20 best books on forbidden love affairs – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to indulge in a world of forbidden passion and illicit desire? Look no further than these 20 captivating books on forbidden love affairs. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, these novels will transport you to a realm where love defies all boundaries. Experience the thrill of star-crossed lovers, forbidden romances, and clandestine affairs that will leave you breathless. Whether you’re seeking a tale of forbidden love set in a bygone era or a contemporary story that pushes the boundaries of societal norms, these forbidden love affairs books are sure to captivate your heart and mind.


Normal People

by Sally Rooney

Are you ready to dive into a world of desire, passion, and the complexities of human connection? Look no further than Normal People, a captivating novel by Sally Rooney that explores the intricacies of forbidden love affairs.

In this mesmerizing tale, Rooney takes us on a journey through the lives of Connell and Marianne, two young individuals from a small town in Ireland. Despite their different social statuses, they find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other, unable to resist the magnetic pull of their connection.

Rooney’s adept storytelling weaves a narrative that delves into the depths of desire, exploring the complexities and consequences of this forbidden love affair. Through her exquisite prose, she captures the raw emotions, the secret trysts, and the clandestine meetings that make their relationship both thrilling and dangerous.

As Connell and Marianne navigate their way through their intertwined lives, they face obstacles that challenge their love and force them to confront their own vulnerabilities. Rooney’s exploration of power dynamics, class divisions, and the complexities of modern relationships adds a thought-provoking layer to this already compelling story.

Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions as you follow the lives of these two unforgettable characters. Rooney’s Normal People is a book that will leave you breathless, questioning the boundaries of love and the lengths we go to in pursuit of it. So, grab a copy, find a cozy spot, and immerse yourself in this forbidden love affair that will keep you turning pages long into the night.

The Light We Lost

by Jill Santopolo

Jill Santopolo’s The Light We Lost is an electrifying ode to the complexities of forbidden love affairs. This captivating novel immerses readers in the turbulent journey of Lucy and Gabe, two star-crossed souls whose lives intertwine amidst the backdrop of New York City.

The Pisces

by Melissa Broder

The Pisces: A Captivating Tale of Forbidden Amorous Pursuits

Dive into the depths of desire and forbidden love affairs with “The Pisces,” a mesmerizing novel by Melissa Broder that will leave you breathless and yearning for more. This bewitching book unveils a passionate world where boundaries are shattered and love takes on a thrilling, illicit form.

Step into the life of Lucy, a thirty-eight-year-old woman whose heart has been shattered by failed relationships and a deep sense of loneliness. Seeking solace, she escapes to her sister’s beachside home in Venice Beach, California, in the hopes of finding some semblance of peace.

However, Lucy’s journey takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Theo, a mesmerizing and mysterious merman. His enchanting presence and seductive nature awaken a dormant desire within her, leading her down a treacherous path of forbidden love affairs.

As Lucy succumbs to the irresistible pull of their connection, she finds herself torn between her rational mind and the passionate, all-consuming love that Theo offers. Their encounters become increasingly intense, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.

Broder’s exquisite prose delves into the depths of human desire, exploring the complexities of forbidden love affairs and the tumultuous emotions they ignite. Her vivid descriptions and evocative storytelling transport readers to a world where societal norms are abandoned, and euphoria reigns supreme.

The Pisces is not simply a book about forbidden love affairs; it is a sensual journey of self-discovery, exploring the depths of human nature and the lengths we are willing to go for love. Broder’s compelling narrative will leave you breathless, questioning your own desires, and captivated until the very last page.

The Immortalists

by Chloe Benjamin

Are you ready to dive into a world of passion, desire, and forbidden connections? Look no further than Chloe Benjamin’s electrifying novel, The Immortalists. This mesmerizing book delves into the lives of four siblings who seek out a fortune teller, only to learn the exact dates of their deaths. As they grapple with their newfound knowledge, they are propelled into a whirlwind of love affairs that defy all societal norms, transporting readers into a world where desire knows no boundaries. Get ready for a heart-pounding journey as you navigate through the twists and turns of these forbidden connections. The Immortalists is a book that will leave you breathless, questioning the limits of love and the lengths we go to pursue it.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating forbidden love affairs book that will sweep you off your feet. This novel takes readers on a thrilling journey through the scandalous life of Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo.

Evelyn Hugo, a legendary actress from the old Hollywood era, has decided to share her life story with an unknown journalist named Monique Grant. As Monique listens to Evelyn’s shocking and intimate revelations, she becomes entranced by the actress’s captivating tales of love, betrayal, and sacrifice.

Throughout the book, we are introduced to each of Evelyn’s seven husbands, all diverse in their personalities and backgrounds. From her first love to her final husband, we witness the highs and lows of her tumultuous relationships, filled with passion, secrets, and forbidden desires.

Reid skillfully weaves together the past and the present, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and utterly compelling. As we delve deeper into Evelyn’s life, we are confronted with themes of love, sexuality, and the sacrifices one must make to achieve success in a world that is often unkind to women.

This book about forbidden love affairs is not just a story of scandal and fame; it is a tale of resilience, ambition, and the lengths one is willing to go to protect the people they love. With its richly developed characters and its exploration of complex relationships, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a must-read for anyone who craves a story filled with passion, intrigue, and the unbreakable bonds of forbidden love.

The Night Tiger

by Yangsze Choo

The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo is a mesmerizing tale that delves into the realm of clandestine romance and the mystical forces that bind two souls together. This extraordinary novel weaves a spellbinding narrative, entwining the lives of its characters in a web of secrets, fate, and forbidden desires.

The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a captivating forbidden love affairs book that takes readers on a heart-wrenching journey deep into the wilderness of Alaska. Set in the 1970s, this immersive tale follows the Allbright family as they seek solace and a fresh start in the wild and untamed landscapes of the Last Frontier.

The Kiss Quotient

by Helen Hoang

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang is a tantalizing tale that delves into the captivating world of clandestine romance.

In this sizzling forbidden love affairs book, we are introduced to Stella Lane, a brilliant econometrician who excels at predicting algorithms but struggles with the complexities of human connection. Determined to improve her romantic skills, she hires Michael Phan, a charming escort, to teach her the art of love. As their lessons progress, the line between teacher and student blurs, and an irresistible attraction begins to ignite.

Hoang’s novel explores the intricate dance of desire and the risks we take for love. Through Stella and Michael’s forbidden love affair, we witness the power of vulnerability and the exhilaration of breaking societal norms.

Prepare to be swept away in this captivating book on forbidden love affairs, where passion and emotion intertwine, and the heart refuses to follow any rules. The Kiss Quotient will leave you breathless, questioning the boundaries of love and longing for more.

The Rules of Magic

by Alice Hoffman

The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman is an enchanting tale that delves into the captivating world of forbidden love affairs. Set in the 1960s, this mesmerizing book follows the lives of three siblings as they navigate the complexities of their extraordinary heritage. Franny, Jet, and Vincent Owens are descendants of a long line of witches, and they are bound by a set of rules that govern their supernatural abilities.

As the story unfolds, the siblings must grapple with their own desires and the consequences of their actions. They find themselves irresistibly drawn to individuals who are off-limits, entangled in a web of passion and longing that defies societal norms. This forbidden love affairs book explores the power of love and the lengths people will go to for the ones they cherish, even if it means breaking the rules.

Alice Hoffman’s exquisite prose and vivid storytelling transport readers into a world where magic intertwines with the complexities of human relationships. With her signature blend of spellbinding plot twists and lyrical descriptions, Hoffman crafts a tale that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you yearning for more. Whether you are a fan of supernatural fiction or simply crave a book on forbidden love affairs, The Rules of Magic is a must-read that will leave you under its enchanting spell.

The Heart’s Invisible Furies

by John Boyne

The Heart’s Invisible Furies is a remarkable tale that dives deep into the complexities of forbidden love affairs. Set against the backdrop of Ireland in the mid-20th century, this captivating book explores the challenges and consequences that arise when love defies societal norms.

The Essex Serpent

by Sarah Perry

The Essex Serpent is a captivating novel that intertwines the complexities of human relationships with the allure of mystery and forbidden desire. Set in Victorian England, this spellbinding book delves into the depths of a forbidden love affair.

The Sun Is Also a Star

by Nicola Yoon

Get ready to dive into a world of passion, fate, and the undeniable power of love with Nicola Yoon’s captivating masterpiece, The Sun Is Also a Star.

Set in the bustling streets of New York City, this enchanting novel takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions as we follow the whirlwind romance between Natasha, a pragmatic girl who believes in science, and Daniel, a dreamer who believes in fate.

But this is not just any love story. The Sun Is Also a Star is a book about forbidden love affairs, a tale that explores the immense challenges and heart-wrenching consequences of falling in love when the world seems determined to keep you apart.

As Natasha and Daniel’s paths intertwine, we witness the collision of two souls who are destined to be together, despite the odds stacked against them. With deportation looming over Natasha’s family, and Daniel facing the expectations of his Korean immigrant parents, their love becomes both a solace and a source of turmoil.

Yoon’s prose is poetic and lyrical, sparking with an electric energy that mirrors the intense connection between our protagonists. With each turn of the page, we are drawn deeper into the tender moments, the stolen glances, and the bittersweet realization that time is running out for these star-crossed lovers.

But it’s not just the love story that will capture your heart; The Sun Is Also a Star delves into larger themes of identity, family, and the interconnectedness of the universe. Through the eyes of Natasha and Daniel, we gain a profound insight into the complexities of the human experience and the ways in which our lives are shaped by the choices we make.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey that will leave you breathless and yearning for more, pick up The Sun Is Also a Star and lose yourself in the pages of this forbidden love affairs book. Prepare to be enchanted, moved, and forever changed by the power of love against all odds.

The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is an extraordinary tale of passion, courage, and sacrifice set against the backdrop of World War II. This mesmerizing book delves deep into the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate the treacherous waters of occupied France.

In this captivating story, Hannah weaves a narrative that explores the power of love, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of women. Set during a time of great turmoil, The Nightingale shines a light on the bravery and heroism of ordinary people caught in the midst of an extraordinary war.

With its richly drawn characters, vivid descriptions, and heart-wrenching moments, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, particularly those fascinated by stories of forbidden love affairs. The passionate relationships that develop throughout the novel are portrayed with such intensity and authenticity that readers will find themselves completely absorbed in the characters’ plight.

The Nightingale is not just a book about forbidden love affairs; it is a tale of resilience, survival, and the unbreakable bonds that hold families together in the face of adversity. Through Hannah’s beautiful prose, readers are transported to a different time and place, where love and courage are put to the ultimate test.

So, if you are seeking a forbidden love affairs book that will take you on an emotional journey and leave you breathless, then The Nightingale is the perfect choice. Prepare to be captivated by its powerful storytelling and swept away by its unforgettable characters.

The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars is a mesmerizing journey through the intricate web of forbidden love affairs. John Green, the author, crafts a heart-wrenching story that revolves around two star-crossed lovers, Hazel and Gus, as they navigate the treacherous terrain of life, love, and loss.

The Time Traveler’s Wife

by Audrey Niffenegger

The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger is a mesmerizing tale that transcends time itself. This extraordinary book weaves a complex tapestry of love, destiny, and the inexplicable power of connection.

At its heart, The Time Traveler’s Wife is a forbidden love affairs book, delving into the profound and ethereal romance between Henry, a time traveler, and Clare, his wife. Their relationship defies the constraints of time, as Henry finds himself uncontrollably leaping back and forth through different moments in his life, often encountering Clare at various stages of her own.

Through Niffenegger’s exquisite storytelling, we are immersed in the bittersweet beauty of their love affair, witnessing the challenges and sacrifices they must endure to be together. The narrative dances effortlessly between past and present, as we witness the poignant moments of their courtship and the heart-wrenching struggles that test their bond.

This book about forbidden love affairs explores themes of fate, free will, and the undeniable force that draws souls together. Niffenegger’s prose is both lyrical and haunting, painting a vivid portrait of two individuals entangled in a timeless love story.

As Henry’s time-traveling abilities become increasingly unpredictable, the stakes are raised, and the reader becomes engrossed in the delicate balance between love and loss. The Time Traveler’s Wife is a captivating journey that will leave you contemplating the power of love and longing, and the profound impact it can have on our lives.

The Thorn Birds

by Colleen McCullough

The Thorn Birds is a captivating tale that delves into the tumultuous world of forbidden love affairs. Set against the backdrop of the Australian outback, this sweeping epic by Colleen McCullough takes readers on a journey through the lives of the Cleary family.

At the heart of the story is the passionate and forbidden love affair between Meggie Cleary and Father Ralph de Bricassart, a relationship that becomes the defining thread of their lives. As they navigate the complexities of their forbidden love, they must also grapple with the constraints of societal expectations and religious duty.

McCullough weaves a rich tapestry of emotions, desires, and sacrifices, drawing readers into the lives of her characters with vivid descriptions and compelling storytelling. The Thorn Birds explores themes of love, desire, faith, and the consequences of pursuing one’s heart’s desires, even when they go against societal norms.

This forbidden love affairs book is a tale of passion and longing, capturing the reader’s attention from the very first page. It is a story that examines the depths of human emotions and the complexities of the heart, leaving a lasting impact on those who embark on this unforgettable literary journey.

The English Patient

by Michael Ondaatje

The English Patient, written by Michael Ondaatje, is a mesmerizing tale that delves into the depths of passion, desire, and secrets. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this enchanting novel takes readers on a journey through the complexities of love, loyalty, and betrayal.

Within these pages, you will discover a forbidden love affair that unravels amidst the chaos and uncertainty of war. Ondaatje’s lyrical prose weaves together the stories of four individuals whose lives intertwine in a grand tapestry of emotions and longing.

This book about clandestine romances captures the essence of human connection, exploring the boundaries we are willing to cross for the sake of love. Ondaatje’s vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of the characters’ struggles, as they navigate the treacherous waters of desire and the consequences that come with it.

Prepare to be captivated by this forbidden love affairs book, as Ondaatje’s evocative storytelling draws you into a world where passion and danger collide. With every turn of the page, you will find yourself holding your breath, eager to uncover the secrets that lie hidden within the hearts of these unforgettable characters.

So, embark on this journey of forbidden love affairs, where the allure of romance battles against the backdrop of war. The English Patient is a literary masterpiece that will leave you spellbound, long after you have turned the final page.

The Bridges of Madison County

by Robert James Waller

The Bridges of Madison County is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of passionate and illicit relationships. This remarkable book explores the depths of forbidden love affairs, showcasing the enthralling connection between two souls destined to cross paths. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Madison County, Robert James Waller weaves a tale of heart-wrenching emotions and the undeniable power of desire.

The Unbearable Lightness of Being

by Milan Kundera

The Unbearable Lightness of Being is a captivating novel by Milan Kundera that delves into the intricate web of human relationships, exploring the complexities of love, desire, and the pursuit of happiness. Set against the backdrop of the political turmoil in Czechoslovakia during the 1960s and 1970s, this book on forbidden love affairs is a mesmerizing exploration of the human condition.

Wuthering Heights

by Emily Bronte

Experience the tumultuous passion and forbidden desires that lie within the pages of Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. This mesmerizing novel takes readers on a heart-wrenching journey through the moors of England, where love and revenge collide in a twisted tale of obsession and betrayal.

Delve into the mysterious world of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, two star-crossed lovers whose passionate and tumultuous relationship defies societal norms. Set against the backdrop of the hauntingly beautiful Yorkshire countryside, this book on forbidden love affairs will captivate your senses and leave you breathless.

Bronte’s masterful storytelling brings to life a cast of intriguing characters, each driven by their own desires and haunted by their past. As the story unfolds, secrets are revealed, alliances are formed, and the destructive power of love is unleashed.

Prepare to be swept away by the raw emotions and intensity that permeate every page of this forbidden love affairs book. With its dark and brooding atmosphere, Wuthering Heights is a timeless tale that explores the depths of human nature and the consequences of unchecked passion.

So, if you’re ready to immerse yourself in a world of forbidden love, where desire and revenge intertwine, then pick up a copy of Wuthering Heights and prepare to be enchanted by one of literature’s most enduring and captivating works.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about forbidden love affairs offer readers a captivating glimpse into the complexities of love that defies societal norms. From passionate romances that transcend time and social classes to forbidden relationships that challenge the boundaries of morality, these stories explore the exhilarating and sometimes devastating consequences of forbidden love. Whether you’re seeking a heart-wrenching tale of star-crossed lovers or a thought-provoking examination of societal taboos, these books are sure to leave you spellbound. Dive into these forbidden love affairs and discover the power of love that knows no boundaries.