The 9 Best Forced Proximity Romance Books You Should Read Now

Forced Proximity Romance is a sub-genre of romantic fiction, where the two main characters are forced to spend a significant amount of time in close proximity due to circumstances beyond their control. It could be anything from being stranded on an island, stuck in a cabin during a snowstorm, or even a pretend relationship. While the genre has been around for ages, it has recently gained popularity due to its interesting plotlines and the steamy romance that ensues when two people are confined to a small space. Here are our top picks for the 9 best forced proximity romance books you should read now.

The 9 Best Forced Proximity Romance Books You Should Read Now

What is Forced Proximity Romance?

Forced Proximity Romance is a sub-genre of romantic fiction that centers around two characters who are forced to be near each other due to circumstances beyond their control. These circumstances can be anything from being stranded on a deserted island to being stuck in an elevator during a power outage. Whatever the situation, the characters are brought together in a way that they may not have expected, and they are forced to confront their feelings for each other.

Forced proximity romance stories are often marked by tension, humor, and quippy dialogue. The characters may start off disliking each other, but as they spend more time together, they begin to see each other in a new light. This can lead to a slow burn romance that is both satisfying and heartwarming.

Defining Forced Proximity Romance

Forced proximity romance can be defined as a circumstance in which two individuals become emotionally attached or romantically involved when they are faced with a sudden or unexpected dilemma. This dilemma could be anything that forces them to spend prolonged periods of time together, including natural disasters, kidnapping, or illness.

One example of forced proximity romance is the classic tale of “Romeo and Juliet.” In this story, the two lovers are forced to be apart due to their families’ feud. However, when they are finally brought together, they fall deeply in love and are willing to risk everything to be together.

The Appeal of Forced Proximity Romance Stories

One of the most appealing aspects of forced proximity romance stories is the tension that arises when two people are forced to spend time together in a small, confined space. The lack of space means that the characters are forced to confront their feelings and consider their attraction to the other person, which creates a heightened sense of anticipation and excitement.

Additionally, the intense circumstances that they find themselves in lend themselves well to suspenseful plotlines and thrilling adventures that keep readers thoroughly engaged. Whether it’s surviving a natural disaster or solving a mystery, the characters in forced proximity romance stories are often put in high-stakes situations that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Forced proximity romance stories also offer a sense of escapism for readers. In these stories, characters are brought together in unexpected ways, and they are able to find love and happiness despite the odds. This can be a comforting and uplifting message for readers who may be going through difficult times in their own lives.

Overall, forced proximity romance stories are a delightful sub-genre of romantic fiction that offer readers a unique and exciting reading experience. Whether you’re a fan of slow burn romances or thrilling adventures, there is sure to be a forced proximity romance story out there that will capture your heart.

Classic Forced Proximity Romance Novels

Forced proximity romance novels have been a popular genre for centuries. They feature characters who are thrown together, often against their will, and who must navigate their feelings for each other while dealing with external challenges. Here are three classic examples:

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice, Annotated (Penguin Classics)

Perhaps one of the most beloved forced proximity romance novels of all time, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen features Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, who are thrown together due to their social status and the expectation of marriage. While at times the two seem to hate each other, they eventually learn to appreciate each other’s strengths and fall in love.

Set in the early 19th century, the novel is a commentary on the social norms of the time, particularly regarding marriage and class. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s relationship is marked by misunderstandings and miscommunications, but as they spend more time together, they begin to see each other in a new light. Their love story has captured the hearts of readers for generations.

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

Wuthering Heights

Wuthering Heights is a dark and haunting novel featuring Catherine and Heathcliff, whose intense relationship is marked by obsession and abuse. While not necessarily a romantic story in the traditional sense, it is a classic tale of two people who are forced to spend time together and how that experience shapes their lives.

The novel is set in the wild and rugged Yorkshire moors and is known for its Gothic elements and supernatural themes. Catherine and Heathcliff’s relationship is tumultuous and destructive, but it is also passionate and all-consuming. Their story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of obsession and the consequences of our actions.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Jane Eyre (Penguin Classics)

Jane Eyre is a classic Victorian novel featuring the titular heroine and Mr. Rochester, her employer, who are brought together despite their class differences. Their relationship blossoms throughout the novel, but it is only after they are forced to confront external challenges that they fully come to realize their love for each other.

The novel is a commentary on gender roles and the limitations placed on women in Victorian society. Jane is a strong and independent character who refuses to conform to societal expectations, while Mr. Rochester is a brooding and mysterious figure who harbors a dark secret. Their love story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Contemporary Forced Proximity Romance Books

Forced proximity is a classic trope in the romance genre, and these contemporary novels take it to the next level. Here are some of the best books that feature two people who can’t stand each other being forced to spend time together.

The Hating Game by Sally Thorne

The Hating Game: A Novel

The Hating Game is a workplace romance that will have you laughing out loud. Lucy Hutton and Josh Templeman are executive assistants at a publishing company who have been engaged in a bitter rivalry for years. When they are both up for the same promotion, they are forced to work together and share an office. As they spend more time together, they begin to see each other in a different light and realize that their feelings might be more than just hatred.

Thorne’s witty dialogue and steamy scenes make this book a must-read for fans of contemporary romance.

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

The Unhoneymooners

The Unhoneymooners is a hilarious novel that will make you believe in love-hate relationships. Olive and Ethan are sworn enemies who are forced to go on a romantic honeymoon together after their siblings fall ill on their wedding day. As they navigate the challenges of pretending to be newlyweds, they begin to see each other in a different light and realize that their chemistry is undeniable.

Christina Lauren’s signature humor and heart make this book a perfect beach read.

Roomies by Christina Lauren

Roomies

Roomies is a charming novel about two people who are brought together by circumstance. Holland Bakker is infatuated with a street musician named Calvin, but they have never spoken. When her uncle offers Calvin a job in his Broadway musical, Holland is forced to marry him to get him the necessary documentation. As they navigate the challenges of their new marriage and the pressures of the music industry, they begin to realize their feelings for each other are more than just a sham.

Christina Lauren’s writing is as enchanting as ever in this delightful novel.

Forced proximity romance novels are perfect for readers who love a slow burn and a happy ending. These three books are some of the best in the genre and are sure to leave you with a smile on your face.

Forced Proximity Romance in Fantasy and Science Fiction

Forced proximity romance is a popular sub-genre in both fantasy and science fiction literature. It often involves two characters who are forced to be in close quarters due to circumstances beyond their control. This can lead to tension, conflict, and eventually, romance.

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses

A Court of Thorns and Roses is a captivating fantasy novel that will transport you to a magical world filled with danger and intrigue. The story follows Feyre, a human girl who is kidnapped by a faerie lord and forced to live with him in his kingdom. As she learns more about his world and the politics that shape it, she begins to fall in love with him, despite their different backgrounds and allegiances.

Their forced proximity leads to a complex and compelling romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The tension between them is palpable, and you can’t help but root for them to overcome their differences and find a way to be together.

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Graceling (Graceling Realm Book 1)

Graceling is a high fantasy novel that will take you on an epic adventure filled with danger, magic, and romance. The story follows Katsa, a warrior with the gift of killing, and Po, a prince who is searching for his kidnapped grandfather. As they work together to uncover the truth about his disappearance, their relationship blossoms and they come to rely on each other in unexpected ways.

Their forced proximity leads to a deep and meaningful connection that will tug at your heartstrings. Their journey is filled with danger and uncertainty, but their love for each other gives them the strength to overcome any obstacle.

These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner

These Broken Stars: A Starbound Novel (The Starbound Trilogy Book 1)

These Broken Stars is a sci-fi romance that will take you on a thrilling journey through space. The story follows Lilac LaRoux, a wealthy heiress, and Tarver Merendsen, a war hero who is from a lower social class. When their luxury starship crashes on a deserted planet, they are forced to work together to survive and eventually fall in love.

Their forced proximity leads to a slow-burning romance that will leave you breathless. Their journey is filled with danger and uncertainty, but their love for each other gives them the courage to keep fighting.

These are just a few examples of the fantastic forced proximity romance books out there. Whether you love classic literature or modern romance, there is something for everyone in this genre. So why not give it a try and see how two people can fall in love in the most unexpected places?

FAQs

What is a forced proximity romance book?

A forced proximity romance story is one that obliges the two protagonists to spend time with each other with no escape. This gives them time to get to know each other, even if they don’t want to, and eventually fall in love.

What other subgenres overlap the forced proximity romance subgenre?

Nanny romances, office romances, and enemies to lovers are the main subgenres that overlap.

What are some good examples of forced proximity romance books?

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren, Twisted Games by Ana Huang, The Roommate by Rosie Danan, The Marriage Game by Sara Desai, and One Night on the Island by Josie Silver are all good choices.

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Eddison Monroe
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