The familiar is comforting, and often we stick to what we know. It can be daunting to try something new for fear we will not like it. In case of reading, this can pertain to genres. There are many genres of books, and as readers we have our preferences. But, if you never try something new, you won’t know if you like it. What can help when trying new genres is to find books of other that have elements of the ones you already know and love. Many books of all genres have love or romance in them, so if you are a romance reader who wants to branch out to other genres, these books might be perfect for you.
True Colours by Kristin Hannah
True Colours is a contemporary fiction novel, but has a considerable portion of romance in it. The story is about three sisters, growing up on the family’s ranch. Their stern father is the only parent they have after their mother passed away when they were younger. The girls have always had each other to lean on, but when they get older this starts to change. Vivi Ann, the youngest, continues working on the ranch with her father and is clearly favoured by him, but also by many people in town. Winona is the eldest, and has always struggled with her self-worth and winning her father’s approval, which facilitates feelings of jealousy towards Vivi-Ann. Aurora is always playing the peacekeeper between her two sisters, keeping her own struggles to herself. When a mysterious stranger arrives, he stirs up the town gossip and sweeps one of the sisters off her feet, but then something terrible happens. Can the sisters put aside their grievances and stick together once more, or will their bond be forever broken?
While there is a focus on the theme of family and sisterhood that is very prevalent, an important part of the plot also involves a very passionate and strong romantic love. Therefore, it is the perfect book for romance lovers who want to dip their toe in a contemporary fiction.
Frank & Red by Matt Coyne
It all started with a trampoline…Frank & Red is a beautiful story about a grumpy old man and an enthusiastic six year old with a trampoline.The story follows an old man, Frank, whose deeply rooted sorrow in losing his wife has made him secluded and a real grump. One day, six year old Red moves in next door with his mom, since his parents just got divorced. They are both struggling in their own way, and find unexpected companionship in each other. Despite Frank’s reluctance to let Red in, the latter’s persistence eventually warms the old man up. When Red discovers something about Frank’s past, he decides to take matters into his own hands, but that just might be the opposite of what the old man wants.
While it is not at the center of the story, the beginning of the books shows flashbacks to when Frank met his wife Marcy, and she is prevalent throughout the entire novel in a way. Frank is the way he is because of her, and therefore this is an important part of the plot. Their love is tangible throughout the entire book, and adds a spark of romance to this contemporary fiction novel.
Stars in an Italian Sky by Jill Santopolo
Set in 1946 Genoa Italy and 2017 New York, this dual timeline story about two lovers is a historical fiction. However, the plot revolves around Vicenzo and Giovanna who fall in love despite their differences in descent. He is the son of a count and she is the daughter of a tailor, but their connection is so strong that they do everything to make it work. When political tensions rise, the couple is faced with difficult choices, and when betrayal comes to light, their future is shattered. Dozens of years later, a young engaged couple brings their grandparents together to pose for a portret, and past and present come together.
Set against a historical and political backdrop, this is a historical fiction that has a plot centering around romance.
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
When a young woman goes through a divorce, a depression, and another failed love, she lost track of her dreams, her goals and her identity. She makes the drastic decision to quit her job and travel the world to re-find her own happiness and fulfilment by going on a literal and spiritual journey of one whole year. She documented her journey of self-discovery and published it in her memoir: Eat, Pray. It reads away as a fiction novel, with the added depth of realising this is a true story. It is also a story filled with love and romance, so it is the perfect place to start for readers who want to discover memoirs, and for romance readers.
Days at the Torunka Café by Satoshi Yagisawa
Welcome at the Torunka Café, hidden away in a small alleyway that branches off of the market street. People who are meant to find the place will see a tabby cat, that they only have to follow to stumble upon this haven of peace. Come inside, enjoy a warm cup of coffee and find peace.
The novel is made up of three stories following different protagonists, that show how lives can run divergent, but how they can also come together at a certain point, as if decided by fate. This healing fiction novel advocates for life to slow down in a world where speed and productivity are often celebrated. While it is not a romance novel, all three of the three stories involve feelings of love and romance in some way, and Yagisawa gives readers that farm and fuzzy feeling that romance readers often enjoy.
The Favourites by Layne Fargo
This novel is currently relevant for people who have been watching the Olympic winter games and especially enjoyed the figure skaters. The Favourites got very popular last year and Layne Fargo has created a stunning debut with this one. Following Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha, this novel not only shows the ruthless way to the top for a professional athlete, but also the passionate relationship between the two protagonists. If you have read Wuthering Heights, you will know that this modern day adaptation of the classic won’t be a traditional love story, but rather involves, passion, rivalry and drama. If you want to read a book that will hook you from the start, draw you into a world of skating and competition and one that is filled with intense love, The Favourites might be your next favourite.
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