14 Best Enemies to Lovers Romance Books
Are you ready to dive into a world where sparks fly, tensions rise, and love blossoms unexpectedly?
If you’re a fan of irresistible chemistry and fiery dynamics, then get ready to explore the tantalizing realm of enemies-to-lovers romance. There’s something undeniably captivating about the journey from animosity to passion, where adversaries clash only to find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other.
So, grab your favorite cozy spot and prepare to swoon as we uncover some of the best enemies-to-lovers romance tales that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
Best Enemies to Lovers Romance Books
1. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
“Pride and Prejudice” is a timeless classic that explores the romantic entanglements between Elizabeth Bennet, the second of five sisters, and the aloof Mr. Darcy. Set in the early 19th century, the novel delves into themes of love, reputation, and class.
Elizabeth’s wit and Darcy’s evolution from prideful to thoughtful make their journey from misunderstanding and disdain to love and respect captivating.
What makes it amazing?
The enduring appeal of “Pride and Prejudice” lies in its masterful exploration of first impressions, societal expectations, and the transformative power of love.
Austen’s sharp wit and insightful commentary on human nature elevate the story, making it a profound study on the complexity of relationships.
The development of Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship, from adversaries to devoted partners, is executed with such finesse that it continues to enchant readers centuries after its publication.
2. “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne
“The Hating Game” is a modern enemies-to-lovers romance set in a corporate office environment, where Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman find themselves in a bitter rivalry.
Their constant battle for superiority is hilariously petty, leading to a tension-filled atmosphere that’s ripe for romantic entanglement. As they vie for the same promotion, their antagonistic interactions start to take a surprisingly tender turn.
What makes it amazing?
Sally Thorne’s debut novel shines with its witty dialogue, electric chemistry between the characters, and a well-paced plot that cleverly uses the enemies-to-lovers trope.
The dynamic between Lucy and Joshua is both entertaining and deeply emotional, showcasing how love can emerge from the most unexpected places. The novel’s ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments makes it a standout in the romance genre.
3. “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
“A Court of Thorns and Roses” is a fantasy romance novel that reimagines the classic “Beauty and the Beast” tale with faeries and a magical land divided by a centuries-old treaty.
Feyre Archeron, a mortal huntress, finds herself entangled in the affairs of these immortal beings when she kills a wolf in the woods, leading to her capture and eventual love-hate relationship with Tamlin, a powerful faerie lord.
What makes it amazing?
Sarah J. Maas crafts a richly detailed world filled with intriguing lore, complex politics, and a cast of characters that are both formidable and deeply flawed.
The evolution of Feyre and Tamlin’s relationship from captor and captive to lovers is compelling, driven by mutual respect and understanding. The novel’s blend of romance, action, and fantasy elements creates a captivating story that explores themes of sacrifice, strength, and the power of love.
4. “Enemies” by Tijan
“Enemies” is a gripping New Adult romance that follows the story of Stone Reeves and Dusty O’Donnell, former high school sweethearts turned bitter enemies.
The intense rivalry and unresolved tension between them make for a tumultuous reconnection when fate brings them back together in college. Their journey from animosity to affection is fraught with emotional hurdles and dark pasts that resurface.
What makes it amazing?
Tijan delivers a raw and emotionally charged narrative that explores the complexities of love, loss, and redemption.
The characters’ depth and the realistic portrayal of their struggles make their eventual reconciliation all the more satisfying. The book’s ability to weave a gripping romance with themes of forgiveness and personal growth makes it a compelling read for fans of the genre.
5. “The Unhoneymooners” by Christina Lauren
“The Unhoneymooners” offers a delightful twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope with its story of Olive Torres and Ethan Thomas, who find themselves on a honeymoon trip together despite their mutual disdain.
The catch?
They’re standing in for the bride and groom—Olive’s sister and Ethan’s brother—who can’t make it due to a food poisoning outbreak. What starts as a contentious arrangement soon leads to unexpected feelings and romantic sparks.
What makes it amazing?
Christina Lauren excels in creating a lighthearted and engaging romance that balances comedic elements with genuine emotional depth. The chemistry between Olive and Ethan is undeniable, evolving from comedic antagonism to deep affection in a believable and heartwarming manner.
The novel’s unique premise and the authors’ skillful storytelling make “The Unhoneymooners” a memorable addition to the enemies-to-lovers romance genre.
6. “Seraphina” by Rachel Hartman
“Seraphina” takes place in a fantasy world where dragons and humans maintain an uneasy peace. Seraphina Dombegh, who harbors a dangerous secret about her heritage, becomes embroiled in royal court intrigue and a murder investigation that threatens the fragile peace between species.
Her journey brings her into conflict and then into a complex relationship with Prince Lucian Kiggs, an initially mistrustful but ultimately supportive ally.
What makes it amazing?
Rachel Hartman’s debut novel is celebrated for its inventive world-building, richly developed characters, and a unique take on dragon mythology.
The nuanced relationship between Seraphina and Prince Kiggs evolves beautifully from suspicion to deep, respectful love, against a backdrop of political intrigue and societal tensions.
The novel stands out for its exploration of identity, empathy, and the quest for understanding across divides, making the romantic development between the protagonists especially compelling.
7. “Beach Read” by Emily Henry
In “Beach Read,” January Andrews, a romance writer, and Augustus Everett, a literary fiction author, find themselves living next door to each other for the summer.
Both suffering from severe cases of writer’s block, they strike a deal to swap genres, leading them to spend a lot of time together. Despite their apparent differences and initial antagonism, they discover that they have more in common than they thought, including a mutual attraction that surprises them both.
What makes it amazing?
Emily Henry’s novel is a refreshing take on the enemies-to-lovers trope, blending heartfelt moments with humor and insightful reflections on life and love. The dynamic between January and Gus is captivating, as they challenge and inspire each other in equal measure.
“Beach Read” is not just about the romance; it’s also a story about healing, discovering one’s passion again, and the power of stories to connect us. The authentic and evolving connection between the characters makes their journey from skepticism to love both believable and deeply satisfying.
8. “You Deserve Each Other” by Sarah Hogle
“You Deserve Each Other” presents a twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope by featuring a couple, Naomi Westfield and Nicholas Rose, who are already engaged but find themselves questioning their relationship.
As they engage in increasingly petty battles to make the other back out of the wedding first, their antics lead to a rediscovery of what made them fall in love in the first place. This novel turns the typical narrative on its head by starting with a relationship in decline and charting its revival.
What makes it amazing?
Sarah Hogle delivers a novel that is both hilarious and heartwarming, exploring the complexities of love, commitment, and the importance of communication in relationships.
The characters’ journey from antagonists to rediscovering their love is filled with comedic mishaps and tender moments, making their story relatable and endearing. “You Deserve Each Other” stands out for its unique premise and the depth with which it examines the work required to make love last.
9. “The Wrath & the Dawn” by Renée Ahdieh
“The Wrath & the Dawn” is a lush, romantic retelling of “One Thousand and One Nights,” where Shahrzad volunteers to marry Khalid, the Caliph of Khorasan, who is known for taking a new bride each night only to have her executed at dawn.
Shahrzad plans to avenge the death of her best friend, one of Khalid’s previous victims, but discovers that the king is not the monster she believed him to be. Their initial hostility gives way to a complex relationship marked by secrets, intrigue, and a deepening connection.
What makes it amazing?
Renée Ahdieh’s storytelling weaves a tale of love, revenge, and redemption that captivates from the first page. The evolving relationship between Shahrzad and Khalid is beautifully rendered, moving from hate to profound love.
The richly detailed world, the depth of the characters, and the poetic prose contribute to making “The Wrath & the Dawn” a memorable and compelling read. It’s a story that explores the power of stories themselves, the complexity of human emotion, and the possibility of forgiveness and change.
10. “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston
“Red, White & Royal Blue” explores the unlikely romance between Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales, after an incident between them prompts a PR-driven truce that evolves into a secret and passionate affair.
Their relationship, initially marked by rivalry and disdain, develops into a profound connection that challenges their beliefs about duty, love, and identity.
What makes it amazing?
Casey McQuiston’s novel is a refreshing and modern take on the enemies-to-lovers trope, filled with witty banter, political intrigue, and a heartfelt exploration of identity and love.
The chemistry between Alex and Henry is electric, their love story both inspiring and deeply moving. “Red, White & Royal Blue” stands out for its optimistic portrayal of a world where love can overcome the deepest divides, making it a truly uplifting read.
11. “The Deal” by Elle Kennedy
In “The Deal,” Hannah Wells finds herself suddenly attracted to Garrett Graham, the arrogant star of the college hockey team, who needs her help to pass his ethics class.
In exchange for tutoring, Garrett agrees to help Hannah catch the attention of her crush. This arrangement brings them closer, turning their initial animosity into a surprising partnership and eventually, a deep romantic connection.
What makes it amazing?
Elle Kennedy blends the perfect amount of humor, heat, and heart in this New Adult romance, making it impossible not to root for Hannah and Garrett. Their dynamic is compelling because it subverts typical jock/nerd stereotypes, showcasing both characters’ depth, vulnerability, and growth.
“The Deal” is celebrated for its engaging writing, believable character development, and the way it addresses serious issues with sensitivity, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
12. “Vicious” by L.J. Shen
“Vicious” tells the story of Emilia LeBlanc and Baron “Vicious” Spencer, who share a tumultuous past marked by cruelty, misunderstanding, and a deeply hidden attraction.
Years after their first encounter, circumstances bring them back together, forcing them to confront their feelings and the pain of their shared history. Vicious is known for his ruthless demeanor, but as Emilia peels back the layers, she discovers the vulnerability beneath his cold exterior.
What makes it amazing?
L.J. Shen crafts a dark, intense love story that explores themes of redemption, resilience, and the transformative power of love. The characters are complex, their relationship fraught with tension and conflict, yet undeniably magnetic.
“Vicious” stands out for its compelling character dynamics, emotional depth, and the way it challenges readers to find empathy for its flawed protagonist. The novel’s raw intensity and the passionate connection between Vicious and Emilia make it a standout enemies-to-lovers romance.
13. “Hate Notes” by Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward
“Hate Notes” begins with Charlotte discovering a romantic note sewn into a wedding dress at a second-hand store, leading her to its author, Reed Eastwood, an attractive but aloof executive.
Initially clashing due to Reed’s cynical view on love and Charlotte’s quest for a fairy-tale romance, their banter and confrontations slowly unveil a mutual attraction that neither can deny. As they navigate their differences, they uncover truths about themselves and what they truly desire in life.
What makes it amazing?
Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward masterfully blend humor, heartache, and healing in this captivating romance. The chemistry between Charlotte and Reed is electric, evolving from witty antagonism to a deep, understanding love.
“Hate Notes” is remarkable for its emotional depth, engaging plot, and the way it balances romantic tension with moments of levity. The novel’s exploration of love’s complexity and the power of vulnerability makes it a memorable addition to the enemies-to-lovers trope.
14. “From Lukov with Love” by Mariana Zapata
“From Lukov with Love” features Jasmine Santos, a figure skater who dreams of winning, and Ivan Lukov, her rival’s brother and a figure skating champion who proposes they team up for a year. Their history is filled with animosity, but as they train together, their relationship evolves from mutual disdain to a deep, supportive bond.
The slow burn of their romance, fueled by their dedication to their sport and to each other, showcases a compelling journey from enemies to partners to lovers.
What makes it amazing?
Mariana Zapata is renowned for her slow-burn romances, and “From Lukov with Love” is no exception. The novel excels in its detailed portrayal of the protagonists’ emotional growth, both individually and together, set against the backdrop of competitive figure skating.
The gradual shift in Jasmine and Ivan’s dynamic is deeply satisfying, marked by moments of vulnerability, strength, and mutual respect. This story stands out for its authentic depiction of the sacrifices and dedication required in love and sport, making their eventual romantic connection all the more rewarding.
