If you love diving into stories where the sparks fly amidst textbooks and lecture halls, you’re in for a treat. There’s something uniquely captivating about campus and academic romance books — the blend of coming-of-age moments, intense emotions, and the intellectual backdrop just makes the romance that much sweeter (or steamier).
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5 Campus and Academic Romance Books
During one of our Novel Nights live shows, I recommended these books and today I’m highlighting those five campus and academic romance books that will transport you straight to the heart of these passionate, often complicated, relationships.
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
The Love Hypothesis blends grumpy-sunshine dynamics with a fake dating trope, set against an academic backdrop. The heroine, a PhD candidate, ends up fake dating a grumpy professor, navigating the politics of academia while trying to keep up the charade. It’s a fun, light-hearted rom-com that also tackles the challenges of being a woman in STEM.
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If you want to read about more smart romance heroines, check out our women in STEM romance books list.
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
Vampire Academy takes place in a boarding school for vampires and their bodyguards. The story follows a forbidden romance between a student and her mentor, filled with action, royalty vibes, and plenty of teenage drama. It’s a YA paranormal romance with a strong heroine and a world full of danger and intrigue.
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Did you read Vampire Academy and want more? Check out list of books to read after Vampire Academy.
Beauty and the Baller by Ilsa Madden-Mills
Beauty and the Baller mixes sports romance with a small-town setting. The heroine, a school librarian, enters a fake dating arrangement with an ex-NFL quarterback who’s now the town’s football coach. With neighbors-to-lovers vibes and a touch of academic politics, this is a heartwarming read that blends romance with small-town charm.
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Check out even more romance books about librarians.
Black Rainbow by J.J. McAvoy
Black Rainbow dives into a student-teacher romance. The heroine, a law student, has a fling with a man she later discovers is her professor. As she navigates the challenges of law school, she must decide whether to pursue a mentorship under him or walk away. This one’s all about forbidden love and the complexities of academic life.
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The Headmaster by Tiffany Reisz
The Headmaster is a Gothic romance set in an eerie all-boys boarding school. The grieving heroine takes a teaching position and becomes entangled with the mysterious headmaster. With its atmospheric setting, haunting vibes, and a touch of mystery, this is a perfect read for those who love a good Gothic romance.
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Do you have any favorites? Leave a comment below with your recommendations for campus and academic romance books. And check out some of the links below for even more book recs.
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