Romance
Read Romance Classics in English
1,594 romance books at CEFR A2 to C2 — learn English by reading the stories worth reading. Select any word for an instant translation, listen to the narration read the page aloud, and save the vocabulary you meet. Pick your level and start with a free sample.
What are the best romance classics to read in English as a learner?
The best romance classics for English learners are the well-known titles you can read in the original — start with Three Weeks, Threads gathered up and Those Dale Girls. Each one is labelled with a CEFR level, any word you do not know is one selection away from a translation, and the narration reads the page aloud while it highlights the words.
- 1,594
- books
Level C1Science FictionMercia, the astronomer royal: A romanceIn a future where peace is enforced by the terrifying power of science, women rise to claim their rightful place alongside men, challenging centuries of inequality and forging a ne…
Level C1RomanceMemoirs of Emma CourtneyA passionate woman wrestles with the clash between virtue and desire, revealing the fragile nature of the human heart.
Level C1RomanceMaxA young man travels through the wintry night on the north express, clutching a secret treasure as memories of cold landscapes and distant cities flood his dreams—setting the stage…
Level C1RomanceMaurice GuestIn the vibrant heart of Leipzig's musical world, a young man named Maurice Guest is swept into a passionate journey of art, ambition, and longing, where the promise of spring mirro…
Level C1RomanceMaster of the VineyardAmid the tranquil beauty of a vineyard valley, Rosemary clings to a secret ritual—a scarlet ribbon signal—to summon a mysterious visitor who brings the promise of love and escape f…
Level C1RomanceMaster and MaidAs the new term begins at Hamchester College, the arrival of Lallie, a charming and spirited young woman with a mysterious connection to the students, stirs the quiet housemaster a…
Level C1RomanceMassimilla DoniAmid the faded grandeur of Venice’s noble families, a young patrician clings to his ancestral palace and the delicate beauty of a duchess, weaving a tale of love and loss where ari…
Level C1RomanceMary Seaham: A Novel. Volume 3 of 3A chance encounter in Edinburgh reignites the complicated romance between Mary and Eugene, whose love is tested by distance, doubt, and the pressures of society.
Level C1RomanceMary Seaham: A Novel. Volume 2 of 3A young woman’s heart is caught between devotion and scrutiny as her brother evaluates her suitor with keen eyes, while love and jealousy quietly weave through their intertwined li…
Level C1RomanceMary BartonIn the shadow of Manchester’s factories and rural fields, the lives of struggling workers intertwine with love and hardship, revealing deep social divides and the yearning for just…
Level C1RomanceMarujaIn the sunlit valleys near San Jose, a wandering wayfarer drifts past opulent estates and sleepy servants, hinting at a collision between untamed freedom and refined society—where…
Level C1RomanceMartin ValliantIn the shadowed halls of a moonlit priory, Brother Geraint prowls with a sly grin and simmering hatred, plotting against the young, golden-haired novice whose bold piety threatens…
Level C1RomanceMartha By-the-DayCaught in a stormy New York rush-hour, vulnerable Claire Lang finds unexpected protection from a towering, motherly stranger who commands respect and kindness in the chaos of the c…
Level C1RomanceMarried or single?, Vol. 2 (of 3)A young heiress is thrust into London society under the strict guidance of her sister-in-law, who has grand designs for her future—especially a marriage to her own brother, the elu…
Level C1RomanceMarriageA young woman journeys through the English countryside, caught between social expectations and personal dreams, while navigating the complexities of love, family, and the invisible…
Level C1RomanceMarriageAmid Edinburgh’s high society, sharp wit and keen satire expose the foibles of love and marriage, painting unforgettable portraits of human nature with humor and moral insight.
Level C1RomanceMarmadukeA returning captain reunites with the spirited granddaughter of his family's piper, their childhood bond reigniting amid class divides and unspoken tensions.
Level C1RomanceMarjorie Dean's RomanceIn a sunlit study filled with secrets and laughter, Marjorie Dean navigates college life, friendship, and mysterious plans for a daring party at Wayland Hall, where unexpected adve…
Level C1RomanceMarjorie Dean Macy's Hamilton ColonyIn a quiet town awaiting change, Marjorie Dean Macy senses something extraordinary is about to happen as old friends and secrets stir beneath the surface.
Level C1RomanceMarjorie DawA restless young man, confined by a broken leg and haunted by his own dark moods, finds solace only through the letters of a devoted friend who paints vivid scenes of seaside life…
Level C1RomanceMarion Fay: A NovelA young Radical Marquis defies family tradition and political expectations, forging a controversial friendship and romance that challenge the rigid social order.
Level C1RomanceMarietta: A Maid of VeniceIn the secretive glass workshops of Murano, a fiery master keeps a watchful eye on his talented daughter Marietta and the mysterious Dalmatian servant Zorzi, whose growing skills a…
Level C1RomanceMarie; a story of Russian loveAmidst the vast Russian steppes, a young sergeant reflects on his unconventional upbringing and the loyal bonds that shape his life, setting the stage for a poignant tale of love a…
Level C1RomanceMarie Gourdon: A Romance of the Lower St. LawrenceIn 1745 Scotland, amidst fierce storms and family strife within a Norman castle, the legacy of displaced Scottish soldiers unfolds as they blend into the rugged landscapes and cult…
Level C1RomanceMarianson: From "Mackinac And Lake Stories", 1899Amid the tense backdrop of the 1812 British invasion, a young Canadian voyageur flees through the wilds of Mackinac Island, seeking refuge in a mysterious cave where he encounters…
Level C1RomanceMarguerite De Roberval: A Romance of the Days of Jacques CartierIn 1539 France, daring seaman Jacques Cartier longs to escape cramped streets and return to the New World where gold, diamonds, and adventure await, while his loyal companion warns…
Level C1RomanceMargaret Vincent: A NovelIn the quiet English countryside, a disillusioned gentleman seeks refuge from society's noise and expectations, stumbling upon Woodside Farm where family secrets and unexpected rom…
Level C1RomanceMargaret Tudor: A Romance of Old St. AugustineHeld captive in 1670 San Augustin, Margaret Tudor pens a desperate plea for freedom while navigating perilous seas, lost loved ones, and a blossoming love with a noble kinsman amid…
Level C1RomanceMargaret DashwoodAmid the quiet trials of reduced means, Margaret Dashwood navigates family tensions and shifting affections with calm observation and gentle resilience.
Level C1RomanceMargaret Capel: A Novel, vol. 3 of 3In the quiet seclusion of Ashdale, Margaret Capel seeks solace from her sorrows, enduring unwanted attentions while finding healing in the wild beauty of the autumn shore.
Level C1RomanceMarcellaA young woman inherits an ancient estate, stepping into a world of privilege and mystery as she seeks to leave behind a troubled past.
Level C1RomanceMansfield ParkRaised from modest beginnings to Mansfield Park, Fanny Price enters a world of privilege and complex family ties, where love, duty, and social expectations intertwine in a delicate…
Level C1RomanceManners: A Novel, Vol 2Haunted by mixed emotions and sudden farewells, Selina navigates the complexities of society and her own tender heart amid the charms and challenges of fashionable life.
Level C1MysteryMan and MaidA sudden inheritance forces a reluctant man to return from a carefree holiday to an eerie family estate where he must confront an enigmatic cousin and a bizarre will that threatens…
Level C1RomanceMan and MaidHaunted by war wounds and lost love, a disfigured veteran in Paris navigates loneliness, desire, and the complex allure of three captivating women during the uncertain days of 1918…
Level C1FantasyMalvina of BrittanyIn a village shadowed by ancient folklore, a mischievous fairy named Malvina stirs trouble with magical pranks that challenge the boundary between myth and reality, weaving a tale…
Level C1RomanceMalbone: An Oldport RomanceAmid the stately colonial grandeur of Oldport, a summer arrival stirs old rivalries and hidden family secrets, setting the stage for a romance shadowed by past disappointments and…
Level C1RomanceMalayan Literature: Comprising Romantic Tales, Epic Poetry and Royal ChroniclesEnter a world of enchanted palaces, mystical sentinels, and passionate tales where love and supernatural forces intertwine in captivating Malayan romances filled with vivid imagery…
Level C1RomanceMaid Marian, and Other StoriesA reserved New York lawyer becomes captivated by a striking portrait of Maid Marian, stirring a deep, unexpected romantic sentiment within his practical life.
Level C1RomanceMaid MarianIn a forest abbey, a wedding is violently interrupted when the bride’s noble lover is accused of treason and drawn into a desperate fight for love and honor.
Level C1RomanceMaid Margaret of GallowayBound to a harsh convent against her will, a spirited young noblewoman wrestles with the stifling life imposed upon her and dreams of reclaiming the freedom and love she was denied…
Level C1RomanceMademoiselle de Maupin, Volume 1 (of 2)A daring tale of love and identity unfolds as Mademoiselle de Maupin navigates the complexities of passion and disguise in a world where appearances deceive and hearts are tested.
Level C1MysteryMadeline Payne, the Detective's DaughterRaised in loneliness and shadowed by cruelty, a young woman yearns for freedom and true happiness beyond her oppressive home.
Level C1RomanceMadame Flirt: A Romance of 'The Beggar's Opera'In the gritty streets of St.
Level C1RomanceMadame Chrysantheme — CompleteA French naval officer finds himself enchanted and entangled in a delicate romance with Madame Chrysantheme during his exotic stay in Japan, navigating cultural mysteries and fleet…
Level C1RomanceMadam ConstantiaAmid the turbulent backdrop of the American War of Independence, a British officer recounts his harrowing and unexpected experiences in the Carolinas, revealing the personal and po…
Level C1RomanceMacariaA young man shoulders the burden of supporting his ailing cousin and mother amid financial hardship, driven by unyielding ambition and love.
Level C1MysteryLucius Davoren; or, Publicans and sinners, vol. 3Amidst the lush gardens and genteel society of an English fête, a restless man wrestles with jealousy and discontent, haunted by love lost and a dark past.