Happy February everyone! Since this is the month of love, I'm starting a multi-part series in my blog on what romance novels I have loved. By definition, a romance novel must result in an emotionally satisfactory resolution, also known as a happy ever after, and who doesn't love a happy ending? Each week I will focus on two different subgenres, so if what I mention below doesn't ring your bell, stay tuned for next week as they all are very, very different. There is truly a romance for everyone.

Now, I'm not implying these are the best or even a complete list of awesome titles in these subgenres, but instead my personal favorites of books I have read.

First up?

Classic Romances

Classic romance novels set the stage for what we know and love today in pop culture throughout books, movies, and TV. The dashing hero, stinking rich loners, and second chances at love mixed with delicate dresses, witty remarks, and sweeping dances. If you're looking to spice up your commute and step away from your screen and into the arms of something much more beautiful here are my picks!

1. Pride and Prejudice

I know it's a bit done, but for a good reason. I've read it several times, and each time I get swept into the story just as before. There's something about Austen's storytelling that brings the Darcy to life on the page. If that's too cliche, here's my next pick.

2. Persuasion

Lesser known but also by Jane Austen, this story is admittedly my favorite of her books. Captain Wentworth is back after being cast aside. Can a second chance at love work? I've read this and Pride and Prejudice on the DC Metro one summer while commuting, and both made the ride quicker and a bit more relaxing.

3. Wuthering Heights

Now I know this is a bit of a bold choice, and I have to admit I didn't see the appeal that much while in school, but with some reflection, I've now come to see it as a paranormal romance, which for me adds some appeal.

4. Gone With the Wind

If you're looking for a more American classic, stepping back as Scarlett as she navigates a changing landscape after the Civil War is sure to do the trick.

Now maybe you're thinking, "These are great, and I love history, but I can't get past the writing! It's all so different."

Not to worry my friends, let's forge ahead into another subgenre!

Historical Romances

These are written today about yesterday! You might love this subgenre if you dream of highlanders galloping across fields, lords waltzing in ballrooms, gladiators in ancient Rome, or literally any other time period.

Full disclosure again: I have read a lot, and I mean A LOT of historical romance novels. I don't even have a complete list. One summer, while working at a local water park I read two books a day in this subgenre. I brought two Harlequin historical romance novels I had bought from the library I volunteered at for twenty-five cents a piece. I read two a day for a whole summer! That's over one hundred titles, just while I was fifteen. In my defense, they had placed me in a rarely visited snack stand. Looking back are we really surprised I'm heading in this direction as an adult? Hey, it's not my fault there was a romance section at my middle school's library.

1. Outlander

This romance novel by far is one of the top five books I have ever read. It goes beyond a romance novel. Diana Gabaldon instead paints an almost complete picture of two different periods: post-WWII England and the early 1740s of the Scottish Highlands. With her background in research and a PhD to prove it, Gabaldon's books are the most historically accurate and the most emotionally intense journey I've been on to date.

2. Devil's Bride

I love Stephanie Laurens, and I do know for a fact that these books were some of the ones I started that one fateful summer. How do I know? I remember reading it in my mom's office after work one day. These for me never disappoint to transport me far away from my email, text messages, Insta, alerts, badges, icons, notification and whatever else pops up around us these days. When I see her name, I don't need to ask questions. I pick it up.

3. The Demon Duke

I read this one recently and thoroughly enjoyed it. Love to see a classic Regency romance that intertwines real-world issues for characters, such as a disability.

4. The Beast of Aros Castle

This title and its sequel kept me awake for the twenty-hour drive to Louisiana last year. Need I say more? The audiobook did the trick.

Bonus!

Anything by Johanna Lindsey and Jude Devereaux.

What does this list leave out?

Other parts of the world. I will admit this list is very English and American centric. They are not the only countries entitled to love stories. There are fabulous romance novels set in other places and other times. I'm still reading them along with you! Again, these are just some of the books I will always pick up and recommend again and again.

Old stuff not your thing? What's to come next week?

How's contemporary and comedy sound?

Stay tuned and let me know if I’ve missed one or if you have a recommendation for me down in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!

Onward!

Kathryn