The most recommended contemporary romance novels

Who picked these books? Meet our 936 experts.

936 authors created a book list with a contemporary romance novel, and here are their favorites.

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Book cover of The Christmas Love Letters

Karen King Author Of The Retreat

From my list on to make you forget what you’re doing and read.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love to get lost in a book. Ever since I was a child I’ve spent my spare time curled up in a chair engrossed in a book. Stories have taken me to far off places, magical worlds, back in time, and forward into the future. Stories have taught me more about history, shown me that other people have the same problems as me, and given me the knowledge and confidence to make the decisions I’ve made. Stories are important, and to me there is nothing better than a story that reels you into its world and makes you forget all about your problems for a while.

Karen's book list on to make you forget what you’re doing and read

Karen King Why did Karen love this book?

I love reading about characters and relationships, and Sue is a master at writing about relatable characters that have depth and a back story.

The story is centred around a bunch of long-lost love letters that Raff brings to Maddy’s Great Aunt Ruthie, who has poor eyesight. As Maddy reads the letters to her bit by bit, Maddy discovers a big secret. Maddy has her own heartbreak, a husband who disappeared years ago when she was pregnant leaving her to bring up their daughter alone.

It’s a heartwarming story with lots of love and laughter that I really connected to.

By Sue Moorcroft,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Christmas Love Letters as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'The Queen of Christmas feelgood novels' The Independent

Dive into the gorgeous new Christmas novel from Sunday Times bestseller, Sue Moorcroft - the perfect companion for a cold winter's night!

* * *

A secret romance was just the start of the story...

Tucked into a crook of the Norfolk coast lies Nelson's Bar - an idyllic village where time seems to stand still. Maddy Cracey has called this beautiful spot home all her life, as had her husband Adey - until an epic row sent him storming out into a blizzard, with no sign of him since that fateful…


Book cover of The Water Keeper

Joanna Davidson Politano Author Of The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple

From Joanna's 3 favorite reads in 2024.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author

Joanna's 3 favorite reads in 2024

Joanna Davidson Politano Why did Joanna love this book?

Martin doesn't make up stories--he creates characters that seem so real, then records their story. The topic of this book was difficult, but incredibly well done, and with so much hope and beauty. No one tells a story like Charles Martin. No author can make me FEEL like Charles Martin! His writing is exquisite. The spiritual thread is done better than any other author I've read, too. It never feels like his books are meant to deliver a message, but more that he saturates himself fully in God and his faith, then his writing naturally springs out of that--and is also drenched in those things. It's beautiful, powerful, and organic storytelling. I adore it.

By Charles Martin,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Water Keeper as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A riveting story of heroism, heartache, and the power of love to heal all wounds by New York Times bestselling author Charles Martin.

Murphy Shepherd is a man with many secrets. He lives alone on an island, tending the grounds of a church with no parishioners, and he's dedicated his life to rescuing those in peril. But as he mourns the loss of his mentor and friend, Murph himself may be more lost than he realizes.

When he pulls a beautiful woman named Summer out of Florida's Intracoastal Waterway, Murph's mission to lay his mentor to rest at the end…


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Book cover of Ferry to Cooperation Island

Ferry to Cooperation Island By Carol Newman Cronin,

James Malloy is a ferry captain--or used to be, until he was unceremoniously fired and replaced by a "girl" named Courtney Farris. Now, instead of piloting Brenton Island’s daily lifeline to the glitzy docks of Newport, Rhode Island, James spends his days beached, bitter, and bored.

When he discovers a…

Book cover of Angels Fall

C.F. Francis Author Of Sanctuary Island

From my list on romantic suspense twists to make your head spin.

Why am I passionate about this?

I walked to the library every Saturday to find a new mystery. I think I read everyone and read some more than once. As I matured, I discovered the mixture of romance and suspense I was hooked. I literally read every book in the genre’ at my local library. 

C.F.'s book list on romantic suspense twists to make your head spin

C.F. Francis Why did C.F. love this book?

What can I say? Romantic suspense by the great.

The damaged heroine and the cocky MC. The dialogue and writing are fun and the ‘who-dun-it’ kept me guessing. The beauty of the Grand Tetons is so well described you feel like you there and in awe of the backdrop.

A great read.

By Nora Roberts,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Angels Fall as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The sole survivor of a brutal crime, Reece Gilmore is on the run, desperately fighting the panic attacks and the nightmares that haunt her. She doesn't intend to stay in the sleepy town of Angel's Fist one second longer than she needs to, despite its friendly - if curious - inhabitants, and the irresistible attraction of local writer Brody.

However, on a hike into the mountains she witnesses a couple having a vicious argument that culminates in murder. Faced with a lack of evidence, the authorities in Angel's Fist find it hard to believe Reece's story. But when a series…


Book cover of Beneath a Southern Sky

Cheri Swalwell Author Of Adventure's Invitation

From my list on small towns where God turns messes into miracles.

Why am I passionate about this?

I tell people when I meet them that when I married my husband, I got roots. I moved a lot as a child, living in small country towns to suburbs of big cities, and my favorite place by far is in the country, surrounded by nature, feeling that sense of belonging. My husband and I live in his great-grandparent's house in the country, next door to his mother, who still lives in the house where she grew up and raised my husband. There is nothing I love more than sharing my love for Jesus with readers through fictional situations that could really happen. 

Cheri's book list on small towns where God turns messes into miracles

Cheri Swalwell Why did Cheri love this book?

When I first began reading Christian fiction, my husband posed a question to me. To my surprise, when wandering the library that week, the exact scenario was the plot for this book! I got the book, read it cover to cover and fell in love with this author’s storytelling. The way she explores the characters' emotions put me right in the story. I went on to read the second book immediately and waited (albeit, not very patiently LOL) for the third in the series, pre-ordering it as soon as possible. Deborah Raney has become one of my favorite authors. She is one of the first Christian authors I ever read and she made me fall in love with the whole genre.

By Deborah Raney,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Beneath a Southern Sky as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Her Second Husband Healed the Sorrow of a Tragic Loss.
Her First Has Just Returned from the Dead.
Which Man Has the Right to Claim Daria’s Heart?

After two years of serving as a missionary in a remote area of South America, Daria Camfield has returned to the States to mourn her husband, reportedly killed while providing medical aid to a neighboring Colombian village.

One family discovers how God can redeem any tragedy.

At first, Daria finds comfort only in the daughter born to her after Nate’s tragic death. As she begins to heal, she also finds a listening ear…


Book cover of The Bird and the Bees

Carolyn Astfalk Author Of All in Good Time

From my list on modern-day romantic escapes for frazzled Catholic moms.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a mom of four busy kids in grade school, middle school, high school, and college, reading a novel is my reward at the end of a hectic day. I’ve read hundreds of novels, many of them Christian romances, while sitting at my children’s bedsides. They have to be well-written, no smut, and if the characters are Catholic Christians like me, all the better.

Carolyn's book list on modern-day romantic escapes for frazzled Catholic moms

Carolyn Astfalk Why did Carolyn love this book?

I love baseball romances. Pair one with a solid Theology of the Body romance (something I’ve done myself), and I’m there for it!

This debut novel is part women’s fiction, part romance, part mystery, and like any great love story, is anchored by God. I’m partial to the Presque Isle setting on the shores of Lake Erie in Pennsylvania, and I quickly became partial to easygoing, steady minor leaguer Ketch Devine.

By Neena Gaynor,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Bird and the Bees as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Previously published as The Bird and the Bees by Mantle Rock Publishing.

When Larkin Maybie buries her mother in the foothills of Appalachia, she is left all alone. Her only inheritance? A crazy aunt, a mountain of debt, and a run-down, secluded cabin left by a mysterious benefactor. While Larkin thinks an escape to a cabin miles from anything familiar might be exactly what she needs, the quick answer to her problems only leaves her with more questions … Questions concerning her true identity.

As Larkin searches for her link to the Lewandowski Estate, she begins to accept the kindness…


Book cover of The Man from Stone Creek

Dorothy A. Bell Author Of Waltz on the Big Meadow

From my list on historical romance on dilemmas and history.

Why am I passionate about this?

The books I read have to draw me in like a good movie. It has to be relatable as far as characters and plot go. I want to see it, smell it, and taste it. We’ve moved a lot, and every time we’ve moved, we always check out the local history and geology. There are so many stories to tell. I’ll see the name of a road, a creek, or a mountain, and it will spark a story within me, like seeing a really good movie with great actors. 

Dorothy's book list on historical romance on dilemmas and history

Dorothy A. Bell Why did Dorothy love this book?

Simply put, Ms. Miller never fails to entertain me. She always gives a strong plot. I can count her to present strong women, and men who can appreciate them, even though they bug the hell out of them.

The purpose and goals of her characters are right up front in her stories. I like that, too; it keeps me turning the pages. Also, she places her stories in familiar territory. I can see myself there, among the citizens of her towns, her people. It’s relatable. I’m at home when I read her stories. 

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Book cover of Fourth and Long

Fourth and Long By Britt Belle,

Fourth and Long is a novel written in the first person with dual POVs.

Ellie: When I meet Slater, an infamous quarterback trying to salvage his career, I know better than to form expectations. Our relationship starts out casual, but I can’t help falling for him. The problem is, that…

Book cover of How to Be a Normal Person

Kieran Frank Author Of Squishy Crushy Something

From my list on positive asexual representation.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm Kieran Frank, author of sexless romances. I write books with asexual characters because they're underrepresented. I write them with positive representation to avoid harmful stereotypes, and I highlight the nuances of a-spec people without sounding too preachy. I don't claim to be an expert in asexuality, but I'm passionate about writing asexual themes because it's what I want to see more of in fiction. Men are often expected to enjoy sex, especially at a younger age. I can personally relate to the harmful pressure, which is another reason I write asexual books. It can help combat toxic views that societies have instilled in many people.

Kieran's book list on positive asexual representation

Kieran Frank Why did Kieran love this book?

There are times when books with asexual characters need some humor and lightheartedness for a wholesome mix. Not all ace books need to be sad or angsty. Not all ace books even need to be about sexuality itself. Asexual characters simply need to exist in more books with positive representation, and said books can help teach people that sexless romances are just as valid and meaningful.

By TJ Klune,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked How to Be a Normal Person as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A How to Be Novel Gustavo Tiberius is not normal. He knows this. Everyone in his small town of Abby, Oregon, knows this. He reads encyclopedias every night before bed. He has a pet ferret called Harry S. Truman. He owns a video rental store that no one goes to. His closest friends are a lady named Lottie with drag queen hair and a trio of elderly Vespa riders known as the We Three Queens. Gus is not normal. And he's fine with that. All he wants is to be left alone. Until Casey, an asexual stoner hipster and the…


Book cover of All We Ever Wanted

Blair Bryan Author Of When Wren Came Out

From my list on women’s fiction you’ll think about years later.

Why am I passionate about this?

My writing often focuses on motherhood and the difficult choices mothers are asked to make every day. I search for books to help me understand the points of view of other women. What they're thinking and feeling and the revelations that shape them and change the trajectory of their lives. I decided a long time ago, that if I'm going to invest the amount of time it takes to write a novel, then I have to have a passion for it. I strive to write characters that resonate, with those who are often marginalized in society because I want to shine a light on all the facets of humanity, not just the pretty ones. 

Blair's book list on women’s fiction you’ll think about years later

Blair Bryan Why did Blair love this book?

This author is the queen of modern family storytelling. When a scandalous photo is snapped of an underage girl at a party Nina’s son attended and then shared publicly, it sets off a powder keg in her affluent community. It was interesting seeing the way money could corrupt a family and a mother who fought against that instinct to do what was right. Nina is divided between loyalty to her husband and son and standing up for a girl who was assaulted. When the truth comes out, it is a life-changing moment that changes everything. 

By Emily Giffin,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked All We Ever Wanted as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • In this riveting novel from the #1 bestselling author of Something Borrowed and First Comes Love, three very different people must choose between their families and their most deeply held values. . . .

“An unpredictable page-turner that unfolds in the voices of three superbly distinct characters.”—The Atlanta Journal-Constitution • “A gripping, thought-provoking journey.”—Jodi Picoult

NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY THESKIMM

Nina Browning is living the good life after marrying into Nashville’s elite. More recently, her husband made a fortune selling his tech business, and their adored son has been…


Book cover of His Inherited Princess

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m from Mauritius, of Indian heritage, and proudly African. I remember reading my first chick-lit romance circa 2001, thinking Mauritius has everything—the drama, the over-the-top characters, love matches, exciting backdrops both physical & cultural—to create great rom-coms & uplifting fiction…but where were such stories? A decade later, I was helping other African authors showcase their feel-good books by creating an imprint dedicated to African romance with a US publisher. I’m an author who loves to write about her country & life experiences, and I have the perfect day job for a bookworm as an editor who specializes in editing romance stories for indie authors & publishers alike.

Zee's book list on feel-good romance books showcasing how IRL Africa is not just a hotbed of misery

Zee Monodee Why did Zee love this book?

I’m a sucker for all things Royal! Give me a prince and/or princess looking for love in today’s world, and I’m sold. This one has a princess and a prince!

Imagine you’re a princess bidden to enter a marriage of convenience with a neighbouring land’s prince. Then, on your wedding day, you get into an accident, your new husband dies, and when you wake from a coma, you find you’ve now been legally married off to the new Crown Prince, aka your late husband’s younger brother. And he’s hot as sin itself!

This one is more on the steamy side, but don’t let it deter you. Amidst all the heat is a treasure trove of feels and warring emotions and a seismic journey of falling for the "wrong" person who now happens to be exactly the right one!

By Empi Baryeh,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked His Inherited Princess as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

India Saene, Princess of Bagumi, must enter a marriage alliance to save her kingdom from an economic crisis. Tragedy strikes when her husband of a few hours is killed in an accident on the way to their honeymoon. She recovers from a coma two weeks later to discover she has been inherited by her husband's younger brother! Sheikh Omar El Dansuri has never wanted to be king, nor does he desire a wife. However, when his older brother dies, he not only becomes the future king of Sudar, but he also inherits his brother’s bride through an age-old tradition. Falling…


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Book cover of Tasha and the Biologist

Tasha and the Biologist By Amy Q. Barker,

Tasha and the Biologist is the second book in the "A Better Man" series. It's a contemporary romance about second chances, two lonely birders, and the healing power of love.

Tasha Moore is a visiting nurse with a family secret. She just went through a bad breakup. Caleb Drexel is…

Book cover of The Sky Is Everywhere

Katy Upperman Author Of Kissing Max Holden

From my list on the magic (and angst) of first love.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been reading YA since I was a young adult myself, and I’ve always favored stories with a strong romantic angle. As a kid, I loved The Baby-Sitters Club’s starry-eyed Stacey and Sweet Valley High’s boy-crazy Jessica; as an adult, I flock to the romance section of bookstores and libraries. When the urge to try my hand at writing struck, I drafted young adult romances without even considering other categories or genres. I will always choose a meet-cute, witty banter, and sizzling chemistry over fast-paced action, clever twists, and high-concepts plots. When it comes to reading and writing, I love love! 

Katy's book list on the magic (and angst) of first love

Katy Upperman Why did Katy love this book?

I read The Sky is Everywhere shortly after it was published in 2010, very early in my own pursuit to become a published author. So clearly, I remember absorbing the novel’s final words, closing its cover, and thinking I want people to feel like this after reading the stories I write. In other words: enchanted, affected, and wonderfully content. Lennie’s story of loss and recovery, punctuated by rash decisions, dreamy poetry, and swoony first love, is one that’s stayed with me for more than a decade. 

By Jandy Nelson,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Sky Is Everywhere as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 14, 15, 16, and 17.

What is this book about?

Now an Apple TV+ original film

New York Times bestselling author

Longlisted for the Carnegie Medal

"Entirely compelling." The Guardian

"Heartwarming." The Independent

For fans of Jojo Moyes, David Levithan and Rainbow Rowell. Seventeen-year-old Lennie Walker spends her time tucked safely and happily in the shadow of her fiery older sister, Bailey. But when Bailey dies abruptly, Lennie is catapulted to centre stage of her own life - and suddenly finds herself struggling to balance two boys. One boy takes Lennie out of her sorrow; the other comforts her in it. But the two can't collide without Lennie's world exploding...


Book cover of The Christmas Love Letters
Book cover of The Water Keeper
Book cover of Angels Fall

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