Are you sick and tired of seeing the same romance time and time again? Where the young and beautiful main characters lock eyes and fall hopelessly in love? No matter the hardship or red flags, every waking moment is devoted to their one true love? Well, you’ve come to the right place. In these novels, love is messy and awkward: it fades, life moves on, and relationships fall apart. There are regrets, missed chances, and unavoidable hardships. But despite this, many carry a certain bitter sweetness, of loving and being loved despite the often harsh realities. These unconventional romances just might sweep you off your feet…or not.
Is She Really Going Out with Him? by Sophie Cousens
Having survived her painful divorce, columnist Anna has given up on romance. Her children have other plans. They decide to play matchmaker — setting her up with seven in-person dates. Not one to pass up an opportunity, Anna decides to document her dates to breathe life into her writing and get back at her office rival. Showing that genuine connection isn’t just for the young, Is She Really Going Out With Him? is a fantastic read from start to finish.
Ghosts by Dolly Alderson
Nina, a woman in her early thirties has long felt disenchanted with her social life despite being a successful writer. Out of nowhere comes Max, her romantic hero, to rescue her from her troubles. But even the perfect romance cannot bring back her twenties or mend the wounds in her family. Nina must deal with the specters of her past, whether that be losing touch with friends or being ghosted by online strangers.
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
Thirty-six-year-old Keiko has always been an oddball. Relationships and social interactions have never been her forte. But once she begins to work as a young adult at her local convenience store, Smile Mart, everything comes together. Almost. The pressure from her coworkers and family members to get married grows. Will a relationship fulfill her? Or will it stop her from finding her purpose?
Luster by Raven Leilani
With her life falling apart, a dead-end job, and too many failed attempts at dating, Edie is at her wit’s end. Then comes Eric, the middle-aged father with a sort of open marriage. Now Edie has found herself staying with a married couple and their adopted daughter. Navigating love, politics, and identity, Luster delves deep into the mess of modern life.
Tin Man by Sarah Winman
Described as an “almost love story,” Tin Man shares the story of two childhood best friends as they grow apart and come back together. Forever intertwined but never quite as close as they used to be. This novel imparts the notion that love is in every aspect of your life and every action you take. It is both exquisite and terrifying but often leaves you changed for the better.
In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado
In this memoir, Carmen Maria Machado explores learning to navigate her sexuality, life, and dealing with unhealthy relationships. She reflects upon her childhood experiences and chronicles her various relationships leading up to a toxic and abusive relationship. Follow her journey as she grows and reflects upon her life.
We hope you enjoyed this list of out-of-the-ordinary relationships! There may not be truly perfect endings, but that doesn’t mean romance can’t be affirming or fulfilling. Whether you’re searching for a new connection or focusing on self-growth, there’s something to be learned about love!
Looking for more romance tropes? Check out Trope Talk: Our Love-Hate Relationship With Love Triangles!
Want to really get into your feels? Take a peek at our tear jerkers book list on Bookshop!
