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Wholesome romance books
Hey there, fellow bookworms! 📚
If you’re anything like me, you’ve got a soft spot for romance novels that leave you with all the feels without the, shall we say, spicy scenes. Yep, we’re talking about clean, wholesome romance novels! These gems are all about deep connections, heart-tugging emotions, and love stories that warm you from the inside out. Think meet-cutes, slow-burn romances, and characters you can’t help but root for.
The beauty of clean romance novels? They focus on the emotional journey, creating a narrative that’s just as compelling without the need for explicit content. So, whether you’re a seasoned reader of romance or a newbie dipping your toes in the genre, join me as we explore the world of clean romance novels that are sure to tug at your heartstrings! 💕
What is clean romance genre?
Clean romance is a subgenre of romance where the focus is on the emotional journey of the characters as they fall in love. It’s your go-to genre if you fancy heart-flutters and warm feelings more than explicit content.
Now, don’t get it wrong, there’s still plenty of tension and sparks, but the intimate moments are kept behind closed doors or just subtly hinted at. So, if you love all the sweet, swoony feelings of falling in love with none of the steamy details, then clean romance is your perfect cup of tea!
What do you call clean romance books?
Clean romance books are often referred to as “sweet”, “wholesome”, or “closed door”. These terms signify that the romance in these books is gentle, heartwarming, and doesn’t have explicit scenes.
Best clean romance novels
1 | The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
Clean Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.02 out of 5 stars
Jack Stapleton, heartthrob, and paparazzo darling, vanished after a family tragedy. Now, he’s back in Texas to care for his sick mom, but he’s got a stalker and a clandestine bodyguard gig on his plate. Enter Hannah, tasked with posing as Jack’s girlfriend to keep his secrets under wraps.
Hannah, a kindergarten teacher look-alike, and Executive Protection Agent, has skills that could potentially debilitate you with common household items. As she spends more time with Jack, the fake relationship starts feeling all too real, and Hannah finds herself fending off feelings harder than any stalker or threat. She’s protecting not just Jack, but her own vulnerable heart.
💕 Why you should read this book? I have to tell you, this book totally flipped the script with the ‘reverse bodyguard’ trope and I was here for it! I mean, how often do you see a damsel protecting a dude in distress?
It was a breath of fresh air, honestly. The clever banter and comedic timing had me laughing out loud – seriously, the humor is just top-notch. Plus, it’s the perfect companion for a lazy summer day at the beach or a long holiday trip.
“Maybe love isn’t a judgment you render – but a chance you take. Maybe it’s something you choose to do over and over. For yourself and everyone else.”
― Katherine Center, The Bodyguard
2 | The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.99 out of 5 stars
Inheriting the nostalgic Printed Letter Bookshop, Madeline Cullen grapples with hardened feelings toward her Aunt Maddie and contemplates selling the struggling business. Two employees, Janet and Claire, find solace and purpose amidst the books and customers, sparking Madeline’s reconsideration of her intentions.
A surprising professional twist and a charming gardener challenge her preconceptions, leading her to envision a fresh future for herself and the bookshop. The Printed Letter Bookshop is a tale of change, the magic of books, and the strength of friendship.
💕 Why you should read this book? This book is impressively gripping, not just because of the story itself, but majorly because of its characters. These are complex, dynamic beings who evolve throughout the plotline, and it’s amazing to witness their growth and transformations.
Plus, it’s set in the coziest bookstore you could ever imagine. But what really held me was the core themes of friendship and forgiveness.
Also check out Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay if you loved this one!
3 | One Christmas In Winter by Bell Renshaw
Christian Contemporary Romance, Christmas Novella
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.27 out of 5 stars
Reba Farwell, an ambitious director, lands in Winter, Montana, tasked with a crucial on-location shoot that could make or break her career. Alongside her professional pressure, she’s harboring a secret. Meanwhile, local diner owner Hoyt Bradley, still nursing a heartbreak, does his best to avoid the film crew that reminds him of his own difficult past in the industry.
After a series of mishaps, Reba finds herself relying on the goodwill of the Winter community. The question remains – Can she successfully complete her film? And will off-camera sparks cause more trouble than she can handle?
💕 Why you should read this book? I absolutely loved this Christmas novella, it’s the perfect blend of holiday spirit and heartwarming storytelling. It legitimately felt like I was living inside a Hallmark movie, with every page filled with festive cheer, charming small-town vibes and a sprinkle of magical romance.
The characters were so vividly drawn, they felt real to me, and the atmosphere was just incredible.
4 | The Best Summer of Our Lives by Rachel Hauck
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.11 out of 5 stars
In the summer of ’77, Summer Wilde and her friends–the Four Seasons–were shipped off to Tumbleweed, Oklahoma, as camp counselors after a prank went wrong. The experience, filled with secrets and fears, forever changed them.
Fast forward, Summer, now a thirtysomething, finds herself at a junction. Abandoned by her band in Tulsa, she’s drawn back to her past in Tumbleweed. But the small town is more than just a memory of her past; it’s a place of healing and reconciliation with the present, a place where love finds its voice.
💕 Why you should read this book? I’ve got to admit, this book had me hooked from the start. You see, it’s not just the complex characters with their intricate web of hidden secrets that gets you, but there’s also this fascinating coming-of-age story.
It’s a tale that beautifully unfolds to reveal second chance love, friendships that stand the test of time, and all the hiccups life throws in between. What’s more captivating is the dual timelines used in the narrative!
Make sure to check out Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck as well!
5 | Reason and Romance by Debra White Smith
Christian Contemporary Romance, Retelling
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.72 out of 5 stars
Elaina finds herself charmed by Ted. She starts imagining love, despite initial doubts about his interest in her. Yet, a shocking revelation leaves her questioning.
Meanwhile, her sister Anna is thrilled when the attractive Willis hints at engagement. However, his sudden departure without a forwarding address leaves Anna heartbroken and depressed, unsure if she can find love again.
💕 Why you should read this book? This retelling of Jane Austen’s ‘Sense and Sensibility’ warmed my heart in a way few clean romance novels do these days. It has this adorable, light romance vibe that just leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
Sure, a few characters might not have had as much depth as in the original Austen piece, but overall, it’s the kind of cute romance that you can cozy up with on a rainy day, and it’ll leave you with a happy sigh at the end.
6 | Summer by the Tides by Denise Hunter
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.08 out of 5 stars
After a devastating betrayal, Maddy Monroe reunites with her estranged sisters, Nora and Emma, at their family beach house in Sea Haven, North Carolina, following their grandmother’s mysterious disappearance.
The reunion stirs up old resentments and secret pasts, further complicated by Maddy’s growing attraction towards their neighbor, Connor Murphy. The sisters must reconcile their differences and accept their new selves to salvage their hope for a future.
💕 Why you should read this book? I’ve got to say, this book just swept me off my feet with its swoon-worthy romance. You know, the kind that gives you butterflies and keeps you up late at night, unable to put the book down. And let’s talk about the characters. They are incredibly complex and relatable, each with its own intricacies and growth.
As I turned the pages, I found myself cheering on their triumphs and empathizing with their tribulations. But what truly sealed the deal for me was the portrayal of the family dynamics between the sisters.
Other favorite clean romance novels by Denise Hunter are A Novel Proposal, Bookshop by the Sea, Falling Like Snowflakes, and Married ’til Monday!
7 | The Breakup Project By Carolyn Miller
Christian Contemporary Sport Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.30 out of 5 stars
Bree Karlsson, twin of a top hockey player, decides on a New Year’s resolution: no dating athletes. She’s on the hunt for Mr. Right and fears her brother’s best friend, the hockey star Mike Vaughan, might just be Mr. Darcy.
She enlists Mike’s help on a project, hoping to see him in a new light, but a Valentine’s Day misunderstanding threatens to break their friendship. Can Bree fix what her breakup project broke?
💕 Why you should read this book? I have to say, this book hit me right in the feels. There’s something super adorable about watching two best friends slowly realize they’re meant for each other. It’s that friends-to-lovers trope we all know and love, only this time with a twist – one is a hockey player.
But it’s not all romance and sports, there’s also a deep underlying message that resonates with me. It’s about learning to trust God with our future. This isn’t just about letting go, but about having faith that there’s a plan for us. All these elements combined make this book a must-read.
8 | When Forever Comes by Tawni Suchy
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.36 out of 5 stars
When heartbroken Olivia Swann finds her fiancé cheating with her ex-bestie, her sister whisks her away to Amber Island. This place boasts The Golden Sands, a top-tier resort, and unexpected surprises, including a blast from Olivia’s past – her old best friend who disappeared ten years ago.
Although time has passed, their old spark remains, but can forgiveness conquer them, or will the pain of past wounds destroy their second chance forever?
💕 Why you should read this book? This little gem of a romance novella is just the right kind of cute and cheesy that you need to lift your spirits. It’s like a mini-holiday from reality, wrapped up in a book – perfect to help you sneak in another tick on your reading goal.
And let me tell you, the swoony moments? They are plentiful and heart-flutteringly good.
9 | The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker
Clean Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.32 out of 5 stars
At twenty-six, Calla’s life in Toronto is all she’s ever known. When her estranged father, living a remote life in the subarctic, informs her his days are numbered, she returns to her frontier birthplace. She endures the wildlife, the peculiar hours, and even outhouses, to reconnect with her flawed yet beloved father.
Meanwhile, Jonah, the stoic Alaskan pilot who keeps her father’s charter plane company afloat, can’t see Calla coping with the wilderness. Yet, as time passes, an unexpected bond forms between them. But Calla is not there to stay, and Jonah won’t leave – a romance would be as foolish as her parents’ failed attempt years ago. Yet, truth, like love, isn’t always simple.
💕 Why you should read this book? This book was a breath of fresh air for a romance lover like me, especially if you’re into clean romance novels. The enemies to lovers trope was brilliantly paired with the opposites attract theme, making for a delightful exchange of witty banter between our two main characters.
Their character arc was beautifully crafted, each twist and turn adding more depth to their personalities. But the highlight, undoubtedly, was the chemistry between them. It was palpable, even though the romance was kept clean and sweet.
Above all, what touched me was that the story wasn’t just about romance. It had depth, exploring themes that went beyond love and relationships, making it a truly enriching read.
“He’s not like any other guy I’ve dated or crushed on. And while he’s capable of making my blood boil like no one else, I feel a magnetic pull toward him that I can’t explain.”
― K.A. Tucker, The Simple Wild
10 | Beach Haven by T.I. Lowe
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.86 out of 5 stars
In the quirky ocean-side boutique, Bless This Mess, lives free-spirited Opal Gilbert, a vintage furniture restorer. Her peaceful life is disrupted when Lincoln Cole, an ex-Marine nursing unseen wounds, stumbles into her store. Although Opal offers him a job, Lincoln declines.
However, when a hurricane damages Opal’s shop, Lincoln feels compelled to help. As they restore Bless This Mess together, Opal begins to mend Lincoln’s emotional scars, capturing his heart in the process.
💕 Why you should read this book? When it comes to a book that nails the grumpy-sunshine trope with a side of laugh-out-loud banter, this one takes the cake. Seriously, the characters are so vivid, so real, they seem to leap straight off the pages and into your life.
You’ll find yourself invested in their journey, rooting for them, and celebrating their growth and blooming romance. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you long after you’ve turned the last page. And the best part? It’s so engrossing that you’ll find yourself reading it in one sitting.
If you loved this book make sure to go check out Indigo Isle by T.I. Lowe!
11 | The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.32 out of 5 stars
Meet Isadora Bentley, a rule-abiding university researcher who’s given up on the idea of happiness. Living a quiet, solitary life, she’s sworn off all romantic relationships—especially with fellow academics. Instead, she focuses on her orderly world of research.
On her 30th birthday, though, she impulsively buys a magazine featuring an article on “Thirty-One Ways to Be Happy”. Initially dismissing it as silly, she secretly turns it into her new research project. As she delves deeper into the concept of happiness and meets an attractive professor, she begins to question her own beliefs.
Could there be more to life than rules and order? And could this mysterious happiness be a part of it?
💕 Why you should read this book? This book truly captivated me. I found myself relating to the protagonist—a bookish character—who showed tremendous growth throughout the narrative.
What moved me the most were the themes of friendship and forgiveness interwoven into the storyline. The cherry on top was the sweet romance that unfolded—it wasn’t too overbearing, just the right amount of sweetness to give the story a heartwarming touch.
Also read My Phony Valentine, Things Left Unsaid, and Just One Kiss by Courtney Walsh!
12 | Authentically Izzy by Pepper Basham
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.89 out of 5 stars
Izzy Edgewood, a Lord of the Rings fan and aspiring bookstore owner finds herself tangled in the web of online dating, thanks to her cousin Josie’s meddling. She’s interacting with Brodie, a fellow book lover living miles away, across the ocean.
But Izzy’s scared of flying and unsure if their shared interests are enough to bridge the distance. Meanwhile, a local author’s frequent visits to her workplace, the library, make her question whether a long-distance romance is worth the trouble.
💕 Why you should read this book? Oh my gosh, you guys, this book was such a treat! I mean, who would’ve thought a narrative through emails and texts could be this engaging? It’s a whole new level of storytelling.
And the humor, it’s just priceless. I was chuckling so hard my sides hurt! But what I loved the most was the characters – they were so real.
If you’re into audiobooks, this one’s a must. The voice actors, particularly Brodie with the Scottish accent – swoon-worthy, I tell you! Highly recommend getting your ears on this one.
13 | Love and Other Mistakes by Jessica Kate
Christian Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.57 out of 5 stars
Seven years ago, Natalie Groves’ world shattered when her fiancé Jeremy Walters left town abruptly, and her father fell ill. Once full of dreams, Natalie now struggles to keep her family afloat and feels distant from God. When Jeremy, now a regretful father, returns needing help with his niece Lili, Natalie sees an opportunity.
As she juggles a promising job internship and a second income offer from Jeremy, their reunited lives ignite old sparks. They tread the thin line between love and hate, unsure if this is their best decision or biggest mistake.
💕 Why you should read this book? I gotta tell you, this isn’t your typical sugar-coated love story. This debut novel keeps it real, tackling life’s problems head-on, making it such a refreshing read.
The narrative follows multiple couples, their lives intricately intertwined in a labyrinth of emotions, making you feel connected at a whole different level. It’s an impressive debut, showing us the reality of love against a backdrop of real-world issues.
14 | Sign Me Up by Dulcie Dameron
Clean Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.30 out of 5 stars
What a rollercoaster year it’s been! First, my dad moves into a nursing home due to dementia, leaving me to fend for myself for the first time. Then, my taskmaster boss decided to turn our office environment upside down with a horrendous social experiment. As if that wasn’t enough, my ex, Mike, suddenly decides he’s interested again.
In the midst of this chaos, my hunky work friend, Parker, notices Mike’s renewed interest, and things between us start heating up. I always assumed my crush on Parker was a one-way street, but his recent flirty signals are making me question everything. Can I risk our friendship for a potential romance during this crazy time in my life?
💕 Why you should read this book? I must admit, this book totally stole my heart! It’s one of those clean romance novels that you can’t put down once you start. It’s a sweet rom-com, set in an office environment, playing out the ever-charming ‘friends to lovers’ trope.
But what truly sets it apart is the inclusion of ASL and deaf representation. The author navigates this with such sensitivity and grace, providing a fresh perspective that’s not often seen in this genre.
15 | Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson
Clean Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.36 out of 5 stars
Savannah Cade’s secret romance novel catches the interest of Claire Donovan, the country’s leading romance editor. But Savannah’s own publishing house holds a snobbish disdain for romance, deeming it unfit for anything but Dante’s lowest inferno.
A close call with exposure during a company meeting, including to William Pennington, son of the anti-romance CEO, sends Savannah hiding her manuscript in a secret turret room.
Returning, she’s shocked to find someone’s been in her hideout, leaving critical notes in her manuscript—comments identical to Claire’s feedback. With six weeks to resubmit and Claire about to retire, Savannah has no choice but to team up with her anonymous editor.
But as their notes multiply, the mystery editor becomes increasingly important, not just to her work, but her life. And Savannah can’t resist—she’s falling for her unknown critic. Now, if only she could find out who he is.
💕 Why you should read this book? I’ve got to say, having our main character as both an editor and an author added a whole new level of enjoyment to this read. It’s like peeking behind the curtain of the literary world, which is sort of a guilty pleasure of mine.
And then there’s this adorable romance that just warms your heart, making you root for them every step of the way. Now, I’m usually not a fan of the whole miscommunication trope in stories – it’s often annoying. But, I swear, in this book, it was handled so well that I found myself laughing out loud.
“Our eyes hold, and for a long moment we just smile. A warmth spreads through me. I can’t define it exactly, but if it were a scent, it’d be eggnog sprinkled with nutmeg. If a sound, it’d be the footsteps of a dear friend on your front porch.”
― Melissa Ferguson, Meet Me in the Margins
16 | How I Met Your Brother by Janette Rallison
Clean Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.90 out of 5 stars
In college, Marco Dawson and Belle were friends, nothing more. Belle was noticeably absent on Marco’s wedding day, and she happened to be the roommate of his wife.
Skip seven years; Marco’s divorced and vacationing in Cancun. Belle decides to reignite the old flame. But Flynn Dawson, Marco’s charming twin, has other plans. He believes in Marco’s reconciliation with his ex-wife and won’t let Belle interfere.
💕 Why you should read this book? I absolutely adored this book! The Cancun setting was like a breath of fresh air; it perfectly captured the essence of a light-hearted romance, making me feel like I was on vacation myself.
But what truly stole my heart was the delightful banter and the intriguing plot. It kept me engaged from the first page to the last, making it an absolute joy to read.
17 | The Accidental Beauty Queen by Teri Wilson
Clean Contemporary Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.64 out of 5 stars
Charlotte Gorman, a content elementary school librarian, is the polar opposite of her twin, Ginny, an Instagram-famous pageant queen. However, when an unexpected allergic reaction alters Ginny’s face the night before the Miss American Treasure competition, the twins find themselves pulling a switcheroo.
Unfamiliar with the glitz and glamour of the pageant world, Charlotte soon discovers there’s more to the scene than just a shiny crown after stepping into her sister’s high-heeled shoes.
💕 Why you should read this book? This book had me laughing out loud and racing through the pages like there was no tomorrow. The plot just zips along – it’s like a rollercoaster ride of hilarity and surprise twists.
And the romance is so sweet and light, just perfect. Not too mushy, but just enough to make your heart do a little happy dance.
FAQ for clean romance books
Is there a market for clean romance novels?
Absolutely, there’s a market for clean romance novels! Believe it or not, there’s a huge reader base out there who’s passionate about sweet, swoon-worthy love stories that focus on emotional connection, rather than explicit content.
What is another word for clean romance?
Another term often used to describe a clean romance is sweet, wholesome, or closed door. This term captures the essence of these love stories which focus on emotional connections, respect, and the tender moments shared between characters, rather than explicit sexual content.
What is a closed door romance book?
A closed-door romance book is a type of romance novel where any intimate relationships between characters are alluded to but not explicitly described. The focus lies more on the emotional connection, chemistry, and the personal growth of the characters rather than on their physical relationship.
The “closed door” is a metaphor for the intimate moments that occur off-page, leaving the specifics to the reader’s imagination. This allows a broader audience to enjoy the story without explicit content, while the romance aspect remains a significant part of the narrative.
What does wholesome romance mean?
Wholesome romance, often also referred to as clean romance, is a genre of romantic stories that focus on the emotional journey between two people falling in love.
Instead of explicit sexual content or graphic language, these stories emphasize the development of deep connections, mutual respect, and emotional growth. The narratives are usually light-hearted, uplifting, and leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling.
They remind us that romance can be sweet, sincere, and meaningful without the need for explicit content.
How do I find clean books to read?
Finding clean books to read can be a bit of a treasure hunt, but don’t worry, I’ve got some tips to share. Book review websites like Goodreads, Amazon reviews, Facebook groups, and this website are a great starting point.
They provide detailed descriptions and reviews that can help you find books fitting your criteria. Additionally, look out for publishers specializing in clean or wholesome literature.
If you’re a fan of a specific genre, there are often forums or social media groups where like-minded readers share suggestions. Lastly, don’t overlook your local library – librarians are a wealth of knowledge and always ready to guide you to your next great, clean read.
Did you discover the best clean romance novels?
So, there you have it! Clean romance novels offer you all the butterflies and heart-flutters of traditional romance but in a wholesome, family-friendly package.
These books are about the journey of love, the emotional rollercoaster, and the beauty of connection – proving that you don’t need explicit content to get hooked on a love story. Whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned reader, there’s always a clean romance novel waiting to sweep you off your feet.
Ready to take a break from contemporary romance and dive into the charming world of historical clean romance novels? I’ve put together a list of the top must-read books that will transport you back in time, all while delivering heartwarming love stories that are pure, passionate, and utterly enchanting.
Don’t wait – discover the allure of chivalry, grand gestures, and timeless love by checking out my hand-picked list of clean regency romance novels!
Let these stories sweep you off your feet and into the pages of history.
