The Greatest "Fiction, Romance" Books Since 2000

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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. 51. This Is How You Lose The Time War by Amal El Mohtar, Max Gladstone

    In this epistolary science fiction novel, two rival agents, Red and Blue, find themselves on opposite sides of a sprawling temporal conflict known as the Time War. As they carry out missions to manipulate the strands of history for their respective factions, their paths cross in unexpected ways. Through a series of secret letters left across time and space, what begins as taunting correspondence evolves into a deep, forbidden connection. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of time-travel and intrigue, exploring themes of love, identity, and the consequences of actions within the ever-shifting sands of time. As their bond deepens, Red and Blue must ultimately decide where their loyalties lie and what sacrifices they are willing to make for a chance at a future together.

    The 8942nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 52. Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen

    This novel transports readers to the vibrant yet gritty world of a traveling circus during the Great Depression. Through the eyes of Jacob Jankowski, a young veterinary student who is suddenly orphaned and penniless, we are plunged into the chaotic beauty of circus life. After jumping onto a passing train, Jacob finds himself employed as a vet for the circus menagerie. There, he encounters Marlena, the beautiful star performer, and Rosie, an elephant who seems untrainable until Jacob discovers a way to reach her. Amidst the backdrop of a bygone era, the story explores themes of love, cruelty, and the pursuit of dreams, revealing the harsh realities behind the glittering circus facade.

    The 8976th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 53. Dear John by Nicholas Sparks

    This novel tells the poignant story of John Tyree, a rebellious young man who finds direction in his life after joining the Army, and Savannah Lynn Curtis, the conservative college student he falls in love with during his leave. Their passionate romance takes a dramatic turn when the events of 9/11 prompt John to reenlist, leading to a long-distance relationship that is tested by time, distance, and personal transformations. Through letters and fleeting reunions, they struggle to maintain their bond, ultimately confronting the painful realities of love and sacrifice. The story explores themes of duty, choice, and the impact of war on personal lives and relationships.

    The 8979th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 54. The Teahouse Fire by Ellis Avery

    Set in the late 19th and early 20th century Japan, the novel follows the life of a young American girl who, after a tragic twist of fate, finds herself orphaned in Kyoto. She is taken in by the family of a tea master, where she becomes deeply immersed in the culture and traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony. As she grows and navigates her complex identity and the societal changes of a rapidly modernizing Japan, her unique perspective as an outsider within a traditional world offers a poignant exploration of belonging, love, and the intersection of cultures.

    The 8982nd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 55. The Lesser Bohemians by Eimear McBride

    This novel explores the passionate, tumultuous relationship between an 18-year-old Irish drama student and a successful actor twenty years her senior in 1990s London. Their intense connection is complicated by the actor's dark past, filled with addiction and abuse, which threatens to destroy the fragile love they share. As they navigate their relationship, they must confront their own insecurities, fears, and desires, ultimately leading to a profound transformation for both.

    The 8990th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 56. When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon

    The book is a heartwarming tale of two Indian-American teenagers whose parents conspire to arrange their marriage. Dimple Shah, who has her sights set on a career in web development, is less than thrilled when she meets Rishi Patel, a hopeless romantic who respects his heritage and relishes the idea of an arranged marriage. Their initial encounter is anything but auspicious, but as they navigate a summer program for aspiring web developers, their shared culture and experiences draw them closer. Through a series of humorous and touching moments, the story explores themes of identity, family expectations, and personal dreams, ultimately examining whether two seemingly incompatible individuals can find love on their own terms.

    The 9012th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 57. The Choice by Nicholas Sparks

    This novel explores the themes of love, fate, and the decisions that shape our lives through the story of Travis Parker and Gabby Holland, who are neighbors in a small coastal town. Travis, a man who believes he has everything he needs with his close-knit group of friends and adrenaline-filled hobbies, finds his world turned upside down when Gabby moves in next door. Despite her initial misgivings, an undeniable attraction forms between them, leading to a deep and complicated relationship. As they navigate the challenges and joys of love, they are eventually faced with a heart-wrenching decision that tests the limits of their love and commitment. This story is a poignant exploration of the power of love and the choices that define our lives.

    The 9067th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 58. The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon

    In this historical fiction novel, we follow the continuing adventures of a time-traveling nurse from the 20th century and her 18th-century Scottish Highlander husband as they navigate the perils of life in colonial America. Set against the backdrop of the looming American Revolution, the couple struggles to maintain their family and homestead while dealing with the political and social unrest of the era. The story intertwines romance, historical events, and fantasy elements as the couple faces challenges that test their bond and their ability to shape their destiny amidst the fiery cross of change and rebellion.

    The 9086th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 59. Empire Of Sand by Tasha Suri

    "Empire of Sand" is a captivating fantasy novel set in a world inspired by Mughal India, where the protagonist, a young woman of noble descent, possesses an extraordinary magical ability tied to the dreams of the gods. Her heritage draws the attention of the empire's religious leader, who seeks to control her power for his own ends. As she is forced into a cruel bargain to use her abilities to maintain the empire's control over its people, she must navigate treacherous court politics, forbidden romance, and her own conflicted desires. With the fate of the empire and the lives of those she loves at stake, she embarks on a journey of resistance, self-discovery, and a fight for freedom against the forces that seek to use her for their own ambitions.

    The 9144th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 60. Song Of Blood & Stone by L. Penelope

    In a world cleaved by war and deeply entrenched racism, a young woman with a mysterious magical gift finds herself at the center of an epic struggle between two nations. She possesses the power to open magical gateways, a talent that could be the key to ending the longstanding conflict. When she rescues a spy from the enemy side, the pair must work together to thwart a villainous plot and unite their divided lands. As they journey through treacherous landscapes and confront their own prejudices, they discover that the true power lies in understanding and acceptance, and that love may be the most potent magic of all.

    The 9144th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 61. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

    In this final installment of a popular supernatural romance series, the story reaches its climax as the protagonist, now a newlywed, faces unforeseen challenges that threaten her life and that of her unborn child. Her transformation into a vampire brings about new powers and dangers, while the impending threat of a vampire council looms over her family. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of immortal life, culminating in a tense showdown that tests the bonds of family and love. Through it all, the narrative delves into the protagonist's personal growth and her unwavering determination to protect her loved ones at all costs.

    The 9152nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 62. The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

    In this romantic novel, a U.S. Marine named Logan Thibault finds a photograph of a woman while serving in Iraq, which he comes to believe is his good luck charm. Surviving several combat missions, he attributes his luck to the photo and, upon returning to the United States, embarks on a journey to find the woman in the picture. His search leads him to a small town in North Carolina, where he meets Elizabeth, a single mother working in a dog kennel. As Logan's relationship with Elizabeth and her son deepens, he struggles with whether to tell her the truth about how he came into her life, setting the stage for a story about fate, love, and the paths that lead us to each other.

    The 9155th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 63. Vision In White by Nora Roberts

    This novel centers around the life of a wedding photographer who, despite her professional success in capturing the essence of love through her lens, struggles with her own romantic endeavors. Her past experiences have left her wary of love, but everything begins to change when she meets a charming English teacher. Their connection is undeniable, yet their journey towards love is fraught with personal insecurities, misunderstandings, and the complexities of blending vastly different lives. Set against the backdrop of wedding planning and the bonds of friendship among her co-workers, the story explores themes of love, trust, and the courage to pursue happiness even when it seems just out of reach.

    The 9233rd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 64. Frankly In Love by David Yoon

    The book centers around a high school senior of Korean-American descent who struggles with the expectations of his traditional parents and his own Southern California upbringing. Caught between his parents' desire for him to date a Korean girl and his own romantic interest in a non-Korean classmate, he embarks on a fake relationship with a family friend facing similar pressures. This arrangement, meant to appease their parents, leads to a complex journey of self-discovery, as he navigates the challenges of identity, love, and friendship in a multicultural landscape.

    The 9251st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 65. Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me by Mariko Tamaki, illustrated Rosemary Valero-O’Connell

    The graphic novel centers around a high school student named Freddy who is grappling with her tumultuous relationship with the charismatic Laura Dean. Despite Laura's repeated infidelities and breakups, Freddy finds herself drawn back to Laura time and again. As Freddy navigates the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery, she begins to understand the importance of healthy relationships and self-respect. With the help of her friends, particularly her best friend Doodle, Freddy learns to set boundaries and recognize her own worth, ultimately confronting the cycle of toxic behavior and seeking a path toward personal growth and fulfillment.

    The 9251st Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 66. Like A Love Story by Abdi Nazemian

    Set against the backdrop of the 1980s AIDS crisis in New York City, the novel is a poignant tale of friendship, love, and activism. It follows the lives of three teenagers: an Iranian boy grappling with his sexual identity, a girl with aspirations of becoming a fashion designer, and a gay teen living with HIV. Together, they navigate the complexities of growing up and the harsh realities of the epidemic, finding solace and strength in their bond. As they become involved in the fight for justice and acceptance, the story beautifully captures the era's fear and prejudice, as well as the courage and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.

    The 9251st Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 67. Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

    This novel unfolds the glamorous yet tumultuous life of aging Hollywood icon, Evelyn Hugo, as she decides to finally reveal the truth about her scandalous life and her marriages to seven men. Through an exclusive interview with an unknown magazine reporter, Evelyn's story traverses decades of her career, uncovering the ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love that defined her. The narrative delves deep into themes of identity, love, and the price of fame, as Evelyn's complex character—her triumphs and her failures—is laid bare against the backdrop of the golden age of Hollywood.

    The 9322nd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 68. A Breath Of Snow And Ashes by Diana Gabaldon

    In this installment of the historical fiction series, the story continues to follow the lives of a time-traveling 20th-century doctor and her 18th-century Scottish Highlander husband as they navigate the perils of life in colonial America. As the American Revolution looms, the couple faces personal tragedies, political upheaval, and the constant threat of violence. They struggle to protect their family and their community in the backwoods of North Carolina, all while dealing with the complexities of their unique situation and the implications of knowing the future. The novel blends romance, adventure, and historical detail, creating a vivid and tumultuous world for its characters.

    The 9367th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 69. You Should See Me In A Crown by Leah Johnson

    The book follows the story of Liz Lighty, a high school senior who feels out of place in her small, prom-obsessed Midwestern town. With dreams of attending a prestigious college and becoming a doctor, Liz's plans are derailed when her financial aid falls through. In a desperate bid to secure a scholarship, she enters the race for prom queen, a competition steeped in tradition and popularity contests that she has always despised. As Liz navigates the cutthroat world of high school politics, she also embarks on a journey of self-discovery, finding new friendships, embracing her identity, and experiencing her first love, all while challenging the norms of her community and learning to shine as her authentic self.

    The 9416th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 70. The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar

    The book follows a Bangladeshi-Irish teenager as she navigates the complexities of her identity, culture, and sexuality in contemporary Dublin. When her school organizes a business competition, she decides to start a henna business, only to face rivalry from another student with a similar idea. As the competition intensifies, so do her feelings for her competitor, leading to a poignant exploration of love, family expectations, and the courage to be true to oneself amidst the challenges of racism and homophobia. The protagonist's journey is a heartfelt tale of self-discovery and the struggle to honor one's heritage while forging a unique path forward.

    The 9416th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 71. Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender

    The novel follows the journey of Felix Love, a transgender teen grappling with identity and the desire for love. Despite his name, Felix has never been in love and fears that his marginalization as a Black, queer, and transgender individual makes him one too many steps removed from the happily-ever-after he craves. His quest for self-discovery and acceptance takes a turn when he begins receiving transphobic messages after someone publicly posts his deadname and pre-transition photos at school. In a bid to get revenge, Felix lands in a complicated love triangle, but the experience leads him down a path of introspection, challenging his perceptions of relationships and what it means to love himself fully.

    The 9416th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 72. Woven In Moonlight by Isabel Ibañez

    "Woven In Moonlight" is a vibrant young adult fantasy novel that immerses readers in a world inspired by Bolivian culture and politics. The story follows a young woman who serves as a decoy for the last remaining royal of her people. After her kingdom is overthrown, she is sent to the conqueror's palace as part of a peace treaty, where she secretly uses her magical weaving abilities to weave tapestries that come to life. As she navigates a complex web of political intrigue, rebellion, and romance, she must decide where her loyalties lie and how to use her unique powers to shape the future of her divided nation.

    The 9416th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 73. Red, White & Royal Blue: A Novel by Casey McQuiston

    "Red, White & Royal Blue: A Novel" is a heartwarming and humorous story about the unexpected romance between Alex, the First Son of the United States, and Henry, the Prince of Wales. After a public altercation, they are forced to fake a friendship for the sake of international diplomacy. However, as they spend more time together, their fake friendship turns into a genuine connection, leading them to question their own identities, their responsibilities, and the true meaning of love. This delightful and captivating novel explores themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the power of love to overcome societal expectations.

    The 9425th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 74. Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

    The novel centers around the transformative bond that forms between a quirky and creative young woman who becomes a caregiver for a wealthy young banker left paralyzed from an accident. Despite their contrasting backgrounds and initial reservations, they develop a deep connection that challenges their preconceived notions of love, life, and what it means to truly live. As she becomes determined to show him that life is worth living, they embark on a series of adventures together that lead to unexpected consequences, forcing them to confront what they are willing to sacrifice for love and each other.

    The 9494th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 75. 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

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