My Favorite Romance Novels Set Abroad

I am a sucker for a love story that takes place far from home—it’s one of the reasons why those are the types of romance books I write! Whether it’s the cobblestone streets of a quiet European town, the salty air and blinding sun of an island escape, or a bustling Southeast Asian city, the setting can make a romance book even more of an adventure. These books make you swoon while transporting you to new places, and you’ll often fall in love with the setting just as much as the characters. Here are some of my favorite romance books set abroad—perfect for when you want to add a little wanderlust to your reading list.

Beer Fest by Lilo Moore

With Oktoberfest having just wrapped up in Munich, this one only seems fit to start the list! This one is a friends to lovers romance book where over a decade has passed, so it’s fun to see how things finally heat up between the main characters, Fi and Max. This one is perfect if you want a romcom with the spice.

Our Stop by Laura Jane Williams

This book is the definition of giggling and kicking my feet. It is absolutely adorable. There are a lot of missed chances between the two main characters in the book, and it creates a lot of tension and gets you rooting for them from the very start.

Just Haven’t Met You Yet by Sophie Cousens

I love the trope when the love-obsessed woman who is certain that someone is her soulmate goes on a journey and discovers her real soulmate in the process. Cousens also manages the perfect mix of funny and heartfelt, so this one is a fun adventure to go on.

Of All People by Lily Baines

Few places are more romantic than Italy, and add in a woman starting over trope (my catnip), and I am all over this one. It’s a dreamy getaway with plenty of drama along the way.

Love in the Scottish Fall Forest by Beatrice Bradshaw

The more single dad romances I read, the more I like the trope! Beatrice writes books set in Scotland that make you literally feel like you’ve been transported there, and the characters she writes are always so endearing, flaws and all. I love the fall vibes for this one, but you honestly can’t go wrong with any of her Scottish romance books.


Check out some Europe-set reads to satisfy your wanderlust here.

Get swept away with romances set against the backdrop of Europe's most enchanting cities, coasts, and countrysides. Whether you write Italian flings, slow-burn love in the Scottish Highlands, or whirlwind affairs in Paris, these stories promise heart, heat, and a hint of wanderlust.


Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert

Talia Hibbert is British, so her books are typically set in the UK. This was my favorite of the Brown sisters’ trilogy (although all are great). Chloe Brown is so relatable and the chemistry between her and the MMC is sizzling hot!

The Half of It by Theresa Christine

For June, it started with a DNA test that leads to a surprise half sister in Ireland, which leads to the family she never knew she wanted, which leads to the family friend who cracks her heart open in all the best ways. Emotional and spicy, this is perfect if you love complicated characters and dreamy escapes.

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

One of my favorites of all time! This book will have you laughing, crying, swooning, blushing, and everything in between.

Every Summer After by Carley Fortune

Carley Fortune is the master of a nostalgic setting that makes your heart ache. I absolutely devoured this book, and if you want a solid friends-to-lovers one, this is the one for you.

Off the Map by Trish Doller

The FMC in this book is one I really related to, so I loved following her journey and seeing her find love. And who could say no to a handsome Irishman and a road trip?

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