Are There Good Modern Romance Books With LGBTQ+ Leads?

Modern romance books have evolved significantly from classic romance, offering more diverse and relatable narratives. While classic romances like 'Pride and Prejudice' focus on societal constraints and slow-burn relationships, modern romances often prioritize individual agency and faster-paced emotional connections. Books like 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang explore neurodiversity and modern dating, while 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston tackles political and LGBTQ+ themes with humor and heart. Classics are timeless, but modern romances reflect contemporary values and complexities. Another key difference is the portrayal of intimacy. Classic romances often imply passion through subtle gestures and dialogue, whereas modern romances aren’t afraid to depict raw emotions and physical relationships openly. For example, 'Normal People' by Sally Rooney delves into the messy, real-world dynamics of love, unlike the idealized romances of the past. Modern books also embrace flawed characters and unconventional happy endings, making them feel more authentic to today’s readers.

I absolutely adore enemies-to-lovers tropes, especially in modern romance books where the tension is palpable and the chemistry is off the charts. One of my all-time favorites is 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne. It’s a workplace romance where the protagonists start as rivals but their banter and slow-burn attraction make it impossible to put down. The way their relationship evolves from sheer annoyance to undeniable passion is pure magic. Another fantastic pick is 'Beach Read' by Emily Henry. While it’s not strictly enemies-to-lovers, the initial friction between the two main characters gives off strong rivals-to-lovers vibes. Their witty exchanges and emotional depth make it a standout. For something with a bit more drama, 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston features a political rivalry that turns into something much more tender and heartfelt. If you’re into YA, 'To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before' by Jenny Han has a similar dynamic, though it’s more playful than outright antagonistic. These books all capture that delicious tension where hate slowly melts into love.

As someone who devours modern romance novels like candy, I’ve noticed a few publishers consistently delivering top-tier love stories. Avon is a powerhouse, especially for contemporary and historical romance—think 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne. Berkley, an imprint of Penguin, is another favorite, publishing gems like 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang. They nail the balance of steamy and heartfelt. St. Martin’s Press is brilliant for diverse voices, with books like 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston. Then there’s Harlequin, the OG of romance, specializing in everything from sweet to suspenseful. For indie vibes, Entangled Publishing is a hidden gem, releasing quirky, character-driven romances like 'The Bromance Book Club' by Lyssa Kay Adams. These publishers are my go-tos for quality modern romance.

As someone who spends way too much time buried in both books and movies, modern romance adaptations are my jam! 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green is a standout—heartbreaking, witty, and so beautifully adapted that even non-readers fell in love with Hazel and Gus. Another must-mention is 'Me Before You' by Jojo Moyes, which nailed the emotional rollercoaster of the book while adding gorgeous cinematography. Then there's 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' by Jenny Han, a Netflix gem that captured Lara Jean’s chaotic love life with all the charm and warmth of the novel. For something steamy and intense, 'Call Me by Your Name' by André Aciman is pure cinematic poetry, with Timothée Chalamet embodying Elio’s longing perfectly. These adaptations prove that love stories can transcend pages and screens alike.

As someone who devours both romance novels and their film adaptations, I love comparing how stories transition from page to screen. 'Me Before You' by Jojo Moyes is a tearjerker that stayed beautifully faithful to the book, with Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin bringing Louisa and Will to life. Another standout is 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green—its adaptation captured the raw emotion of Hazel and Gus’s love story perfectly. For a lighter vibe, 'Crazy Rich Asians' by Kevin Kwan dazzled with its opulent visuals and retained the book’s humor and heart. 'To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before' by Jenny Han became a Netflix sensation, thanks to its adorable portrayal of Lara Jean’s love letters mishap. If you enjoy steamy historical romance, 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon got a stellar TV series, though it’s more of a saga than a movie. Each adaptation adds its own flair while honoring the source material, making them worth experiencing in both formats.

Modern romance books thrive on tropes that resonate with readers by blending familiarity with fresh twists. One of my favorites is the 'enemies to lovers' dynamic, which you see in books like 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne—where sharp banter and tension make the eventual romance so satisfying. Another big one is 'fake dating,' where characters pretend to be together for various reasons but end up falling for real, like in 'The Unhoneymooners' by Christina Lauren. Friends-to-lovers is another timeless trope, done beautifully in 'People We Meet on Vacation' by Emily Henry, where years of friendship slowly turn into something deeper. Then there’s the 'second chance romance,' where characters reunite after years apart, often with unresolved feelings, as seen in 'Every Summer After' by Carley Fortune. For those who love a bit of drama, the 'love triangle' trope keeps things spicy, like in 'The Selection' by Kiera Cass. And let’s not forget 'forced proximity,' where characters are stuck together (think 'Beach Read' by Emily Henry), creating irresistible tension. These tropes work because they tap into universal emotions—conflict, longing, and the thrill of unexpected love—making them endlessly appealing.

As someone who juggles commuting and a hectic schedule, audiobooks have been a lifesaver for indulging in modern romance. Many contemporary romance novels not only have audiobook versions but often feature stellar narrators who elevate the experience. For instance, 'The Love Hypothesis' by Ali Hazelwood is narrated with such warmth and wit that it feels like listening to a friend. Similarly, 'People We Meet on Vacation' by Emily Henry has an audiobook that captures the chemistry between the leads perfectly. Publishers recognize the demand, so most bestsellers get audio adaptations quickly. Platforms like Audible and Libby offer extensive collections, including indie romances like 'The Kiss Quotient' series. Some even include dual narrators for dual POVs, like in 'Beach Read,' making the emotional beats hit harder. If you’re skeptical, try samples—listening to banter or a heartfelt confession can be just as immersive as reading.

Modern romance is a genre I adore, and there are several authors who consistently deliver heartwarming and engaging stories. Emily Henry is a standout with her witty, emotionally rich novels like 'Beach Read' and 'People We Meet on Vacation,' which blend humor with deep emotional connections. Helen Hoang is another favorite, known for her authentic portrayal of neurodiverse relationships in 'The Kiss Quotient' and 'The Bride Test.' These books are not just romantic but also deeply insightful. Then there’s Casey McQuiston, whose 'Red, White & Royal Blue' and 'One Last Stop' offer vibrant, queer romances filled with charm and adventure. Sally Rooney’s 'Normal People' and 'Conversations with Friends' explore the complexities of modern relationships with raw honesty. For those who enjoy historical twists in contemporary settings, Christina Lauren’s 'The Unhoneymooners' and 'In a Holidaze' are perfect picks. Each of these authors brings something unique to the table, making modern romance feel fresh and unforgettable.