Of the many romance tropes, friends to lovers seems to be one of the popular ones. There seems to be something about long-time friends finding out that they love each other that resonates with readers. For many, the foundation of friendship allows for a deep understanding and connection between the characters, creating a believable and reliable relationship for readers. If you are looking for a romance that feels authentic and develops naturally, then you can check out these best friends-to-lovers romance novels:
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
People We Meet on Vacation follows the story of Poppy and Alex, two best friends who share a unique bond despite their differences. Poppy is adventurous and free-spirited, while Alex is more reserved and prefers a quiet life. Every summer, they embark on a week-long vacation together, until an incident two years ago caused a rift between them.
Feeling stuck and unfulfilled in her life, Poppy decides to mend their friendship by convincing Alex to go on one last vacation. With only a week to mend their broken bone, Poppy must confront the truth that has always lingered between them. As they embark on this final trip, Poppy hopes to fix everything. If you are looking for a witty but emotional friends-to-lovers rom-com, then People We Meet On Vacation is the perfect read for you.
Emma by Jane Austen
Emma Woodhouse is beautiful, spoiled, vain, and equipped with a sharp wit. In her small village, she takes it upon herself to meddle in the lives of those around her, becoming a self-appointed matchmaker. As she sets out to play cupid, her actions have unintended consequences causing heartaches and misunderstandings.
As the story unfolds, Emma must confront the consequences of her actions and learn a valuable lesson about love. One of the few original Friends-to-Lovers books, Emma is one of Jane Austen’s well-known novels. With a compelling and relatable (sometimes annoying) heroine, this romance is worth a try.
How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days by K.M. Jackson
In How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days by K.M. Jackson follows Bethany Lu Carlisle, who finds herself devastated when news breaks that Keanu Reeves, the world’s perfect bachelor, is about to get married. Believing that she can be his true soulmate, Lu is determined to convince Keanu to call off the wedding.
With her loyal friend Truman Erikson by her side, they embark on the wild road trip from New York to Los Angeles in search of the elusive actor. Along the way, Lu and True encounter sticky situations, testing their friendship and pushing the boundaries of their quest to love. This one is for those of us who are a little obsessed with our celebrity crushes, a wild ride from start to finish.
Take A Hint Dani Brown (The Brown Sisters) by Talia Hibbert
Danika Brown is all about her career and avoids romantic entanglements. She sets her sights on finding the perfect friend with benefits to satisfy her needs. When a fiery workplace mishap brings her together with brooding security guard Zafir Ansari, the universe seems to be sending a clear message.
However, things take an unexpected turn when a video of their heroic encounter goes viral, leading to a fake relationship for publicity. As Dani and Zef navigate their arrangement, they uncover deeper emotions and personal struggles that they must overcome together.
The Summer I Turned Pretty (Summer) by Jenny Han
Belly’s life revolves around the enchantment of summer. She savours the magic that unfolds between June and August, while winters feel like mere intermissions until the next summer. Winter means being away from the beach house, her close friend Susannah, and the boys who have been a constant presence in her life: Jeremiah and Conrad.
These boys have played various roles in Belly’s life, from brother figures to love interests. As summer unfolds, filled with both joy and heartbreak, Belly realizes that amidst all the changes, everything eventually falls into place as it was always meant to be. If you’re looking for a book that will set your summer mood then look no further than The Summer I Turned Pretty. This young adult novel is perfect for anyone looking for a romance that has a lot more under the surface.
Hook, Line and Sinker (Bellinger Sisters) by Tessa Bailey
In this follow-up to It Happened One Summer, Hook, Line, and Sinker, King crab fisherman Fox Thornton is known for his irresistible charm and carefree nature. He prefers casual flings both in and out of the bedroom, until he meets Hannah Bellinger. Hannah is immune to his usual charm but enjoys his company and wants to be friends.
With Hannah staying in his spare bedroom, their friendship becomes more complicated. Hannah is nursing a crush on a colleague and seeks Fox’s help to catch his attention. However, as they spend more time together, their feelings deepen.
Isn’t it Bromantic (Bromance Book Club) by Lyssa Kay Adams
Elena Konnikova has spent her life in the shadows, marrying her childhood friend Vladimir to escape danger and settling in the US, where Vladimir is a hockey player. Vladimir, also known as the Russian, joins the Bromance Book Club to learn how to make Elena love him.
However, he realises he deserves more than a one-sided relationship. With the support of the bros and their meddling widowed neighbours, the Loners, Vladimir sets out to create a sweeping romance. Just when things start to look promising, Elena’s past resurfaces, throwing their future into uncertainty.
A Cowboy to Remember by Rebekah Weatherspoon
A Cowboy to Remember follows the story of Evie Buchanan, a talented chef on the brink of stardom. However, a fall at an industry party leaves her with amnesia, unable to remember her own identity. Desperate for help, Evie’s assistant reaches out to her family, who runs a luxury dude ranch in California.
Among them is Zach Pleasant, a former rodeo champion and Evie’s childhood friend. As Evie begins to regain her memories, she realizes she has been dreaming of Zach. Despite their complicated past, Zach is determined to remind Evie of their love and awaken the dormant feelings inside her.
Romancing Mister Bridgerton (Bridgertons) by Julia Quinn
Colin Bridgerton, known as the most charming man in London, captures the secret adoration of Penelope Featherington, her best friend’s brother. Penelope has spent years watching Colin from afar, believing she knows everything about him. However, her perception changes when she stumbles upon Colin’s deepest secret, making her question if she truly knows him at all.
While Colin returns home after dealing with the notorious gossip columnist Lady Whistledown, he soon discovers his life is different, especially with Penelope. As their relationship unravels, he must decide whether or not she is his biggest threat or a better chance at happiness. Romancing Mister Bridgerton is the fourth book in the Bridgeton series that offers a friends-to-lovers slow-burn reading experience.Â
The Deal (Off Campus) by Elle Kennedy
This spicy slow-burn sports friends-to-lovers romance follows the story of Hannah Wells, who is finally attracted to someone who excites her. Despite being confident in most areas of her life, she carries emotional baggage when it comes to intimacy. Determined to catch the attention of her crush, she agrees to tutor Garrett Graham, the cocky captain of the hockey team, in exchange for a fake date.
Garrett’s dream of playing professional hockey is jeopardized by his declining GPA, so he agrees to help Hannah make another guy jealous. However, a passionate kiss leads to an unexpected connection, forcing Garrett to realize that pretending is no longer an option. Now, he must convince Hannah that he could be the man she truly desires.
There we have it ten friends-to-lovers romance novels for you to curl up to. Have you read any of these books? Do you have your own recommendations? Comment below and let us know!