Leading up to Valentine’s Day I decided to read some love stories to get all the “falling in love” feels. It was so hard to find clean romance book lists, so I thought I would make my own. These are some of my favorite love stories! Every single one of these books I want to read again.
Regency Romance Books
For Jane Austen fans, I made this category of regency romance books. For people who don’t like that genre, I’ll separate them, so you know what to expect.
Persuasion, by Jane Austen. This is my absolute favorite Jane Austen book. I love that they’re given a second chance and it’s a mature romantic relationship. Anne is smart and loyal, almost to a fault, but I really enjoy her as the main character.
Arabella, by Georgette Heyer. This was the first book I’ve read by Georgette Heyer, and it did not disappoint. I loved Arabella’s character and how compassion and kindness always trump political correctness. I also appreciate her strength of character. A funny, sweet, and memorable story. I’m looking forward to reading The Grand Sophy next.
Edenbrooke, by Julianne Donaldson. I know most people have read this one, but it’s so good! Marianne’s relaxing summer at a country estate, turns into a series of adventurous, including unexpected love. Captivating and an interesting plot twist.
Blackmoore, by Julianne Donaldson. Another by the same author, but she’s really good! I’m always a sucker for love stories about best friends growing up together and then realizing they love each other. There are a lot of things that complicate Kate and Henry’s relationship though, and make Kate’s dream of never marrying and living in India more appealing than trying to settle down and get married.
Secret of Pembrooke Park, by Julie Klassen. So many twists and turns in the plot, it’s almost as much a murder mystery, as a romance book. Such a page turner though. I finished this one so quickly, because I just wanted to know what happened.
Non-Regency Romance Books
The Dressmaker’s Gift, by Fiona Valpy. One of the most beautiful WWII love stories, I’ve read. I want to read everything by this author. This story was engaging, unique, and historically educational.
Last Christmas in Paris, Hazel Gaynor. An unforgettably romantic novel exploring the ruins of WWI, the strength of love, and the enduring hope of the Christmas season. I’ve shared this one before. It’s beautiful!
The Potato Peel Pie Society, by Mary Ann Shaffer. A remarkable tale of the island of Guernsey during the German Occupation, and of a society as extraordinary as its name.
Lovely Wars, by Julie Berry. This story of young men and women fighting through wars and trying to find love, is filled with hope and heartbreak, prejudice and passion. Although War is a formidable force, it’s no match for the power of Love.
Love and Olives, by Jenna Evans Welch. A Mamma Mia!–inspired tale about a teen girl finding romance while trying to connect with her absent father in beautiful Santorini, Greece. I’m currently reading Love & Gelato and it’s been so good too!
Jo and Laurie, by Margaret Stohl and Melissa de la Cruz. Right after reading Little Women, I really enjoyed this one. It’s a romantic retelling starring Jo March and her best friend, the boy next door, Theodore “Laurie” Laurence. Of course, Little Women is a great one for this list too. Check out my blog post all about the Little Women book and films.
The Printed Letter Bookshop, by Katherine Reay. I’ve loved books by this author. When Madeline’s professional life falls apart, and a handsome gardener makes her question her plans and her heart, she has to decide what to do with her aunt’s beloved bookshop.
The Number of Love (The Codebreakers), by Roseanna M. White. During the Great War, England’s greatest asset is their intelligence network–field agents and codebreakers able to crack German telegrams. Margot is so intelligent and loveable, and Drake is willing to wait for her.
A Curse So Dark and Lonely, by Brigid Kemmerer. An amazing retelling of Beauty and the Beast, with modern day tie ins. This one was so hard to put down, definitely a page turner. I’m looking forward to reading number 2 in this series.
My Lady Jane, by Cynthia Hand. A funny and romantic historical fantasy about Lady Jane Grey. Clearly a lot of historical liberty, but interesting and so good!
The Masterpiece, by Francine Rivers. A successful LA artist, Roman Velasco appears to have everything he could possibly want―money, women, fame. Only Grace Moore, his newly hired personal assistant, knows how little he truly has. Their story of personal growth and love is a good one!
Hopefully, you’ll enjoy this clean romance book list! I constantly ask for book recommendations, because I trust my friends and love a good read. Tell me your favorite romance books, and share some of the ones you’ve enjoyed the most!
Sincerely,
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