Best Romance Books of 2024: Top 9 Must-Reads

We’ve explored the best romance books that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon. Perfect for any romantic soul!
The Hating Game coverMe Before You coverPride and Prejudice cover

Looking for the best romance books to sweep you off your feet? We’ve scoured the bookshelves, reading by candlelight and shedding a tear or two, to bring you a list of must-read romance books. From witty banter to epic love stories, we’ve picked books that will make your heart race and maybe even break a little. So grab a cozy blanket and your favorite snack because these romance books are about to become your new obsession!

On this list:

9 The Hating Game by Sally Thorne

The Hating Game cover

  • Genre: Romantic Comedy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2016
  • Pages: 384

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This rom-com is all about office rivalry turned romance. Lucy and Josh’s love-hate banter is utterly delightful, making it a must-read in romance books.

8 Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

Me Before You cover

  • Genre: Contemporary Romance
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2012
  • Pages: 369

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A tear-jerker that will make you believe in love and sacrifice. The love story between Lou and Will is as heart-wrenching as it is beautiful.

7 Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice cover

  • Genre: Classic Romance
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1813
  • Pages: 279

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A classic that never gets old. Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet’s slow-burn romance is timeless and full of witty dialogue.

6 Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Outlander cover

  • Genre: Historical Romance
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1991
  • Pages: 850

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Time travel, historical fiction, and romance all rolled into one. Jamie and Claire’s love story transcends centuries, making it a standout in romance books.

5 The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory

The Proposal cover

  • Genre: Contemporary Romance
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2018
  • Pages: 336

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A fun, modern romance that starts with a public proposal gone wrong. Nik and Carlos’s chemistry is off the charts!

4 Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor & Park cover

  • Genre: Young Adult Romance
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2012
  • Pages: 328

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First love in the purest form. This YA romance captures the awkwardness and sweetness of falling in love for the first time.

3 The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks

The Notebook cover

  • Genre: Contemporary Romance
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1996
  • Pages: 214

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Noah and Allie’s love story is one for the ages. A true tear-jerker, this book has set the bar high for romance books.

2 Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

Red, White & Royal Blue cover

  • Genre: New Adult Romance
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2019
  • Pages: 421

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A charming enemies-to-lovers story between the First Son of the United States and a British prince. It’s hilarious, heartfelt, and undeniably romantic.

1 The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars cover

  • Genre: Young Adult Romance
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2012
  • Pages: 313

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This one takes the top spot because it’s an emotional rollercoaster. Hazel and Gus’s love story is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching, making it unforgettable in romance books. The humor and sincerity in their relationship make you laugh and cry all at once. We chose it as the best because it deals with complex issues like illness, love, and loss in a way that is both touching and deeply human. Plus, it leaves a lasting impression that few romance books manage to achieve.

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Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!