23 Enemies-to-Lovers Books That Turn Rivalry to Romance

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Of all the romance tropes, enemies-to-lovers is one of the juiciest. What could be better than two characters slowly learning that their hate for each other is actually intense attraction? It’s a recipe for delicious tension — and for incredibly compelling plotlines. (Just ask Shakespeare.)

The best enemies-to-lovers books weave together a bunch of different dynamics. They might feature a clash of personalities between two people who are stuck with each other, like in “Well Met” by Jen DeLuca or “The Ruin of a Rake” by Cat Sebastian. The rivalry might be traced to long-ago grudges, like in “The Hookup Plan” by Farrah Rochon or “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston. Or, in some cases, these enemies are quite literally out for blood, like in India Holton’s “The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels” or “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros.

However you like your enemies-to-lovers plots, you’re sure to find a book you love on this list.