What Are The Highest-Rated Romantic Books In English On Goodreads?

Romantic books for teens are like a warm hug on a rainy day—they capture all the messy, beautiful feelings of first love. One of my all-time favorites is 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green. It’s not just a love story; it’s a raw, emotional rollercoaster that makes you laugh and cry in equal measure. The way Hazel and Augustus connect feels so real, like they’re living inside your heart. Another gem is 'To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before' by Jenny Han. Lara Jean’s accidental love letters turning her life upside down is pure chaotic joy. The book nails the awkwardness and sweetness of teenage crushes. Then there’s 'Eleanor & Park' by Rainbow Rowell. It’s gritty and tender, showing how love can bloom in the unlikeliest places. The chemistry between Eleanor and Park is electric, and their struggles make their bond feel earned. For something lighter, 'Anna and the French Kiss' by Stephanie Perkins is like a frothy, dreamy escape. Anna’s Parisian adventure and her slow-burn romance with Étienne are swoon-worthy. These books don’t just sell romance; they sell the dizzying, heart-pounding experience of being young and in love.

As someone who devours romantic books like candy, I always recommend starting with light, engaging reads that don’t overwhelm but still deliver all the feels. 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne is a fantastic pick—it’s witty, fun, and has just the right amount of tension between the leads. Another great choice is 'To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before' by Jenny Han, which is sweet, relatable, and perfect for easing into the genre. For those who enjoy a mix of romance and humor, 'The Unhoneymooners' by Christina Lauren is a hilarious enemies-to-lovers story that’s hard to put down. If you’re into something more heartfelt, 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green offers a beautiful, albeit tear-jerking, love story that’s easy to follow. Beginners might also appreciate 'Attachments' by Rainbow Rowell, which has a unique premise and charming characters. These books are all accessible, emotionally engaging, and perfect for dipping your toes into the world of romantic fiction.

Romantic books that have been adapted into movies are a fantastic way to experience love stories both visually and through the written word. One of my all-time favorites is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, which has several adaptations, but the 2005 film starring Keira Knightley is particularly memorable. The novel itself is a masterpiece of wit and social commentary, following the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates the complexities of love and class in Regency England. The movie captures the tension and chemistry between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy beautifully, making it a must-watch for fans of the book. Another classic is 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë, which has seen numerous adaptations over the years. The 2011 version with Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender stands out for its atmospheric portrayal of the gothic romance between Jane and Rochester. The novel’s themes of independence, morality, and passion translate well to the screen, and the movie does justice to the emotional depth of the story. It’s a tale of resilience and love that transcends societal expectations. For those who enjoy contemporary romance, 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks is a tearjerker that was adapted into a hugely popular film in 2004. The story of Noah and Allie’s enduring love, despite the obstacles of time and circumstance, is heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measure. The movie, starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams, brings the emotional intensity of the book to life, making it a staple for romantic movie nights. If you’re looking for something with a bit of humor and charm, 'Bridget Jones’s Diary' by Helen Fielding is a delightful choice. The 2001 film adaptation, starring Renée Zellweger, captures the awkward yet endearing journey of Bridget as she navigates love and self-discovery. The book’s candid and relatable portrayal of modern romance resonates deeply, and the movie adds a layer of visual humor and warmth that fans adore. Lastly, 'Me Before You' by Jojo Moyes is a poignant love story that was adapted into a film in 2016. The novel explores the relationship between Louisa Clark and Will Traynor, a man paralyzed in an accident. The story is a beautiful yet bittersweet exploration of love, sacrifice, and living life to the fullest. The movie, starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin, stays true to the emotional core of the book, making it a powerful watch for those who appreciate deeply moving romances.

As someone who devours romantic novels like candy, I've noticed certain publishers consistently deliver high-quality love stories. Harlequin is a giant in the romance genre, known for their addictive series like 'Harlequin Presents' and 'Love Inspired.' They've been around for decades and have a knack for capturing heartfelt emotions. Then there's Avon Romance, an imprint of HarperCollins, which publishes everything from steamy historicals to contemporary rom-coms. Their titles like 'The Duke and I' by Julia Quinn (hello, 'Bridgerton' fans!) are staples. Berkley Romance, part of Penguin Random House, is another favorite—they release gems like 'The Hating Game' by Sally Thorne. St. Martin's Press also has a strong romance lineup, including hit authors like Nora Roberts. These publishers dominate shelves because they understand what makes love stories tick—chemistry, tension, and satisfying happily-ever-afters.

As someone who spends way too much time hunting for free reads, I’ve got a treasure trove of sites to share. Project Gutenberg is my go-to for classic romance—think 'Pride and Prejudice' or 'Jane Eyre'—since they offer over 60,000 free eBooks. For contemporary stuff, Open Library lets you borrow modern titles like 'The Hating Game' temporarily. If you’re into indie authors, ManyBooks and BookBub often feature free promotions for lesser-known gems. Wattpad is perfect for serialized love stories, especially if you enjoy fanfiction or amateur writing. Just be ready to sift through hit-or-miss quality. Lastly, check out your local library’s digital catalog via apps like Libby; they often have bestsellers like 'The Love Hypothesis' up for grabs. Happy reading!

As someone who thrives on discovering fresh romantic reads, I’ve developed a few reliable methods to stay updated on new releases. One of my go-to strategies is following bookish social media accounts, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Book influencers often share their excitement about upcoming releases, complete with eye-catching covers and brief synopses. I particularly enjoy accounts that specialize in romance, as they tend to highlight diverse subgenres, from steamy contemporary to swoon-worthy historical. Another tactic is subscribing to newsletters from major publishers like Penguin Random House or HarperCollins. These newsletters frequently feature upcoming titles, author interviews, and even exclusive excerpts. I’ve stumbled upon gems like 'Book Lovers' by Emily Henry this way, long before they hit bestseller lists. Another method I swear by is browsing Goodreads’ 'New Releases' section, which is meticulously categorized by genre. The platform’s algorithm also recommends books based on my reading history, making it easier to find titles tailored to my tastes. I often cross-reference these with reviews from trusted bloggers or BookTube channels. For instance, after seeing 'The Love Hypothesis' by Ali Hazelwood pop up repeatedly, I dove into reviews and instantly added it to my TBR. Libraries and local bookstores are also treasure troves for new releases. Many bookstores have dedicated 'Coming Soon' displays, and librarians are usually happy to share advance reader copies or upcoming catalogs. I’ve discovered lesser-known but brilliant titles like 'Delilah Green Doesn’t Care' by Ashley Herring Blake just by chatting with my local bookseller.

Finding romantic books in English as PDFs legally is totally doable if you know where to look. I remember scouring the internet for ages before realizing there are so many legit platforms offering free or paid downloads. Project Gutenberg is a goldmine for classics like 'Pride and Prejudice' or 'Jane Eyre'—they’re public domain, so you can grab them without guilt. For newer titles, sites like Open Library or ManyBooks often have legal downloads, though some require a library membership. Amazon’s Kindle store also lets you buy eBooks and convert them to PDFs if you’re tech-savvy. Just steer clear of shady sites offering pirated copies; it’s not worth the risk, and authors deserve support for their work. Another angle is subscription services like Scribd or Kindle Unlimited. They’re not free, but they give access to thousands of romance novels legally. I’ve found hidden gems there that I’d never have stumbled on otherwise. Some authors even offer free PDFs of their books on their websites as promotions—signing up for newsletters can score you some sweet deals. Libraries are another underrated resource; apps like Libby let you borrow eBooks legally, though availability depends on your local library’s catalog. It’s all about being patient and resourceful. The romance genre is huge, and with a little effort, you can build a legit digital library without breaking the law.

As someone who adores the elegance and wit of 'Pride and Prejudice,' I’ve spent years hunting for books that capture that same spark of romantic tension and societal nuance. One standout is 'North and South' by Elizabeth Gaskell. It’s a brilliant exploration of class and love, set against the backdrop of industrial England. The protagonist, Margaret Hale, is as strong-willed as Elizabeth Bennet, and her dynamic with the brooding mill owner John Thornton is electric. The slow-burn romance, filled with misunderstandings and personal growth, feels like a natural companion to Austen’s work. Gaskell’s writing is rich with social commentary, making the love story even more compelling. Another gem is 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë. While darker in tone, it shares the same depth of character and emotional intensity. Jane’s journey from a mistreated orphan to a fiercely independent woman mirrors Elizabeth’s resilience, and her relationship with Mr. Rochester is just as layered. The gothic elements add a thrilling edge, but the core of the story—a woman demanding equality in love—is timeless. The moral dilemmas and raw emotions make it a must-read for fans of complex romance. For a more modern take with Austen’s spirit, 'The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society' by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows is a charming epistolary novel. Set post-WWII, it follows writer Juliet Ashton as she uncovers the stories of Guernsey’s residents through letters. The slow-building romance with Dawsey Adams is understated yet deeply moving, and the wit and warmth of the writing echo Austen’s knack for social observation. The book’s exploration of community and healing adds layers to the love story, making it feel both fresh and familiar. If you’re drawn to the banter and societal satire of 'Pride and Prejudice,' 'Soulless' by Gail Carriger offers a quirky twist. This steampunk romance features Alexia Tarabotti, a spinster with no soul (literally), and her hilarious clashes with the werewolf Lord Maccon. The regency-era setting and sharp dialogue are pure Austen, but the supernatural elements add a playful originality. It’s a delightful blend of wit, romance, and adventure, perfect for those who want something whimsical yet rooted in classic themes. Lastly, 'Eligible' by Curtis Sittenfeld is a contemporary retelling of 'Pride and Prejudice' set in modern-day Cincinnati. The Bennet family dynamics and Liz’s chemistry with surgeon Darcy feel refreshingly updated while retaining the original’s charm. Sittenfeld’s clever nods to Austen’s plot—like reality TV and gender-flipped roles—make it a fun, thoughtful homage. It proves that Austen’s themes of love, pride, and prejudice are truly universal, transcending time and setting.