52 Books to Read as a Couple
Reading together isn't just about sharing a few quiet moments; it's about exploring new worlds, perspectives, and emotions as a team. Whether curled up on the couch or stretched out under the stars, diving into a good book with your partner can deepen your connection and spark conversations that last long after the final page. From thrilling adventures that keep you both on the edge of your seat to heartfelt tales that mirror your own love story, there's a book out there that can add a new layer to your relationship. Ready to turn the page on a new chapter with your significant other? Here are some handpicked genres and books that promise to enrich your time together.
Love Stories That Ignite Your Passion
Nothing quite compares to the thrill and depth of emotion that a well-crafted love story can bring. Whether you're finding love for the first time or rekindling a flame that has lasted years, these novels offer a spectrum of romantic experiences that resonate with the heart's deepest desires. Explore timeless courtships, modern relationships, and everything in between.
"Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
This timeless classic explores the turbulent relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and the aloof Mr. Darcy, offering insights into love, societal expectations, and personal pride.
"The Time Traveler’s Wife" by Audrey Niffenegger
An extraordinary love story between Clare, an artist who loves reading, and Henry, a librarian with a rare genetic disorder that causes him to time travel unpredictably.
"Outlander" by Diana Gabaldon
A blend of historical fiction, romance, and adventure, this novel follows Claire Randall, a nurse from 1945 who is suddenly transported back to Scotland in 1743, where she meets the dashing Jamie Fraser.
"Me Before You" by Jojo Moyes
A heart-tugging story about Louisa Clark, who becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy young banker left paralyzed from an accident, leading to an unexpected and complex romance.
"The Notebook" by Nicholas Sparks
A deeply moving tale of Noah Calhoun and Allie Nelson, whose summer romance forever alters their lives, exploring themes of enduring love and sacrifice.
"Call Me By Your Name" by André Aciman
Set during a sun-drenched summer in Italy, this novel captures the intoxicating romance between a teenage boy and a visiting scholar, exploring the passionate highs and heart-wrenching lows of first love.
"Normal People" by Sally Rooney
This novel follows Marianne and Connell, two teenagers from different backgrounds but the same small town in Ireland, as they weave in and out of each other’s lives, exploring the complexities of intimacy, power, and the desire to be understood.
"Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell
Set in the 1980s, this story revolves around two star-crossed misfits—smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try.
Thought-Provoking Reads for Deeper Connections
Sharing ideas, philosophies, and profound questions can significantly strengthen a relationship, offering a deeper understanding of one another's beliefs and values. This collection of thought-provoking books is designed to challenge your perspectives and enhance your emotional and intellectual intimacy. From philosophical inquiries to explorations of human behavior, these reads will provide ample material for reflection and discussion, drawing you closer as you navigate their complexities together.
"The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman
This book explores the concept that individuals express and receive love in different ways, and understanding these can dramatically improve your relationship.
"Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear" by Elizabeth Gilbert
Gilbert delves into the nature of inspiration and creativity, encouraging readers to embrace curiosity, tackle what they love, and face down what they fear.
"Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari
Harari examines the entire history of the human race, from our earliest ancestors to the complex societies we have developed today, offering insights into what it means to be 'human.'
"The Art of Loving" by Erich Fromm
A psychoanalyst and philosopher, Fromm discusses love as an art that requires knowledge and effort, and not just a feeling that happens to us.
"Man’s Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl
Frankl’s memoir has ignited generations, detailing his experiences as a concentration camp inmate and describing his psychotherapeutic method of finding a reason to live.
"Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking" by Susan Cain
Cain argues that we dramatically undervalue introverts and shows how much we lose in doing so. The book explores the challenges and rewards of being an introvert in a culture that prizes extroversion.
"The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth" by M. Scott Peck
This book examines the nature of loving relationships and leads readers toward a new serenity and fullness of life. It helps readers distinguish dependency from love and to become a more sensitive parent.
"Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman
Nobel laureate Kahneman’s book dives into the two systems that drive the way we think—one fast and emotional, the other slow and logical—and their impact on our decision-making, including in relationships.
Adventure Novels to Share Thrills Together
Embarking on an adventure together through the pages of a book can be as thrilling as the real thing. These adventure novels are perfect for couples who crave excitement and exploration from the comfort of their own homes. Each story is packed with action, suspense, and exotic locales, providing the perfect backdrop for a shared journey that's both captivating and stimulating.
"Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer
This true story follows Christopher McCandless as he abandons his possessions and savings to explore the American wilderness, reflecting on society, solitude, and existence.
"Life of Pi" by Yann Martel
A young boy survives a disaster at sea and is hurled into an epic journey of adventure and discovery while stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger.
"The Count of Monte Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas
A tale of unjust imprisonment, mysterious treasures, revenge, and redemption as Edmond Dantès takes on a new identity to infiltrate the French nobility.
"Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson
Young Jim Hawkins finds a map of a pirate's treasure and sets sail on a dangerous voyage full of pirates and adventures, epitomizing the genre of treasure-hunting tales.
"Jurassic Park" by Michael Crichton
A cautionary tale about genetic engineering and corporate greed, this novel takes readers on a thrilling ride through a theme park where dinosaurs have been brought back to life.
"The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain
Huck Finn's escape from his abusive father and his journey down the Mississippi River with an escaped slave offer adventure while critiquing pre-Civil War American society.
"The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon" by David Grann
This non-fiction book explores the mysterious disappearance of explorer Percy Fawcett who went missing while searching for a fabled ancient city in the Amazon.
"The Road" by Cormac McCarthy
A father and his young son journey across a post-apocalyptic landscape, facing ethical dilemmas and the extremes of human behavior.
"Shantaram" by Gregory David Roberts
Based on the author's own life as an escaped Australian convict, this novel details his adventures in the underworld of Bombay, full of danger, intrigue, and romance.
"In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex" by Nathaniel Philbrick
The harrowing true survival story that inspired 'Moby-Dick' reveals the desperate measures crew members took after a whale attack in 1820.
"The Three Musketeers" by Alexandre Dumas
A historical adventure about a young man named D'Artagnan who joins forces with three musketeers to thwart a plot against the king of France.
"Ender's Game" by Orson Scott Card
A young boy is trained through increasingly challenging war games to prepare for a future alien invasion, discovering his own capacity for leadership and strategy.
"Artemis" by Andy Weir
Set in the only city on the moon, this novel combines high-stakes crime with thrilling space survival, providing a unique twist to the adventure genre.
"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson
A journalist teams up with a brilliant but troubled hacker to solve a decades-old disappearance, uncovering deep family secrets and systemic corruption in Sweden.
"Blood Meridian" by Cormac McCarthy
This epic novel of the American West during the 1850s explores the violent exploits of a teenage runaway known only as "the Kid" with vivid and often brutal prose.
Cozy Nights In: Books for Cuddling Up
There's something special about spending a cozy night in with your partner, wrapped in a blanket, with a good book that warms the heart. These selections are perfect for such evenings, offering charming tales, comforting settings, and characters that feel like old friends. From light-hearted romances to whimsical mysteries, these books are meant to be enjoyed together in the comfort of your snug retreat.
"The Rosie Project" by Graeme Simsion
A feel-good novel about an awkward genetics professor, Don Tillman, who designs a scientific survey to find the perfect wife and unexpectedly learns about the unpredictability of love.
"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
A warm and delightful epistolary novel set in post-WWII England and Guernsey, where an author discovers the charming, eccentric book club members who lived through German occupation.
"The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry" by Gabrielle Zevin
An uplifting story about a widowed bookstore owner whose life takes a new turn when a mysterious package appears, bringing unexpected love and second chances.
"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng
This novel explores the complexities of motherhood and the picture-perfect facades of suburban life, sparking rich discussions about family dynamics and personal morals.
"A Man Called Ove" by Fredrik Backman
A touching, funny story of a curmudgeonly old man whose life changes when a boisterous young family moves in next door, challenging his solitary ways.
"Chocolat" by Joanne Harris
A magical and sweet tale of a woman and her daughter who open a chocolate shop in a small French village, shaking up the rigid morality of the community.
"The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern
A fantastical romance set in a mysterious circus that appears only at night, filled with magical competitions and star-crossed love.
"Major Pettigrew's Last Stand" by Helen Simonson
A heartwarming story about the unlikely relationship between a retired British army major and a Pakistani shopkeeper that explores themes of tradition, prejudice, and love.
"The Hundred-Foot Journey" by Richard C. Morais
This culinary delight tells the story of an Indian chef who opens a restaurant in a quaint village in the French Alps, sparking a rivalry with the Michelin-starred eatery across the street.
"The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein
Narrated by a witty and philosophical dog, this novel provides a unique take on the life experiences of his owner, a racecar driver.
"The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak
Set in Nazi Germany, this profound story told by Death follows a young girl who finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with her neighbors and the Jewish man hiding in her basement.
"The Music Shop" by Rachel Joyce
A charming tale set in the 1980s about a record store owner with a gift for finding the perfect album for his customers, and the mysterious woman who asks him to teach her about music.
"The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper" by Phaedra Patrick
In this sweet and uplifting story, a widower embarks on a whimsical journey to find out more about his late wife's life after discovering an enigmatic charm bracelet.
Overcoming Challenges Together: Books with Life Lessons
Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes, a good book can provide the wisdom and perspective needed to navigate through its challenges. These novels not only entertain but also offer valuable lessons on resilience, understanding, and the power of support, making them perfect for couples who want to grow together by overcoming obstacles.
"The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho
A timeless tale that follows a young shepherd named Santiago on his journey to fulfill his personal legend, discovering the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts and learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path.
"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
A profound commentary on the moral nature of human beings, seen through the eyes of Scout Finch, whose father, Atticus, is a lawyer defending a black man wrongly accused of raping a white woman in the Deep South during the 1930s.
"Educated" by Tara Westover
A memoir that tells the story of a woman who grows up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho but eventually escapes her toxic environment to pursue higher education, learning the transformative power of knowledge and self-reliance.
"The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini
A gripping and emotional story of betrayal and redemption that follows the troubled childhood friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father’s servant in Afghanistan.
"Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail" by Cheryl Strayed
This memoir captures the terrors and pleasures of one young woman’s journey back to life after the death of her mother and the destruction of her marriage, as she hikes over a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail alone.
"The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig
Between life and death, there is a library filled with books of lives one could have lived. The protagonist explores what could have been, ultimately learning about the choices that matter most and the possibilities of change.
"Beloved" by Toni Morrison
A powerful, haunting novel about a woman haunted by the past of slavery and the ghost of her dead child, exploring themes of freedom, suffering, and the possibility of redemption.
"Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom
In this memoir, a man reconnects with his old college professor, who is dying from ALS, and learns profound life lessons during their weekly meetings, covering everything from love to death to forgiveness.
