Best contemporary romance books

Contemporary romance is the most popular subgenre in the romance world, and it is easy to see why. Set in the modern day with relatable characters navigating real-world problems – careers, families, second chances, and the terrifying vulnerability of falling in love – contemporary romance delivers the emotional highs without the dragons.

Whether you are looking for a slow burn enemies-to-lovers story set in a small town, a fake dating rom-com with sharp banter, or a deeply emotional second chance romance, contemporary romance has something for every mood. The books below are drawn from our database and cover the full spectrum of heat levels, tropes, and styles – from sweet and clean to very steamy.