20 best romantic fiction books for your 2025 reading list
Our curated selection of the best romantic fiction books to read, from classics to new releases, and with personal reviews.
These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more
When it comes to romance novels, the mind automatically goes to raunchy book covers and stereotypical Mills & Boon stories. But the world of romantic fiction is a lot more than smut and porn as Susannah Hardy, Australian author of Loving Lizzie March, tells news.com.au checkout.
“Romance books are romantic, yes but also fun, sexy, sad, emotional and uplifting – and books like these that bring readers pleasure and hope should be celebrated, whatever the genre,” she says.
As a somewhat recent convert to the romance genre, I wholeheartedly agree and decided to round up the best romantic fiction books for both those looking to dip their toe into the genre and for diehards on the hunt for their next favourite.
RELATED: Top-rated ebook readers
If you’re into romantasy or have heard all the buzz about ACOTAR and Fourth Wing, we couldn’t not include these two cult books.
Fourth Wing is a viral TikTok phenomenon and spent 18 weeks in the number one spot on The New York Times Bestseller list. Onyx Storm, the third instalment, has just been released to almost Harry Potter levels of fanfare.
Around the world fans spent hours lining up, even in freezing cold temperatures, to be the first to get their hands on the highly anticipated smutty novel.
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas is a fantasy romance series set in the faerie lands of Prythian. The five book series has sold over 13 million copies and a sixth instalment is in the works so you’re definitely not too late to jump on the bandwagon.
When it comes to the world’s best romantic fiction books, it’s hard to look past Outlander. As of 2021, the best-selling series has sold over 50 million copies worldwide. First published in 1991, you might know the name from the hit historical TV drama series starring Caitríona Balfe and Sam Heughan as the cult characters, Claire and Jamie. If you’re after well-developed characters, steamy passion and an addictive storyline, this is the way to go.
Not quite into historical fiction? The queen of rom-coms, Emily Henry, is on fire at the moment.
I’ve read all five of her romantic comedies and am eagerly awaiting her sixth book, Great Big Beautiful Life, set to be released on April 23 this year.
In the meantime, while I do recommend every single one of her books, Book Lovers, is a great place to start.
The story follows Nora, a literary agent, and Charlie, a book editor, who are work nemeses and of course find themselves stuck in a small town together. And while I love all the men in Emily Henry novels, Charlie Lastra will seriously make you swoon.
Plus, all five of her books currently have movies or TV shows in the works so make sure to read them before they come out.
Keep scrolling for our curated list of the best romantic fiction books to read, from rom-coms to dark romances, spanning all subgenres and periods, plus our personal reviews.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR’S PICKS
Book Lovers by Emily Henry, $14 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Acting Editor
Emily Henry is, without a doubt, the queen of rom-coms right now. All her books are a delight to read and feature swoonworthy romances but the one I’d recommend for newbies – and the one that got me into Emily Henry – is Book Lovers. Following Nora Stephens, a cutthroat literary agent who is a self-proclaimed ‘Evil Villainess’ of the rom-com genre, holidaying in a small town aptly named Sunshine Falls, where she runs into her professional rival Charlie Lastra. None of what happens next is surprising but Henry has a way of writing romance that is fun and compulsively readable. It’s the perfect book for when you’re seeking out a light, easy beach read that will make you believe in love again, just like the formerly ice cold Nora. Plus, if you’re into rom-coms then you’ll love the meta commentary running throughout the book.
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon, $14 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
You’ve probably heard of the highly successful TV show but did you know it’s based on an equally successful series of novels.
The story follows World War II combat nurse Claire Beauchamp who, while on holidays in Scotland with her husband, finds herself thrown back in time to the 1700s. Here she meets the dashing, ‘King of Men’ Jamie Fraser.
Whether you’re a fan of the series and looking for a way to fill in Droughtlander or are just now hearing of the books, this is a series that will keep you captivated on every page.
The Secrets of Midwives by Sally Hepworth, $12 (down from $22.99) at Amazon Australia
Read and Reviewed by Jessica Smith, Health and Wellness Writer
I just finished this book by Sally Hepworth a few days ago, and while I would consider it a pretty easy, quick read, it still had me feeling emotional on the last few pages! If you’re not a big reader and just want something digestible and engaging to follow, this is a great read. It follows a strong theme of pregnancy and babies (as you can probably tell from the cover), and gives an interesting glimpse into the homebirth and midwife world. (Though I would take everything with a grain of fiction-genre salt.) Following three intertwined characters and one central plot line, mirrored with flashbacks to an older character’s past, this book really had me engaged, and there were a few late nights of page turning that were had. While it isn’t the steamiest book in the world, the central, friends-to-lovers trope is sure to have you hooked early on.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne, $15.39 (down from $19.99)
Read and Reviewed by Susannah Hardy, Partnerships Writer
The Hating Game, the debut novel of USA Today-best-selling Australian author, Sally Thorne, bounced into our hands back in 2016 – and was an immediate hit. The ultimate enemies-to-lovers rom com, this story unfolds around central characters Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman. Stuck in the same workplace, the pair utterly dislike each other and are in constant competition, determined to bring each other down. Especially when a big promotion is on the table and they’re both in the running. This of course is a classic set up for a hot romance particularly as Lucy soon realises that love and hate are not that dissimilar. What really struck me about this book is not only the clever banter, pacey plot and well formed characters, but the incredibly slow building tension between Lucy and Joshua. Thorne is relentless and does not back away from the ‘enemy’ aspect, making the journey even more satisfying. This book sold in over 25 countries and was named in the top 20 romance novels of 2016 by the Washington Post – and it absolutely lives up to the hype. It has also been made into a major motion picture. And while it came out nearly nine years ago, it hasn’t lost its incredible appeal. If you want a guaranteed enemies-to-lovers winner that ticks all the right boxes, this is the book to read.
BEST ROMANTIC COMEDIES
In a New York Minute by Kate Spencer, $17.70 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
This was one of the first rom-coms I read and I seriously sparked my obsession with the genre. I read it in a weekend and couldn’t put it down.
Main character Franny’s day goes from bad to worse after she gets fired from her job and her dress gets caught in the subway door and rips, leaving her fully exposed. Of course, Hayes is there to save the day and gives Franny his suit jacket. The duo then go on with their days but unknown to them, they’re about to go viral when a fellow commuter posts the meetcute online.
Not only is this story super charming and heartwarming but it’ll also have you laughing out loud at times too. If you’re looking to dip your toe into the genre, this is a great place to start.
Happy Place by Emily Henry, $14 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Jessica Smith, Health and Wellness Writer
I am going to be honest, I did not expect to enjoy this as much as I did. While It’s been a super popular rom-com book for a while now, I picked up Happy Place from the library in the same way one would choose a corny-looking Netflix-produced rom-com for an easy (and maybe a little bit mindless) Friday night comfort movie. But boy, did I underestimate Emily Henry. While this certainly had all the best parts of a sugary rom-com, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself so emotionally invested in the depth of the characters and complexities of relationships. I tore through this book and am happy to say I did feel a full range of feelings for the dynamic between the two main characters who were once engaged but now broken up and having to fake it in front of their friends. The nostalgic beach holiday vibe also makes this the perfect read if you’re needing to mentally get away from the hustle and back to summer holidays.
Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, $35.70
Read and Reviewed by Susannah Hardy, Partnerships Writer
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston is a fresh, funny, queer (and just about perfect) rom com that I literally could not put down. It could be any romance between two guys, Henry and Alex, except for the fact that Henry is the Prince of England and Alex is the son of the President of the United States – knowing just this was enough to make me run and buy the book immediately (I love a celebrity trope). And it does not disappoint. The pair despise each intensely, but when their ongoing feud culminates in public embarrassment, they’re forced to pretend to be friends to keep up appearances. Alex and Henry are very different in personality but opposites definitely attract as they navigate their growing friendship in a very public arena. The celebrity aspect elevates the plot line enormously and McQuiston has an excellent voice for rom com. The supporting characters are equally adorable, while the ins and outs of world politics and a presidential campaign run alongside the romance. It has all the ingredients of the perfect rom-com – but word of advice: read the book first before watching the movie, which came out in 2023. You’ll miss too much of the McQuiston magic.
Loving Lizzie March by Susannah Hardy, $22.76 (down from $32.99)
Read and Reviewed by Claudia Coy, Social Media Producer
I’m not a big reader but a few years ago I went on a camping trip and was stuck with no phone reception and knew I would have to bring a book along to keep me entertained. I stumbled upon this book in the bookshop and boy, am I glad I did. I was hooked from the get go.
Loving Lizzie March is the familiar story of a young woman who can’t help but make questionable life choices over and over again (including her habit for always choosing the wrong guy) and the book follows her journey as she tries to get her life in order (again, very relatable). Lizzie is probably the most loveable/frustrating character I’ve ever met – possibly because she’s so relatable.
It’s fun, it’s quirky and it’s one of those books that you can’t quite put down.
The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary, $17.70 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Jessica Smith, Health and Wellness Writer
I read The Flatshare a few years ago and still recommend it for anyone looking for a light and easy rom-com. Set up with an intriguing premise and an unusual household arrangement between two singles, it’s ripe for romance and a happy ending, with clever wit and emotional depth in between. Beth O’Leary always strikes a brilliant balance between fun and digestible while also holding great meaning, thanks to the impossibly loveable characters she creates, and I could not have devoured this book faster.
That Island Feeling by Karina May, $18 (down from $34.99)
Read and Reviewed by Susannah Hardy, Partnerships Writer
Last week I picked up That Island Feeling by Australian rom com author Karina May – and I could not put it down until I’d finished. This is May’s third novel and revolves around highly organised Andie Alcott as she plans a girl’s trip to idyllic Pearl Island for her bestie, Taylor who’s going through a divorce. However it seems that Andie’s the one who needs the break from her busy life of running around for family and friends, and her tightly wound schedule of island activities soon falls away as she chances upon hot local Jack Cooper. The story is skilfully told through both Andie and Jack’s point of view (an aspect I absolutely love), revealing not only a strong and heated attraction but also the past sadness they both carry and why their paths have crossed. I loved both Andie and Jack from the first chapter and thoroughly enjoyed their island journey – a timely adventure for both characters in need of romance and laughter. This is a delightful and hugely satisfying rom com, beautifully written with plenty of sexy funny banter, hilarious antics and heartfelt emotion. The summer read you hang out for when the holidays arrive – or the book you need to keep the holiday going once back at work. Perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Beth O’Leary or anyone in search of ‘that island feeling’. A definite ‘must read’!
BEST ROMANTIC FANTASIES
Fourth Wing: The Empyrean Bk 1 by Rebecca Yarros, $14 (down from $24.99)
What You Need To Know
This book has captivated the internet, especially TikTok, since its release in 2023. The addictive story is set in the fantasy world of Basgiath War College and follows Victoria as she learns to become a dragon rider.
The epic fantasy has readers from the very start and yes, it does contain a lot of smut too.
“Fourth Wing is an absolute triumph, delivering unforgettable characters, sizzling romance, awe-inspiring dragons, and a heroine who will steal your heart,” wrote one five-star review.
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, $12 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Madison Geros, Partnerships Manager
I would not classify myself as a reader. I barely read any books as I hadn’t been able to find a book I liked or could commit to. However, at the end of 2023 I entered the TikTok gateway of #booktok and made it my mission to find a book series I could get into and would make me want to read every night. I thought there was no way this series could live up to the hype but boy was I wrong. The A Court of Thorns and Roses series has brought me out of a hardcore reading slump, I am OBSESSED. These books are so well written and the author makes you feel like you’re living in the action. I now want to read every night and weekends. I definitely recommend this series if you’re looking for a new fantasy read or you need to get out of a slump like me!
BEST CLASSIC-STYLE ROMANCES
The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks, $21.90 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Stephanie Yip, eCommerce Travel Writer
After falling in love with A Walk to Remember (the movie not the book) I voraciously began to read Nicholas Sparks’ romances, and one of my favourites was The Notebook. Written beautifully and with a more mature edge to some of his other novels it follows the story of Noah and Allie as their love develops from youth to old age. Though short (around 250 pages) it captures their story perfectly by alternating between the past (when they meet through to the tackling of major life events) and the future (where Allie has developed Alzheimers), stitching their story together until the end. Like all Nicholas Sparks books, it’s a quick read that’s very well written and a heavy tear-jerker. Grab the tissues now.
Me Before You By Jojo Moyes, $34.60
What You Need To Know
You’ve probably seen or at least heard of the movie starring Sam Claflin and Emilia Clark and the book version is just as, if not more, heartbreakingly beautiful. Following the story of Louisa Clark who is hired as a carer for wheelchair bound Will Trainor.
The story will have you questioning everything you’ve ever known and all the choices you’ve made and will make.
“This was one of those amazing books that once you start you simply cannot put it down. While I was desperate to get to the end to see what happened, I was also trying to make the book last as I didn’t want to finish and have to say goodbye to these amazing characters. Jojo writes in such a beautiful way that shows both the best and the worst of her characters and I fell not a little in love with them all,” wrote one five-star review.
BEST HISTORICAL ROMANCES
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, $10 (down from $14.99)
Read and Reviewed by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Acting Editor
It’s a truth universally acknowledged that Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice must be on any best books list. It’s a classic for a reason and like many, Pride and Prejudice was my gateway Austen novel (although Emma is now my favourite if I had to rank them). The story of the vivacious and headstrong Elizabeth Bennett and proud and haughty Mr Darcy overcoming their surprise, surprise pride and prejudices to fall in love has to be up there as one of the greatest love stories ever told in literature. But it’s also so much more than that – it’s a funny, witty novel with a vividly drawn cast of characters (Mr Collins, anyone?) and packed full of a sharp social observations that still ring true today. Once you’ve read Pride and Prejudice, make sure you watch the BBC miniseries with Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle, the universally acknowledged superior adaptation of the book.
The Duke & I by Julia Quinn, $17.70 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Stephanie Yip, eCommerce Travel Writer
I’ve officially entered my smutty literature era and naturally that must include The Bridgerton series. I got into the books (surprise surprise) after bingeing the adaptations on Netflix and have been blitzing my way through the siblings’ stories. The Duke & I is Book 1 in the series and follows the story of Daphne, the eldest sister of a family of eight, who is being forced to enter the marriage mart. It’s a fast-paced page turner with likeable characters and an easy to follow (read, highly predictable) storyline. Great for a light and steamy read.
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah, $25 at Amazon Australia
Read and Reviewed by Jessica Smith, Health and Wellness Writer
This is one of the best books I’ve read, not just because it is an incredible read, but also because it put me onto Kristin Hannah, the queen of creating impossibly loveable characters who lock you in, heart and soul for the entirety of her typically lengthy books. The Great Alone follows a couple and their teenage daughter who move to Alaska in the 70s, the untouched land of the ruthless wild, where winter can kill you if the bears don’t first. 13-year-old Leni is trying to wrap her head around this new world and all its threats, outside the family’s log cabin and in, as her war-vet father becomes increasingly more abusive at home. Hannah paints an incredibly insightful picture of the fascinating wild, but also the slow-burn, coming-of-age love that blooms between Leni and a schoolboy on the island. I was glued to the pages of this romantic historical fiction for the entirety of a 12-hour flight, and have recommended it since to friends who have grown addicted to Kristin Hannah because of it.
BEST DARK ROMANCES
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover, $12 (down from $22.99)
Read and Reviewed by Marina Tatas, Senior Shopping Writer
If you’re yet to read It Ends With Us, then you must be living under a rock. The best-selling book has recently been made into a Hollywood movie starring Blake Lively. While there has been some controversy in recent times, I read the book years ago and absolutely loved it.
The ultimate romance novel and what brought Colleen Hoover all the fame she has today, this book takes us through the life of Lily as she realises that sometimes the ones who love you the most, will unfortunately hurt you the most.
Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James, $17.70 (down from $22.99)
What You Need To Know
We couldn’t make a best romance fiction books list and not include global bestseller Fifty Shades of Grey. Yes, it’s controversial and some people love to hate it but there’s no denying its incredible popularity.
With more than 100 million copies sold worldwide, the novel has cemented itself as one of the best romance fiction books of the modern era.
HOW WE CHOSE THE BOOKS
To help you find the best romantic fiction books for your reading preferences, we asked author Susannah Hardy, for her books recommendations and advice. Our team of bookworms also share their favourite books that have stayed with them for long after they’ve read them.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF ROMANCE BOOK FOR BEGINNERS?
”I would advise new romance readers to first consider a subject or theme that offers the most interest,” says Susannah.
Susannah would recommend starting with a rom-com, maybe by Emily Henry, Beth O’Leary or Marian Keyes, as their books are funny, sexy and totally accessible, while often covering deep-seated emotions and sometimes gritty topics.
“Also, romance books usually feature certain tropes (one or sometimes many), which are basically widely recognised themes,” she says.
“This can be helpful when first venturing into romance as it indicates the sort of story you’ll be reading.
“Popular tropes in romance include enemies-to-lovers (my top pick), friends-to-lovers, fake dating, love contracts, forced proximity, celebrity romance … the list goes on.”
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR ROMANTIC BOOK GENRES TO READ RIGHT NOW?
Romantic comedies and romantic fantasies are the most popular subgenres right now, according to Susannah.
“Perhaps after recent years, people are now looking to lighter more fun reads – let’s face it, with everything going on in the world from Covid to the cost of living crisis, who doesn’t love a happily ever after?” she says.
HOW DO I CHOOSE A BOOK I WILL ACTUALLY LIKE?
Susannah has a few top tips including:
- Consider what tropes you like – I personally love enemies-to-lovers (The Hating Game by Sally Thorne) and fake dating (The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas) and celebrity romance (Red White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston)
- Look at all the different genres – you might like gothic romance, sports romance, romantasy, rom-com – there are heaps to choose from.
- This is a pretty obvious tip but read the back cover and see if the subject matter suits you.
- Read recommendations on Instagram and TikTok – there are plenty of Bookstagrammers and Booktokkers out there who post reviews and suggestions.
- Join an online book club or chat group and get recommendations from other readers. You’ll soon find the genre, style and authors you love.
WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON MISCONCEPTION WHEN IT COMES TO ROMANCE NOVELS?
“The most common misconception is that romance books are just light and fluffy easy reads, written for women with no depth or literary worth,” says Susannah.
Romance novels have become more diverse, offering a huge range of genres. They often delve into all sorts of big topics such as depression, abuse, death of a partner. While the tropes of romance novels are indicative of the storyline, these are usually brought to the page in a fresh, exciting and uncliched way. Romance can be gritty, funny and very moving – and not always (in fact hardly ever) solely about romance.
She also says the other misconception is that they are easy to write.
“Nothing could be further from the truth (trust me, I know),” she says.
“Writing any book is a challenge, and romance novels need to portray true emotions that readers can connect to, as well as characters that readers fall in love with and a storyline that holds their attention. It’s not easy at all.”
WHY HAVE ROMANCE BOOKS BEEN TRADITIONALLY LOOKED DOWN UPON?
Susannah says romance novels have traditionally been looked down upon in the past as they were considered commercial fiction with light stories, written for women with lots of sex and no substance or literary worth.
People have also looked down on romance books for being escapist, and unrealistic.
However, as Susannah points out, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to escape the everyday. “We don’t go and watch a big action blockbuster movie to see real life,” she says.
Don’t forget to sign up to the news.com.au checkout shopping newsletter so you never miss another shopping tip, trend or sale.
Aussies go wild for ‘steamy’ cult sequel
The third book in the best-selling Fourth Wing series is finally here and Aussies are rushing to get their hands on the sexy romantasy novel.
Brutal reason woman nearly ghosted date
After meeting on eHarmony, Naomi spent three months talking to the father-of-two before deciding to catch up in real life.
How ‘beer with a mate’ made Aussies $18 million
A casual catch up with a friend sparked a runaway success story in just four years.
Danny Clayton’s ‘mind blowing’ concert hack
With festival season almost here, this essential item will be music to your ears.