7 Romantic Comedy Books You Must Read In 2026

Romantic comedies are more than light entertainment—they are emotional comfort food, cultural mirrors, and surprisingly sharp explorations of modern love. At their best, romantic comedy books make us laugh out loud while quietly teaching us about vulnerability, timing, and the courage it takes to choose connection. We read them for the banter and the butterflies, but we stay for the truth beneath the humor: love is messy, human, and worth the risk.

Below is a list of 7 romantic comedy books you must read in 2026.

1. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is the gold standard of romantic comedy, blending sharp wit with enduring emotional insight. Through Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, Jane Austen explores how misjudgment, social class, and personal growth shape romantic relationships. The humor is subtle yet incisive, arising from social observations and brilliantly crafted dialogue. What makes this novel timeless is its emotional intelligence—love only flourishes once both characters confront their own flaws. More than a romance, it’s a study of self-awareness and respect. Even centuries later, it remains deeply relatable and endlessly influential.

2. The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

The Love Hypothesis is a smart, humorous romantic comedy set in the high-pressure world of academia. Olive Smith enlists a fake-relationship experiment to prove her theory about love, creating countless humorous and heartfelt situations. Ali Hazelwood expertly combines scientific curiosity, emotional intelligence, and romantic tension, crafting a story that’s both intellectually satisfying and emotionally resonant. The novel addresses imposter syndrome, career ambition, and self-confidence while delivering a swoon-worthy romance. The chemistry between characters is electric, dialogue is sharp, and the emotional stakes feel real. It’s a modern rom-com that balances humor, heart, and relatable life challenges.

3. Well Met by Jen DeLuca

Set against the quirky backdrop of a small-town Renaissance Faire, Well Met blends playful humor with a slow-burn romance. Jen DeLuca crafts characters with distinct personalities, emotional depth, and charming quirks, making the interactions both laugh-out-loud funny and tenderly authentic. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, second chances, and building connections in unexpected places, showing how shared passions can foster intimacy. Its humor arises from situational comedy, witty dialogue, and the characters’ charming awkwardness. With a cozy, community-driven setting, this romantic comedy reminds readers that love often appears in the most unexpected—and delightful—circumstances.

4. Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

Ali Hazelwood blends romantic comedy with academic realism in Love, Theoretically. Set in the competitive world of STEM academia, the novel tackles imposter syndrome, gender bias, and professional ambition through sharp humor and compelling romance. The fake-dating trope is executed with intelligence and emotional nuance, while the leads connect through mutual respect and vulnerability. Hazelwood’s writing resonates strongly with readers who’ve navigated high-pressure careers, proving that love doesn’t require shrinking yourself—it thrives when both partners are fully seen and valued.

5. Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella

Sophie Kinsella turns everyday embarrassment into comedic brilliance in Can You Keep a Secret?. The story follows Emma, who accidentally confesses her deepest secrets to a stranger—who later becomes her boss. The humor is fast-paced and situational, but the heart of the novel lies in its exploration of authenticity and emotional honesty. Kinsella shows how hiding our true selves creates distance, while vulnerability builds connection. Light, charming, and emotionally resonant, this book is a reminder that being real is often the most attractive quality of all.

6. Beach Read by Emily Henry

Despite its playful title, Beach Read is a layered romantic comedy about grief, creativity, and emotional healing. Two writers with opposing styles challenge each other over one summer, leading to sharp banter and unexpected intimacy. Emily Henry excels at blending humor with melancholy, creating a romance that feels earned and deeply human. The novel explores communication, emotional avoidance, and personal growth, making it resonate far beyond its premise. It’s funny, tender, and reflective—proof that romantic comedies can be both comforting and profoundly meaningful.

7. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

The Rosie Project offers a refreshingly unconventional romantic comedy led by Don Tillman, a brilliant geneticist with rigid routines and little social awareness. His attempt to scientifically find a wife results in unexpected chaos—and connection. The humor arises naturally from Don’s literal worldview, while the story gently explores neurodiversity, empathy, and emotional learning. Graeme Simsion treats his protagonist with respect, allowing readers to laugh without cruelty. The novel’s charm lies in its warmth, showing that love isn’t about fitting a formula, but about embracing difference.

Conclusion

The best romantic comedy books do more than entertain—they heal, challenge, and inspire. They remind us that love doesn’t require perfection, just courage and curiosity. From classic wit to modern diversity, the seven books on this list represent the genre at its finest.

Start with the story that mirrors your current season of life. Read it not just for the romance, but for the laughter, insight, and reassurance that connection is always possible. Then pass it on—because joy, like love, is better when shared.