The 8 Top-Rated New Adult Romances You Can't Miss
Book RaiderIf we're being totally honest, most of us have been down the rabbit hole of rom-com novels at some point. And who can blame us? They're addictive, they're heartwarming, and they often cater to our unrealistic expectations of love (we've all imagined that steamy 'runs-into-her-handsome-neighbor-while-taking-out-the-trash' scenario a time or two). But hey, it's fiction so it's allowed to be a smidge outlandish.
Now, let's cut to the chase. If you clicked on this post, it's a safe bet that you're on the prowl for some new, top-rated adult romances to devour. Get ready, because we've refined our search skills to a fine art and compiled a list of the crème de la crème that's creating a buzz in the world of flirtatious banter, longing looks, and heart-skipping moments. Brace yourself, your weekend reading list is about to get a steamy upgrade.
Reel
by Kennedy Ryan
Why Reel is on this list: Among the new adult romances that have gained top ratings, 'Reel' by Kennedy Ryan has fearlessly joined the ranks. It's a perfect fit in this list because it's a fabulous novel that has melted the hearts of its readers and shook the critics with its soul-baring depth and unforgettable characters.
'Reel' is the tale of an ambitious filmmaker who comes across a hidden story that could be her ticket to fame. Her research leads her to a retired jazz singer whose life story is filled with love, losses, and a haunting secret that could change the way people perceive her. As our filmmaker delves deeper, an unexpected connection blooms between her and the jazz singer’s protective grandson. They navigate their blooming feelings amidst a whirlpool of revelations and intriguing history, making it surprisingly difficult to put the book down.
What readers like: Readers adored the captivating storyline, the vivid depiction of different eras, and the roller coaster of emotions they experienced. Kennedy Ryan's artful writing style and ability to infuse the pages with such strong, raw emotions have left the readers utterly spellbound. Also, the duet between the past and present narrative makes this love story all the more enchanting.
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Ever After Always
by Chloe Liese
Why Ever After Always is on this list: For those romantics craving a love story with depth, Ever After Always is a guaranteed heart-string tugger. It's a new adult romance novel that's garnered colossal praise from readers, making it just too good to ignore for our list.
This captivating narrative dives into the complexities of married life through couple Aiden and Freya. After three years, their once passionate relationship is now riddled with tension and misunderstandings, threatening the life they built together. But when Aiden suggests a week away at a resort, the opportunity serves more than just a holiday; it's a desperate bid to reignite the former ardor and save their crumbling marriage. His only fear? It may not be enough.
What readers like: Readers ooh and aah over Chloe Liese's masterpiece for its realistic portrayal of love and marriage. The story is heavy on emotions – embracing both love's raw magnificence and its tumultuous challenges. Fans also appreciate the relatable characters, sharp dialogue, and the potently stirring love scenes. Many admit to shedding a few tears, laughing out loud, and losing hours of sleep, unable to put the book down. Quite simply, Ever After Always is the kind of book you want to cuddle up with on a quiet evening.
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Much Ado About You
by Samantha Young
Why Much Ado About You is on this list:
The story centers around Evie Starling, who, needing a break from her dead-end job and non-existent love-life, decides to take a sabbatical in a small English village. She leases a bookshop and unintentionally finds herself in a storybook romance with the village's most eligible bachelor. As Evie navigates her double life as a temporary bookstore owner and unexpected lover, the plot unwinds to reveal unexpected twists provide a good dose of reality to this otherwise fairytale romance.
What readers like: 'Much Ado About You' has won readers over with its charming setting, witty prose and feel-good romance. Its delightful mix of humor and heartfelt emotions makes it a favorite among New Adult Romance fans. Readers also rave about Samantha Young's three dimensional characters, and the palpable chemistry between Evie and her new paramour. The book also earns points for making many a reader want to pack up their lives and move to an English village. It proves the power of love in transforming mundane life into an exquisite journey, making it a perfect companion for a rainy afternoon or a weekend getaway.
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Eastern Lights
by Brittainy C. Cherry
Why Eastern Lights is on this list: If you're a sucker for a gritty yet heart-melting romance, then Brittainy C. Cherry's Eastern Lights is for you. It perfectly fits into our 13 top-rated new adult romances because of its raw emotion, complex characters and a plotline that keeps you guessing till the end.
Eastern Lights dives into the life of a Hollywood actor, Connor, who is spiraling out of control and ends up in a detox center. His life takes a turn when he starts pretending to be engaged to a small-town girl, Aaliyah for public image makeover. As they try to navigate this pretend relationship, they end up discovering unspoken truths about each other, which leads to an unexpected passionate romance.
What readers like: Readers can't help but fall for Cherry's remarkable storytelling skills. She has a knack for creating tantalizing tension, drumming up the stakes till you're so emotionally invested that you just can't put the book down. Aside from the stellar narrative, readers appreciate the way Cherry builds her characters. They're layered, flawed, yet so likable that you can't help but root for them throughout their journey. Also, her skillful blend of humor, warmth and emotional depth keeps readers coming back for more.
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Love at First
by Kate Clayborn
Why Love at First is on this list: This book definitely belongs to our list of 'Top 13 New Adult Romances that are a Bang on' as it presents a heartfelt, melting new adult romance that’s filled with all the feels. Prepare to be swept away by its charm.
Love at First depicts a story about a cynical doctor, Will, and a sunshine filled apartment neighbor, Nora. Their worlds collide and sparks fly, as they navigate their feelings for each other With a delightful cast of secondary characters and the backdrop of an apartment building with its own magic, this book is all about finding home where you least expect it. This isn’t just a love story, it’s a tale about learning to live and love fully, despite past heartbreaks.
What readers like: Readers have showered heaps of praise on how well Kate Clayborn has portrayed the complexity of human emotions, her weaving of a layered and compelling plot, with beautifully developed characters. It's the perfect combination of sweet and spicy. Many have fallen in love with Will and Nora’s journey, praising it for its authenticity and realness. The unique backdrop, matched with the author's superb storytelling skills, have made readers recommend this book to their mum, their BFF, their mailman, even their cute coffee barista. Basically to anyone who has a heart to be stolen by a story.
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The Dating Dare
by Jayci Lee
Why The Dating Dare is on this list: Ever fancied to experience the thrill of a dating dare turned passionate love affair? That's exactly what happens in this top-rated adult romantic tale, making it an absolutely unmissable.
In a seemingly simple story turned gorgeously complex, 'The Dating Dare' beautifully ties together the lives of its main characters, Tara and Seth, who not-so-accidentally find themselves caught up in the excitement (and turmoil) of a four-date dare. Instead of their usual past-time casual hooks ups, they’re compelled to explore something deeper. No spoilers, but... expect an all-consuming love story that'll make you question everything about commitments and happily-ever-afters.
What readers like: Readers have been totally wooed by the thigh-clenchingly palpable chemistry between Tara and Seth. They have enjoyed the roller coaster of emotions stirred up by this stunning novel, praising Jayci Lee for her authentic characters and their deeply relatable vulnerability. And let's not forget the unexpected plot twists and turns that had readers hooked till the very end.
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Scoundrel of My Heart
by Lorraine Heath
Why Scoundrel of My Heart is on this list: Do you know that feeling when you're addicted to a bag of salty, crunchy chips, and you tell yourself 'just one more,' but you know you're lying? That's 'Scoundrel of My Heart' for you but with 100% less guilt and way more swooning. It's a top-rated romance fresh from the oven, and it's just begging to be devoured.
Our heroine, Lady Kathryn Lambert, needs to marry a man of fortune to save herself and her family from financial ruin. Enter Lord Griffith Stanwick, the heart-stopping, kind-hearted rogue who is penniless as a church mouse but rich in everything else. But wait, there's more. Griffith is in love with Kathryn's sister, and Kathryn is drawn to Griffith's magnificent best friend. Buckle up for a rollercoaster ride full of the juiciest twists, tender kisses, grand declarations, and joyous tears.
What readers like: Fans of the book love the 'opposites attract' theme and the 'riveting drama sprinkled with pithy humor' (their words, not mine!). They praise how Lorraine Heath gives each character depth and a backstory that keeps you rooting for them, no matter the odds. Plus, there's extraordinarily elegant writing, interlaced with lines that could make even a cold heart flutter. So, grab a cozy blanket and prepare to be swept off your feet.
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How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories
by Holly Black
Why How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories is on this list: This isn't your everyday romance story. It's a mesmerizing blend of fantasy and heartfelt emotion that is sure to win over fans of new adult romances who are looking for something a little bit different, a bit magical, a little bit out-of-world.
Enter into an intoxicating world where faeries despise mere humans and the King of Elfhame himself has a stormy, hateful relationship...with stories. A young, mischievous and compellingly attractive fae, Cardan delves into his complex relationships and a series of otherworldly adventures, unearthing hidden secrets, latent desires, and a heart that yearns for a love it cannot admit. Told through a unique lens of fairy tales and myths, the book reveals that even kings selectively remember events and that narratives, like love, can sometimes be unpredictable.
What readers like: Readers love the fascinating and bewitching world of Elfhame that Holly Black has expertly crafted. The book has a compelling protagonist in Cardan; his magnetic charm and layered personality are quite the heart-stealer. Besides, the twisting narrative and the unique mixture of fairy tale, myth, and romance keeps them hooked till the last page. It's romance done differently; that's what makes all the difference.
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