Looking for some steamy, suspenseful, and heartwarming enemies-to-lovers romance books? Look no further than this list of 34 best books featuring enemies turned lovers. These books are full of sizzling tension and satisfying payoffs, making them a must-read for fans of the genre.
From popular titles like “The Hating Game” to “The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black, this list has something for everyone. So why not take a chance on a forbidden love story and see where it takes you?
Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall
Boyfriend Material is a romance novel written by Alexis Hall. The book was published in 2020 and has since been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance. It was also named the best book of the year by various publications such as Oprah Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, Goodreads, and The Washington Post.
The story revolves around Luc O’Donnell, the son of famous split rockstar parents, and Oliver Blackwood, a vegetarian barrister. Both characters are in need of a fake boyfriend and agree to pretend to be in a relationship to please their families. However, as they spend more time together, their fake relationship starts to feel more real.
Boyfriend Material is a MM romance novel that features a romantic storyline and quintessential British humor. It is a haters-to-lovers story that is sure to make readers swoon. The book is available for purchase on Amazon and is also available for free on Audible. It can also be read with Kindle Unlimited.
Crier’s War by Nina Varela
Crier’s War is a captivating debut novel by Nina Varela that takes place in a creatively imagined fantasy world. The story follows Ayla, a human servant who seeks revenge against Lady Crier, the daughter of the man who killed her family, after the kingdom of Rabu was ravaged by war.
However, things become complicated when Crier discovers the truth about her father and begins to show remorse. Meanwhile, human unrest is growing, and a foreign monarch threatens war.
The novel explores whether Ayla and Crier can set aside their personal vendettas and work together to save their kingdom. Crier’s War is a well-paced, steamy lesbian romance that readers are sure to enjoy. The book is available for purchase on Amazon, and readers can listen to it for free on Audible or read it with Kindle Unlimited.
Kulti by Mariana Zapata
Mariana Zapata’s sports romance novel, Kulti, is a well-crafted story with a likable cast of characters. The book is over 500 pages long, providing readers with a detailed plot that keeps them engaged from start to finish.
The protagonist, Sal Casillas, has been a fan of Reiner Kulti since she was a child. She idolized him, dreaming of marrying him and having soccer babies with him. When Sal discovers that Kulti will be her coach at twenty-seven years old, she feels like she’s on top of the world. However, as she gets to know him better, she realizes that he’s not the ambitious man she once believed him to be.
Sal’s life becomes more complicated when she starts to develop feelings for her soccer coach. The story is available on Amazon for purchase and free on Audible. It’s also available to read with Kindle Unlimited.
Halfway To The Grave by Jeaniene Frost
Halfway To The Grave is a paranormal romance novel by Jeaniene Frost that tells the story of Catherine Crawfield, who is half-human and half-vampire. Catherine is on a mission to find her father, who ruined her mother’s life. However, her quest becomes complicated when she is captured by Bones, a bounty hunter and full vampire. Instead of being turned in or killed, Catherine is trained by Bones and learns to connect with her vampire side.
As Catherine tries to navigate her newfound darkness, a group of slayers catch up with her and Bones. The question remains whether she will stand by Bones or turn him in to save herself and continue her personal vendetta.
Halfway To The Grave is a gripping novel that combines romance, action, and the supernatural. It is available for purchase on Amazon and can also be listened to for free on Audible.
Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert
Talia Hibbert’s “Act Your Age, Eve Brown” is a novel that has been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance in 2021 and has also become an instant New York Times bestseller.
The book follows the story of Eve Brown, a young woman who is struggling to take control of her life after causing a scene at a wedding party. In an effort to get her life back on track, she takes a job at a bed and breakfast owned by Jacob Wayne, a man she despises. However, as they spend more time together, their relationship evolves from animosity to something more.
Readers can purchase the book on Amazon, listen to it for free on Audible, or read it with Kindle Unlimited.
Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth
In “Not My Problem” by Ciara Smyth, Aideen becomes the go-to person for fixing everyone else’s problems after faking an injury to get out of her own heavy workload. However, as her best friend Holly starts to avoid her and her mother falls back into alcoholism, Aideen begins to question whether there are some problems that are too big for her to solve.
Despite her reputation as the school’s fixer, Aideen realizes that she cannot always be the solution to everyone else’s problems. As she struggles to deal with her own personal issues, she must come to terms with the fact that sometimes, it’s okay to admit that a problem is not her responsibility to fix.
Through Aideen’s journey, “Not My Problem” explores the importance of setting boundaries and taking care of oneself, even when it means saying no to others.
Opposites Attract by Camilla Isley
Opposites Attract by Camilla Isley is a romantic comedy that follows Vivian, a divorce lawyer and single mom who believes that there are no good men left in New York City. Her next-door neighbor, Lucas Keller, is a couple’s therapist who starts to steal away Vivian’s clients.
The two become enemies and engage in a competition of wits. However, things take a turn when their personal vendetta transforms into something else entirely. The book explores the idea of opposites attracting and the unexpected ways in which people can connect. Opposites Attract is available for purchase on Amazon, and can be listened to for free on Audible.
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Red, White & Royal Blue is a contemporary romance novel that won the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance and Best Debut Novel in 2019. It is an instant New York Times bestseller and has been recommended as a must-read book by Us Weekly, Vogue, NPR, Entertainment Weekly, and Oprahmag.com. Additionally, it was named as one of AudioFile Magazine’s Best Audiobooks of 2019.
The novel revolves around Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the President of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales. When Alex and Henry have a public altercation, the tabloids get hold of a photo, causing a stir across both nations. To protect their respective nations, a truce is staged between the two, but things soon spiral out of control, putting the presidential campaign at risk.
Fans of the royal romance genre will enjoy the steamy contemporary romance between Alex and Henry. The novel is available for purchase on Amazon and is free to listen on Audible. It is also available to read with Kindle Unlimited.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
Sally Thorne’s novel, The Hating Game, was nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance in 2016. The story follows the witty and self-deprecating Lucy Hutton and her hatred for her colleague Joshua Templeman.
Joshua’s cold and hard approach to his job and his happy-go-lucky personality are the reasons for Lucy’s dislike. Similarly, Joshua hates Lucy for her bright clothes and her desire to be liked by everyone. When a promotion opportunity arises, the two engage in a full-blown war to secure the position.
However, the intense hatred between them could easily turn into something unexpected. The novel is available for purchase on Amazon and can be listened to for free on Audible.
The Wall Of Winnipeg And Me by Mariana Zapata
The Wall Of Winnipeg And Me by Mariana Zapata is a slow burn, enemies to lovers romance book that was nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance in 2016. The story revolves around Aiden Graves, a national football player who is known as The Wall of Winnipeg, and his ex-teammate Vanessa Mazur.
Despite being tough and strong, Aiden struggles to express his emotions and couldn’t even wish Vanessa on her birthday. When Aiden approaches Vanessa after two years of no contact, asking her to come back to the team, she is taken aback.
Playing National Football was never her ultimate goal, and Aiden’s sudden reappearance raises questions about his intentions. The book explores their complicated relationship as they navigate through their feelings for each other.
Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat
Captive Prince is a MM fantasy romance novel that follows the story of warrior hero Damen, who loses his title as heir to the throne of Akielos when his half-brother seizes power. Subsequently, he becomes a pleasure slave and is sent to the enemies’ territory, where he becomes entwined with the vicious Prince Laurent.
Damen and Laurent team up to restore the country’s rightful heir, but there’s a catch. If Laurent knew who Damen really was, he would be dead. Therefore, Damen must keep his identity hidden to get his old life back.
The book is available for purchase on Amazon, and it can be listened to for free on Audible. Additionally, it can be read with Kindle Unlimited.
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning
Darkfever is a gripping fantasy novel that delves into the world of Celtic mythology. The protagonist, MacKayla Lane, is an ordinary woman living an ordinary life until her sister is brutally murdered. Determined to find her sister’s killer, MacKayla embarks on a journey that leads her to discover a power she never knew she had and a terrifying realm known as the Fae.
The novel is a perfect blend of tragedy, vengeance, confusion, and the paranormal. Karen Marie Moning’s writing style is captivating, and the plot is well-crafted, keeping the reader engaged throughout the book. The story is not just about MacKayla’s quest for justice but also about her personal growth and transformation.
Darkfever is a must-read for anyone who enjoys dark fantasy and mythology. It is available for purchase on Amazon, and you can also listen to it for free on Audible.
Beach Read by Emily Henry
Beach Read by Emily Henry is a novel that has been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance in 2020. It has also been listed as one of The New York Times Book Review’s Summer Romance Reads, Entertainment Weekly’s Hottest Summer Reads of 2020, and Oprah Magazine’s Best Beach Reads of Summer 2020. The book tells the story of January Andrews, a romance writer who finds herself in a creative slump after facing a series of personal struggles.
January decides to spend some time near the beach and discovers that her next-door neighbor is none other than her college rival and literary fiction writer, Augustus “Gus” Everett. As they spend time together, they make a unique deal: January will try her hand at writing a literary fiction novel, while Gus will attempt to write a romance novel. This agreement leads them on a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and unexpected romance.
Beach Read is a heartwarming and engaging story that explores the complexities of love, grief, and second chances. It is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy a mix of romance and literary fiction. The novel is available for purchase on Amazon, and it can also be listened to for free on Audible or read with Kindle Unlimited.
The Wrath And The Dawn by Renee Ahdieh
The Wrath And The Dawn is a young adult fantasy novel that was nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award in 2015. It is inspired by the classic story of A Thousand and One Nights. The story follows the life of eighteen-year-old Khalid, Caliph of Khorasan, who executes a new bride every sunrise.
Sixteen-year-old Shahrzad volunteers to be his next bride with a secret plan to end his reign of terror. However, as she spends more time with Khalid, she realizes that she may be falling in love with him. The story becomes more complicated as she discovers that not all is as it seems with the seemingly evil boy-king.
The novel is available for purchase on Amazon and can be read for free with Kindle Unlimited. It is also available on Audible for free. The story is a unique and captivating take on a classic tale, and Renee Ahdieh’s writing style is sure to keep readers engaged from beginning to end.
Bully by Penelope Douglas
Bully by Penelope Douglas is a young adult romance novel that explores the theme of transformation, particularly during high school and senior year. The story revolves around Tate, who has been a victim of Jared’s torment and humiliation since high school. With determination and strength, Tate decides to take control of her life and confront the bully who has made her suffer, setting the stage for a transformative journey.
Throughout the novel, the author delves into the complexities of friendship, betrayal, and personal growth, as Tate evolves from a victim to a survivor, refusing to be defined by the labels Jared has placed upon her throughout their teenage years. The novel portrays Jared as a complex character with layers of his own, as he transforms from an antagonist to a love interest.
Bully is a gripping enemies-to-lovers romance that showcases the strength of character and the power of transformation. It is a must-read for young adults who are looking for a novel that explores the complexities of high school life and the challenges of personal growth.
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas is an enthralling fantasy novel that revolves around Celaena Sardothien, a skilled assassin who is offered a chance to win her freedom by competing in a deadly tournament. The story takes place in a complex and vividly imagined world, where Celaena uncovers dark secrets and a malevolent force that threatens the kingdom.
As Celaena navigates the dangerous trials and political intrigues of the competition, she forms unexpected alliances and grapples with the dilemma of choosing between her loyalty to her friends and her own survival. Sarah J. Maas masterfully blends adventure, romance, and self-discovery as Celaena confronts her past and embraces her destiny.
Tweet Cute by Emma Lord
Tweet Cute is a young adult romantic comedy novel by Emma Lord. The book was nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Young Adult Fiction in 2020. The story revolves around two high school students, Pepper and Jack, who engage in a Twitter war after Big League Burger releases a product similar to Jack’s grandmother’s grilled cheese.
Pepper is a perfectionist swim team captain who secretly runs Big League Burger’s Twitter account, while Jack is the class clown and constantly in the shadow of his twin brother Ethan.
As their Twitter feud escalates, their animosity towards each other turns into something else. The novel explores themes of family, friendship, and the power of social media in modern relationships. Readers can purchase Tweet Cute on Amazon, listen to it for free on Audible, or read it with Kindle Unlimited.
The Sweetest Oblivion by Danielle Lori
Elena is the protagonist of Danielle Lori’s novel, The Sweetest Oblivion. She is a sweet and bubbly person who knows how to deliver appropriate one-liners. However, Elena is haunted by the blood on her hands and can’t help but feel guilty. Meanwhile, her sister is set to marry Nicolas Russo, a notorious hardman in New York.
Things get complicated when Elena meets Nicolas and is drawn to his enchanting eyes and cigarettes. She has just escaped one scandal and can’t afford to be caught up in another. The Sweetest Oblivion is a captivating novel that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. It is available for purchase on Amazon and can be listened to for free on Audible. Additionally, readers can access the book with Kindle Unlimited.
She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen
She Drives Me Crazy is a young adult romantic comedy novel that has been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Young Adult Fiction in 2021. The book is perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Casey McQuiston.
The story follows Scottie, a basketball player who suffers a loss against her ex’s team. In a fit of anger, she damages her nemesis Irene’s car, making things worse for herself as she now has to take Irene to school every morning. Scottie comes up with a plan to fake a relationship with Irene to get her toxic ex out of the way. However, things get complicated when real feelings are involved.
Perfect On Paper by Sophie Gonzales
Perfect On Paper is a young adult novel written by Sophie Gonzales, which was nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Young Adult Fiction in 2021. The story follows Darcy Phillips, a bisexual girl who anonymously plays matchmaker and love therapist to her fellow students. Darcy communicates with her clients solely on paper to maintain her anonymity, as her past is something she wants to keep hidden.
In the novel, Darcy is tasked with playing matchmaker between Alexander Brougham, a selfish guy, and a girl who already likes him. The question is whether Darcy can successfully bring them together without revealing her true identity.
Perfect On Paper is available for purchase on Amazon and can be read for free with Kindle Unlimited. It is also available for listening on Audible.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s classic novel, Pride and Prejudice, is a timeless masterpiece that has captured the hearts of readers for centuries. The novel is set in the early 19th century and follows the story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy as they navigate their way through social norms, misunderstandings, and their own prejudices to find love.
The novel explores the themes of first impressions, societal expectations, and the transformative power of love. Austen’s skillful development of the characters and their relationship is evident through witty dialogue and subtle characterizations. As the story unfolds, readers witness the evolution of Elizabeth and Darcy’s feelings for each other.
Pride and Prejudice is a must-read for fans of enemies-to-lovers romance. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and timeless themes, this novel has stood the test of time and continues to captivate readers today.
Under Locke by Mariana Zapata
Under Locke by Mariana Zapata is a captivating romance novel that tells the story of Iris Taylor, a young woman who lands a job at a business owned by a member of the same motorcycle club her absent father used to be a part of. Despite her initial reservations, Iris finds herself drawn to the rough-around-the-edges owner, Dex Locke.
The novel explores the complexities of their relationship as Iris navigates her feelings for Dex while also dealing with the challenges of working in a male-dominated environment. The book also delves into the themes of family, loyalty, and self-discovery.
Under Locke is an engaging read that keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end. With well-developed characters and a compelling plot, Mariana Zapata has crafted a novel that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.
For those looking for a captivating romance novel that explores themes of family, loyalty, and self-discovery, Under Locke by Mariana Zapata is a must-read.
Wallbanger by Alice Clayton
Alice Clayton’s novel Wallbanger follows Caroline Reynolds, a successful designer living in a luxurious apartment in San Francisco with her beloved cat Clive. Despite her seemingly perfect life, Caroline is frustrated with her lack of sexual activity, especially when she hears her neighbors engaging in intimate acts every night. Fed up with the noise, Caroline decides to confront her neighbor and put an end to the disturbance.
The novel has been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Humor in 2013. It is a humorous and light-hearted take on the struggles and adventures of modern relationships. Wallbanger is available for purchase on Amazon and can also be listened to for free on Audible.
Lilac by B.B. Reid
Lilac by B.B. Reid is a captivating reverse harem romance novel that follows Braxton Fawn, a young woman who is selected to be the new lead guitarist for the popular band, Bound. Braxton’s journey from small bars to the grand stage seems like a dream come true, but her dream quickly becomes a nightmare when she faces hostility from her jaded and talented bandmates.
Braxton finds herself surrounded by attractive musicians who are determined to undermine her success. As she tries to navigate her dream job, the world tour, public scrutiny, and the animosity of her bandmates, Braxton realizes that her biggest threat is not just the challenges around her but also herself.
With its well-developed characters and engaging storyline, Lilac takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster ride. The novel highlights the struggles of a young woman trying to make her way in a male-dominated industry while also dealing with personal demons.
The Kiss Thief by L.J. Shen
The Kiss Thief is a gripping mafia romance novel that explores the enemies-to-lovers trope. The story revolves around the fierce and determined Francesca Rossi, who is forced into a political marriage with the enigmatic and ruthless Senator Wolfe Keaton.
The initial encounter between the two sets the stage for their tumultuous relationship, as Francesca struggles with the reality of her forced betrothal to a man she despises.
L.J. Shen’s writing style is captivating and keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The unexpected twists and turns in the plot add layers of complexity to the characters and their relationship.
The novel has received numerous accolades, including being nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance in 2019, reaching the top spot in both Contemporary Romance and New Adult Romance, and becoming an Amazon Charts and Washington Post bestseller.
Readers can purchase The Kiss Thief on Amazon, listen to it for free on Audible, or read it with Kindle Unlimited.
Summary
The best enemies to lovers romance books offer a unique and exciting reading experience. These books typically feature two characters who initially dislike each other but eventually fall in love. Some popular examples include “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne and “The Unhoneymooners” by Christina Lauren. These books often have witty banter, tension-filled moments, and steamy romance scenes. Overall, fans of the enemies to lovers trope will enjoy these books for their entertaining and satisfying storylines.