Unlocking Romance: The Book Cow’s Recommended Reading List

Peter Arnaudo • March 16, 2025

Are you wanting to immerse yourself into the world of romance? It can be a daunting task to choose your next book when it feels like there are thousands of options. 


Luckily, we’ve got you covered. Popular authors like
Ana Huang, Emily Henry, and Rainbow Rowell all have new releases that are bound to be instant favourites.

5 Romance Books for Beginners


Romance has always been a controversial genre, with some readers arguing that there’s no value in it. We STRONGLY disagree. 


A book doesn’t have to be intellectually stimulating or challenging in order to be enjoyable. Everyone deserves a feel-good gooey love story. 


1. Pictures of You by Emma Grey


Do you want to read a book that’s urgent, profoundly affecting and utterly unforgettable? Of course you do!


Emma Grey’s
'Pictures of You' is more than a romance book, it’s an exploration of self that is going to make you laugh, then cry, then laugh again. 


It balances deep, heartfelt vulnerability with an uplifting second-chance romance; guaranteeing you’re captivated from the very first page.


2. The Striker by Ana Huang


It’s time to tell you a secret… forbidden romance is my favourite trope. There’s just something extra special about anticipating the inevitable.


'
The Striker' is best-selling author Ana Huang’s latest release and it promises to be as addictive as her other books. It’s the perfect one to get you invested in romance.


3. Funny Story by Emily Henry


Emily Henry has done it again. Without a doubt, she should be your go-to romance author when you’re craving a five-star read that you’ll fly through. 


'Funny Story' is exactly as the title promises: light-hearted, comedic, and hopelessly romantic. You’ll need an ice cream to keep cool while reading about these two main characters and their downright wicked shenanigans. 


4. Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell


Rainbow Rowell has always had a talent for writing funny, light-hearted contemporary romances that fly off the shelves across the world. 


She’s written so many bestsellers that she might as well have an entire production of the New York Times dedicated to her. 


'Slow Dance' promises to entertain every soft-hearted, wide-eyed romantic in Australia. You are no exception. If you’re a fan of a long-lost second chance, you’ll be a fan of this book.


5. Wedding Forecast by Nina Kenwood


Would you ever believe a psychic’s forecast about who the love of your life is? 


Whether you'd scoff or giggle, you’ll have fun watching
'The Wedding Forecast's' main character, Anna, spiral into absolute chaos as she battles fate and chooses between two seemingly perfect guys.


Nobody ever said life was easy.


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