The enemies-to-lovers trope has captured readers’ hearts for over generations. There’s something irresistibly compelling about watching two people move from hatred to love.
In this list, I have shared some of the most captivating enemies-to-lovers books that have left readers swooning and desperate to turn the next page.
Top 10 Enemies To Lovers Books
1. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman can’t stand each other and they’re executive assistants forced to share an office. Their daily routine consists of passive-aggressive games and barely concealed hostility, then comes the competition for a promotion then tension explodes.
What sets this book apart is its modern workplace setting and crackling dialogue. Their transition from enemies to lovers feels authentic and steamy. Thorne nails the contemporary romance elements while keeping the core conflict relatable.
2. From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Poppy and Hawke’s relationship starts with deception. He’s assigned to guard her. She’s the Maiden, kept isolated and veiled. The truth between them unravels slowly, their antagonistic relationship builds with every revelation. Armentrout weaves fantasy elements seamlessly with romance.
The world-building enhances rather than overshadows their connection, each discovery adds layers to their complex dynamic.
3. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy define the enemies-to-lovers genre. Their initial mutual disdain is palpable. Their journey from contempt to understanding unfolds through witty dialogue and social commentary.
What makes this story timeless is how their prejudices slowly crumble as they discover each other’s true nature, this transformation feels earned and natural. Austen crafted their evolution masterfully.
4. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
Jude and Cardan’s relationship is deliciously complicated, she’s a mortal in the treacherous Faerie court. He is a cruel faerie prince who makes her life miserable. Their path from enemies to lovers is thorny and twisted.
Their attraction develops against a backdrop of political intrigue and danger, nothing about their relationship is simple or straightforward.
5. Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Alex and Henry start as diplomatic rivals their forced friendship spirals into something more. McQuiston crafts a modern fairy tale with political complications, their transition from enemies to lovers feels fresh and contemporary.
The story tackles real-world issues while maintaining its romantic heart, their banter is absolutely delightful. Each interaction crackles with tension and possibility.
6. Beach Read by Emily Henry
January and Augustus are writers with opposing views on literature. They’re stuck as neighbors for the summer. Their challenge is to write in each other’s genres leads to unexpected connections, Henry excels at creating complex characters with real emotional depth.
Their antagonism stems from genuine philosophical differences, the resolution feels earned through mutual understanding and growth.
7. You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle
Nicholas and Naomi are engaged but can’t stand each other. Neither wants to call off the wedding first. Their attempts to make each other miserable lead to unexpected revelations.
Hogle takes a unique approach to the enemies-to-lovers trope. They rediscover their love through their antagonism, the humor balances perfectly with emotional depth.
8. A Ruin of Roses by K.F. Breene
Finley and Drake’s animosity stems from misunderstanding. She’s hunting a cure, he is guarding secrets. Their enemies-to-lovers journey includes magical elements.
Breene balances fantasy world-building with romantic development, their antagonism has legitimate roots in their circumstances.
9. The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
Olive and Adam’s fake dating arrangement starts from necessity, their academic rivalry creates genuine conflict. Hazelwood brings authenticity to the academic setting.
Their enemies-to-lovers journey feels grounded in real-world concerns and the scientific background adds unique flavor to their romance.
10. These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong
Roma and Juliette lead rival gangs in 1920s Shanghai, their families’ blood feud runs deep. Gong reimagines Romeo and Juliet with a supernatural twist.
Their enemies-to-lovers arc feels fresh in this historical setting, the cultural and historical elements add richness to their conflict.
Related: 10 Best Romance Books
Conclusion
These stories remind us that love often appears in unexpected places, the journey from hatred to love creates some of the most compelling narratives in romance literature.
Each book offers a unique take on this beloved trope, proving that the path from enemies to lovers can take many fascinating forms.
Whether you prefer contemporary settings or fantasy worlds, there is an enemies-to-lovers story here that will capture your imagination and your heart.
