Romance novels are some of the most popular amongst readers over the ages but these five have topped a list for being the best. These timeless tales hold true even in the present day, with relatable characters and emotions.
Romance reads are the highest grossing fictional genre in the world, according to Literature and Latte. Readers, writers and publishers have theorised that romantic literature is so popular due to love being one of the major elements of human life with the “plot” of falling in love being a universal experience that many relate to. In a list by She Reads, these are the top five best romance novels of all time.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
The novel follows the life of Elizabeth Bennet, one of five sisters. The story begins with the arrival of the wealthy Mr. Bingley and his friend Mr. Darcy, which stirs excitement in the Bennet household.
Elizabeth initially finds Darcy arrogant and proud, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. As the plot unfolds, Elizabeth learns about Darcy’s true character and the impact of her own prejudices.
A reader on Goodreads said: “Austen was a brilliant writer. This story is timeless. Simply beautiful.”
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
The novel follows the story of Jane, an orphaned young woman in nineteenth-century England, as she battles through life’s struggles.
Raised by cruel relatives and sent to a miserable school, Jane eventually becomes a governess and falls in love with the mysterious Mr. Rochester.
The novel explores themes of independence, love, and self-respect against the backdrop of Victorian England’s strict social hierarchies and gender roles.
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
Wuthering Heights is a novel that tells the story of the passionate and tragic love between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, an orphan adopted by Catherine’s father.
The novel is set in the Yorkshire moors of England in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
A reader said: “As brilliant on the eleventh reading as on the first… A brilliant, dark, complicated and wonderful story, and one of my favourites of all time. I just completely adore it.”
Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
The novel follows the life of Anna, a beautiful woman trapped in a loveless marriage to a government official, Alexei Karenin.
When she meets Count Vronsky, she embarks on an affair that leads to her social downfall and personal turmoil.
Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
The well-known tale follows two young star-crossed lovers who cannot be together due to their families feud.
One reader on Goodreads said: “Excellent! I can’t believe I’ve waited so long to read this classic play!”