These romance novels are among the most loved works of literature to ever exist. Some are timeless books which have gained a reputation as classics while others are new cult works which have gripped modern readers.
Many of these well loved romantic books have made their way onto the screen which has only increased their popularity.
From D.H.Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover to the array of romantic tales by author Colleen Hoover, even if you’re not a reader, I guarantee you’ll have heard of these titles.
Today, readers take to “BookTok” and “Bookstagram” to share what they’re reading and many of these books have gained an even bigger audience through these platforms.
After studying English Literature at University and reading much romantic literature – these are my top ten.
10. Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
This novel follows Scarlett O’Hara, the spoiled daughter of a well-to-do Georgia plantation owner.
Scarlett is a strong-minded woman with a complex love life – the novel features themes of love, loss, revenge and survival.
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9. The Duke and I by Julia Quinn
The famous Bridgerton series, adapted into a Netflix show, follows the journey of Duke Simon and Daphne Bridgerton whose fake romance blossoms into love.
This is the first novel of the Bridgerton series and the tale the Duke and Daphne has only grown in popularity since the hit series.
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8. It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
Hoover’s romance novels are a favourite amongst modern readers – It Ends With Us is her most successful novel and this year its film adaptation, starring Blake Lively, hit the cinemas.
The novel fictionalises Hoover’s parents’ story, a relationship with all-consuming love and abuse that tests protagonist Lily.
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7. Normal People by Sally Rooney
Rooney has established herself as one of the most well respected writers of modern romantic fiction.
Her hit novel, Normal People, follows on-and-off couple but long-time friends, Connell and Marianne. The novels follows their lives through school and university until adult life brings big decisions which will decide the fate of their relationship.
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