believed that she was completely out of place in her new surroundings.
Ties That Tether (2020) by Jane Igharo
“Ties That Tether” came out in the fall of 2020. It depicts the life of a thoughtful and highly sensitive woman from Nigeria. She dove deep into a genuine romance with a gentleman who she realized would upset her dear mother. This is a fascinating tale that delves into the difficulties of following the heart while simultaneously taking loved ones into consideration. Azere is the name of the heroine of the story. She told her family members that she’d eventually tie the knot with a man from her home nation. Despite that, she couldn’t help herself. She developed intense feelings for an individual called Rafael. Sadly, he wasn’t from Nigeria. While the romance unfolds, Azere was continuously faced with all kinds of difficult decisions. These decisions would affect her destiny. They would affect the destiny of her family members significantly, too.
The Kiss Quotient (2018) by Helen Hoang
“The Kiss Quotient” is a celebrated contemporary romance novel that was released back in the spring of 2018. The San Francisco tale revolves around Stella, an intelligent young woman who had a true knack for mathematics. Although she was a math aficionado, her romantic status could have been a lot stronger. The autistic wizard lacked much knowledge regarding intimate relations. This was precisely the thing that encouraged her to recruit an escort, an individual known as Michael. Stella had a career that paid her quite well, and that’s how she was able to reward Michael financially. Although the goal behind the interaction initially was purely “business,” things changed after a while. Stella began to realize that Michael meant something a bit more to her. Stella didn’t think much about romance, love or anything else along those lines prior to beginning her setup with the escort. Being in the company of a man rocked her universe in a significant and potentially lasting way.
Marriage Vacation (2018) by Pauline Brooks
“Marriage Vacation” was among the most beloved contemporary romance novels of the summer of 2018. It’s all about a lady by the name of Kate Carmichael. Kate had flawless kids with her spouse. That didn’t stop her from feeling dissatisfaction regarding her existence, however. She longed desperately for an escape from reality. She didn’t only want to run away from her family temporarily. She also wanted to flee her career for a while. Kate made the major decision to go on an international getaway as a means of clearing her head. Once she finally got back from her voyage, she had a shocking epiphany of sorts. Returning to her previous world wasn’t going to be as easy as she thought. Rekindling the romance in her marriage wasn’t going to be simple, either.
Love and Other Words (2018) by Christina Lauren
“Love and Other Words” was released in April of 2018. Mary Sorenson is the protagonist of the story. She had a practical, efficient and straightforward life as a diligent medical resident. She was on the verge of marrying a practical and logical person as well. One day, a former flame came back into the picture. Although Elliot hurt her heart in the past, he still held the key to so many of her deepest and most intense emotions. Mary hadn’t been around Elliot for roughly 10 years or so. She took on a distant and rather aloof personality during that time period as well. That didn’t stop Elliot from trying his best to motivate Mary to welcome him back into her heart again. This is a novel that concentrates heavily on both friendship and youthful, innocent romance.
Classic Romance Novels
You have heard their titles so many times that most of classic romance novels require no introduction. And yet, caught up among the all-time favorites of school teachers and university professors, the modern reader may accidentally miss a title or two that would make her heart skip a bit. Let’s make sure the acmes of classic love prose do not evade you!
Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen
“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen is an acclaimed romance novel that has found many fans throughout its 200 years of existence. The classic piece of romantic literature follows the main character Elizabeth Bennet as she deals with matters of family, etiquette, and relationships.
It humbly proves to readers across generations that love conquers all in the way only Jane Austen can. She teases readers with wit, punctuates her characters’ emotions with heartwarming dialogue, and provides coming-of-age lessons that apply far beyond romance.
This masterpiece has delighted readers for decades and will continue to be enjoyed for centuries due to its universal emotional core – true love.
Emma (1815) by Jane Austen
“Emma” by Jane Austen is one of the world’s most beloved romance novels. In it, the beautiful and wealthy protagonist Emma Woodhouse is a determined young woman who seeks to arrange marriages that she believes will bring happiness to her many friends, despite lacking any romantic experience herself.
Through the narrative, readers can observe how Emma’s life is changed by various characters with whom she interacts and learn about human nature and love. Ultimately, readers get wrapped up in the intricate plot twists as they watch Emma’s journey grow from self-promotion to self-discovery in matters of love and heartbreak.
This classic novel has been delighting readers for centuries, entertaining them with its wit and romantic spirit while offering lessons in morality and self-improvement.
Little Women (1868) by Louisa May Alcott
This is a classic romantic novel that follows the lives of the March sisters. The novel delves deep into the realities of nineteenth-century American life and carries a timeless message of family, friendship, and courage that still resonates with readers today.
It explores important themes such as love, courtship, marriage, and female liberation in a compelling yet gentle way. Filled with charming characters and thoughtful plot twists, “Little Women” is undoubtedly one of the most inspiring romance novels of all time – an inspiring and evergreen read for all ages!
From its sentimental scenes to its tender musings on the nature of family ties, this delightful book captures a special kind of romanticism that will never be forgotten.
Romeo and Juliet (1597) by William Shakespeare
Okay, okay, we know that “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare is a play, so technically it shouldn’t be on a list of best romance novels… but it is a timeless classic which is widely known as the quintessential love story! First written in 1597, this dramatic tale follows “the star-crossed lovers” of two noble houses who, against all odds, fall in love amidst a feud that threatens to tear them apart at every turn.
Despite its preeminence as a tragic play, it stands out for its language’s beauty and captivating exploration of young love. Working within little more than three days, Shakespeare crafted characters we can all relate to. While their circumstances may be far out of reach today, their story still resonates with us centuries later.
A key element of this story is how it strikes a chord with readers because even though it is optimistic, readers know in advance that it cannot end well.
Wuthering Heights (1847) by Emily Brontë
Published in the same year as “Jane Eyre”, “Wuthering Heights” is a classic romantic novel and perhaps one of the greatest tragedies of all time. The narrative follows a timeless love story between the two main characters, Heathcliff and Catherine, as they endure their tumultuous relationship.
Despite great obstacles, their valiant attempts to stay together and the grave consequences of their choices make for an intense story readers can’t help but be moved by. With complex settings, raw emotions, and unexpected twists, Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights” captures the passionate feelings that often come with romance.
Jane Eyre (1847) by Charlotte Brontë
It’s an unforgettable story of undying love between Jane, a poor orphan girl, and Rochester, her elusive employer, has held its appeal since first published in 1847. The novel humorously explores the many challenges both must face – class differences and Rochester’s dark secret – to find true love.
“Jane Eyre” continues to have a widespread popularity as both a masterpiece of literary fiction and a prototypical example of the romantic novel genre that inspired countless successors.
From passionate love scenes to heart-wrenching goodbyes, “Jane Eyre” will keep you enraptured from beginning to end.
Sense and Sensibility (1811) by Jane Austen
“Sense and Sensibility” is one of the oldest classic romance novels first published in 1811. It focuses on the lives of two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, as they transition from living with their wealthy family into a state of poorer circumstances.
The story follows the protagonists through their various romantic relationships, highlighting not only societal differences but also the different ways in which each sister approaches to love. Through its vivid descriptions and well-developed characters, the novel effectively captures their joys and sorrows while showcasing Austen’s unique sense of wit.
The memorable characters, alongside insightful commentary, make it an enthralling read, one that has earned countless awards over the years while remaining as compelling as ever.
The Great Gatsby (1925) by F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic romance novel that follows Jay Gatsby as he strives for the love of his life, Daisy Buchanan. Gatsby must battle complicated emotions and intense family politics to secure his claim on Daisy’s heart.
With action-packed scenes and unpredictable twists, this timeless novel takes readers on an exciting journey of star-crossed lovers against all odds. Along the way, readers will discover Fitzgerald’s creative descriptions of 1920s America, from reckless parties to lazy days spent on Long Island sound, providing them with a broader cultural context for the characters’ experiences.
The Age of Innocence (1920) by Edith Wharton
Edith Wharton’s “The Age of Innocence” is a classic romance novel that captures the sorrow of unfulfilled love during the high social standards of mid-19th century America. Set in New York City at the turn of the century, this iconic story follows Newland Archer and the two women he loves: his planned fiancée and their mutual acquaintance Ellen Olenska.
As Newland’s relationship with Ellen deepens, he must navigate between his own happiness and the social conventions established by those around him to unravel a heartbreaking story full of hope. Wharton masterfully crafts a tale filled with delicately balanced emotions, making “The Age of Innocence” an unforgettable experience for any reader.
A Room with a View (1908) by E.M. Forster
E.M. Forster’s romance novel, “A Room With A View,” offers an inspiring story of self-discovery, adventure, and love. Published in 1908, the novel follows protagonist Lucy Honeychurch as she travels with her family to Florence, Italy.
Along the way, Lucy begins to explore her feelings for two suitors, the free-spirited George Emerson and staid Cecil Vyse, and soon discovers that life beyond the bounds of the convention is a much richer experience than what she had previously known.
Spanning several years of personal growth for Lucy, the novel brilliantly portrays England’s Edwardian society at the turn of the twentieth century and brings readers from chuckle-inducing comedy to heartbreaking drama that will stay with them long after they have finished reading it.
“A Room With A View” provokes an emotional reaction from readers while interestingly delving into its characters’ complexities, leaving us with an enduring impression of romance against nigh insurmountable odds.
Anna Karenina (1877) by Leo Tolstoy
If you think the Russians can’t write romance novels, think again! Published in installments between 1873 and 1877 in the Russian literary magazine “The Russian Messenger,” “Anna Karenina” is a classic example of Tolstoy’s powerful storytelling and intimate knowledge of Russia in the second half of the 19th century.
Spanning eight volumes, the novel follows two storylines – the tragic affair between Anna and her lover Vronsky, and Levin’s inner turmoil on marriage and spiritual fulfillment – that perfectly encompass both true desire and its potential for ultimate devastation.
Written with astounding attention to detail and Leo Tolstoy’s signature analysis of human psychology and social motifs, “Anna Karenina” has succeeded in capturing readers for generations as an unforgettable masterpiece of romance fiction with a traditional Russian ending.
The Scarlet Letter (1850) by Nathaniel Hawthorne
This book tells the story of young Hester Prynne, a woman who stands publicly shamed for her transgression against societal expectations. Though she wears a red A on her chest as a sign of her shame, it also sparks an unlikely and complicated romance between Hester and a mysterious man going only by the name Dimmesdale.
Through this, Hawthorne explored challenging topics such as ostracism, infidelity, religion, and guilt – themes that further amplify this beloved novel’s impact on modern romantic literature.
The Portrait of a Lady (1881) by Henry James
Set in 19th-century Europe, this highly acclaimed work follows a strong-willed young woman named Isabel Archer as she fights against the constraints society places on her. The story focuses on the journey of self-discovery and rebellion as Isabel finds herself confronting ideas of oppression.
With vivid and captivating prose, James has created a thrilling narrative full of complex characters and interesting plot elements. Midway through the novel, the stakes become even higher when Isabel faces unexpected moral choices that force her to reevaluate what she wants and needs in life.
The Princess Bride (1973) by William Goldman
This charming, romantic novel is full of adventure, wit, and humor. This classic love tale follows the adventures of Westley, Buttercup, and their friends as they embark on an epic journey that pits them against the forces of evil.
Along the way, they face death-defying trials that test their courage and resolve. With its memorable characters and unforgettable plot twists, “The Princess Bride” is a perfect example of a classic romance novel.
It has all the elements readers love in this genre: swashbuckling action scenes, the passionate romance between the main characters, unique magical elements, and plot twists that keep readers guessing until the very end.
A beloved classic for over three decades now, “The Princess Bride” remains one of the most rewarding reads in the entire genre of romance novels.
Gone with the Wind (1936) by Margaret Mitchell
Written in 1936, this sweeping epic tells the story of Southern belle Scarlett O’Hara and her tumultuous journey as she navigates life before, during, and after the Civil War. From scenic Atlanta to Tara Plantation, readers are drawn into a stunning lyrical realm where traditional society is suddenly upended.
Critics have praised Mitchell’s intricate web of characters, depicting a wide spectrum of complex emotions and relationships – especially in Scarlett’s love affair with the dashing Rhett Butler.
This timeless classic remains beloved among fans even today, demonstrating the enduring power of Mitchell’s brilliant writing style.
Mansfield Park (1814) by Jane Austen
Published in 1814, the novel tells the story of Fanny Price, a young woman from a poor family sent to live with her wealthy relatives at Mansfield Park. As she loses her innocence and navigates life among her new family and their friends, Fanny faces difficult choices that reveal her moral character and bring dramatic changes to all involved.
Austen’s vivid language captures nuances of complex human emotions and relationships, weaving together a substantial ethical tale about societal pressures with a charming romantic backdrop.
The Phantom of the Opera (1909) by Gaston Leroux
This classic romance novel takes place in the Paris opera house, where its character Erik, known as “the Phantom,” works his malicious magic on the lead soprano and her beloved. Throughout the story, prominent themes of love, beauty, mystery, and suspense make it an engaging read.
It brings to life both the beauty and darkness of a hidden world beneath the grandiose opera house.
Shirley (1849) by Charlotte Bronte
Published in 1849, Charlotte Bronte’s “Shirley” has been delighting readers for centuries with its dazzling plot and captivating characters. Set during the Napoleonic Wars, Bronte explores ideas of class and gender dynamics through her main protagonist, Shirley Keeldar.
The novel follows the journey of Keeldar as she maneuvers a range of relationships and situations that challenge her along the way. Through Shirley’s transformation, Bronte can show how a woman can gain agency over her own life.
The Blue Castle (1926) by L.M. Montgomery
It tells the story of Valancy Stirling, who has always been enslaved by strict conventions but finally lives her life to the fullest while falling in love with an unexpected person along the way.
Montgomery’s cleverly crafted narrative captures the beauty of the journey with its whimsically romantic moments, such as secret berry picnics, dancing in the rain, and stolen kisses before moonlight.
Valancy’s raw courage amidst adversity will stay with you long after you’ve read these delightful pages.
The Thorn Birds (1977) by Colleen McCullough
“The Thorn Birds” is a classic romance novel by Colleen McCullough. It tells the epic story of forbidden love between Meggie O’Neill and Catholic priest Ralph De Bricassart as they struggle to come to terms with their feelings for each other in a deeply religious and conservative environment.
Although set originally in rural Australia during the early 20th century, its themes of love, betrayal, family loyalty, ambition, and faith are timeless, making it a highly regarded work of literature.
This captivating story follows Meggie on her quest to reach her full potential despite societal norms. Along the way, she faces hardship and heartbreak but also finds solace in the dearest of love.
Cotillion (1953) by Georgette Heyer
Set in nineteenth-century England, this modern classic love story follows the story of Kitty Charing, who must choose between two suitors: her longtime friend Freddy and an intriguing stranger named Jack. Throughout the book, readers are brought into the lush and lovely world of aristocratic balls and masquerades and witty dialogue full of flirtations and mischief.
It’s no wonder that Cotillion is a classic romance read, Heyer delivers all the perfect ingredients, from whimsical misunderstandings to passionate embraces.
Wives and Daughters (1866) by Elizabeth Gaskell
Sometimes classified as a Victorian novel, “Wives and Daughters” astounds readers with its creative plot twists and turns, including love, heartbreak, family dynamics, societal prejudices, and gender roles.
The narrative follows heroines Molly Gibson and Cynthia Kirkpatrick as they encounter life’s surprises. The characters are brilliantly crafted, each with a personality that helps bring the plot together.
Lady Chatterley’s Lover (1928) by D.H. Lawrence
“Lady Chatterley’s Lover” is a novel by D. H. Lawrence, first published privately in 1928 in Italy and in 1929 in France and Australia. An unexpurgated edition was not published openly in the United Kingdom until 1960.
The book centers on an aristocratic woman, Lady Chatterley, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage to her rural landowner husband and begins to explore love and passion in the arms of a fabulous gamekeeper, Mellors. Through their passionate and often tumultuous affair, readers witness how Lady Chatterley grows from a timid but determined young woman into a passionate lover who eventually embraces her sexuality and joyfully finds independence.
Tess of the D’Urbervilles (1891) by Thomas Hardy
In a time of economic distress, the protagonist Tess D’Urbervilles desperately attempts to break the bonds of poverty by asserting kinship with an affluent family. Sadly, her efforts are met with ruin when she comes across Alec D’Urbervilles, her supposed cousin and ultimate downfall.
Tess is presented with the chance of being saved by Angel Clare, a man unlike any other she has encountered. She must decide whether to open up about her history or stay quiet to secure an optimistic future for herself.
Conclusion
The quest for true love has been ongoing since the dawn of mankind, and for the last two centuries romance novels have done a remarkable job building a framework that modern readers consider not only trustworthy but desirable. From the first meeting of another stereotypical couple of star-crossed lovers to the anticipation of a happy marriage, romance novels have been retold for centuries long before the invention of the literary genre itself as narrators tailored the eternal topic to the spirit of their time and anticipations of the audience. There is no doubt that this tradition shall continue into the future for as long as humanity exists, and we can only hope that the proportion of love stories worth reading will not decline, and that our descendants centuries later will enjoy the same quality as our ancestors did centuries ago.