Step right up and get ready for a whirlwind of romance under the big top! Romance circus books offer a unique blend of mystery, excitement, and love that’s hard to resist. In this list, you’ll find heart-pounding romances set against the vibrant, chaotic backdrop of the circus or starring circus performers. And if you’re looking for even more circus-themed entertainment, stick around till the end for a couple of must-watch recommendations.
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Watch our video below with some of our favorite circus romance books.
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20 of the best circus romance books
Feeling like your romance reads are getting a bit predictable? Circus books are the perfect escape. They whisk you away to unique settings, far from the usual coffee shops and small towns, and into a world of glittering tents and roaring crowds. The characters are daring and intriguing—think fearless acrobats and mysterious magicians living life on the edge. The high-stakes drama and suspense will keep you hooked, while the fantastical elements make everything feel magical and extraordinary. Plus, with such a vibrant backdrop, the love stories are fresh and unpredictable, giving you a break from the usual romance plots.
Six of Hearts by L.H. Cosway
Six of Hearts by L.H. Cosway is a blend of romance and mystery. Jay Fields, a magician with a dark past, and Matilda, a quiet but strong-willed woman, come together in a story filled with secrets, illusions, and unexpected love. Jay’s charm and Matilda’s resilience make for a captivating read that keeps you guessing till the end. This book is a perfect pick if you’re into mysterious bad boys and slow-burn romance.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Six of Hearts by L.H. Cosway book review
Hearts of Fire by L.H. Cosway
Hearts of Fire by L.H. Cosway takes you into the heart of the circus with the story of Jack McCabe, a brooding fire-eater, and Lille, an aspiring artist. Their journey is filled with sizzling chemistry, danger, and the magical allure of the circus. Jack’s intensity and Lille’s free spirit create a beautiful, fiery romance that’s impossible to put down.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Hearts of Fire by L.H. Cosway book review
King of Hearts by L.H. Cosway
King of Hearts by L.H. Cosway brings us the story of Oliver King, a charming but troubled gambler, and Alexis, a resilient woman who becomes his unlikely savior. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant circus world, their story is one of redemption, heartbreak, and the healing power of love. Oliver and Alexis’s journey is emotional and deeply touching.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our King of Hearts by L.H. Cosway book review
Wicked as They Come by Delilah S. Dawson
Wicked as They Come by Delilah S. Dawson whisks you into the whimsical world of Sang, where Tish Everett, a practical nurse, finds herself transported into a mysterious carnival. There, she meets Criminy Stain, a seductive and charming Bludman. Their chemistry is electric, and the world of Sang is filled with magic, danger, and romance. If you’re into fantasy worlds and magnetic anti-heroes, this one’s for you.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Wicked as They Come by Delilah S. Dawson book review
Wicked as She Wants by Delilah S. Dawson
Wicked as She Wants by Delilah S. Dawson follows the story of Ahnastasia, a Blud princess, and Casper, a musician with a troubled past. Their journey across Sang is filled with adventure, peril, and sizzling tension. Ahnastasia’s fierce determination and Casper’s hidden depths make for a gripping read. This book is perfect if you love strong heroines and adventurous love stories.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Wicked as She Wants by Delilah S. Dawson book review
Wicked After Midnight by Delilah S. Dawson
Wicked After Midnight by Delilah S. Dawson takes you deeper into the fantastical world of Sang with Demi Ward, a contortionist, and Vale Hildebrand, part thief part nomad. Their quest through Paris is thrilling and packed with danger, passion, and dark secrets. Demi’s daring spirit and Vale’s roguish charm make this a captivating tale. Ideal for readers who crave adventurous romances with a touch of the supernatural.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Wicked after Midnight by Delilah S. Dawson book review
There’s even more novellas in the series with a circus romance setting. Check out the rest of our reviews of the Blud series.
Making Up by Lucy Parker
Making Up by Lucy Parker is a delightful romance set in the world of London theater. Trix Lane, a talented aerialist, is determined to prove herself, while her rival, makeup artist Leo Magasiva, seems intent on getting under her skin. Their sizzling chemistry and witty banter make for a fun, engaging read. As they work together, sparks fly and their animosity turns into something much deeper. Perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers and behind-the-scenes drama in the performing arts.
Once Burned by Jeaniene Frost
Once Burned by Jeaniene Frost features Leila, a circus performer with a dangerous gift—she can channel electricity and see people’s darkest secrets with a single touch. Her life takes a thrilling turn when she’s kidnapped and forced to use her abilities to find the infamous vampire Vlad Tepesh. Sparks fly, literally and figuratively, between Leila and Vlad. This paranormal romance is perfect for readers who love strong heroines.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Once Burned by Jeaniene Frost book review
Check out our podcast season where we dive deep in the Night Huntress series and discuss every book in the Night Huntress world.
Red Flags by Skye Warren
Red Flags by Skye Warren throws you into the enigmatic world of Cirque des Miroirs, where Logan Whitmere reigns supreme. Secretive and commanding, Logan offers Sienna Cole a way out of her small town as the circus’s fortune teller. But Logan’s possessive and obsessive nature hides dark secrets. As Sienna falls for him, she’s forced to confront her own past. This intense romance is perfect for those who love a possessive hero and a setting filled with intrigue and danger.
White Lies by Skye Warren
White Lies by Skye Warren continues the thrilling saga at Cirque des Miroirs, where Logan Whitmere’s control is tested by his attraction to the rebellious Sienna Cole. With mystery and mayhem at every turn, Logan must choose between his dedication to the circus and his love for Sienna. Their chemistry threatens to unravel everything, making this a must-read for fans of high-stakes romance and dramatic twists.
A Promise of Fire by Amanda Bouchet
A Promise of Fire by Amanda Bouchet introduces us to Cat, a powerful soothsayer hiding at a traveling circus to escape her dangerous past. When warlord Griffin captures her, recognizing her unique abilities, sparks fly. As they journey together, Cat must navigate her growing feelings for Griffin while protecting her secrets. This fantasy romance is packed with action, magic, and sizzling chemistry.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our A Promise of Fire by Amanda Bouchet book review
Rewrite the Stars by Charleigh Rose
Rewrite the Stars by Charleigh Rose takes you into the tantalizing world of the circus, where Sebastian, a brooding and mysterious stuntman, meets Evangeline, a girl looking for escape and runs off with the traveling carnival. Their chemistry is undeniable, but the angst in this one is epic. This gripping romance is perfect for those who crave a dark, emotional, and captivating love story.
Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips throws together Daisy, a whimsical and sheltered heiress, and Alex, a no-nonsense circus manager, in an unexpected arranged marriage. Daisy is thrust into the rough-and-tumble circus life, where she must prove herself while resisting her growing attraction to Alex. Despite their differences, sparks fly, and Daisy discovers a strength she never knew she had. This is a heartwarming and humorous romance perfect for those who love opposites-attract stories.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips book review
Try even more of our vintage romance book recommendations.
Ringmaster by Brianna Hale
Ringmaster by Brianna Hale introduces Cale, the charismatic ringmaster of Meriful’s Traveling Circus, who takes in Ryah, a young woman battered by life but ready for a fresh start. Ryah quickly becomes the star horseback acrobat, but it’s Cale’s thrilling knife-throwing act that captivates her heart. As they grow closer, the lines between their professional and personal lives blur, leading to a passionate and dangerous romance. This book is perfect for readers who are not scared of an age gap romance with intense chemistry, and found family.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Ringmaster by Brianna Hale book review
Escaping from Houdini by Kerri Maniscalco
Escaping from Houdini by Kerri Maniscalco follows Audrey Rose and Thomas on a luxurious yet perilous cruise featuring a carnival. As murders mimicking Houdini’s tricks unfold, they must solve the mystery while grappling with their own growing attraction. Set against a backdrop of historical intrigue and dark magic, this suspenseful romance is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of mystery and passion.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Escaping from Houdini by Kerri Maniscalco book review
The Failed Audition by Krista & Becca Ritchie
The Failed Audition by Krista and Becca Ritchie (previously known as Amour Amour) takes you into the dazzling world of the circus, where Thora James dreams of becoming a star. After a failed audition for the elite Aerial Ethereal, Thora is determined to prove herself and win a spot. Along the way, she meets Nikolai, a talented and enigmatic performer who challenges her in more ways than one. Their chemistry is electric, but the stakes are high.
The Secret Ex-Boyfriend by Krista & Becca Ritchie
The Secret Ex-Boyfriend by Krista and Becca Ritchie (previously known as Infini) delves into the complicated lives of Luka Kotova and Baylee Wright, two circus performers with a past. Despite their undeniable connection, they must keep their relationship a secret to protect their careers and family ties. As they navigate the pressures of performing and the challenges of their hidden romance, their bond is tested. This emotional and gripping tale is perfect for readers who love second-chance romance.
The Contortionist by Kathryn Ann Kingsley
The Contortionist by Kathryn Ann Kingsley takes you into the eerie world of Harrow Faire, where Cora Glass’s ordinary life as a bank teller is upended by the reappearance of a mysterious, long-abandoned circus. The price of admission? Far more than she ever imagined. Cora becomes the center of a dark and twisted battle between the fiendish Puppeteer and the elusive Mr. Harrow, both determined to claim her for their own. Caught in this three-ring nightmare, Cora must navigate a web of secrets, danger, and unexpected attractions. Perfect for fans of dark fantasy.
The Last Kiss Goodnight by Gena Showalter
The Last Kiss Goodnight by Gena Showalter pulls you into the dark and magical world of a circus where paranormal beings perform for human audiences. Solomon Judah, a powerful warrior, is imprisoned in a cage and forced to perform. His only solace is the nightly visits from Vika, the circus owner’s daughter, who is kind and compassionate despite her father’s cruelty. As their bond grows, Vika and Solomon must navigate the treacherous circus environment and their forbidden love.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Last Kiss Goodnight by Gena Showalter book review
The Traveling Man by Jane Harvey-Berrick
The Traveling Man by Jane Harvey-Berrick follows the captivating and tumultuous romance between Aimee and Kes, who meet when the circus comes to town. Aimee, a small-town girl, is drawn to the adventurous and free-spirited Kes, a performer with the traveling circus. Despite their different worlds, they form an intense connection that faces numerous challenges. As Aimee gets swept up in the excitement and unpredictability of circus life, she must decide if she’s ready to take the risk for a love that defies all odds. This emotional and passionate story is perfect for those who love romance with a touch of wanderlust and adventure. This is the first in the Traveling series which also features a lot more books set at a traveling carnival.
Looking for something to watch instead?
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen immerses you in the gritty world of a traveling circus during the Great Depression. Jacob Jankowski, a veterinary student who finds himself orphaned and penniless, jumps aboard a passing train and enters the magical yet harsh life of the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth. Here, he meets Marlena, the beautiful equestrian star, and her charismatic yet cruel husband, August. As Jacob cares for the circus animals, he falls deeply in love with Marlena, leading to a tale of passion, danger, and unexpected friendships. This riveting story is also a movie, so make sure to add it to your watch list.
Grab this book on Amazon or watch the trailer
Untameable
Untameable on Netflix dives into the tumultuous real-life romance in 1980s Spain between TV and movie star Bárbara Rey and renowned circus performer Ángel Cristo. Ángel, the world’s best animal tamer, faces mounting debts threatening his circus. Enter Bárbara, whose star power could be his financial savior—and more. Their marriage quickly turns into chaos, and behind the glitz and glamour lie struggles with drug addiction, gambling, and infidelity. This gripping series, based on true events, offers a raw and compelling look at their dramatic love story. If you love intense drama filled with mystery and a circus twist, this show is a must-watch.
Did you find a book to try?
We hope you’ve found some exciting new reads to add to your list. The world of the circus offers a unique and captivating backdrop for romance that’s hard to resist and we wish more authors would feature it.
Now, we want to hear from you! Have a favorite circus romance book we didn’t include? Drop a comment below and let us know. We’re always on the lookout for more great reads.
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