10 Classic Romance Novels for Adults

Print Length : 258 pages

“Pride and Prejudice” was a smashing success when it was published in 1813, and people still snatch the novel off bookstore shelves and buy virtual copies for their Kindles today. Known for its civilized sparring between the opinionated Elizabeth Bennet and the aloof Mr. Darcy, this novel serves as a lesson in 19th century flirting. It goes beyond flirting, though, since marriage is the goal in this classic novel.

Print Length : 304 pages

This classic novel was published in 1928 and is proof that infidelity has plagued relationships for generations. D.H. Lawrence dives deep into the psyche of each of his characters, and his prose will draw you in, making it easy to see why this is one of the best classical books of all time. You’ll be transported to two years after the first world war. Clifford gets paralyzed in the war and tells his wife he would like to have a child, but he doesn’t want to know who the father is. Connie starts a steamy affair with the estate’s gamekeeper, only to have someone from his past turn up.

Print Length : 416 pages

If you enjoy a good love triangle, “Wuthering Heights” is another great choice. Also considered one of the best classic novels ever written, it begins with Mr. Earnshaw opening his home to the orphaned Heathcliff. While most of Mr. Earnshaw’s children are unwelcoming, Catherine quickly falls in love with her surrogate brother. After Mr. Earnshaw passes away, Catherine’s brother casts Heathcliff aside and she soon falls for Edgar Linton. Who will she end up with? You’ll have to find out!

Print Length : 290 pages

“Jane Eyre” was published in 1847, and it was well ahead of its time. From the intimate first-person prose to the strong social criticism, it changed the literary landscape. The story at its core is also enthralling for romance enthusiasts. You’ll spend your time with Jane Eyre, an orphan living with her aunt, Mrs. Reed, and her cousins. After being imprisoned in the room where her uncle died, she is finally sent off to boarding school and eventually becomes a governess. Then, she meets Mr. Rochester and falls in love.

Print Length : pages

Part romance, part gothic-mystery, “Rebecca” is a classic novel that defies genre. However, many a romance lover has gobbled this book up, and for good reason. The action begins with a wealthy widower accepting a marriage proposal and moving to an isolated estate. Soon, things take a sinister turn when the young heroine realizes that her new husband is still haunted by his previous wife, Rebecca. When you read it, you’ll realize why it’s considered one of the best books of all time.

Print Length : 864 pages

“Anna Karenina” isn’t just one of the best books ever. Many consider it to be the singular best piece of fiction of all time. Love and adultery take center stage in this breathtaking and groundbreaking novel. Along with the romance, you’ll get a peek inside the lives of those who lived in late-19th century Russia.

Print Length : 448 pages

Has there ever been a tale of true love as pure as “The Princess Bride?” Follow the farm boy Westley as he does everything he can to get his happily every after with Buttercup. This is unlike any romance novel you’ve ever read. It has fencing, poison, giants, and so much more, and it has cemented its place as one of the best books of all time.

Print Length : 162 pages

Tragic and swoon-worthy, “The Age of Innocence” is a Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece. The novel centers on elite bachelor Newland Archer. He’s set to marry a socialite when her cousin visits, and that’s when things take a turn. Tune into this page-turner to see if he can resist the exotic cousin or if he falls for her charms.

Print Length : 358 pages

“Madame Bovary” was Flaubert’s first novel and one of the best books ever. After Charles Bovary’s wife dies, he meets and marries Emma. Bored with her new life, Emma starts to become depressed, prompting the young couple to move to a larger town. Once there, Emma meets two men that she grows feelings for.

Print Length : 122 pages

Which would you choose? True love or social acceptance? That’s the question at the heart of “A Room with a View.” Lucy falls in love with George Emerson while vacationing but is supposed to marry Cecil Vyse. She feels torn between her heart and her head in this beautifully written novel that’s easily one of the best books of all time.