Audiobooks are a convenient way to enjoy books without needing to read and many opt to use them while doing other activities like cooking, walking or driving. Our post on “Audiobook Statistics” reports that audiobooks are gaining popularity and as much as one in five Americans prefer to listen to audiobooks than read eBooks. Because they are so easy to listen to, audiobooks have also become a great way to wind down and relax with stress-free genres such as romantic comedies (rom-com) becoming extremely popular.
Rom-coms have always been upbeat, predictable, and easy to read, so it comes as no surprise that this particular genre has begun dominating the audiobook scene. If you love to hear about meet-cute or unexpected developments, here are the best rom-com audiobooks for you to check out:
These audiobooks will make you feel like you’re in a rom-com
Things We Never Got Over
In a whirlwind of events comes the unlikely meeting of stranded, runaway bride Naomi, and no-nonsense barber Knox. Things We Never Got Over has an unfortunate start for the lead character: Naomi was left with nothing but her 11-year-old niece in tow because of her malicious sister, so Knox had no choice but to step in and help them. Lucy Score writes a beautiful tale of a lost woman and reclusive man opening up in time but also doesn’t skimp on building other characters as well. This creates both funny and touching moments that intertwine into the budding romance for the reader to enjoy.
The Hating Game
What is there not to like about enemies-turned-lovers? The Hating Game by Sally Thorne is a fun workplace comedy that focuses on two competitive colleagues, Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman. They are polar opposites – with bright, quirky Lucy, and uptight, meticulous Joshua – and now, they are set to go up against each other for the same promotion. The author takes the relationship slowly, so you can enjoy the couple’s journey from seeming anger to love.
The Love Hypothesis
Even in the depths of academe, love will find a way. Ali Hazelwood’s The Love Hypothesis starts with third-year Ph.D. candidate Olive Smith trying to prove to her best friend that she’s moved on from her old crush. This leads her to impulsively kiss the first man she sees: Dr. Adam Carlsen, the university’s most notorious professor. Despite this mishap, the couple continues in a fake relationship and face trouble along the way – also risking Olive’s research. The story doesn’t just focus on the romance, it also zones in on the characters’ lives, which makes it more realistic and interesting.
Book Lovers
Emily Henry, New York Times bestselling American author of Beach Read and People We Meet on Vacation, brings another brilliant rom-com to readers. The story is about two bookworms who discover love beyond the bookshelves. Book Lovers centers around Nora, an uptight literary agent in New York City who barely has any time to make for a lasting relationship. She initially clashes with Charlie, a similarly apprehensive author, before they get an opportunity to open up about themselves. The protagonist’s initial cynical perspective on love changes to warm optimism with this small-town romance that is sure to delight.
The Wedding Date
Jasmine Guillory’s story brings together Alexa and Drew, starting in an unlikely place – an elevator. Aptly named, The Wedding Date has Alexa becoming Drew’s pretend girlfriend for his ex’s wedding. After bouts of flirting, the two grow to like each other and continue to spend time together – that is, until they have to face the challenges of living miles away from each other. This book will bring many thought-provoking, sweet, and even steamy moments to the fore.
Romantic comedies often explore popular tropes like fake relationships or unlikely encounters, but many of the best rom-com books bring a genuine relationship full of love. And when told through audiobooks, the story is elevated to another level .