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Romance novels, by definition, depict the love story between two main characters, navigating their way through various circumstances. The broader romance genre encompasses diverse tropes, including historical romance novels, romance novels for teens, enemies-to-friends, fake dating, and more. Recently, the romance genre has undergone a transformative evolution, becoming more engaging and diverse than ever before.
In addition to traditional themes, the genre now embraces dark romance, commonly found in mafia romance books and features more humanized protagonists. While romance was once perceived as an overly bright and happy genre, it has gained complexity, resonating with a broader audience and moving beyond one-dimensional narratives.
Presently, protagonists are portrayed with richer backgrounds, layered personalities, and qualities that extend beyond their physical appearance. This shift towards more well-rounded characters, reminiscent of those in historical romance novels, contributes to a more enjoyable reading experience. This evolution has led to an increased reach and a surge in the number of romance books by Indian authors.
Modern readers seek more substance to better relate to stories, evident in the enduring popularity of characters from famous historical romance novels like Elizabeth and Mr Darcy from Pride and Prejudice, Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights, and many more. Explore further to discover some of the best romance novels that are bound to become your new favourites.
Romance novels that are a must-read for every romance book lover
1. Practice Makes Perfect
One of this year's most famous romance novels, Practice Makes Perfect, is a heartwarming, small-town romance that talks about the journey of the female character. Determined to enhance her personality for a better shot at love, she embarks on a challenge. However, the teacher she selects, her sister-in-law-to-be's bodyguard, doesn't share her enthusiasm for practising romantic moves. The novel unfolds the story of these two opposites, exploring how they gradually blur the lines between their fake dating arrangement and develop genuine feelings for each other.
2. Things We Hide From The Light
This touching romance novel revolves around the male character, the esteemed chief of police and the golden boy of his town. His life takes an abrupt turn when he is forced to take time off to recover from a gunshot wound. Struggling with various symptoms, he conceals his vulnerabilities from others. However, his next-door neighbour becomes a different story, gradually aiding him in healing from his trauma, and paving the way for love to blossom between them. Despite the heroine harbouring secrets of her own and initially avoiding the idea of a relationship, the narrative unfolds as they come back together against all odds, creating a captivating and heartfelt read.
3. The Love Hypothesis
In this romance novel, the female character is a third-year PhD candidate, and the male protagonist is an attractive but haughty up-and-coming professor. The story explores the thin line between hate and possibly love. Initially, a set-up to save face, the main characters discover a newfound appreciation for each other. As the so-called haughty professor proves his sincerity, the female protagonist's actions in recognition of her growing feelings add excitement to the rest of this captivating read.
4. The American Roommate Experiment
The captivating plot of this romance novel unfolds as the character quits her job to pursue a writing career but grapples with writer's block. Facing additional challenges when the roof of her apartment collapses, she loses both her job and shelter. In a twist of fate, her friend comes to the rescue, but a crucial detail is omitted—her cousin, the subject of her Instagram stalking and the hero, will also be living with them. The narrative evolves into a phase of tension between the main characters, intensified by the male characters' determination to assist the female lead. He takes her on educational dates to help overcome her writer's block, leading to a journey of attraction, denial of feelings, and more.
5. When I Am With You
Written by Durjoy Datta, a prominent figure who is a top name when we talk about romance books by Indian authors. This novel is infused with his distinctive blend of humour, sarcasm, and a generous dose of romance. The storyline revolves around a strong, ambitious female protagonist who seeks to challenge societal norms. Paired with an enigmatic male lead, the novel unfolds into a classic scenario of never-ending situations, with the unexpected solution being the very thing both characters strive to avoid—love. This captivating read exemplifies why Durjoy Datta remains a standout figure in the domain of romance books by Indian authors.
6. Bound By Honour
In the realm of dark romance, Bound By Honour unfolds the tale of a mafia princess renowned for her stunning beauty and the man to whom she is promised in marriage. Fearing that her betrothed might be a cold, ruthless individual, the female protagonist is already mourning her future. Her sole recourse now is to endeavour to capture her husband’s heart and affection, even in the face of claims that he lacks a heart altogether. The narrative delves into the story of a kind-hearted female protagonist and a seemingly ruthless yet caring male lead, unravelling their journey as they forge a precious connection. This novel stands out as one of the finest examples of mafia romance books.
7. Her Good Side
While talking about romance novels for teens, Her Good Side is a standout title, gaining popularity in recent months for all the right reasons. The narrative follows the determined journey of the female lead, driven to secure a date for the school prom. However, when her crush rejects her, her best friend steps in, volunteering her boyfriend—the male protagonist—to accompany her and provide the complete prom experience. Complications arise when the best friend breaks up with her boyfriend before the prom, leaving our heroine grappling with feelings that extend beyond platonic. Navigating through these emotions and achieving their happy ending renders this novel one of the most delightful choices among romance novels for teens.
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