Royalty isn’t just for the British—romance knows no borders! In this collection, you’ll find princes and princesses from all corners of the globe, and even a few from entirely fictional realms. These contemporary royal romances promise drama, passion, and a whole lot of swoon-worthy moments. Whether it’s a dashing prince from a made-up kingdom or a fiery princess from a faraway land, get ready for some irresistible royal adventures that are anything but ordinary. Let’s explore some love stories that are fit for a king—or queen!
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21 Best contemporary royal romances that aren’t British royalty
Ever wondered what makes royal romances so captivating? Before we dive into the book recommendations, let’s address some common questions.
What is a royal romance?
A royal romance typically involves a love story featuring a member of a royal family—be it a prince, princess, king, queen, or any other noble rank. These stories often explore the clash between royal duties and personal desires, the pressures of public life, and the allure of forbidden love.
Why are royal romances popular?
Royal romances offer a mix of fantasy and reality, giving readers a peek into the glamorous yet complicated lives of royalty. The blend of high stakes, public scrutiny, and the fairy tale of castles and crowns makes these stories incredibly appealing.
Do royal romances have to be set in real kingdoms?
Not at all! Many royal romances are set in fictional kingdoms, allowing authors to create their own rules, customs, and challenges for their characters. This adds a layer of creativity and escapism to the genre. And we’ve got some of those on this list too. If you are looking for royal British romance books instead, we’ve also got you covered.
What tropes are common in royal romances?
Some popular tropes include arranged marriages, fake relationships, commoner-royal pairings, secret royalty, and the ever-dramatic forbidden love. These tropes add tension and excitement to the stories, keeping readers hooked from start to finish.
Now that we’ve got a handle on what royal romances are all about, it’s time to meet some royals who might just steal your heart. Think of it as diving into your favorite Hallmark royal romance movie, but with even more depth and drama.
Affaire Royale by Nora Roberts
Princess Gabriella’s sudden reappearance after being kidnapped sets the stage for a thrilling romance in Nora Roberts’ Affaire Royale. This is set in the fictional kingdom of Cordina. With her memory wiped, she’s vulnerable and confused, but American ex-cop Reeve MacGee is there to protect her. Tasked with keeping her safe, Reeve finds himself drawn to the princess in ways he never expected. Amidst the danger and intrigue, their chemistry sizzles, blending suspense with undeniable passion. If you love a strong protector and a damsel finding her strength, this royal romance will sweep you off your feet.
The Queen’s Game by Carla de Guzman
In The Queen’s Game by Carla de Guzman, Princess Nina returns to the fictional Filipina kingdom of Cincamarre under less-than-ideal circumstances: her father’s death forces her to ascend the throne. Known for her rebellious antics, Nina faces skepticism from her aunt, the regent. To prove herself, she must navigate the challenges of royalty, including a fake relationship with the impeccably polished Prince Felipe of Concordia. As she steps into her new role, Nina not only reconnects with Felipe but also begins to embrace the responsibilities and opportunities of being queen. Can the monarchy handle Queen Nina’s bold new approach?
Don’t miss our favorite Asian romance authors and Asian romance authors on Kindle Unlimited.
Royally Not Ready by Meghan Quinn
In Royally Not Ready by Meghan Quinn, expect laughter, heat, and a dash of royal chaos. Selling bikinis in Miami, our heroine meets the frosty yet irresistible Keller Fitzwilliam. With a Viking look and British charm, Keller insists she’s the heir to a sub-arctic kingdom north of the British Isles. After some fact-checking and lured by her late mother’s past, she heads off to this icy realm. Training to be queen under Keller’s stern guidance proves challenging, especially with their fiery chemistry. Can she handle royalty, and more importantly, can she handle Keller? This royally twisted fairytale will keep you hooked.
The Sinful King by Claire Contreras
Prince Elias returns to Marbella every summer, notorious for his wild parties and carefree attitude. But this year is different. In The Sinful King by Claire Contreras, he arrives alone, shrouded in mystery and far from the usual debauchery. When she crosses paths with Elias, the future King of France, their shared past and undeniable chemistry make it impossible to stay away. Despite strict orders to avoid him, she finds herself irresistibly drawn to the enigmatic prince.
The Winter Princess by Keira Dominguez
Princess Freja, known as the Lone Wolffe, just wants a peaceful exhibit launch and some cookies. Instead, she ends up causing a scene that lands on the prime minister’s head, witnessed by the grumpy yet smoking-hot art restorer Oskar Velasquez. With the National Museum in trouble and Oskar’s job on the line, the unlikely pair forms a reluctant alliance. In The Winter Princess by Keira Dominguez, a closed-door, enemies-to-lovers romance unfolds, blending royal mishaps with swoon-worthy chemistry. This funny, charming story is a delightful escape into the world of Sondmark’s royalty.
His Royal Princess by Jessica Clare
Princess Alexandra of Bellissime finds herself crushing on Hollywood star Luke Houston in His Royal Princess by Jessica Clare. When she sneaks onto his movie set to catch a glimpse, she ends up hiding in his private trailer, leading to a close encounter that’s far more exciting than she anticipated. As the heir to the throne, Alexandra is supposed to be composed, but her unplanned meeting with Luke ignites sparks that make her rethink all the royal rules. This short story gives a peek into the beginning of their romance, leading up to the royal wedding featured in Once Upon a Billionaire.
We’ve got even more steamy royal romances here.
Royal Date by Sariah Wilson
Kat MacTaggart’s meticulously planned ski trip takes an unexpected turn when she crashes down a mountainside and is saved by HRH Prince Nico. Intrigued by her refusal to date him, Nico offers Kat a deal: he’ll show her his country if she writes articles to boost Monterra’s tourism. Despite her rule of no kissing due to past heartbreak, the chemistry between them grows. As they navigate jealous nobility and meddling paparazzi, Kat must decide whether to stick to her no-romance rule or take a leap of faith for a chance at a fairy tale ending.
The Prince’s Bride by J.J. McAvoy
Prince Galahad “Gale” of Ersovia and American heiress Odette Wyntor are thrust into an arranged marriage neither wants. Gale, a spoiled playboy prince, must marry for the sake of his family’s finances, while Odette only stands to gain her inheritance through marriage. Despite their reluctance, duty compels Gale to comply with the crown’s wishes. As they navigate their forced engagement, Gale attempts to win Odette over, challenging her resistance to the idea of becoming royal. The Prince’s Bride is a compelling start to a trilogy.
A Princess for Christmas by Jenny Holiday
Leo Ricci is a hardworking New Yorker juggling life as a cab driver, building super, and guardian to his little sister, Gabby. When Gabby spots a princess trying to hail a cab outside the UN, Leo’s life takes a fairy-tale turn. Princess Marie of Eldovia, overwhelmed by her duties and her father’s depression, finds unexpected kindness in the gruff, handsome cab driver. Marie hires Leo for the rest of her trip, and what starts as a business arrangement turns into something more. When Leo and Gabby find themselves in Eldovia for Christmas, they realize that the princess might just be Leo’s perfect match in this sweet and sexy holiday romance.
A Nordic King by Karina Halle
When nanny Aurora takes on the job of caring for two little princesses, she never expected to fall for their father, the brooding King of Denmark, Aksel. Living in the royal palace in Copenhagen is challenging enough, but it’s Aksel’s cold demeanor and intense gazes that really get under her skin. Despite their undeniable chemistry and the stolen moments that hint at deeper feelings, Aurora knows their romance is forbidden. Falling in love with your boss is tough—falling for a king is a whole other story. A Nordic King is part of a 4-book series of standalones, each featuring a swoon-worthy royals.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our A Nordic King by Karina Halle book review
Royally Pucked by Pippa Grant
Spare heir Prince Manning has been banished to America for his latest indiscretion, under orders to stay far away from women while playing professional hockey. Enter Gracie Diamonte, an innocent baker with a penchant for dinosaur suits, who somehow slips past his defenses. What follows is a hilariously wrong yet charming romance, complete with an accidental pregnancy, dirty cookies, and an emotional support monkey. Royally Pucked by Pippa Grant is a delightful romantic comedy that stands alone, filled with laugh-out-loud moments and a heartwarming happily ever after.
The Royal Treatment by Melanie Summers
Crown Prince Arthur, known for his charm, must save the Royal Family from being ousted, but he needs help from Tessa Sharpe, the Royal Watchdog who hates his guts. When Arthur gives Tessa the keys to the castle, sparks fly. Despite their instant attraction, Tessa is determined to resist. This swoon-worthy, hilarious fairy tale features a prince making all the wrong moves for the right reasons, a woman out of her comfort zone, and the cutest palace pig ever. The Royal Treatment by Melanie Summers is a laugh-out-loud, feel-good romance that fans of Bridget Jones and The Princess Diaries will adore.
Cheeky Royal by Nana Malone
Being the worst royal guard in Winston Isles history isn’t easy, but Penny, known as “Calamity Penny,” somehow manages. When she’s sent on a mission to bring home the elusive Prince, her less-than-stellar reputation turns out to be an advantage. Disguised as the girl next door, Penny must win the prince’s trust without blowing her cover. The real challenge? Resisting the prince, who is as charming as he is hot. Balancing her secret mission and her unexpected feelings for the prince turns out to be more complicated than she ever imagined.
Once Upon a Royal Summer by Teri Wilson
Lacey Pope loves her job as a princess at a Florida theme park, even if her ex didn’t. Prince Henry of Bella-Moritz, fulfilling his daughter’s wish for a normal day, ends up at the same park. When Lacey and Henry cross paths, their lives take an unexpected turn. With Lacey’s genuine charm and Henry’s longing for something real, this chance encounter becomes much more.
How to Catch a Queen by Alyssa Cole
When Shanti Mohapi married the king of Njaza, she thought she’d be getting a happily ever after. Instead, she finds herself in a royal mess. Her husband, King Sanyu, is unsure of his role and their kingdom is teetering on the brink of chaos. Shanti, determined and brilliant, wants to help—but she’s not sure how to reach Sanyu. As they navigate political intrigue and their own personal challenges, sparks fly and true love starts to blossom. How to Catch a Queen by Alyssa Cole is a compelling tale of love, power, and finding one’s place in the world.
Royally Screwed by Emma Chase
Nicholas Arthur Frederick Edward Pembrook, Crown Prince of Wessco—aka “His Royal Hotness”—is used to people bowing down to him. But when a snowy night in Manhattan leads to a pie in the face from dark-haired waitress Olivia Hammond, he’s instantly intrigued. Olivia never imagined dating a prince, and now she’s dealing with a disapproving queen, an inappropriate spare heir, and relentless paparazzi. Despite the public scrutiny and royal pressures, Nicholas finds himself drawn to Olivia’s defiance and charm.
Twisted Games by Ana Huang
Rhys Larsen, a stoic and brooding elite bodyguard, has always followed two rules: protect his clients and never get emotionally involved. That is until he meets Princess Bridget von Ascheberg, whose fiery spirit and stubborn streak challenge his resolve. As her bodyguard, Rhys finds himself torn between duty and desire, breaking down his defenses inch by inch. Meanwhile, Bridget faces the prospect of a loveless, politically motivated marriage after her brother abdicates, forcing her into a role she never wanted. Their forbidden love threatens to destroy them both, and the kingdom they vow to protect.
Lush Money by Angelina M. Lopez
Roxanne Medina, a sultry, self-made billionaire, has a simple proposal for the impoverished Prince Mateo: a marriage of convenience with three nights a month together. At the end of the year, she’ll grant him a divorce and a hefty settlement to save his beloved kingdom. Roxanne has faced down bullies, Ivy League snobs, and boardrooms full of men, and now she wants to mother a princess and fill the loneliness at the top. Prince Mateo, a top winegrower, resists at first, but Roxanne’s undeniable allure and the promise of saving his principality make the proposition impossible to refuse.
My Royal Showmance by Lexi Blake
Anika Fox is a rising star at her production company, but her latest assignment is undercover on a reality TV dating show, The King Takes a Bride. Posing as a production assistant, she must report on any problems with the show’s director. Enter Luca St. Marten, the king of the tiny European country Ralavia. He’s reluctantly agreed to do the show to boost tourism. When a contestant drops out, Anika is roped in as a last-minute replacement, expecting to be sent home immediately. However, Luca keeps choosing her, blurring the lines between reality TV and genuine romance.
Ruthless Reign by Aleatha Romig
Roman Archibald Godfrey has a secret that could upend the world of gowns, castles, and crowns he inhabits. Sworn to protect Molave, the king, and Princess Lucille, Roman knows the princess is off-limits. But the allure of forbidden fruit is strong, and illusions distort even the clearest visions. In Ruthless Reign, the first book in Aleatha Romig’s Royal Reflections series, trust no one and expect the unexpected. As Roman navigates the shadows lurking behind smiles and chivalrous facades, he must decide if he can resist the temptation of the princess he’s vowed to protect.
Suddenly Royal by Nichole Chase
Samantha Rousseau’s life turns upside down when she learns she’s the heiress to an estate in Lilaria. Focused on her master’s degree and caring for her sick father, Samantha never expected a duchess’s dinner invitation to reveal a royal heritage. Enter Alex D’Lynsal, the scandal-plagued crown prince of Lilaria, who meets his match in the feisty and sexy Samantha. Navigating her new world of politics and wealth, Samantha must also handle her growing attraction to Alex. Falling for him means more than just love—it means accepting the responsibilities of royalty.
We hope you enjoyed our journey through contemporary royal romances beyond the British Isles. These tales of love and duty are perfect for anyone dreaming of a modern-day fairy tale. There’s something here for every romance reader.
We’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below with your favorite royal romance or let us know which book from our list you’re excited to read next. And don’t forget, you can explore even more royal romances with any of our lists below.
Read More
- Fantasy Royal Romance Books
- Steamy Royal Romances
- Young Adult Romance Books
- Royal British Romance Books
- Romance books set in London
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