There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a love story that sweeps you off your feet—and who better to recommend the best of the best than the people surrounded by stories every day? A few KDL librarians shared their favorite romance novels, from slow-burn classics to modern tales of love and laughter. Whether you're a hopeless romantic or just dipping your toes into the genre, these picks are bound to charm their way onto your reading list.
Unnecessary Drama by Nina Kenwood
This story is super relatable and made me laugh out loud. The main character Brooke realizes one of her college housemates is her high school nemesis, but she's sure it will be completely fine, and she can very maturely handle things. If you're a fan of the enemies to lovers trope, check this out!
-Liz, Amy Van Andel Library
Shark Heart: A Love Story, opens a new window by Emily Habeck, opens a new window
Here's my review: The only romance book I have ever or will ever read.
-Trevor, Grandville Branch
Something Wild and Wonderful by Anita Kelly
A well-written romance with likeable characters, a unique setting, a few steamy scenes, and good dialogue. If you're a fan of romance, this book checks all the boxes.
-Jacob, Krause Memorial Branch
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
I like my characters clever and my romance with a dash of spice. Throw in an enemies-to-lovers plot (a staple in the romance world) and the occasional book reference (bibliophiles rejoice) and you have a true treat of a book.
-Brittany, Alpine Twp. Branch
The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
I'm a lover of cheesy romance and trashy reality TV, and this book is the perfect combination of those interests. It follows a contestant on a Bachelor-like dating show as he's falling for the wrong person: a crewmember.
-Nathan, Wyoming Branch
The Amelia Peabody Series by Elizabeth Peters
This series focuses on an English spinster/suffragist who is an unconventional woman Egyptologist. She has inherited her father's estate, which enables her to travel the world, and she heads to Egypt. Amelia's target of the heart is Radcliffe Emerson, a fellow Egyptologist whom she affectionately calls "Emerson" throughout the series. As the romance progresses, an arch enemy, similar in vain to Holmes' Professor Moriarty, is revealed.
-Phillip, Alto Branch
Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes
When Evvie loses her husband, she becomes reclusive, but it isn’t necessarily grief that keeps her holed up and alone. When her lifelong friend suggests that she rent a room to a washed-up baseball player, she bites. Their friendship fills a hole in both their lives until they can’t abide by the rules they have set for each other. This is a sweet romance and a perfect spring read.
-Nanette, Cascade Twp. Branch
Funny Story by Emily Henry
This is my favorite romance book because it’s set in the charming backdrop of northern Michigan and follows Daphne, a children's librarian navigating life with both heart and humor. All of the main characters are irresistibly endearing, and the story is both cute and captivating from start to finish. Like all of Emily Henry’s books, it’s a feel-good escape that leaves you smiling long after the last page.
-Ashten, Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
This is one of my all-time favorite love stories. Set in 19th-century England, it follows the spirited and intelligent Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates society, family expectations and the misunderstandings that arise between her and the proud but ultimately kind Mr. Darcy. The witty dialogue, memorable characters and romantic tension are both a critique of its time and timeless. I often come back to this story, and it never fails to delight me!
-Amy, Englehardt Branch (Lowell)
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