Outlander by Diana Gabaldon (1991)

This gripping historical fantasy novel is the first in a series of nine (to date) and the catalyst for the cult television adaptation. World War II is over and British combat nurse Claire Randall is inadvertently transported back in time via an ancient stone circle on a Scottish hilltop to the 18th century. Finding herself amid warring clans and rising armies and unable to return home, Clare’s best chance of survival is to marry Highland warrior Jamie Fraser, triggering an epic love story that spans time and place.

Call Me by Your Name by Andre Aciman (2007)

This beautifully written tale of desire and obsession on the Italian Rivera sees Elio, a bookish 17-year-old become infatuated with Oliver, an academic seven years his senior, who is staying as a guest at Elio’s parent’s cliffside villa. Confident and carefree, Oliver revels in the affection of others but both men are unprepared for their intense mutual attraction and its consequences. A passionate summer romance ensues but after a whirlwind trip to Rome, Oliver prepares to return to America.

The Fault in our Stars by John Green (2012)

Although written for young adults, Green’s heartbreaking novel has readers of all ages reaching for the tissues. Hazel Grace and Augustus (Gus) meet in a group therapy session for teens living with cancer and they’re soon inseparable. Gus is in remission from the osteosarcoma that cost him one of his legs and Hazel’s cancer has spread, however, the two travel to Amsterdam where true love blooms, until Gus’s cancer returns. A life-affirming story that’s funny and shattering in equal measure.

Normal People by Sally Rooney (2018)

This novel about the ecstasy and anguish of young love became an instant classic, selling over a million copies and spurring a hit television series. It follows Marianne and Connell from high school to Trinity College and beyond as they navigate their feelings for each other, societal expectations and dark family secrets. It’s a funny, dry and poignant look at the emotional landscape of two beautifully flawed people trying to find their place in the world.

Beach Read by Emily Henry (2020)

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A favourite among Henry’s hugely popular books, this delightful read sees January Andrews arrive in a small town to clean out and sell her late father’s house. Disillusioned by love, the romance writer is struggling to pen her next bestseller. Staying at the beach house next door is Augustus Everett, author of literary fiction and fairy-tale sceptic. Opposites in every way, the two agree to swap genres to help get them out of their creative ruts, falling in love along the way. Henry fans will be thrilled to know that her new, equally captivating novel Funny Story is out now.

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