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Romance books where the two main characters dance along the line of ‘just friends’ until they can no longer deny their chemistry are some of the most satisfying reads.
The books on this list are proof that trust and friendship can lead to a magical romance. We may or may not have excitedly shouted ‘just kiss already!’ during one or two of these…
(This article contains spoilers!)
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The Outlaw’s Claim by Brenda Jackson
This is one to read if you love the friends with benefits, surprise pregnancy and marriage of convenience tropes. Not to mention seriously hot ranchers!
Maverick is a man who knows his own mind – and he knew from the beginning that a fling with long-time friend Sapphire would be more than just mind-blowing sex.
That is, until she says they should go back to being just friends…before announcing she’s pregnant with his child and her father expects her to marry someone else! But nothing will stop Maverick from claiming what’s his.
Setting: Texas
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
A Date with Her Best Friend by Louisa Heaton
Can a fake date change everything?
Paramedic and single dad, Tom, is gorgeous, but to Cara he’s simply her best friend. So when she needs a pretend date for her meddling father’s fundraising ball, Cara knows exactly who to call!
When learning to dance together in preparation, is it her imagination or is there suddenly a spark between them? Firefighter Cara knows she can’t replace the wife Tom lost, but deep-down she’s always loved him, and his son. Is Tom beginning to feel the same?
Setting: Fictional England town
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
The Millionaire’s Italian Invitation by Ellie Darkins
From on-screen to in-person…
Lone-wolf tech millionaire Caleb Kinley is waiting to meet online best friend Ally in person for the first time. Inviting her to Italy and pretending they’re dating will stop his family interfering in his love life. But his instant red-hot reaction to Ally is a real complication…
Setting: Fictional England town
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Officer’s Convenient Proposal by Joanna Johnson
A marriage of convenience between friends…what could go wrong?
Returning from battle, Officer Jonah Grant is shocked to find his frail sister abandoned by her husband and their life savings squandered. Which is why a chance encounter with wealthy independent neighbor Frances feels like fate! He and Frances both find it hard to let down their defences, but take refuge in each other’s company.
If they are willing to risk their new-found friendship, a convenient marriage could be a savior for them both….
Setting: Cotswolds countryside
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Virgin River by Robyn Carr
So… Maybe not a new brand-new book, BUT Season 4 has just aired on Netflix, which we think is reason enough to add the book onto this list.
Mel answers an ad to work as a midwife and nurse practitioner in the remote town of Virgin River, thinking it will be the perfect place to start fresh and leave her painful memories behind.
She doesn’t have the easiest start to her new life, but local barman and former marine Jack is always there to lend a hand. As their friendship blossoms, there is a noticeable spark tween them. But, with tragedy in both of their pasts, will they dare to risk following their hearts?
Setting: Northern California
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Dead on Arrival by Nichole Severn
After barely escaping a deadly explosion, Officer Alma Majors has one clue to identify the victim and solve the case: a sliver of bone. But it’s going to take more than shrapnel to expose the culprit. Bomb expert Cree Gregson will risk everything to protect his neighbour from a killer determined to avoid exposure. Protecting his heart may prove more difficult…
This neighbours to friends to lovers romance will get your adrenaline pumping with lots of gripping action. But never fear… our books always have a happily-ever-after!
Setting: Colorado
Spice level: 🌶️
The Heir’s Cinderella Bride by Donna Alward
When Esme’s family is struck by tragedy, she takes on the role of Chatsworth Manor’s housekeeper. But her childhood friend Stephen turns out to be the new Earl, and it’s obvious their connection has never gone away.
Esme doesn’t think she belongs in Stephen’s world…but will a surprise proposal change her mind?
Setting: Derbyshire
Spice level: 🌶️