Have you ever been reading a novel and been dissatisfied with the main character’s choice in love interest? That she should have chosen the shy, polite boy next door over the bad boy? That she shouldn’t have romanced anyone at all? Here are some book recommendations where the guy doesn’t get the girl — she chooses someone else!
The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E Schwab
Addie La Rue is immortal. The only drawback? She is cursed to fade away from the memory of those around her. Only the figure in the darkness who granted her wish regards her presence. Then she meets a man who remembers. Can she start a new life together with someone who can cherish her properly?
“He whispers three words into her hair. “I love you,” he says, and Addie wonders if this is love, this gentle thing. If it is meant to be this soft, this kind. The difference between heat, and warmth. Passion, and contentment. “I love you too,” she says. She wants it to be true.”
― V.E. Schwab, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
Daytime Shooting Star By Mika Yamamori
Moving to Tokyo from her small rural town, Suzume is caught between a quiet classmate and a handsome stranger. With a cruel twist, she finds herself falling for both of them. Who will she choose? Who is best for her in the long run? At times both humorous and somber, Daytime Shooting Star discusses the power dynamics and matters of the heart.
“There were many tears, many unsure times, many troubled moments. The fun memories were only a few, but even so, those memories will shine bright like stardust, and continue to shine on in my heart.”
― Mika Yamamori, ひるなかの流星 12 [Hirunaka no Ryuusei 12]
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
In this best-seller high fantasy novel, a notorious assassin must defeat twenty-three opponents to win her freedom. Danger lurks in every corner, but so does the chance for connection. With soulmates and magic, Celeana’s final pairing in the Throne of Glass series isn’t who you would expect!
“Still, the image haunted his dreams throughout the night: a lovely girl gazing at the stars, and the stars who gazed back.”
— Sarah J. Maas (Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass, #1))
Not Another Vampire Book by Cassandra Gannon
A mind-bending twist on classic romance tropes, Not Another Vampire Book sees our protagonist Karalynn stuck inside the vampire romance novel she was editing. Now, she is caught up in the plot, getting caught between the main love interests. Can she bring the main characters back together, or will she choose her own love interest?
“Gods, how I see you.” Black eyes traced over her face. “I wish I didn’t. It would be so much easier if you’d never come.” Kara looked away. “Well, help me leave, then. I’m doing all I can to get out of here, and out of your sight, and out of this book. It’s your fault, if this is taking too long for your liking.”
― Cassandra Gannon, Not Another Vampire Book
We hope this list left you conflicted over who you want our female protagonist to end up with! Whether they’re ending up with the boy next door or the evil villain, these stories switch up with the romance genre.
Want some Romantasy? Check out Six Amazing Fantasy Romance Couples That Made Us Melt
Yearning for some more chemistry? Check out our contemporary romance bookshelf!
