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Is it too much to ask for the same type of love as the best romance novels and romantic movies describe it? Is it naive to believe in happily-ever-after as romantic novels portray it?

Romance is not dead in the 21st century. However, romance is a rare gem to find in the age of tinder-swindlers, open relationships, and let's chill together but also see other people. The dating world isn't the same as it was 20 or even 10 years ago. With the rise of dating apps, singles have lost what was so special and romantic about dating. 

You see a cutie standing in a queue waiting to get their coffee. They try to politely decline your offer to pay for it but ultimately agree. Some small talk later, you exchange numbers and meet at a nearby park the next day. And that, kids, is how I met your mother. And perhaps it's rather hackneyed and a little clichéd for the beginning of a romance novel, but in real life, that's too darn cute.

However, it's the chivalry and romantic acts that are missing these days. And no, Tinder pick-up lines don't do it justice. No, I don't want to meet up at your place. I want you to walk on the outside of the pavement, check if I got home safe, or just sit in a car and chat about life because I know that petrol is expensive these days. I don't want you to slay dragons for me or fight evil stepmothers or witches, but, heck, let's not allow chivalry to die, pretty please!

Let me reveal a little secret about a hidden world where romance and chivalry are thriving. It's the universe of romance novels and love books. Perhaps it's the only place romance and chivalry will never perish because all those fairytale-like love stories are inked into sheets of paper.

Below, we've compiled a list of, in our opinion, the best novels of all time, romance edition. Did some of your favorite steamy romance novels make it to the list? Also, let us know if more romance novels are missing from the list!

#1

Pride And Prejudice By Jane Austen

Book cover of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is perhaps Jane Austen's most famous novel and arguably one of the greatest works of English literature. It's a love story of Elizabeth Bennet, the second daughter of the middle-class Bennet family, and Mr. Darcy, a wealthy English aristocrat. Despite their initial misperceptions of one another, a slow-burning romance develops between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, who come to admire one another. They both must unlearn their pride and prejudice to obtain true happiness. It's incredible how a book that was published 200 years ago has captivated millions of people throughout the years. However, those who have read it at least once will be able to explain why this is the case. If you want to start reading Austen (and yes, you do), this novel is a great place to start.

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#2

Jane Eyre By Charlotte Brontë

Book cover of Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Orphaned as a young child, Jane has always felt like an outsider. When she gets to Thornfield Hall, where the pompous and brooding Edward Rochester has hired her to look after his ward Adèle, her bravery is again tested. However, Jane is drawn to his conflicted yet good-hearted spirit. She falls in love. And she falls hard. But there's more than meets the eye. The walls of Thornfield Hall hide a terrifying secret. There is a reason why the bestsellers of our time fade quickly from our memories while millions worldwide remember and revere a book written nearly 200 years ago. Jane Eyre is more than just a lovely book about an enduring love story. It's a tribute to the power of unadulterated emotion, which cuts across all boundaries of time and culture. It's that kind of book that prompts readers to believe in love (again) or hold on to the illusion of it. Beautiful and unforgettable - that's what Jane Eyre is.

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Amanda Greenwood
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's a horrible story. He's already married and hides it from her. That's not romance

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#3

Shanna By Kathleen E. Woodiwiss

Book cover of Shanna by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss

The protagonist of Shanna is, you guessed it, Shanna, a young woman who resides on an island with her trading merchant father. Shanna is portrayed as a "spoiled little rich girl" and not-so-much of a likable character. However, that preconception changes, and she gets a more favorable impression from the reader towards the end of the book. Or perhaps we just "grow" to like her by the end. Her father, worried about dying of old age, gives her one year to find and choose a husband, or else he will select one for her. Shanna fails to find someone affluent and well-educated, so she decides to arrange a marriage with a man condemned to death. But her plan doesn't go as expected. If you like a chonky romance tale that you will not finish reading in one sitting (think 600+ pages), give Shanna a read. And take your time with it because it's definitely worth it!

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Anna Poręba
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Already makes me want to ran around screaming from disgust. Sorry.

#4

Morning Glory By LaVyrle Spencer

Book cover of Morning Glory by LaVyrle Spencer

The story takes place at the end of the Great Depression and the beginning of World War II - not exactly the perfect setting for a historical romance novel. However, it turns out to be one of the most beautiful love tales ever. The plot follows two protagonists - Will and Elly. Will is an ex-criminal who desperately needs a job, but the past keeps haunting him. Elly is a young widow who is expecting a child. She needs a man in the house. Someone who could work the land, make repairs, and be a partner in a way that her spouse never was. It is a touching tale of two lonely people finding each other and falling in love. Life has harmed both Will and Elly, and it is incredibly moving to see how this harm is restored by the love they discover in one another. It is not a fast-paced novel. It's a warm and comforting read, with which you should take your time.

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#5

Indigo By Beverly Jenkins

Book cover of Indigo by Beverly Jenkins

Hester Wyatt fled slavery as a young kid. Today, she is a part of Michigan's Underground Railroad, giving other runaways a shot at freedom. Hester doesn't think twice when one of her fellow conductors brings her a wounded man to hide. However, Galen Vachon, also known as "Black Daniel," is not just another runaway. He's a vital figure in the North's Underground Railroad network and has a price on his head. The time spent together as Hester heals the hunky, arrogant man turns out to be the start of an unforgettable love story. Love, lust, betrayal, suspense, and lessons on African American history are all in this historical romance book. But beware, you may be swooning over Galen by the end of the book!

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#6

Dark Lover By J.R. Ward

Book cover of Dark Lover by J.R. Ward

J.R. Ward's New York Times bestselling Black Dagger Brotherhood series begins with the first book, Dark Lover. It centers on the only remaining purebred vampire and leader of the Black Dagger Brotherhood Wrath. He has a grievance against the slayers who murdered his parents many years ago. However, his plans change when one of his most reliable fighters is killed, leaving a half-breed daughter orphaned. Wrath is forced to lay down his dagger and take care of his daughter, Beth, a half-breed vampire unaware of her vampire heritage. Soon, she's introduced to a fascinating world of all things supernatural. And, you guessed it, they fall in love. But it's not a "and they lived happily ever after." It gets a bit more intense than that. But, heck, is it funny, sexy, and raw! Three words to describe the book, although many more would be needed to describe the entire series of now-20 novels. So if you have some time on your hands, pick it up because it's an enjoyable, wild, and sizzling hot ride.

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Bernadine Thurton
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Absolutely great writing. The entire series is amazing. It's sweet, engaging and wild.

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#7

Lord Of Scoundrels By Loretta Chase

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The novel begins with a flashback to protagonist Sebastian Dain's early years, allowing readers to understand why Sebastian behaves the way he does - like "a spoiled, selfish, spiteful brute." Sebastian was so neglected and unloved as a child that he has grown into a ruthless adult who uses women and drinking to mask his concerns about his insecurities. He had never experienced love and believed he was unworthy of it and that no woman would want to date him. But then he meets Jessica. The book hooks you from the very beginning. The writing, attitude, sass, humor, and, oh, the chemistry! It is worth every page and every hour spent on it.

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#8

The Viscount Who Loved Me By Julia Quinn

Book cover of The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn

The Viscount Who Loved Me is the second book in Quinn's Bridgerton trilogy, set in Regency England, and centers on the eldest Bridgerton sibling, Anthony, Viscount Bridgerton. After seeing Anthony's womanizer side in the first book, here, Anthony ultimately decides to settle down and wed Edwina Sheffield. However, he faces a significant hurdle: Kate Sheffield, Edwina's sister, who is aware of Anthony's ruined reputation and his debauchery addiction. She has no desire to let her sister wed this infamous heartbreaker, which sets off their conflict. Well, what happens would be giving away spoilers. It's a steamy, sassy, and emotional love story. It's definitely worth giving a read! P.S. There's a Netflix TV series based on the books, which does not disappoint!

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#9

Bet Me By Jennifer Crusie

Book cover of Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie

Minerva Dobbs knows that a happily-ever-after doesn't exist, especially with a man who asked her to dinner to win a bet. So what if he's a very handsome and popular man? However, her date, Calvin Morrisey, also thinks that commitment is impossible, especially with a woman as temperamental as her. At the end of the dinner, they cut their losses and agree to never see each other again. The book includes the two components we look for in a romantic comedy. The humor is excellent, and the characters are relatable - with enough strengths and flaws to make them seem realistic. If you're looking for a funny love story with a lot of heart in it, this is your book. We give it five betting stars!

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Bernadine Thurton
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's funny all around and the romance is sweet too. A great read by an amazing author.

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#11

A Hunger Like No Other By Kresley Cole

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Lulu P
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I LOVE this book to the point I have it on kindle, audio and paperback. This was the second book I read of Kresley Cole's and it is my absolute favourite book ever. It has everything humour, action, and maybe a few tears, but I fell head over heels in love with the characters. If you haven't read any of Keresley Cole's books before, I would definitely start with this one. There is 1 more before this which is part of an anthology and the start of the IAD series, but this is where it really started for me.

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#12

Delaney’s Desert Sheikh By Brenda Jackson

Book cover of Delaney’s Desert Sheikh by Brenda Jackson

Following her medical school graduation, Delaney departs for a getaway to her cousin's lavish, remote cabin. However, it soon becomes clear that she isn't the only one staying there. Jamal, a handsome stranger who seems to be a Sheikh seeking to woo Delaney, is staying at the cabin too. And there is volcanic sexual tension between them. You can feel it through the pages. This novel is simple and quick to read, but it draws you into the worlds of a clever woman and a stubborn, self-righteous Sheikh. The instant you pick up this book, you get attached.

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#13

Slave To Sensation By Nalini Singh

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#14

Vision In White By Nora Roberts

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Bernadine Thurton
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

She's my favorite author since I started romance at 12. Love her stories all around.

#15

Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake By Sarah MacLean

Book cover of Nine Rules To Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean

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#16

The Duchess War By Courtney Milan

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#17

Tangled By Emma Chase

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#18

The Magpie Lord By KJ Charles

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#19

Glitterland By Alexis Hall

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#20

Ante Up By Christina C. Jones

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#21

Outlander By Diana Gabaldon

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BluEyedSeoulite
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This definitely should be higher on the list. They even adapted it quite well to a very successful TV show!

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#22

Sense And Sensibility By Jane Austen

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The lesbian knitting panda
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

this is of course, amazing but out of all the Jane Austen novels it's not the most enthralling

#23

The Princess Bride By William Goldman

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#24

Emma By Jane Austen

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#25

Love In The Time Of Cholera By Gabriel Garcia Márquez

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#26

North And South By Elizabeth Gaskell

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#28

The Time Traveler's Wife By Audrey Niffenegger

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#30

The Bride By Julie Garwood

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Bernadine Thurton
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Needs to be higher up the list. Her historical romance are great. It has world building, strong characters and great romance.

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#32

Ross Poldark By Winston Graham

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#33

Eleanor & Park By Rainbow Rowell

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#34

The Kiss Quotient By Helen Hoang

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#35

Anna Karenina By Leo Tolstoy

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#36

Rebecca By Daphne du Maurier

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#37

Me Before You By Jojo Moyes

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#38

Beach Read By Emily Henry

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#39

Kiss An Angel By Susan Elizabeth Phillips

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Nikki Hilton
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One of my favorites. I love SEP. This one made me laugh, especially in the beginning, cry, and catch my breath.

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#40

The Fault In Our Stars By John Green

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Jawahira Awan
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Truly a perfect all kill!! Loved it promise you'll never regret reading this!!!

#41

Secrets Of A Summer Night By Lisa Kleypas

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Jennifer Welsch
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Love Lusa Kleypas books! Such a great writer! The wallflower crossover to her later series so u get to see the characters and their children!

#42

Absolutely Positively By Jayne Ann Krentz

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#43

Red, White & Royal Blue By Casey McQuiston

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#44

Maurice By E.M. Forster

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#45

The Thorn Birds By Colleen McCullough

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#46

Tipping The Velvet By Sarah Waters

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#48

It Ends With Us By Colleen Hoover

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#49

Forever... By Judy Blume

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#52

An Extraordinary Union By Alyssa Cole

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#53

Tess Of The d'Urbervilles By Thomas Hardy

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#54

Gone With The Wind By Margaret Mitchell

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#55

A Long Petal Of The Sea By Isabel Allende

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#56

Something Borrowed By Emily Giffin

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#57

Normal People By Sally Rooney

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#58

Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda By Becky Albertalli

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#59

The Song Of Achilles By Madeline Miller

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#60

Rush By Maya Banks

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#61

Bared To You By Sylvia Day

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#62

On Dublin Street By Samantha Young

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#63

Tonight And Forever By Brenda Jackson

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#64

Acting On Impulse By Mia Sosa

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#65

Hate To Want You By Alisha Rai

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#66

The Lady's Guide To Celestial Mechanics By Olivia Waite

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#67

Romeo And Juliet By William Shakespeare

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The lesbian knitting panda
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

okay but the relationship is between a 13 year old and a 16 year old, which leads to I *think* 4 people dying. I know Shakespeare is not known for his plots but the writing itself so if you want actual romance, read the sonnets.

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#68

The Notebook By Nicholas Sparks

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#69

Birdsong By Sebastian Faulks

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#70

The Proposal By Jasmine Guillory

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#71

On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous By Ocean Vuong

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#72

Fangirl By Rainbow Rowell

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#73

Anna And The French Kiss By Stephanie Perkins

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#74

Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe By Benjamin Alire Sáenz

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#75

More Happy Than Not By Adam Silvera

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#76

The Grand Sophy By Georgette Heyer

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#77

Twice In A Lifetime By Clare Lydon

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#79

Long Shot By Kennedy Ryan

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#80

Delta Of Venus By Anaïs Nin

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#81

Twilight By Stephenie Meyer

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Lulu P
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am not ashamed to admit I liked the films, apart from the first one, but loved the books. I think the trick is to not overthink it and just accept that it is completely possible to fall head over heels in love at first sight. Is the concept a little weird? Maybe. But I won't apologise for loving it.

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#82

Fifty Shades Of Grey By E. L. James

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Nilsen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Is this _really_ a love story? A rich man coercing a young and impressionable girls (who seems rather "simple" ) to follow every whim of his twisted sense of erotica. If he hadn't been rich you wouldn't have believed the story. If he'd been ordinary middle class or poor it would have been a crime

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