“Don’t spoil her with toys; spoil her with books.”
Sometimes, in the game of love, you lose. We’re not entirely sure if that’s actually a saying or not, but it’s definitely true that putting your heart out there doesn’t always result in you walking off into the sunset with the partner of your dreams. And that is perhaps why tales of loss and heartbreak have become such popular parts of the romance genre. From powerful raw situations to believably broken characters, get your tissue boxes ready as we dive into some of the saddest romance books here at What We Reading!
June First – Jennifer Hartmann
From US Bestselling author Jennifer Hartmann comes a slow-burning romance novel centred around loss, heartache, self-discovery and happiness in June First. A sweet story told in the sweetest way, readers are introduced to Brant Elliott, a man whose tragedies appear to come in threes.
Following a pivotal decision from his father during his childhood, Brant found himself without his innocence and in the arms of the one woman he ever loved but knows he can never have. Heartbreakingly beautiful and intensely emotional, June First is one of the saddest romance books you can have on your bookshelf.
Love And Other Words – Christina Lauren
After ten years of distance between them, a chance encounter at the local cafe reunites old friends Macy Sorensen and Elliot Petropoulos. Their history, however, is a sordid one. Forced to revisit the past and dig up the secrets as to where their friendship went so wrong, Christina Lauren’s Love and Other Words is a strikingly real friends-to-lovers tale.
This standalone romance book paints an incredibly raw and honest picture of second-chance love, forgiveness and friendship as it flicks effortlessly from the past to the present day.
Check Out The Best Books Similar To Love And Other Words
In Memoriam – Alice Winn
Alice Winn’s In Memoriam is a tear-jerking exploration of the tragedies of war and forbidden love. A historical fiction romance book set during the opening exchanges of World War One, readers follow two young men: Henry Gaunt and Sidney Ellwood.
The pair are living the idyllic lifestyle at their boarding school in the English countryside when war breaks out, with the tales of fallen heroes on the battleground enticing their service. However, upon arriving at the front, the true horrors of The Great War make themselves known. In Memoriam is an intense dive into the devastations left behind by conflict, as well as a poignant look at how love can still manage to transcend it.
Check out the Best WW1 Books from 2022
Archer’s Voice – Mia Sheridan
Mia Sheridan’s Archer’s Voice follows the tale of college graduate Bree Prescott and social recluse Archer Hale. Having fled her hometown in Cincinnati in search of a new life in Pelion, Maine, Bree meets 23-year-old Archer and learns he hasn’t spoken a word for sixteen years after a traumatic experience.
Sheridan masterfully weaves together a potent story of friendship and forgiveness as Bree works to befriend Archer, rediscover his voice and destroy the walls that have confined him all of his life.
Making Faces – Amy Harmon
In Amy Harmon’s Making Faces, readers are introduced to Fern Taylor. Used to being overlooked and ignored by her peers, the only connection in this world Fern has is with her cousin and best friend, Bailey.
Ambrose Young is the hotshot golden boy of the town, but he is struggling to soldier the weight of expectations on his shoulders. And when he and his four friends experience tragedy during their military service, the mental and physical pain inflicted on him will run deep. Making Faces is a powerful look at self-worth, forgiveness and the power of friendship. It is the perfect book to break your heart if you’re looking for a book that extends further than the typical tropes in the romance genre.
Full Tilt – Emma Scott
In Emma Scott’s Full Tilt, readers are introduced to up-and-coming rocker Kacey Dawson. Kacey lives live on the edge, however, her alcohol-fuelled antics end up leading to a wretched concert in Las Vegas, a rude awakening in the back of a limo and no memory of the night before. From there, she meets a man named Jonah Fletcher.
He lets her stay with him for a few days to clear her head, but neither of them is prepared for the connection they suddenly find themselves sharing. A tale that is always destined to end in tragedy, this is one of the saddest romance books that tap into the familiar feelings of love, grief and painful heartbreak.
A Thousand Boy Kisses – Tillie Cole
A Thousand Boy Kisses by Tillie Cole is a beautiful love story that starts in childhood and carries on into adulthood. Similar to It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover, this modern romance novel delves into the incredible power of love. The story revolves around Rune and Poppy, two young individuals who share an unbreakable bond that goes beyond time and distance. When Rune is summoned back to his native Norway, he holds onto the belief that his one true love will patiently await his return.
However, upon coming back, he discovers that Poppy has severed all communication without any explanation. The revelation of the truth behind their separation is heart-wrenching, leaving us to wonder how long a kiss can truly endure. This captivating young adult romance is bound to evoke strong emotions and has readers reaching for the tissues.
Check out Romance Books like It Starts With Us
Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
