3 Romance Novels Worth a Look

Romance books sometimes get a bad rap—especially among those who believe that literature needs to be long and boring to be worth reading. Those who love romance novels know that there’s something about the chemistry between two star-crossed lovers that is simply unmatched by any other genre. Depending on the types of books you like, there are romance books that will surely appeal to you and leave a lasting impression. Whether you like dependable classic, swashbuckling adventure, or contemporary books that pull at your heartstrings, here are three books that are worth a read.

If You Like Classics

If you love classic literature with an element of romance, you need to read Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. Both a satire of English country life in the 1800s and a witty tale of romance, Pride and Prejudice tells the tale of Elizabeth Bennet and her courtship with the aristocratic Fitzwilliam Darcy. With beautiful and timeless writing, Austen draws the reader in with characters crackling with personality and a storyline that never disappoints. Heavy on dialogue, this classic romance is as funny as it is touching and readers will find that it has stood the test of time incredibly well. Widely regarded as the first romance novel written, aficionados of the genre would be missing out if they didn’t add Austen’s classic to their reading list.

If You Like Adventure

Those who enjoy a little adventure with their romance can do no better than Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander. This is the first book in an eight-book series that features time-traveler Claire Randal. A nurse in World War II, Claire travels back in time to 18th century Scotland and falls for the dashing Jamie Fraser. A blend of science fiction, historical adventure, and romance, Outlander won the Romance Writer’s RITA award in 1991. Those who like Outlander get the added reward of not only seven more books to read in the series, but also a Starz television series based on the books that began airing in 2014.

If You Like to Cry

There’s nothing more satisfying than a book so well-written and heart-wrenching that it can make you weep right along with the characters. If you love emotional romances that delve deep into love, loss, and hope for the future, you need to pick up Cecilia Ahern’s P.S. I Love You. Childhood sweethearts Holly and Gerry have the seemingly perfect marriage until Gerry’s death throws his widow into an unknown world of heartbreak and loneliness. Holly is saved by a bundle of letters Gerry left her before his death, guiding her back to a world of love and each signed with the book’s title. A deeply affecting romance that shows the everlasting power of true love, P.S. I Love You will have you reaching for the tissues and gathering all those you love close.

Winter is the perfect time to curl up with a blanket, a cup of cocoa, and a heart-warming romance book. Try one of our three suggestions to find the perfect addition to your cold-weather reading list.