Love, that timeless enigma, has been the muse for countless tales, each attempting to capture its essence. In the past five years, authors have gifted us with narratives that explore love in its myriad forms—be it romantic, platonic, or self-affirming. Here’s a curated list of standout books that have delved into the complexities of love, each offering a unique perspective.
1. “Beach Read” by Emily Henry (2020)
Emily Henry’s “Beach Read” introduces us to January Andrews and Augustus Everett, two writers with contrasting styles who find themselves as neighbors for the summer. Their journey from rivalry to romance is both heartwarming and humorous, making it a must-read for those who appreciate a well-crafted love story.
2. “In Five Years” by Rebecca Serle (2020)
Rebecca Serle’s “In Five Years” presents a thought-provoking narrative that challenges our perceptions of fate and love. When Dannie Kohan experiences a vision of her life five years into the future, she’s forced to reevaluate her meticulously planned existence and the nature of true love.
3. “Boyfriend Material” by Alexis Hall (2020)
In “Boyfriend Material,” Alexis Hall delivers a delightful rom-com featuring Luc O’Donnell, the son of rock star parents, and Oliver Blackwood, a barrister. Their fake relationship, intended to salvage Luc’s public image, evolves into something genuine, offering readers a witty and heartfelt exploration of love and identity.
4. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2017)
While published slightly outside our five-year window, this novel has seen a resurgence in popularity. It chronicles the life of Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo as she recounts her seven marriages, revealing a profound love story that defies societal norms. Reid’s narrative is a captivating exploration of love, ambition, and the sacrifices we make.
5. “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston (2019)
Casey McQuiston’s debut novel imagines a romance between the First Son of the United States and a British prince. Their relationship, fraught with political implications, is portrayed with humor and sensitivity, offering a fresh take on the enemies-to-lovers trope.
6. “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood (2021)
Ali Hazelwood’s “The Love Hypothesis” introduces us to Olive Smith, a third-year Ph.D. candidate, who convinces a young professor to pretend to be her boyfriend. What starts as a fake relationship blossoms into something real, providing a charming and witty exploration of love in the academic world.
7. “People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry (2021)
Emily Henry makes a second appearance on our list with “People We Meet on Vacation.” The novel follows Poppy and Alex, best friends who take annual vacations together until a rift separates them. A chance to mend their relationship leads to revelations about their true feelings, making it a delightful read about love and friendship.
8. “One Last Stop” by Casey McQuiston (2021)
In “One Last Stop,” McQuiston blends romance with a touch of sci-fi. August, a cynical 23-year-old, moves to New York and meets Jane on the subway, only to discover that Jane is displaced from the 1970s. Their relationship challenges the boundaries of time and offers a unique perspective on love’s enduring nature.
9. “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab (2020)
V.E. Schwab’s novel tells the story of Addie LaRue, a woman who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. Spanning centuries and continents, it’s a poignant exploration of love, memory, and the desire to leave a lasting mark.
10. “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller (2011)
Although published over a decade ago, this novel has experienced renewed acclaim in recent years. It reimagines the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus, offering a tender and tragic love story set against the backdrop of the Trojan War.
These novels, each in their own way, explore the multifaceted nature of love. Whether you’re seeking a story that will make you laugh, cry, or ponder the complexities of the human heart, there’s something here for every reader.
Here are links to purchase these physical books on Amazon:
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- Beach Read by Emily Henry
- In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
- Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall
- The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
- Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
- The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
- People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
- One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
- The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
- The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
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