You can never have enough romance in your life. If there isn't enough in the real world, there's always an entire history of romance novels to get lost in, from the Victorian stylings of Jane Austen (who doesn't dream of Mr. Darcy?) to contemporary romance authors like Talia Hibbert After all, who doesn't love a good swoon from time to time? You can't beat a good love story, and there are many reasons why television and cinema are filled with adaptations of classics from the romance genre. Just look at the success of Netflix's Bridgerton, based on the Julia Quinn novels of the same name. Unsurprisingly, audiobook adaptations of romance novels are also a great hit, and these romance authors are worth paying serious attention to.
Fans of romance books will know Colleen Hoover as a household name in the genre. The Texas-born author is also known for her spectacular works of young adult fiction.
It Starts with Us introduces listeners to twenty-something Lily, a small-town girl who always had to work for everything she wanted. After graduating from college, Lily moves to the big city of Boston to open her flower shop. She finds herself in a seems-too-good-to-be-true relationship with Ryle, a bright and ambitious neurosurgeon. Yet she can’t stop thinking about her first love, Atlas. In this second-chance romance, Lily must come to terms with her dilemma and navigate the complex feelings surrounding it. Which love will win over her heart, and with whom will she find her happy ending?
New York Times bestselling author Sarah MacLean returns with a blazingly sexy, unapologetically feminist new series, Hell’s Belles.
After years of living as London’s brightest scandal, Lady Sesily Talbot has embraced the reputation and the freedom that comes with the title. No one looks twice when she lures a gentleman into the dim gardens beyond a Mayfair ballroom.
Meanwhile, Caleb Calhoun has spent years trying not to notice his best friend’s beautiful, brilliant sister. He’s been a saint about it, considering the way she looks at him, talks to him — and how she felt in his arms during their one ill-advised kiss.
Robyn Carr stuns listeners with Virgin River, the romance book that inspired a Netflix series of the same name.
An ad opens for a midwife role in the California town of Virgin River, population 600. Recently widowed Melinda Monroe jumped at this opportunity for a new start. But her high hopes are dashed within an hour of arriving: the cabin is a dump, the roads are dangerous, and the local doctor wants nothing to do with her. Mel decides to leave town the next day, but a tiny baby is abandoned on a front porch, and a former Marine named Jack Sheridan changes her plans.
When it comes to the historical romance subgenre, Lisa Kleypas is one of the greats. The third installment of her The Wallflowers series pulls listeners into the world of Evie Jenner, who is desperate to escape her scheming relatives.
A marriage of convenience is the only solution. So she calls the most infamous scoundrel in London, Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent, to help her. No one would have paired shy wallflower Evie with the sinfully handsome viscount. But Evie’s hidden strength soon comes to light, making Sebastian desire her more than any woman he’s ever known. But when a threat from the past confronts the couple, Sebastian vows to do whatever he can to protect his wife.
Bestselling author Nora Roberts got her start in the world of love stories by writing short novels driven by romance, but listeners around the globe can be thankful that the ambitions of the Maryland-native grew and grew, and then grew some more. When considering iconic names in the romance genre, the list begins with Nora Roberts. With more than 200 titles to her name, it isn't difficult to understand why.
Expertly narrated by January LaVoy, Hideaway is a classic Roberts listen. Mixing suspense and drama with a healthy dose of romance, the audiobook tells the story of Caitlyn Sullivan, a child star turned gritty adult looking to come to terms with the traumas of her youth. LaVoy's narration adds a sparkle to the story, her charming tones filling the love story with character and poise.
Hideaway is another excellent addition to the Nora Roberts library and sees the icon move away from a traditional romance story into something a little more tense and dramatic. As the first name inducted into the Romance Writers of America Hall of Fame and an almost constant presence on The New York Times bestseller list, Nora Roberts is a name that demands attention whenever love stories are being discussed.
Looking for a little bit of history with your love story? Look no further. Beverly Jenkins is the decisive voice in the world of historical romance, and Night Song is where it all began for the Detroit-born star. Originally published in 1994, the story of Cara Lee Henson and Sergeant Chase Jefferson is given new life in this Kim Staunton-narrated audiobook adaptation.
There is more to the romance genre than straight up and down love stories. Jenkins is an all-time great when it comes to bridging the gap between steamy and historical fiction, filling her tales with lessons from the past. Her stories feature bad boys turned good and small towns bristling with unrealized passion and unrequited love. The works of Beverly Jenkins are perfectly suited for audiobooks, leading to a collection of must-reads turned must-listens.
What will become of the love between Cara and Chase? Is happily ever after even an option? Download Night Song today and let Kim Staunton lead you through tumultuous passion and no small amount of historical romance, showing why Beverly Jenkins is undoubtedly one of the best romance authors of all time.
Did someone leave the kettle on, because it seems to be steamy in here? Jenny Holiday's Sandcastle Beach is set in a fictional village called Matchmaker Bay and revolves around a young woman's desperate attempts to keep her tiny community theatre up and running. Does this lead to a love/hate dalliance with the town's local jerk? Turns out it does, but it also leads to one of the best romance novels going.
Jenny Holiday excels in the world of romantic comedy, where the rom-com rubs shoulders with lighter takes on erotica, mixing laughter and love with the skill of a veteran. Sandcastle Beach is the third book in the Matchmaker Bay series, and it'll come as no great surprise that this joyous romp sparkles in audiobook form. Meghan Kelly (a narrator with more than 300 Audible titles under her belt) shepherds the various characters through their ups and downs, adding another layer to Holiday's undeniable knack for a love/hate romance.
The chemistry between the main characters in Sandcastle Beach is undeniable, and further proof if proof were needed that Holiday is a master of her craft. The heart is a fickle beast, after all. Sandcastle Beach is a riotous listen, one that might have you looking for love in some unusual places.
There's nothing like a hike in northern Ontario to get the creative juices flowing. That is exactly how Kelly Siskind comes up with her love stories, and New Orleans Rush (another addition to Siskind's Showmen Series) is another steamy success. The story of a struggling artist turned magician's assistant will have listeners gasping and giggling in equal measure, aided to no end by Holly Fielding's masterful narration.
A prodigiously productive writer, Kelly Siskind has published eleven books in half a decade, honing her skills and perfecting the art of the fun, sexy story. The Ontario writer may well be your new favourite romance author, and New Orleans Rush could well be the beginning of a long romance between yourself and Siskind's steamy stories.
Before all that, listeners must find out whether Beatrice Baker's latest romance is going to end like her previous dalliances, namely in heartbreak and financial ruin. Will Huxley Marlow of the Marvelous Marlow Boys prove to be better than the men that came before him? Listen to the audiobook to find out.
An inspiration to self-published authors around the world, Courtney Milan made the switch from US Supreme Court law clerk to a titan of historical romance and hasn't looked back since. Real name Heidi Bond, the best-selling American author tends to release her steamy stories in collections, with the Wedgeford Trials, Worth Saga and Carhart series among her previous series.
The Countess Conspiracy was the fifth release in the Brothers Sinister series and is arguably the best example of everything that makes Milan such an enchanting listen. English actor Rosalyn Landor puts in a tremendous performance as narrator but it is the storytelling of Milan that shines through, as a tale of betrayal and passion unfolds. The Countess Conspiracy is a fantastic listen.
Courtney Milan has forged a defiant path as a major name in the world of historical romance novels. Tailor-made for the audiobook format, Milan's stories bubble with excitement and frustration in equal measure and have been keeping listeners on the edge of their seats for well over a decade. There are plenty more Courtney Milan stories to come, so get on this bandwagon while you can.
Before Minnesota-born Helen Hoang became a bestselling author with The Kiss Quotient, she wrote paranormal romance stories that feature no small amount of martial arts. While that sounds like a fascinating mix, it was Hoang's telling of an autistic woman's decision to hire a male escort to experience intimacy with another that made her a star.
The first audiobook in a trilogy, The Kiss Quotient magically showcases Helen Hoang's ability to take the classic romance genre and spin it on its head. Hoang stated that she was aiming for a gender-swapped Pretty Woman with The Kiss Quotient and she more than hits the mark, creating compelling characters surrounded by all the tension that a good love story demands. As a modern romance centred around an autistic woman and a male escort, Hoang certainly didn't set out to rewrite Pride and Prejudice for a new generation.
The world needs more contemporary romance authors like Helen Hoang. By approaching and embracing characters and stories that may have previously been taboo, Hoang is dragging the romance genre into the 21st century. A special note must be made here for Carly Robins, who does a fantastic job of narrating this love story with a difference.
An English author primarily focused on science fiction, urban fantasy and m/m romance, Alexis Hall has become a seriously authoritative name in those fields. Writing laugh-out-loud love stories certainly helps, and Hall's Boyfriend Material is fantastically suited to audiobook form. Joe Jameson has the honour of narrating this contemporary romance audiobook which is guaranteed to have listeners doubling over in laughter.
Hall's genius lies in his ability to weave universal romance out of very specific situations. In this case, the conflict revolves around a reluctantly famous son of rock stars in need of normality, or at least the public image of normality. This brings him to a relationship of convenience with a respected barrister, a duo for the public eye and nothing more. Does that nothing more become something bigger? You'll just have to listen to find out.
With more than 20 titles under his belt (many of which are available on Audible), Alexis Hall has established himself as one of the most popular and productive writers in gay romance today. His love stories transcend the genre, and the universality of unrequited feelings and our desire for laughter make Alexis Hall one of the best romance authors around today.
Molly Harper's first foray into the world of romance novels was called Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs, the first in a series of stories focused on things that nice girls do not have or may not do (dating dead men, biting their neighbours, that sort of thing). The Kentucky creative has since followed this up with novels about naked werewolves, rebound vampires, banshees and more. If it is paranormal romance you're after, look no further than Molly Harper.
Changeling is the first audiobook in her Sorcery and Society series, a wildly entertaining listen that focuses on 14-year-old Cassandra Reed and her struggle to fit in at her new magic school. What follows is a coming-of-age story enhanced by spells, mysticism and more magic, making for a thrilling ride through this most unusual of worlds. Audible favourite Amanda Ronconi does a stellar job at the microphone, shepherding the listener through a complex world of otherworldly powers and down-to-earth romance.
Molly Harper's distinctive voice shines through Changeling, and the audiobook represents an excellent way to introduce oneself to one of the most important figures in the Southern Eclectic genre. Harper and Ronconi have been described as a 'legendary pairing', which certainly doesn't hurt.
Outlander is a series of historical romance novels unlike any other, but then again, Diana Gabaldon is a historical romance author like no other too. Originally published in 1991, this beloved story of a 20th-century British nurse who travels back in time and falls in love with an 18th-century Scottish warrior has captivated audiences ever since, all the way from the original novels to the modern TV adaptations.
The stories follow Claire Randall as she comes to terms with life two centuries before her time in a Britain ripped apart by civil war. American author Gabaldon displays incredible expertise and understanding of her context throughout the eight novels, and the success of the TV adaptation should clue listeners in as to the quality of the audiobook versions. Does Outlander work as an audiobook? You better believe it does. A rolling cast of voices ensures freshness throughout, but it is the strength of the love story at the heart of Outlander that holds it high.
After all, is there a more universal love story than that of a British nurse going back in time to fall in love with a Scottish warrior fighting a civil war in the Highlands? That all depends on your preference, of course, but Diana Gabaldon makes a convincing argument with her iconic Outlander audiobook series.
Canadian historical writer born and bred in Manitoba, Kelly Bowen might not have the reputation of other names on this list but that won't be the case forever. The Winnipegger has perfected the art of creating sexual tension through historical romance, and who doesn't want to get involved with that? Duke of My Heart is another in this most productive canon, the story of an unconventional duke looking to avoid a scandal involving a naked but unfortunately deceased earl.
Does this lead to more scandals? Of course, it does, but Bowen has a way with words that takes predictable plot twists and fills them with entertainment and excitement. Historical romance novels that flirt as much with comedy as they do erotica are often dependent on the writer's ability to create tension and amusement in equal measure, and Kelly Bowen is a veritable expert at the skill.
Bowen's best audiobooks follow this same path, and Duke of My Heart is arguably the best of an excellent bunch. First-time listeners of Manitoba's finest steamy historical fiction can do worse than starting here, with the amorous and amusing escapes of the Duke Captain Maximus Harcourt and Miss Ivory Moore.
Sally Thorne's debut is a hit from start to finish, a tremendous listen that straddles the line between laugh-out-loud funny and deadly serious. Speaking of straddling, the story itself is about tiptoeing that all too perilous line between love and hate-in this case, navigated by convivial Lucy Hutton and coldly efficient Joshua Templeman. The two are workplace nemeses, but not even professional competitiveness can stop steamy dreams. Sometimes, falling in love is entirely out of your hands.
Originally published in 2016, The Hating Game catapulted Sally Thorne from anonymity to worldwide fame. The steamy will-they-won't-they workplace love story has gone on to be sold in over 25 countries, and a major motion picture adaptation is on the way. The best-selling author captured a moment with The Hating Game, encapsulating the sexual tension that often develops through rivalry.
Longtime Audible favourite Katie Schorr does a fantastic job as narrator, injecting the tension of Hutton and Templeman's relationship with energy and candour. Will it inspire you to look for your own steamy workplace hook-up? That remains to be seen, but there is every chance that this pause-resistant audiobook will make Sally Thorne your new favourite romance author.
Is there a sexier noble title than Duke? That is a matter of personal preference, but it is difficult to argue with the lava-hot energy emanating from the Duke of Hastings in this excellent extension from the now-iconic Bridgerton world. It is Daphne, the eldest daughter of the Bridgerton family, who the Duke has his eyes on in this story, although his reasons could be considered less than genuine. Still, when you open the door to love, don't be surprised if it eventually chooses to walk inside.
Bridgerton has gone on to become a huge hit across the world, spawning a smash hit Netflix show, a spinoff book series, book clubs, themed parties and all the rest, and the spirit of early 19th-century Britain is alive and well here. The Duke and I is expertly narrated by Rosalyn Landor, a veteran of more than 300 audiobooks in the Amazon Audible library, a true professional who does a sublime job of transporting the listener to Regency-era London. The Duke and I is a great read, but it might be an even better listen.
Frequently funny, occasionally graphic and constantly charming, The Duke and I is a must for fans of the Bridgerton series and further proof that Julie Quinn is a talent from the very top of the table. Historical romance is big business in the modern age, and there are few storytellers who understand the nuance quite like Quinn. Listen to The Duke and I to see what the fuss is all about.
Previously published as Dear Bridget, I Want You, this listen takes the steaminess and ramps it all the way up to scorching. Passion and sex are at the very heart of this romance novel, as star-crossed lovers try to resist the unmistakable urges that can only come from the most erotic of places. British Bedmate is a funny, witty, exciting and downright sexy love story that focuses on the bedmate a little more than the British.
The story is tremendous, but it is the narrative duet that really makes British Bedmate stand out. Zachary Webber and Andi Arnt are an absolute revelation on the microphone, feeding off each other (not literally) and conveying the story with a chemistry that positively seeps out of the speakers and straight into the heart and soul of the listener. It begs the question of why more romance audiobooks aren't narrated in such a way, but then not everyone has the innate chemistry of Webber and Arnt. The duo is worth the entry fee alone.
British Bedmate is an audiobook that embraces humour as much as it does romance, creating pockets of joy in areas that most people still tend to take extremely seriously. After all, is there anything sexier than laughing uproariously with someone you happen to find ludicrously attractive? If you're unsure, listen to British Bedmate and put your mind at ease.
The Notebook, American author Nicholas Sparks’s first novel, is a modern romance classic. This stunning love story inspired the 2004 film of the same name starring Canadians Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. Sparks also wrote Dear John and The Last Song.
The Notebook follows the story of 31-year-old Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after World War II, who can’t stop thinking about the love he lost more than a decade ago. At 29, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she is haunted by the memories of the boy she fell for all those years ago. The Notebook is a testament to love so enduring and profound that it can work miracles.
An arranged marriage leads to passionate love in The Bride, a Scottish historical romance by New York Times bestselling author Julie Garwood.
By order of the King, the Scottish laird Alec Kincaid must take an English bride. His choice is Jamie, the youngest daughter of Baron Jamison, who is a feisty beauty. But Jamie has vowed never to surrender to a man she views as a highland barbarian. Alec is everything Jamie’s heart has warned her against. Will she be able to resist this arrogant scoundrel with rough good looks? Or will Alec manage to win her over?
J. D. Robb’s Naked in Death is the first in the New York Times bestselling In Death series. This unique romance is set in New York City in 2058, where technology rules the world. But for Detective Eve Dallas, one impulse still rules the heart: passion.
Eve is relentless in her search for a ruthless killer. At the same time, she’s going against every warning telling her not to get involved with Roarke. He’s an Irish billionaire — and a suspect in Eve’s murder investigation. But passion and seduction come into play, and risk is gaining the upper hand for Eve and her perplexing investigation.
Jude Deveraux’s A Knight in Shining Armor is sure to capture the hearts of listeners as one of the most romantic novels of all time.
In this breathtaking historical fantasy, Dougless Montgomery gets abandoned by her lover while vacationing in England near the tomb of Earl Nicholas Stafford. All of a sudden, Nicholas appears as a knight in shining armour, reincarnated in the 20th century, and ready to clear his name after being wrongly convicted of treason.
This is the 19th installment of the Montgomery/Taggart series. It combines intricate historical details, intriguing characters, and a heartwarming ending.
Alyssa Cole earns her rightful place on the best romance authors list with her Civil War-era love story, An Extraordinary Union.
Elle Burns is a formerly enslaved person with a passion for justice. She trades in her life of freedom in Massachusetts to return to the indignity of slavery in the South. Her mission is to spy for the Union Army. Meanwhile, Malcolm McCall is a detective for Pinkerton’s Secret Service. He’s embarking on his deadliest assignment, risking his life to infiltrate a Rebel enclave in Virginia.
The two undercover agents share a common cause and an undeniable attraction, making for a nail-biting listen.
Charlotte Brontë’s famous love story Jane Eyre is a fascinating and turbulent story of one woman’s life from childhood to adulthood.
Having grown up orphaned and seemingly unwanted by everyone around her, this story follows Jane Eyre on her new journey of becoming the governess at Thornfield Hall under the watchful eye of the mysterious Mr. Rochester.
In this audio edition of this esteemed classic, actor Thandiwe Newton’s voice engages the reader in this roller-coaster of romance, complete with mystery, romantic suspense, and longing — as well as the social struggles of being a woman in the early 19th century.
Nalini Singh, born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand, has been writing imaginative romance novel series since 2003. Her Psy-Changeling series, which launches with this novel, includes 19 titles.
For 26 years, Sasha Duncan has been able to hide the fact that she is not the stone-cold businesswoman she claims to be. Inside her powerful mind, wild passions rage. If Sasha’s weakness came out, she would have to pay for it with her freedom.
Things get dicey when the search for a serial killer brings her together with shape-shifter Lucas. The attraction between her and the handsome leader of the Dark River Leopards is palpable — and it could be fatal.
The first installment of Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove series follows Judge Olivia Lockhart. The title comes from Olivia’s address; she lives at 16 Lighthouse Road in Cedar Cove, Washington.
Cecilia Randall and her husband Ian appear in Olivia’s courtroom, hoping to finalize their divorce. But Olivia senses the couple, who tragically lost their infant daughter, still love each other. So Olivia denies their petition and requests that they work on their marriage.
Meanwhile, Olivia’s daughter Justine is considering marrying an older man, but her mother advises against this union. To add to the drama within Cedar Cove, Olivia’s friend Grace is dealing with her husband’s disappearance.
