Preye
If you love your novels romantic and super cheesy, chances are you’re well-aware of the enemies-to-lovers trope.
From the classic verbal jousting between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice to the more modern-day misadventures of characters like Lucy and Joshua, this trope has been a beloved staple of the romance genre for ages.
And if you’re in the mood for a readinf session that will capture your heart, you won’t want to miss my collection of the most unforgettable enemies-turned-lovers stories.
These books have it all – drama, passion, and unexpected romance – and will keep you turning pages well into the night.
1. Tweet Cute by Emma Lord
Tweet Cute is a delightful and entertaining romance that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
The story centers around two rival restaurants whose social media managers engage in a hilarious online feud, unaware that they are falling for each other at the same time.
What I loved about this book was the modern twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope, and the clever use of social media as a platform for their playful banter.
The characters are charming and relatable, and the slow-burn romance will have you rooting for them until the very end.
2. Office Hate by Rachel Van Dyken
Despite initially reading some poor reviews, I was pleasantly surprised to find this book to be highly entertaining.
The enemies-to-lovers trope has always been a favorite of mine, and this particular book nailed it, especially with the added dynamic of the two protagonists being coworkers.
The witty banter and hilarious situations they find themselves in kept me engaged throughout the story.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a lighthearted romance with some great laughs thrown in.
3. The Mistletoe Motive by Chloe Leise
Don’t miss out on this fantastic slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside!
Bailey and Jonathan are coworkers who can’t stand each other, but things take an unexpected turn when they make a bet with high stakes – the loser has to resign willingly during the new year.
As they navigate their relationship and get to know each other better, they discover hidden sides of themselves and each other.
With external pressure and internal struggles and an extra fancy festive backdrop, they begin to realize that love can be found in the most unexpected of places.
4. The Marriage Code by Brooke Burroughs
I was already enjoying this book, but around the 65% mark, it became absolutely swoon-worthy!
And when I learned that the author drew inspiration from her own life and experiences, I was completely blown away.
The story is filled with delicious food, heartwarming love, and laugh-out-loud moments that had me hooked from the beginning.
I loved seeing the relationship between the female protagonist, Emma, and the male protagonist, Rishi, unfold, and it was easy to understand why they fell for each other.
This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good romance!
5. This is How You Lose The Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone.
The epistolary sapphic premise initially drew me to this book, but it was the stunning writing and poignant portrayal of the lead characters’ romance that kept me engrossed until the end.
The author skillfully captured the depth of their love and the heartbreak that came with it, and I was moved and deeply touched.
I found myself shedding a tear and wishing I could be a part of their world, which is a testament to the author’s exceptional writing.
This book showcased some of the most extraordinary writing I have seen in literature, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a satisfying and unforgettable read.
6. Better Than The Movies by Lynn Painter
After much persuasion by my friends, I finally gave in and read this book. And let me tell you; it was every bit as wonderful as they promised.
Liz and Wes, the female and male protagonists, respectively, started out disliking each other, but their transition into adorable lovebirds was so seamless and heartwarming.
As an older reader, it was a delight to watch these young characters fall in love. I highly recommend giving this book a chance!
7. As If On Cue by Marisa Kanter
As If On Cue follows Natalie and Reid, two long-time rivals forced to work together on a school musical after a prank war gone wrong.
As they spent more time together, they began to see each other in a new light and grappled with their newfound feelings.
This novel delivers a tender, heartfelt portrayal of adolescent love that will have you rooting for the characters until the very end.
8. Opposites Attract by Camilla Isley
If you’re looking for a heartwarming and charming read, then Opposites Attract is a book you won’t want to miss!
Featuring a jaded divorce lawyer and a couple’s therapist with vastly different perspectives on life, this novel will take you on a journey of self-discovery and unlikely love.
As the story progresses, the two characters find common ground and develop a deeper connection. I highly recommend giving this book a chance – you won’t regret it!
9. The Attraction Distraction by Jenn McKinlay
This book may be short, but it’s full of all the elements that make a romantic comedy a must-read.
If you’re looking for a light, enjoyable book that explores the tension between ex-lovers vying for an archaeological treasure, then this title is perfect for you.
I highly recommend reading it and immersing yourself in its entertaining plot!
10. You Can Go Your Own Way by Eric Smith
I have to admit, I picked up this book with some skepticism, but I was quickly won over by the author’s talent for crafting a heartwarming enemies-to-lovers story.
The dynamic between the two main characters, who were friends but became business rivals with a fierce social media rivalry, is both hilarious and poignant.
And by the end, I was an emotional wreck (in the best way possible!). I won’t spoil anything, but if you’re looking for a sweet and satisfying romance, give this one a try!
11. Sea of Ruin by Pam Godwin
This novel about sea captains and emotional healing is a true gem. It’s action-packed, heartfelt, and masterfully written.
As a first-time reader of the author’s work, I was blown away by her fluid and concise prose. The action sequences were vivid and easy to follow, making it a real page-turner.
It’s worth noting that the novel deals with some heavy themes, so be sure to check out the trigger warnings beforehand.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an immersive and emotional read.
12. How To Love Your Neighbor by Sophie Sullivan
If you have water in your mouth, you should avoid reading this book at all costs. It is packed with numerous hilarious moments, and the characters are incredibly genuine. Without a doubt, this book is a must-read!
13. The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
This was a really lovely read! It cleverly intertwined the enemies-to-lovers trope with the rival romance novel trope, creating a captivating story with intense and unyielding competition. It was a perfect blend of humor and romance that left me thoroughly entertained.
14. It Could Happen by Melissa Baldwin
I couldn’t put this book down! The writing was so fluid and engaging that I flew through the pages, eager to see how the drama would unfold.
While the protagonists definitely brought a lot of conflict to the table, the side-characters were the real stars of the show. I found myself immediately invested in the protagonists’ journeys and rooting for them every step of the way.
If you’re a fan of fast-paced stories with well-rounded characters and plenty of tension, this one’s for you.
15. Vibes and Feels by Sarah Skye
A few months ago, I picked up this book and was immediately drawn to the characters’ emotional depth.
The author masterfully portrayed Morgan and Marco’s vulnerabilities, making them feel like real people with relatable struggles.
Despite their undeniable chemistry, their journey to each other was fraught with obstacles that kept me fully invested in their story.
If you’re looking for an enemies-to-lovers romance that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you rooting for the characters, I highly recommend this one.
16. The Unarranged Marriage by Laura Brown
If you’re looking for a lighthearted romantic comedy that explores the complexities of childhood friendships, features a lavish week-long Jewish wedding, has LGBTQIA representation, and (ofcourse) a set of overbearing parents, this book is a must-read.
I enjoyed how the main characters had vastly different personalities but still managed to find common ground. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for anyone looking for a heartwarming and hilarious love story.
17. Last Chance Books by Kelsey Rodkey
In Last Chance Books, Madeline, the female protagonist, has always been devoted to her family’s bookstore and plans to take over when she returns from college.
However, her plans are thrown into chaos when a new bookstore owned by her competitor Jasper, the male protagonist, opens directly in front of her own.
As they compete fiercely, Madeline starts to question everything she knows about loyalty and the value of family, especially when she unexpectedly finds herself falling for Jasper – her business rival.
This delightful and heartwarming enemies-turned-lovers story is a testament to the power of unconditional love and the resilience of the human spirit.
18. Everything For You by Chloe Leise
This book is the fifth addition to the Bergman Brothers series, and it provided me with the adrenaline rush I didn’t know I was missing.
The real-time journey of Oliver and Gavin was both heartwarming and well-crafted, and Chloe Leise once again proves her writing prowess.
I won’t spoil anything, but if you’re a fan of heartfelt and touching stories, this book won’t disappoint.
19. Recommended For You by Laura Silverman
The dynamic between Shoshanna and Jake, the female and male protagonists respectively, was truly captivating in this book.
Despite their initial rivalry, they found a way to work together and learned valuable lessons from each other along the way.
As their friendship evolved into something deeper, the story became even more enjoyable to read. This is enemies-to-lovers done right, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it!
20. Under One Roof by Ali Hazelwood
Under One Roof had such compelling characters that I found myself emotionally invested in their story.
I was so engrossed that if Mara and Liam, the female and male protagonists respectively, were real people, I’d be stalking them on social media – you can bet on this!
The plot of Under One Roof is simple: Mara and Liam inherit a property together, and when neither wants to sell their share, their relationship becomes contentious.
As they spar with each other, their feelings gradually shift into something deeper, leading to a unique friendship that forms the foundation of their beautiful relationship.
Here’s my review – Book Review: Under One Roof by Ali Hazelwood
21. Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
The romance between Alex and Henry in this book is simply heartwarming.
I was captivated by how their relationship evolved from animosity to something deeper through their long and thoughtful conversations (and emails!).
If you’re in the mood for a charming enemies-to-lovers story, this is a great pick.
22. Two Houses by Suleena Bibra
Two rivals, a country house, and a week to win over a potential client. What unfolds next? Well, let’s just say there’s plenty of steamy kissing, tender loving, and a delightful amount of making-up.
23. Bet The Farm by Staci Hart
Olivia and Brent, co-inheritors of the sprawling Brent farm, couldn’t be more opposite in their approaches to revive the declining property.
Despite their shared goal of restoring profitability, their clashing methods lead to frequent disagreements.
However, when their differences reach a stalemate, they are compelled to work together to save the farm from further losses.
As they recognize each other’s authenticity, their animosity subsides, and newfound respect develops.
While this wasn’t my favourite, it definitely left its mark. You can find my review here – Book Review: Bet The Farm by Staci Hart
24. The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon
Shay and Dominic, the female and male protagonists, respectively, are selected to co-host a podcast for their public radio station, and it’s supposed to be a hit that’ll turn things around for their business.
The catch? They’re exes who absolutely can’t stand each other. But as they work together, their animosity starts to fade, and they discover common ground that leads to unexpected connections.
25. Battle Royal by Lucy Parker
What I absolutely adore about this book is how the author masterfully combined various tropes into a harmonious mixture that didn’t diminish any of them.
If you’re a fan of the charming combination of a sunshine and grumpy dynamic, have a sweet tooth for reading about delicious confections, and enjoy a bit of rivalry thrown into your romance, then this delightful and heartwarming read will certainly put a smile on your face.
26. Love Not At First Sight by Sarah Ready
I think it’s pretty obvious that it’s not a great idea to bolt when the local psychic, who has a perfect track record for making matches, tells you that your true love is the ultimate womanizer.
And, it’s also pretty clear that you’re likely to get stuck in a pitch-black cave for an extended period with the same charming rogue and will probably end up head over heels in love with him.
27. The Enemy by Sarah Adams
If you’re looking for a book that’ll have you laughing and on the edge of your seat with angst, this is the one for you!
I found myself cackling with glee before even reaching the 3% mark, which was a sure sign that this book was going to be a winner—and it definitely did not disappoint!
28. Fighting Against Gravity by Isabella Cassazza
After a career-ending injury takes Michael, the male protagonist, out of the NHL, he struggles with depression, anxiety, and boredom.
However, everything changes when he meets Ellie, an interior designer and single mother.
Through witty banter and deep conversations, they learn about the boundlessness of love and the importance of family.
29. Under The Stars by Melissa Chambers
Taylor and Chapman, who have a love-hate relationship, strike a deal that involves the former exchanging hours of work at the latter’s bar for top-notch dating advice.
As they embark on this venture, they learn important lessons about finding love, including perfecting their Tinder profiles and discussing their personal goals.
Ultimately, they discover that love can blossom in the most surprising of places.
30. Mr. Wrong Number by Lynn Painter
After an unfortunate event at her old apartment, Olivia has no choice but to move in with her brother and his roommate, Colin.
The two have been playing the game of deliberately annoying each other for a while now, and tensions are exceptionally high now that they’re sharing the same living space.
One day, Olivia receives an odd message from an unknown number, and soon enough, she and her stranger-turned-friend are exchanging texts for hours on end.
Little does she know that her chat buddy is actually Colin, her enemy in every way that matters.
Although Colin has figured out her identity, Olivia remains oblivious. What follows is a delightful enemies-to-lovers romance that tests the characters’ strengths and vulnerabilities.
31. Good On Paper by Everly Ashton
This is a great book for anyone looking to discover a new author!
Good on Paper has some seriously hot moments, along with just the right amount of competition to make things interesting, and a smoking hot mutual attraction between the main characters.
I definitely recommend it if you’re in the mood for a steamy romance between colleagues.
If you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers stories, you won’t be disappointed by these book recommendations.
These stories are filled with complex characters, intriguing plot twists, and plenty of romantic tension.
So why not dive into one of these books and experience the rollercoaster ride of emotions for yourself?
You never know, you might just fall in love with a couple who started out as enemies.
