In the wild list of horror subgenres, nothing makes your skin crawl like body horror books. By tapping into your primal fears of disease, dismemberment, and grotesque transformations, the novels give readers a truly terrifying and sometimes gross experience.

This genre isn’t for everyone, but for people who enjoy exploring the dark side of bodies turning against their owners, this list of body horror books will serve up your next favorite read.

Best Body Horror Books

Entropy in Bloom

by Jeremy Robert Johnson

Bite-size stories written by horror master Jeremy Robert Johnson fill the pages of this book of body horror. The tales spread through the realms of literary fiction, bizarro, surrealist, and cosmic horror genres, but give those looking for something quite visceral a definite thrill.

Besides previously published shorts, this also includes “The Sleep of Judges,” a fresh novella.

Hell Followed with Us

by Andrew Joseph White

Trans teen Benji escapes a horrific cult he was trapped all his life, but he brings something with him that he didn’t expect.

With help from the powerful and supportive LGBTQ+ center, he discovers his body is transforming into a weapon of biological horror. The diverse group of teens, led by sharp-shooter Nick, protects Benji and save the world at the same time.

Ring Shout

by P. Djèlí Clark

Winner and finalist in a dozen high-value prizes, this book by P. Djeli Clark pits a group of resistance fighters against the KKK.

In this brutal and dramatic novel, the hate group comes straight from Hell, and main character Maryse, a Harlem Hellfighter, is ready to send them back. More dark historical fantasy than straight body horror, fans of the genre will still find plenty to love.

Natural Beauty

by Ling Ling Huang

The quest for the perfect body and appearance gets twisted in this Lambda Literary Award-winning novel by Ling Ling Huang. A New York beauty and wellness store sells more than cosmetics.

The natural and supernatural solutions to everything from thick thighs to thin eyelashes come with a heavy price. This body horror book focuses on transformation and the dark side of consumerism and self-worth.

Frankenstein

by Mary Shelley

Although often considered one of the first science fiction novels, this classic by Mary Shelley also offers body horror fans a look back through the genre.

Building an animated being out of corpse parts certainly fits the description. This is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the origins.

Wilder Girls

by Rory Power

Quarantine at a girl’s school leads to dark discoveries in Rory Power’s best-selling horror novel. Something toxic lurks in the corridors, has killed the teachers and fellow students, and now stalks them.

One of the remaining trio goes missing, and the other two must brave terror and new, horrible discoveries to find her—all while navigating a WLW romance that unfolds amidst the chaos.

Uzumaki

by Junji Ito

This manga masterpiece by Junji Ito leads readers to a Japanese ghost town suffering from a fearsome curse.

The title refers to a hypnotic spiral that shapes the world, which takes over the town and the minds of the people who go there to explore and survive.

Her Body and Other Parties

by Carmen Maria Machado

Carmen Maria Machado brings horror fans a mix of psychological drama, comedy, and fantasy in this intriguing work about women, violence, and their bodies.

This collection of short stories covers everything from prom dress horrors to plagues, weight loss to ghostly visions.

The Deep

by Rivers Solomon

Mer-creatures formed from dead African slave women live peaceful lives beneath the waves until something drives the memory-holder, Yetu, to the surface.

This unique dramatic novel by Rivers Solomon explores not only gentle horror, but a reclamation of a dark past in order to have a brighter future.

Tender Is the Flesh

by Agustina Bazterrica

Cannibalism is legal, and the main character works in a processing plant slaughtering and butchering the special meat. This best-selling novel by Agustina Bazterrica goes beyond body horror.

When the butcher receives a high-quality live specimen, he reawakens his desire to treat the meat source as people, something forbidden and torturous all together.

Shiver

by Junji Ito

Another short story collection comes from Junji Ito. It combines body horror and manga in a gripping experience that will thrill fans of these genres.

The nine stories include horrific balloon faces, a hole-filled arm, bloody fashion, and more.

What Moves the Dead

by T. Kingfisher

This Locus Award-winning book by T. Kingfisher mixes body horror with classic creature feature vibes.

A horrific fungus possesses wildlife around a mysterious lake. A dying sleepwalker with weird dreams and a baffled doctor converge to solve the House of Usher mysteries before it’s too late.

The Eyes Are the Best Part

by Monika Kim

If this body horror book’s cover doesn’t grab you (a plucked human eyeball between chopsticks), then the description of Monika Kim’s must-read book will.

What begins as a series of horrifying dreams ends up with violence, brutality, and revenge against her sister’s obnoxious boyfriend.

Such Sharp Teeth

by Rachel Harrison

The werewolf has always been a classic monster of transformation, and this book by Rachel Harrison explores the dark, and sometimes comedic side of turning into a hairy beast.

The main character hits an animal with her car and is attacked, which leads to a new, wilder side emerging.

The Black Farm

by Elias Witherow

After their chosen deaths, a couple ends up trapped in a hellish afterlife full of nightmares. The man, Nick, searches for his lost wife, Jess, and ends up in the Black Farm.

Run by a torture-loving yet hopeful abomination named Pig, this is the place where suicide victims end up to be torn apart, brutalized, and killed over and over again. The horror focuses not only on physical harm, but also trauma that sticks with the reader after the last page is turned.

Final Thoughts

Body horror books come in many forms. Some readers crave brutality and blood. Others sink into more artistic experiences of unwanted transformations and surreal changes. From cannibalism to the afterlife, teenage drama to classic monsters, this list of short story collections and novels will give you something to read that you won’t be able to forget any time soon.

If you’re looking for even more chilling reads, check out our book lists on horror books, Halloween books, best H.P. Lovecraft books, zombie apocalypse books, and Stephen King’s best books for the perfect spooky season picks!

Readers who swoon at handsome, wealthy men should rush to read the BookTok sensation, the Dreamland Billionaire series. This trilogy of books features the three Kane brothers, who hold the keys to a rich legacy: a media and theme park empire that promises to fulfill all dreams. They find love where they least expect it with the three unique, captivating, and strong female main characters.

Written by Lauren Asher, readers in the romance genre will discover complex yet comfortable characters, well-written prose that keeps them connected, sizzling chemistry, and plenty of emotional depth to sink into.

1. What is the Dreamland Billionaire Series About?
2. Meet the Billionaire Brothers
   • Rowan Kane
   • Declan Kane
   • Callahan Kane
3. The Dreamland Billionaires Series in Order
   • The Fine Print
   • Terms and Conditions
   • Final Offer
4. Who Should Read the Dreamland Billionaires Series?

What is the Dreamland Billionaire Series About?

All the magic of romance takes place within the wealthy Kane family, who own the Dreamland Corporation, a theme park empire similar to Disney. Originally launched by the book’s main character’s grandfather, the business becomes their inherited legacy. Its success will sustain and improve its financial status, but it comes with some unique conditions.

More than business wrangling and corporate deals, the Dreamland Billionaire series is about personal growth, finding meaning in life, and discovering the all-important and forever love. The three books include The Fine Print, Terms and Conditions, and Final Offer.

Image Credit

Meet the Billionaire Brothers

Each book in this romance trilogy follows a different brother through his own growth and love story with a wonderful woman.

Rowan Kane

The eldest brother feels the weight of the Dreamland inheritance most strongly. He’s emotionally guarded, intelligent, business-oriented, and rather bossy.

After all, how could he not be when he’s the boss trying to revitalize the family legacy? His cold exterior hides unexpected warmth and a loving, caring spirit.

Declan Kane

Serious-minded middle brother Declan takes on the role of Dreamland CEO. It requires a high degree of responsibility and stability, something his grandfather works into the will. Declan wants to stay in control and keep his emotions at bay before they get in the way of making the family legacy a growing success.

Callahan Kane

With a bit of stereotypical trust fund brat mixed with party boy, the third Kane brother seems shallow at first glance. Readers discover his unique depths, hinting at a broken heart and a desire for something permanent and real. It’s the perfect setup for a second chance romance and the opportunity to right the wrongs of his past.

Image Credit

The Dreamland Billionaires Series in Order

The Dreamland Billionaire series includes three books: The Fine Print, Terms and Conditions, and Final Offer. Readers should read them in the publication order as the stories include some of the same characters and situations.

However, they do not have cliffhangers and are considered standalone romance novels.

The Fine Print

As creative director of Dreamland Corporation, Rowan needs to keep his eyes on the prize and focus on business above all else. This grumpy-sunshine romance trope introduces lovely Zahra Gulian, a new and passionate employee. She challenges him, her optimism clashes with his bossy demeanor, and she ends up being all he can think about.

Conflict transforms into sparks of interest and a flame of love that burns brightly and lasts. Declan learns to let his emotional walls crumble, and the magic between them makes the future bright. Every couple in a romance story needs conflict, however. Theirs come from workplace pressures and dedication to making Dreamland everything it could be. Zahra wonders if risking her heart on a man like him is worth it. Amid the angst, true passion and a forever love take center stage and ultimately form a bond that will not break.

Terms and Conditions

Structure, discipline, and focus define Declan Kane’s life. As the CEO of Dreamland, he has to keep an eye on the corporate goals that make them all billionaires. His grandfather had other plans for the middle brother, though. To fulfill the terms of the inheritance, Declan has to find a wife and have an heir. This is where his patient, warm, and caring assistant, Iris, steps in. A fake relationship seems the perfect solution. It’s a win-win for both of them.

What starts as a temporary marriage of convenience becomes much more when the strong woman begins to chip away at his icy façade. As her long-buried feelings begin to surface, his carefully protected sense of vulnerability comes to light, too. This book features a delightful slow-burn romance full of emotional depth and blurred lines. Together, they find a future worth more than the whole Dreamland empire.

Final Offer

With limited corporate responsibility, the youngest Kane Brother, Callahan, takes on the role of a wealthy party boy and trust-fund brat. It’s not all shallow pleasure he chases, though. He’s attempting to distance himself from a painful past full of heartache and guilt. A past relationship with Alana still affects him and contributes to his self-doubt.

The Kane patriarch’s inheritance rules dictate that Cal spends a summer at the family lake house, where he comes in contact with Alana, now a single mother. Amid conflicts about who exactly owns the cabin, the two characters clash in an emotional reunion that brings old pain into the light. Still, after all those years, love still lingers.

Alana won’t get hurt again and can’t risk her daughter’s heart, too. Cal struggles to find a way toward redemption and forgiveness on the way to a forever love they both want more than anything.

Who Should Read the Dreamland Billionaires Series?

Romance readers who like their love stories with emotional depth, captivating and complex characters, and plenty of tension will appreciate the Dreamland Billionaire series. Lauren Asher deftly weaves popular tropes of grumpy sunshine, workplace romance, fake relationships, and second-chance romance into the strong plots in each of the three books.

These books give you substance and deep feelings that keep you rooting for the couples who clash make-believe and finally find the happy ever after they’ve always dreamed of.

If you love stories filled with passion, tension, and heartfelt moments, you might also enjoy other contemporary romance boks, like The Twisted Book Series by Ana Huang, The Bridgerton Books by Julia Quinn, The Firefly Lane Book Series by Kristen Hannah, It Ends with Us Book by Colleen Hoover and Books by Rebecca Yarros.

Readers who love adventure books, epic stakes, and science fiction can experience it all with a wealth of classics and the best new space opera books. Those looking for something truly exciting will know the answer to the question, ‘What is a space opera?’ by exploring the following list.

Massive starships, galaxy-spanning battles, and plenty of personal conflict fill these must-read novels.

Best Space Opera Books

All Systems Red

by Martha Wells

The first book in the award-winning The Murderbot Diaries series explores AI security androids who discover their own interests and violent tendencies.

A lost mission team requires cooperation from a secretly self-aware killing machine who struggles with its own identity.

Project Hail Mary

by Andy Weir

Andy Weir thrills readers again with this space opera novel. Like ‘The Martian’ it focuses on the adventures of a lone astronaut. Ryland Grace finds himself alone aboard a tiny spaceship with amnesia, which gets in the way of saving the entire planet Earth and humankind.

This interstellar journey blends with a unique mystery and an unforgettable survivor character.

Dune

by Frank Herbert

Is ‘Dune’ a space opera? This classic by Frank Herbert is one of the quintessential examples of the genre.

Paul Atreides and family face adventure, dark politics, mystic forces, and a harsh environment to achieve a virtually unattainable dream.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

by Douglas Adams

The most humorous space opera novel on this list follows an ordinary human, Arthur Dent, on a series of intergalactic adventures and mistakes through space, time, and his own confused mind.

This start to the five-book ‘trilogy’ introduces the titular book, an actual guide for explorers across the universe.

The Stars Are Legion

by Kameron Hurley

Struggles to take control of the Legion, a fleet of world-ships at the far reaches of the universe, center on Zan, a prisoner cum savior tasked with a monumental responsibility. Her supposed family of captors insists she’s the only one who can take over a Legion vessel.

With a group of followers and intriguing realizations, she finds a way to bring salvation instead.

Ancillary Justice

by Ann Leckie

Ann Leckie brings science fiction readers a multi-award-winning start to the Imperial Radch series.

Past starship captain soldier, Breq, must complete a difficult quest despite the fact that she was torn away from the hive-mind AI system linking all soldiers in the past. Vengeance drives this story and keeps space opera fans riveted on every page.

Children of Ruin

by Adrian Tchaikovsky

The second book in Adrian Tchaikovsky’s Children of Time series sends adventurous teams of characters back to Nod, a long-forgotten world erased by the memories of Earth.

Something has awoken, however, and their hopeful journey ends up in a struggle no one could have foreseen.

Hyperion

by Dan Simmons

The sometimes worshipped and frequently feared creature Shrike lures seven pilgrims in search of answers to personal questions and curiosity about lifelong secrets.

The galaxy stands at the cusp of an apocalyptic war, but one of this desperate group may hold the answer to saving humankind forever.

Saga Volume 1

by Brian K. Vaughan

Do you enjoy a bit of romance with your space opera novels? This first in a series by Brian K. Vaughan follows a fugitive family across the galaxy in hopes of discovering a future of peace and prosperity.

Rather than a novel, this is a comic book or graphic novel with includes amazing artwork by Fiona Staples.

A Memory Called Empire

by Arkady Martine

Political instability from within and dangerous forces from without threaten the main character and the mining station.

This space opera doubles as a murder mystery and a race against the clock as the intriguing and deadly Teixcalaan expansion moves ever closer. It also features a compelling WLW romance woven into its intricate political intrigue.

Leviathan Wakes

by James S. A. Corey

James S. A. Corey launches The Expanse series with his novel about an ice-miner that comes across a derelict spaceship.

A galaxy-wide conflict stems from a secret discovered, a quest for a very unique girl hidden by powerful parents, and the flux of power between governments, corporations, and revolutionaries.

Caliban’s War

by James S. A. Corey

Book two in the same series keeps readers engaged with the same Earth government drama, battles in the outer reaches of the solar system, and unexpected alien species with plans of their own.

As far as space opera goes, this series has it all.

The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet

by Becky Chambers

The first book in a Hugo Award winning series by Becky Chambers offers a lighter adventure with humor mixed in rather than a high-stakes drama like others on this list.

The diverse starship crew keeps readers guessing, and the life-altering conflicts that arise satisfy lovers of the space opera genre in a big way.

The End of Eternity

by Isaac Asimov

Famous sci-fi author Isaac Asimov brings this classic story within the same universe as his other novels. One man becomes a mighty Eternal but then falls in love against their strict rules.

This very human thing threatens everything he knows and necessitates a daring escape attempt, which messes with history, time, and Eternity all at once.

The Mercy of Gods

by James S. A. Corey

James S. A. Covey offers this start to what promises to be another epic space opera series. A hive-minded alien species wages war and enslaves others including humankind.

The main character, Dafyd Alkhor, uses scientific insights and secret knowledge to learn things that will shake up everything the captives think they know about their enemies.

Dawn

by Octavia E. Butler

The final book in this list of space opera examples, written by Octavia E. Butler, follows a brave woman’s attempts to rebuild the world after a horrific war.

Aided by an alien people, the Ooankali, who saved humankind before, she faces amazing conflict and struggles, including ones related to race and gender, to be the leader the new humanity needs.

Butler, a groundbreaking Black writer, explores themes of identity, power, and survival in ways that continue to resonate today. Feel free to check out our article on Books for Black Women, by Black Women.

For even more great book lists, explore Jack Reacher Books, Books Turned Into Movies and Movies Turned Into Books, 17 Best Steampunk Books, Brandon Sanderson Books, and The 100 Book Series.

Many young adults discover love during their first years of independence at school, and these college romance books lead readers through that exciting time. Self-discovery, heart-pounding emotions, and unique challenges grab attention and don’t let it go. Some focus on lighter rom-com feels, while others tell more profound tales of healing.

No matter your preference, you can find it between the pages of one of these top college romance novel picks.

14 Best College Romance Books:

Easy

by Tammara Webber

Newly single Jacqueline already struggles with choosing the wrong school, the loss of what she thought was her forever love, and then a horrific assault that leaves her reeling. A stranger steps into her life at just the right time, rescues her, and helps her find safety, trust, and love again over time.

This novel by Tammara Webber puts readers through a huge array of powerful emotions, which keeps them turning pages.

The Graham Effect

by Elle Kennedy

The popular hockey trope gets a twist as the female main character, Gigi, goes for her goals of professional and Olympic achievement. Her game’s on-point, but she still needs some help from the sexy but rude Ryder, co-captain of the men’s team.

Elle Kennedy’s college romance book is a classic enemies-to-lovers story filled with bad first impressions, plenty of tension, and steamy sparks hot enough to melt the ice between them.

The Deal

by Elle Kennedy

Another book by Elle Kennedy starts up her series Off-Campus. Hannah has a crush but has no clue how to seduce the object of her desire. What could work better than a simple exchange with the hot yet infuriating Garrett, school hockey star? She tutors him to keep his grades up.

He helps her learn how to land her man. Things twist, and sparks fly after a sudden kiss that changes Hannah’s mind about who to pursue.

Icebreaker

by Hannah Grace

Competitive ice skater Anastasia gets a scholarship to her university of choice, but it’s not all a smooth glide to the Olympics. Hockey team captain Nate keeps getting in her way. Soon, he’s stuck in her mind. They start out as enemies competing for the rink. They end up in a love that will stand the test of time.

This book earned its spot among the best BookTok books of 2023, with Hannah Grace being hailed as one of the bestselling authors of 2023.

The Love Hypothesis

by Ali Hazelwood

This fake relationship romance book by Ali Hazelwood pairs two scientists who understand chemistry even better after spending time together. A young professor, Adam, and a Ph.D. candidate, Olive, start out on purely practical grounds. Things heat up quickly, sparks fly, and they discover the outcome of their experiment: love.

Named one of the best spicy #BookTok books, this story also stands out as an enemies-to-lovers romance, earning its place on must-read college romance book lists.

Beautiful Disaster

by Jamie McGuire

This book by Jamie McGuire was made into a movie. The classic good-girl meets bad-boy tropes get explored in a unique and attention-grabbing way. Abby has a dark past, but her future at college looks bright.

Travis is dangerous and far too distracting. Their relationship starts with a bet and ends with a love that will stand the test of time.

Fourth Wing

by Rebecca Yarros

Unique in this list of college romances, this New York Times bestseller and future TV show by Rebecca Yarros takes a fantasy twist. Violet is destined to study until her mother changes her path toward becoming a dragon rider. At the Basgiath War College, she learns much about the unique world, standing up for herself, and romance.

If you love Rebecca Yarros’ work, don’t miss our article on the best Rebecca Yarros books and the buzz about Fourth Wing’s sprayed edges!

The Hook Up

by Kristen Callihan

Sports romances fill the list of college stories, and this first book in the Game On Series by Kristen Callihan is no different. Sassy Anna isn’t impressed by national champion quarterback Drew, or at least she’s good at pretending. What starts as a surprising and super steamy hookup transforms into a forever love.

Waking Olivia

by Elizabeth O’Roark

This forbidden love story matches a troubled track star, Olivia, who transfers to the school and finds herself coached by a cocky coach who is more than he seems.

Tensions stay high throughout this book, but readers get the rewarding happy ever after they crave from college romances.

Let’s Talk About Love

by Claire Kann

This romance features two library employees who find love between the stacks. Claire Kann’s book matches asexual Alice with Takumi, a sweet knight who starts out as a friend and grows into something so much more.

Readers love the diverse cast and unique situations in this college love story.

God of Malice

by Rina Kent

This dark romance novel by Rina Kent sets a college girl in the sights of Killian, a manipulative and savage predator with heaps of danger and charm in equal measure.

Others may not realize it, but the main character gets trapped by his sexy and dangerous wiles.

The Revenge Pact

by Ilsa Madden-Mills

Bad-boy football player River tries to pretend that quiet-girl Anastasia doesn’t exist. She wishes he wouldn’t… at first. Her boyfriend’s frat brother is a thorn in her side. When her apparently simple life comes crashing down around her, River steps up, offering comfort and a great opportunity for revenge. Love takes over, and this college sports romance ends with an undeniable happy ever after.

Bending the Rules

by Mariah Dietz

She has a crush on her brother’s best friend, a football star at the university. There are rules about this type of thing. She can’t possibly date him, but his looks, kindness, and humor make it impossible.

This book by Mariah Dietz will keep readers turning pages all night long.

Blindsided

by Victoria Denault

This second book in the Moo U Hockey series reimagines the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet on a farm in Vermont. Maggie, the farmer’s daughter, and Adler, a hockey player, can’t possibly fall in love. She has blackmail-worthy secrets about him, and he’s terrified of it coming out. Two rival farming families want them apart, but how can they resist when things heat up, and the flirting works so well?

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for something new to fill your reading time, these college romance books offer intrigue, engaging conflicts, deep characters, plenty of swoony flirting, and varying levels of spice. Pick your first and then try some more. You’ll get hooked on romance stories at universities as surely as the two main characters get hooked on each other.

For more great reads, check out our articles on Best Military Romance Books, Lucy Score Books in Order, The Bridgerton Books in Order, The Twisted Book Series, Beach Read Book, and The 10 Best Old Romance Books of All Time.

Military romance books blend the intensity of serving the country with dedication, the tender pull of romance, and an intriguing splash of spice to keep readers turning pages.

From heart-pounding adventure to heart-warming tenderness, this list contains the best ‘can’t put down’ romance novels that feature one or more characters in the armed forces.

14 Best Military Romance Books

1. Dear Aaron

by Mariana Zapata

A letter-writing campaign to an overseas soldier turns into a connection that leads to Ruby Santos’ happy ever after. They never expected more than some comforting words shared when they found a bond that couldn’t be broken.

This military romance book by author Mariana Zapata was filled with witty banter, heartfelt connections, and unique characters that came together in a slow burn due to their distance apart at first.

2. Full Measures

by Rebecca Yarros

The female main character lost her father to war years ago, and she’s hesitant to connect with a man with military secrets of his own. Still, the handsome hockey star next-door neighbor is someone she can’t keep her eyes or hands off of.

Written by Rebecca Yarros, this romance novel gives readers laugh-or-cry emotions and plenty of chemistry to enjoy.

If you’re a fan of Rebecca Yarros, don’t miss the 7 best Rebecca Yarros books and Fourth Wing Sprayed Edges: Unveiling the Enchanting Allure.

3. Cyclone: A Protective Hero Romantic Suspense

by Janie Crouch

Written by Janie Crouch, this first novel in the “Linear Tactical” 14-book series draws readers into an intriguing world with enticing characters.

Widower and special forces expert Zac reconnects with Dr. Anne Griffin, who returns to town after a trauma. Stalked by her past, she turns to him for help and love, which they discover together.

4. The Darkest Hour

by Maya Banks

The first book in the highly rated ‘KGI Series’ by Maya Banks, this military romance launches ex-Navy Seal Ethan into a wild adventure.

He thought he’d lost his wife, Rachel, and struggled with grief until a mysterious call claimed she was still alive. The rescue mission commences with action, adventure, and a stalwart love that deserves its second chance.

5. Raptor 6

by Ronie Kendig

Special forces expert Dean’s team faces hackers and military attacks, which brings him in contact with missionary teacher Zahrah. When the bad guys capture her for her unique code-breaking skills, it’s up to one man to find, rescue, and keep her safe.

Falling in love along the way wasn’t part of the plan, but it’s where these two strong people end up in this military romance book by Ronie Kendig.

This military romance novel includes tons of action for those who like their books fast-paced.

6. Leave Me Behind

by K. M. Moronova

This darker military romance by K. M. Moronova matches Nell, an elite forces attack survivor, with Bones, a mysterious and compelling man poised to take over the Riot squad they’re both a part of.

Sleeping with her superior might’ve been a mistake, especially when he seems to hate her so much, but trust grows, and the connection builds until they can’t longer be apart.

7. In the Likely Event

by Rebecca Yarros

Another selection on the list of the best military romances from Rebecca Yarros throws Izzy and Nate together as seatmates on a plane home.

When it crashes right after takeoff, the dramatic twist of fate throws them onto different paths – military and politics – but also brings them together in the type of love that lasts through all possible threats.

8. Pretend You’re Mine

by Lucy Score

Readers who like the fake girlfriend storyline will love Lucy Score’s first book in the ‘Benevolence’ series. A hometown hero and National Guardsman, Luke, needs a decoy date to satisfy his family, and Harper is the perfect choice.

Attraction, a shared bed, and mysterious dangers draw them ever closer together until they cannot imagine ever being apart.

Feel free to read more books by Lucy Score.

9. Vines

by Brynne Asher

Author Brynne Asher brings this first novel in a seven-book series to readers of military romance. Addy’s busy making a new life for herself in horse country in Virginia when Crew Vega, an ex-military man, moves nearby.

CIA involvement, treason, danger, and passion mix together as they find a new future.

10. Fighting Temptation

by K.C. Lynn

The bad boy and the good girl make for a classic romance story of friendship, passion, and a true happy ever after.

This novel by K. C. Lynn gives Jaxson and Julia a second chance at romance after a hot night before his deployment. The war changed him in various meaningful ways but didn’t change his love for the woman he left behind.

11. The Unsung Hero

by Suzanne Brockmann

Counterterrorism, a small-town bad boy, and a sweet local doctor combine in this romance novel by Suzanne Brockmann. The quest for forever love intertwines with stopping vicious terrorists from pulling off a horrible attack in the US.

The believable characters and intertwining plots give readers a true ‘can’t put it down’ experience.

12. SEALs of Honor

by Dale Mayer

For military romance readers who want to sink their teeth into a long series, this first book by Dale Mayer might be the perfect choice. Mason, the Navy Seal, takes on violent enemies and dangerous jobs.

When he meets software developer Tesla, the excitement ramps up even more. It’s a steamy, passionate story of true love.

13. Dear John

by Nicholas Sparks

This heart-rending novel of a post-9/11 world comes from internationally famous author Nicholas Sparks. Instead of a classic happily ever after romance, this love story includes the woman of soldier John’s dreams of marrying another while he is at war.

This book was made into a movie starring Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried.

If you enjoy deeply emotional stories like this one, you’ll love exploring the top 10 best Nicholas Sparks books, filled with unforgettable tales of love, heartbreak, and hope.

14. Hopeless

by Elsie Silver

The latest in a five-book series from Elsie Silver, Hopeless tells the tale of a military hero and a shy bartender.

This age-gap romance book also thrills readers who love fake fiancé and hurt-comfort tropes. Find plenty of steam, heart, and a forever love that lasts.

Final Thoughts

This list of the best military romance novels will give you all the adventure, genuine emotion, and healing your heart desires.

They cover a wide variety of steam levels, romance tropes, locations, and character types. However, they all culminate in the best happy ever afters for the intriguing couples that fill their pages.

The Jack Reacher books have become favorites for readers who love unique plots chock full of complex problems, fierce and calculated solutions, and a keen sense of justice in an unforgettable main character.

Lee Child, the author of Jack Reacher books, has currently finished 29 books in the series, and more are slated to come out in the future. To add to the popular collection, movies in 2012 and 2016 and an Amazon Prime Video series in 2022 expanded the fan base.

The Jack Reacher Book Series in Order

Readers who want to dive into this popular book series frequently ask where to start and what order they should stick with. It makes sense to read them chronologically by publication date. Each novel tells a new story set in a different US city or town.

	1. Killing Floor (1997) The introduction to Jack Reacher and the whole series.
	2. Die Trying (1998) A kidnapping and an FBI undercover entanglement.
	3. Tripwire (1999) From manual labor in Key West to a dead private detective and mystery.
	4. The Visitor (UK) or Running Blind (US) (2000) A killer much like Jack himself strikes two army experts.
	5. Echo Burning (2001) Jack helps a wealthy damsel in distress from a powerful and murderous husband.
	6. Without Fail (2002) Someone wants to kill the Vice President, and only Jack Reacher can help.
	7. Persuader (2003) Driven by the need for justice, Jack goes after brutal kidnappers with disastrous consequences.
	8. The Enemy (2004) This book set in an earlier time shows Jack still in the army when a general gets killed in a sleazy motel. He solves the problem while losing his faith in the military.
	9. One Shot (2005) The book the first movie was based on. A mass shooter asks for Jack Reacher, and the reluctant hero must answer.
	10. The Hard Way (2006) Ransom money tracking and family safety drives Jack from Manhattan to the English countryside.
	11. Bad Luck and Trouble (2007) An old army friend tracks Jack down to help discover who’s responsible for the death and kidnapping of Special Investigations experts.
	12. Nothing to Lose (2008) A sketchy traffic stop in the middle of nowhere leads Jack to a mystery he needs to explore. What are the small-town cops hiding?
	13. Gone Tomorrow (2009) Jack’s senses tingle when he spots a potential suicide bomber on the subway.
	14. 61 Hours (2010) A bus accident in the icy South Dakota winter leaves Jack stranded in a small town with strange things afoot. He has to protect a woman from a devious killer.
	15. Worth Dying For (2010) A powerful family clan gets after Jack, but he’s compelled to help discover the truth about a missing young girl.
	16. The Affair (2011) Another trip back in time finds Jack still in the US Military police, undercover to find a killer and help a beautiful county sheriff.
	17. A Wanted Man (2012) Picked up by three strangers while hitchhiking, Jack quickly discovers something wrong as police roadblocks challenge them.
	18. Never Go Back (2013) The second movie was based on this book. It tells of Jack’s journey back to Virginia to meet a woman who ends up missing.
	19. Personal (2014) The French president is under attack, and the US army knows only Jack Reacher can help figure out who did it.
	20. Make Me (2015) Jack’s next random stop lands him in a secretive town with 200 missing folks, a cryptic note to decipher, and a strange quest for answers.
	21. Night School (2016) Set in 1996, this novel explores terrorism, and a plot filled with purpose and a million dollars on the line.
	22. The Midnight Line (2017) Finding a West Point ring leads Jack down a trail to a missing woman amid crooked cops, brutal bikers, and more.
	23. Past Tense (2018) A threatened couple and Jack finding nothing but roadblocks when he revisits his father’s hometown. How do these stories entwine?
	24. Blue Moon (2019) Jack’s keen eye stops a quick theft but unearths more troubles between competing gangs and an old man caught in the middle.
	25. The Sentinel (2020) In Nashville, Jack helps out a group of cheated musicians and ultimately gets wrapped up in a kidnapping.
	26. Better Off Dead (2021) Helping a lady in a broken-down Jeep seems simple, but when she turns out to be an FBI agent hunting for her criminal brother, things get complicated.
	27. No Plan B (2022) Everyone thinks it was suicide, but Jack saw the mysterious man push the woman in front of the bus. He uncovers a conspiracy he has to solve.
	28. The Secret (2023) Another foray back in time to 1992. Jack is the army representative for a high-profile multi-murder case of investigators.
	29. In Too Deep (2024) Hitchhiking leads to kidnapping and some criminals’ plan to make Jack talk about things he wasn’t involved in. The tables are turned quickly as he takes control.

The Jack Reacher Short Story Collection

Twelve extra short stories about Jack Reacher offer readers a glimpse into his far past. Some start with his childhood, while others explore his career before becoming the wandering knight-errant of modern-day justice from the novels.

There are other books like Jack Reacher out there, if you want to know about ex-cops or military experts righting wrongs and restoring justice. None have grabbed the attention of the adventure-reading, hero-loving fans quite like this book series by talented author Lee Child. With such a long series already written, anyone who wants to sink deep into an intriguing, well-written world of problems, puzzles, and fierce solutions should get started reading the Jack Reacher book series in order today.

Some readers may prefer to start with the novels that take place when Jack Reacher was still in the army and continue through his life chronologically. That’s not necessary to understand and enjoy all the stories, however. Each one stands along and delivers an intriguing, impactful adventure full of action, twisted mysteries, and thrills along the way.

Besides Lee Child’s direct and effective writing style, it’s the main character, Jack Reacher, who really grabs ahold of readers and won’t let go. He is the ultimate modern-day knight, wandering the land and righting wrongs. His methods, not altogether pure, only add more layers of interest to the Jack Reacher book series.

If you’re a fan of gripping thrillers and want more series like Jack Reacher, consider diving into The Cartel Book Series, Jack Carr Books, Joe Pickett Books, The Best Freida McFadden Books, Michael Connelly’s Books, Robert Ludlum Books, or even exploring The Best Book Series of All Time. These collections promise action, mystery, and unforgettable characters that will keep you hooked.