List

Romance for Skeptics

By Skokie Staff Advisory Services

Romance might not be everybody's cup of tea, and that's okay. Here are some titles that feature romance in a nontraditional, yet entertaining way.

  • Seven Days in June

    2021 by Williams, Tia

    This character-driven, layered romance explores the delicacy of mother-daughter relationships. Williams’ writing is witty and refreshing, allowing her characters to shine as their story develops. Suggested by Michelle.

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  • Fleabag: Season 1

    2020

    Fleabag is a mess in every possible way, but her character development and how she navigates the relationships in her life will have you binge-watching both seasons. Her romance is layered and extremely complicated, which should be perfect for folks who prefer something not fluffy. Suggested by Amber.

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  • The House in the Cerulean Sea

    2020 by Klune, TJ

    Full of hope and second chances, Klune creates characters that are quirky and genuine. It is a delightful read exploring the meaning of found family, unconventional love, and the acceptance of the different. Suggest by Michelle.

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  • The Death of Vivek Oji

    2020 by Emezi, Akwaeke

    Akwaeke Emezi shows you the pretty and the ugly sides of humanity in this book. The exploration of identity and complex family relationships will linger with you long after you finish. Suggested by Amber and Michelle.

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  • The Starless Sea

    2019 by Morgenstern, Erin

    Zachary Ezra Rawlins has somehow managed to get himself stuck in a book in another dimension. His story ending will depend on the handsome stranger who keeps trying to steal his book. This multilayered novel with bits of magical realism and romance keeps the reader wondering what will happen next. Suggested by Michelle.

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  • Love and Monsters

    2021

    This film takes the tragedy of a post-apocalyptic world and gives you a brand new and wildly entertaining spin on it. Dylan O'Brien and Jessica Henwick give us a fantastic performance, and their romance is well-developed and incredibly sweet. There's an awesome dog, too. Suggested by Amber.

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  • The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

    2019 by Richardson, Kim Michele

    A heartfelt tale of one woman's bravery to ease the lives of her patrons despite their disdain for her color. This novel is full of courage, determination with a slow-burn romance, and the belief that books can bring us joy, especially in the darkest of times. Suggested by Michelle.

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  • Circe

    2018 by Miller, Madeline

    Banished by Zeus to a remote Island, a likable witch must choose between the mortals she has grown to love and her family of the gods. Suggested by Michelle.

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