The Greatest "Fiction, Romance" Books Since 1990

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Fiction

Romance

The Romance category of books typically involves stories that revolve around romantic relationships between two or more characters. These stories often explore themes of love, passion, and intimacy, and may include elements of drama, suspense, or humor. Romance novels can range from sweet and innocent to steamy and erotic, and may be set in a variety of time periods and locations. Overall, the Romance genre offers readers a chance to escape into a world of love and romance, where anything is possible.

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  1. 126. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

    The novel centers around Don Tillman, a brilliant yet socially awkward genetics professor who has never been on a second date. Convinced he is simply not wired for romance, he embarks on the Wife Project - a scientific test to find the perfect partner. Enter Rosie Jarman, who is everything Don is not looking for: she's impulsive, fiery, and working as a barmaid while searching for her biological father. When Don agrees to help Rosie with her own project, his orderly, evidence-based approach to life is turned upside down. Through a series of unconventional encounters, the pair embarks on an endearing journey that challenges Don's perceptions of love, partnership, and what it means to be "normal."

    The 9498th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 127. As The Earth Turns Silver by Alison Wong

    Set in early 20th century New Zealand, "As The Earth Turns Silver" is a historical novel that explores the complex relationships between Chinese immigrants and the European settlers. The story follows the lives of two characters, a Chinese immigrant named Yung, who works as a valet for a wealthy white family, and Katherine, the wife of the family's lawyer. As their lives intertwine, they navigate the societal prejudices and expectations of the time, while also confronting their own desires and secrets. Through their forbidden love affair, Wong delves into themes of identity, racism, and the struggle for acceptance in a changing world.

    The 9645th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 128. An Echo In The Bone by Diana Gabaldon

    In this installment of a time-traveling historical fiction series, the narrative continues to follow the lives of a 20th-century surgeon and her 18th-century Scottish Highlander husband as they attempt to make a life for themselves in the American colonies amidst the turmoil of the Revolutionary War. The couple faces personal and historical challenges as they navigate the complexities of loyalty, love, and survival. Their story is interwoven with that of their daughter and her family in the 20th century, who are dealing with their own set of trials and discoveries that are mysteriously connected to the past. The novel blends rich historical detail with romance, adventure, and the intricacies of family and relationships across time.

    The 9645th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 129. Bared To You by Sylvia Day

    "Bared To You" is an intense and passionate novel that explores the complicated relationship between Eva and Gideon, two damaged individuals with dark pasts. As they navigate their intense physical attraction and emotional connection, they must confront their personal demons and learn to trust each other. With steamy scenes and complex characters, this book delves into themes of love, trauma, and self-discovery.

    The 9838th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 130. The Suffragette Scandal by Courtney Milan

    "The Suffragette Scandal" is a historical romance novel set in Victorian England, following the story of a courageous suffragette named Free Marshall. Determined to fight for women's rights and challenge societal norms, Free finds herself entangled in a scandalous affair with a powerful newspaper editor, Edward Clark. As their forbidden love blossoms, they must navigate through political intrigue, personal sacrifices, and the consequences of their actions, all while striving for a world where women are treated as equals.

    The 10033rd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 131. Written In My Own Heart's Blood by Diana Gabaldon

    In this installment of a sweeping historical fiction series, the story continues to follow the time-traveling 20th-century doctor and her 18th-century Scottish Highlander husband as they navigate the perils of the American Revolution. With their family scattered across continents and time, they face the challenges of war and the complexities of loyalty and love. As battles rage and loyalties are tested, the couple must use all their wits and courage to protect their loved ones and secure a future that is constantly threatened by the tumultuous events of history. The novel weaves together intricate narratives of romance, adventure, and historical drama, creating a rich tapestry of characters whose lives are inextricably linked across the ages.

    The 10033rd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 132. Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams

    The novel centers on a young Jamaican British woman living in London, navigating the complexities of her identity, mental health, and relationships. After a painful breakup with her long-term boyfriend, she finds herself in a downward spiral, struggling with her self-worth and the pressures of societal expectations. As she deals with workplace discrimination, problematic dating experiences, and familial issues, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing, supported by a cast of well-drawn friends and family members. The story offers a candid and often humorous exploration of contemporary issues such as race, feminism, and mental health, while providing a nuanced portrayal of the protagonist's resilience and growth.

    The 10063rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 133. The Feast Of Love by Charles Baxter

    "The Feast of Love" is a novel that delves into the complexities of love through a series of interconnected stories narrated by a diverse cast of characters in a Midwestern college town. The narrative is framed by a sleepless author who, upon encountering a friend in the middle of the night, is inspired to explore the varied experiences of love, loss, and longing among his acquaintances. Through these poignant and deeply personal stories, the novel examines the multifaceted nature of human relationships, capturing both the joy and heartache that love inevitably brings.

    The 10064th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 134. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne

    In this delightful romantic comedy, Lucy and Joshua are co-workers who despise each other. Constantly engaged in a battle of wits and pranks, their intense rivalry begins to blur the lines between love and hate. As they compete for a promotion, their relationship takes unexpected turns, revealing hidden feelings and a deeper connection. With a mix of humor, chemistry, and undeniable attraction, "The Hating Game" explores the thin line between love and hate in a workplace setting.

    The 10216th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 135. I Loved You More by Tom Spanbauer

    This novel explores the complicated love triangle between a gay man, his best friend, and the woman they both love. Set in New York City and Portland, the narrative delves into the intricate dynamics of their relationships, the pain of unrequited love, and the struggle of coming to terms with one's sexuality. The protagonist's journey to self-discovery and acceptance is heart-wrenching and poignant, offering a raw and honest look at love, friendship, and identity.

    The 10243rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 136. Hate To Want You by Alisha Rai

    In this steamy contemporary romance, two star-crossed lovers, Livvy and Nicholas, find themselves unable to resist the intense passion they've shared since their teenage years. Despite their families' bitter feud, they engage in a secret affair that spans a decade, meeting once a year on Livvy's birthday. When Livvy returns to their hometown after a long absence, the flames of their desire are reignited, forcing them to confront the painful past and the possibility of a future together. With compelling characters and sizzling chemistry, this novel explores themes of family, forgiveness, and the power of love.

    The 10278th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 137. The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang

    "The Kiss Quotient" is a heartwarming and unconventional romance novel that follows the story of Stella, a brilliant econometrician with Asperger's syndrome. Frustrated with her lack of dating experience, Stella hires a male escort named Michael to teach her about intimacy and relationships. As they embark on their lessons, Stella and Michael unexpectedly find themselves developing genuine feelings for each other, leading to a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and the power of love.

    The 10324th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 138. A Princess In Theory by Alyssa Cole

    "A Princess In Theory" is a contemporary romance novel that follows the story of Naledi Smith, a hardworking graduate student who receives an unexpected email claiming that she is betrothed to an African prince. Skeptical at first, Naledi eventually agrees to meet the prince, Thabiso, and finds herself caught up in a whirlwind of royal intrigue and undeniable chemistry. As Naledi navigates her newfound royal life and uncovers the truth about her past, she must decide if she is willing to embrace her destiny and the love that awaits her.

    The 10324th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 139. The Lady's Guide To Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite

    "The Lady's Guide To Celestial Mechanics" follows the story of Lucy, a talented astronomer who is determined to make her mark in a male-dominated field. When she is approached by Catherine, a widowed countess who wants to publish her late husband's scientific work, Lucy sees an opportunity to pursue her passion and gain recognition. As they collaborate on the project, Lucy and Catherine's professional relationship blossoms into a forbidden romance, challenging societal norms and forcing them to confront their own desires and ambitions. Set against the backdrop of Regency England, this historical romance explores themes of love, empowerment, and the pursuit of dreams.

    The 10383rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 140. Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

    In a futuristic world inspired by Chinese history, a young woman seeks vengeance for her sister's death in a patriarchal military system where male pilots of giant Chrysalises, mecha robots used to battle alien mechs, are revered, but female co-pilots must sacrifice their lives to boost the males' psychic energy. She unexpectedly survives the fatal link with her sister's murderer, emerging as a powerful Iron Widow, a rare female pilot who can control a Chrysalis on her own. As she rises through the ranks, she must navigate a treacherous court intrigue, form alliances, and confront the oppressive system, all while unraveling the dark secrets behind the ongoing war with the aliens.

    The 10478th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 141. Go Tell The Bees That I Am Gone by Diana Gabaldon

    In this historical fiction novel, we follow the story of a time-traveling woman who has reunited with her 18th-century husband in pre-Revolutionary America. As the couple attempts to build a life together in the tumultuous setting of the American colonies, they are faced with the challenges of the impending war, family drama, and the complexities of navigating a society on the brink of rebellion. The novel intertwines elements of romance, adventure, and historical events, as the protagonists balance their personal lives with the larger historical forces at play, all while maintaining the secret of the woman's time-traveling origins.

    The 10478th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 142. Body Of Glass by Marge Piercy

    "Body of Glass" by Marge Piercy is a dystopian novel set in a future where technology has advanced to the point where humans can upload their consciousness into artificial bodies. The story follows the life of a woman named Kassia, who is a "shaper" - an individual with the ability to shape and mold her body at will. As Kassia navigates a society obsessed with physical perfection and conformity, she becomes involved in a rebellion against the oppressive government, ultimately questioning the true meaning of identity, freedom, and what it means to be human.

    The 10506th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 143. The 10,000 Doors Of January by Alix E Harrow

    In this enchanting novel, a young girl named January Scaller discovers a mysterious book that reveals a world of secret doorways leading to other realms, each unique and wondrous. As she delves deeper into its pages, she learns about her own family's connections to these other worlds and their role in guarding these portals. Set against the backdrop of the early 1900s, the story weaves a tale of adventure, self-discovery, and the power of words and stories to open doors to new possibilities. January must navigate a complex web of historical societies, hidden powers, and her own identity as she seeks to unlock the truth of her past and shape her destiny.

    The 10660th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 144. Lord of Misrule: The Morganville Vampires by Rachel Caine

    In "Lord of Misrule: The Morganville Vampires", the protagonist and her friends must deal with the chaos that ensues after the town of Morganville becomes a battleground for rival vampire factions. As they navigate the dangerous landscape, they must also deal with personal dilemmas and relationships. The book combines elements of horror, romance, and supernatural fantasy to create a thrilling narrative.

    The 10695th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 145. The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri

    In this epic fantasy novel, a captive princess and a maidservant in possession of forbidden magic form an unlikely alliance to overthrow a tyrannical regime. Set in a world inspired by the history and epics of India, the story weaves together the fates of these two women who must navigate treacherous court politics, ancient prophecies, and their own burgeoning powers. As they fight against the oppressive structures of the empire, their bond grows deeper, challenging the societal norms and the very foundation of the empire. The novel explores themes of resistance, sacrifice, and the complex nature of power and love.

    The 10848th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 146. A Discovery Of Witches by Deborah Harkness

    This novel unfolds the tale of Diana Bishop, a young scholar and descendant of witches, who stumbles upon a bewitched manuscript in Oxford's Bodleian Library. Her discovery pulls her back into the world of magic, propelling her into the heart of a dangerous mystery. Alongside Matthew Clairmont, a mysterious vampire and geneticist, Diana is thrust into a forbidden alliance and an enchanted journey through time. As they seek to understand the manuscript's secrets, they must navigate the perilous waters of forbidden love and the age-old enmities among witches, vampires, and daemons, unraveling a history that threatens the fragile peace that has long existed between creatures and humans.

    The 10913th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 147. Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

    The novel weaves together multiple storylines spanning across different eras, from the 1960s Italian coastline to modern-day Hollywood. It centers around an almost-love affair between a young Italian innkeeper and an American actress who is believed to be dying. The narrative explores the complex interplay between life and art, love and dreams, as it moves through time and space, connecting a diverse cast of characters whose paths intersect in unexpected ways. The story delves into themes of missed opportunities, the impact of the past on the present, and the enduring allure of fame and ambition, all set against the backdrop of a changing cultural landscape.

    The 10925th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 148. Eleanor And Park by Rainbow Rowell

    This novel is a touching story set in the 1980s, revolving around two high school misfits in Omaha, Nebraska, who find an unexpected connection through their shared seats on the school bus. Eleanor, a quirky and bullied girl with a troubled home life, and Park, a half-Korean boy who struggles with his identity, slowly bond over comic books and mixtapes. As their friendship blossoms into a tender and complex first love, they must navigate the challenges of adolescence, family dynamics, and societal expectations. The story is a poignant exploration of young love, identity, and the power of acceptance.

    The 10925th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 149. The Quantum Rose by Catherine Asaro

    "The Quantum Rose" is a science fiction novel that weaves together romance and hard science, set within a space opera universe. The story follows the journey of Kamoj Argali, the governor of a backward planet, who becomes betrothed to Havyrl Lionstar, a mysterious and powerful off-worlder with a hidden agenda. As their worlds collide, the narrative explores complex themes of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and the intricate dance of quantum physics, all while delving into the emotional depth of their evolving relationship. The novel stands out for its unique blend of advanced scientific concepts, particularly those pertaining to quantum mechanics, with a character-driven plot that challenges the boundaries between different genres.

    The 10934th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 150. The Space Between Worlds by Micaiah Johnson

    In this science fiction novel, the protagonist, born in a world where travel between parallel universes is possible, is one of the rare individuals who can traverse these alternate realities due to her counterparts being dead in other worlds. The story delves into themes of identity, privilege, and survival, as she navigates complex relationships and a web of secrets. Her unique position allows her to gather intel across worlds, but it also places her in grave danger, leading her to confront her own past and the stark disparities between different versions of her life and society. As she moves through these spaces, she must grapple with the moral implications of her actions and the true meaning of having a place to call home.

    The 11253rd Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download