Well, 'Married by Morning' by Lisa Kleypas is a wonderful fake marriage romance. The way the author builds the relationship between the characters who are in a forced marriage situation but then fall in love is really well - done. Also, 'To Have and to Hold' by Patricia Gaffney is a classic. The story of a couple in a fake marriage who gradually discover their deep connection is both heartwarming and exciting. 'Faking It' by Cora Carmack is also a good one. It shows how two people in a fake relationship start to have real feelings and how they deal with that transition.
A popular choice is 'Marriage for One' by Ella Maise. In this novel, the heroine enters into a marriage of convenience with a mysterious hero. The story unfolds as they get to know each other better and feelings start to develop. It's a sweet and heartwarming read. Also, 'The Unhoneymooners' by Christina Lauren has a bit of a marriage - of - convenience - like situation that leads to a lot of fun and romance.
Well, I really like 'The Forced Union' in this genre. The main characters are from rival families, and they are forced to marry to end the feud. The chemistry between them is palpable from the start. 'Compelled to Marry' is also a good one. The author does a great job of showing how the characters grow and change within the context of the forced marriage. Oh, and 'Bound by Marriage' is a novel where the forced marriage is more of a business deal at first, but then turns into a passionate love story.
One of the best is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It beautifully portrays the relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, starting from misunderstandings and gradually evolving into a deep and loving marriage. Another great one is 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon. The story of Claire and Jamie's marriage is filled with passion, adventure, and a unique time - traveling element that makes their relationship all the more captivating. And 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks also stands out. The love story between Noah and Allie, their enduring love through the years and their marriage, is truly heart - warming.
I would recommend 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. Although not a traditional forced marriage situation, Mr. Darcy's initial proposal to Elizabeth comes across as somewhat forced due to social expectations. As the story progresses, their relationship transforms into a true and passionate romance. The misunderstandings and the development of their relationship make it a classic in the romance genre.
'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston is also a wonderful choice. It involves a political situation where a fake relationship for diplomatic convenience between two characters from different countries (one a prince) develops into a beautiful love story. There are elements of humor, family drama, and of course, the growing romantic feelings between the two main characters.
A key characteristic is the slow - burn relationship. In the best fake marriage romance novels, the characters start off with a pretense but gradually, real emotions seep in. For example, in 'The Marriage Bargain', they begin as strangers in a marriage of convenience and it takes time for love to blossom. Another characteristic is strong character development. The characters need to grow both individually and as a couple. In 'The Hating Game', the two characters' personalities are well - defined and as they go through the fake relationship, they change for the better. Also, a good plot with some conflict is important. There should be obstacles that the couple has to overcome in their journey from a fake to a real relationship, like in 'A Deal with the Duke' where social differences pose a challenge.
One of the great ones is 'The Duke and I' by Julia Quinn. It features a forced marriage situation that gradually turns into a real love story. The characters are well - developed and the historical setting is vividly portrayed.
The emotional journey is crucial. The best novels in this genre take the readers on a ride from the initial awkwardness or indifference in the marriage of convenience to the gradual realization of love. There should be moments of self - discovery for the characters as well. For instance, a character might realize that they are capable of loving someone they initially married for practical reasons, and this transformation should be well - written and engaging.
I'd recommend starting with 'The Unwanted Marriage' as it's a classic in the forced marriage romance genre. It has a simple yet engaging plot. Another good starting point could be 'Forced Love, True Love' which has a fast - paced story that quickly draws you in.