If You Can't Get Enough Of The Marriage Of Convenience Trope, Then Check Out These 25 Books

Falling for my fake spouse, you say?! Sign me up!

One romantic trope that never lets me down is marriage of convenience. If you're unfamiliar with the trope, think Claire and Jamie from Outlander. Think, "Oh, we have to get married in order to achieve our own separate goals." It's when characters have to marry, even though they don't feel anything for each other, or in some cases, they happen to be perfect strangers. The part that always gets me is when they start to fall for each other...but they're already spouses! *Chef's kiss.* Sounds like your cup of tea? Below you'll find swoony romances that specifically contain this tantalizing trope!

1. Fake Empire by C.W. Farnsworth

amazon.com

Why you should read it: Fake Empire is a contemporary romance that takes place in the world of the rich. Scarlett Ellsworth and Crew Kensington are the heirs of billionaire empires. They've been taught from a very young age that, in their world, they have to marry someone of equal standing. The only family as rich as Scarlett's is the Kensingtons. 

Now, older and busier, Scarlett and Crew face their engagement and their upcoming marriage head-on. What starts as a means to an end soon turns into something real for both of them. In a world where they have felt alone, they find a partner in each other.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

2. Would You Rather by Allison Ashley

Mira Books

Why you should read it: I was lucky enough to read this book early (it was released on August 23!) and let me tell you...you need to read it as soon as it comes out! You will thank me later, I can promise you that. 

Would You Rather is a marriage of convenience romance where two best friends decide to get married in order to benefit from the union. Mia wants to go back to school, and when she gets the opportunity to do so, she realizes that she has to leave her job behind...and the medical insurance. She needs a kidney transplant, so she definitely needs the insurance. Her best friend Noah comes up with the perfect solution: get married so Mia can use his health insurance. And so, this is where their story starts.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

3. With You Forever by Chloe Liese

Chloe Liese

Why you should read it: When you have the choice to read a Chloe Liese novel, you always have to go for it. There's no better option than a Liese romance book. With You Forever is the fourth book in the Bergman Brothers series (they all can be read as stand-alones, don't worry!), and it tells the story of Axel and Rooney. You won't be able to hold back your tears while reading this beautiful book.

In this novel, Rooney and Axel decide to get married so Axel can get some much-needed inheritance money to fix the well-loved family cabin. Right after the nuptials, they have to learn how to navigate their newfound feelings for each other while also trying to keep them hidden (because when it comes to fake dating, they always think the other one doesn't feel the same way).

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

4. Marriage For One by Ella Maise

bookshop.org

Why you should read it: If you also love the grumpy/sunshine trope, this book couldn't be more perfect for you. Marriage For One tells the story of Jack and Rose, two strangers who, under different circumstances, wouldn't have ever met. Except that Rose needs a spouse to inherit a property she wants to turn into a cute café, and Jack happens to offer himself to be her new husband. This slow-burn romance is sweet, caring, and so romantic. Their journey to their happily ever after takes time, but it's worth it to experience all their ups and downs together. Marriage For One is the kind of book that will forever stay in your heart.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

5. King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair

Bloom Books

Why you should read it: Let's leave contemporary for a moment and step inside the fantasy genre. King of Battle and Blood is a fascinating tale of vampires, romance, and lots of blood. St. Clair kickstarts her newest fantasy series with two personalities that won't let you down. Adrian and Isolde couldn't be more different; she's human while he's a vampire. But the chemistry between them is undeniable. So, when they marry each other to bring peace to their kingdoms, they may have avoided warfare, but the battle of their hearts is only beginning.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

6. A Wicked Bargain for the Duke by Megan Frampton

Avon Books

Why you should read it: Historical romance is one of the best places to find the marriage of convenience trope. Back then, marriages of convenience were common, and high society used to pair together families through this union. If you're a big fan of this trope, historical romances are going to become your new best friend. 

In A Wicked Bargain for the Duke, Frampton crafts a magnificent and thrilling story about two strangers who have nothing in common. The newest Duke of Hasford is looking for a bride, and he thinks he's found the perfect one. The only problem is her sister. She's constantly butting in! When they're unexpectedly found in a compromising position, the only thing left to do is to marry so that they don't become a scandal. Rebellious Lavinia is someone he didn't expect in his life, but soon enough, he finds himself enamored with his convenient wife.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

7. The Marriage He Demands by Brenda Jackson

Harlequin

Why you should read it: When you're searching for your next read based on a specific trope, I highly recommend going through a Harlequin catalog. They always have something for everyone! In the case of The Marriage He Demands, you're going to get a fun, exciting marriage of convenience romance where two strangers will try their hardest to not succumb to the attraction between them.

Cash's estranged mother just passed. He finds out that, in her will, she has left him part of her dude ranch. The other part? She has left it to Brianna. He's ready to make the dude ranch a sensation again, but his family advises to buy Brianna's half first. But Brianna has an offer: She'll give him her half if she can have his sperm. Because what Brianna wants is a baby!

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

8. The Vow by D. Rose

amazon.com

Why you should read it: This modern marriage of convenience romance is a must-read! D. Rose pairs together two strangers who have something in common: They need to get married to solve their immediate problems. Michaela needs money and a place to stay after her roommate abruptly ends their lease. On the other hand, famous actor Sergio needs a wife to clean up his image. Their problems can be solved by getting married to each other. But this is a marriage only by name — or so they think. Getting married was the first step. Falling in love? That's going to take more from them.

Get it from Amazon.

9. To Marry and to Meddle by Martha Waters

Atria Books

Why you should read it: Waters' latest historical romance is one everyone should read. If you're unfamiliar with Waters' work, I highly recommend reading The Regency Vows series from start to finish. These books will bring a smile to your everyday life.

To Marry and to Meddle follows Lady Emily Turner who is in dire need of help. After six unsuccessful seasons, and with no marriage offer, she knows time is not on her side. With her father's debts, the only suitor happens to be a persistent and odious man who owns her father's favorite gambling house. When Lord Julian Belfry hatches a plan that can benefit both of them, things take an unexpected turn. 

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

10. White Whiskey Bargain by Jodie Slaughter

Zachevans Creative LLC

Why you should read it: Slaughter is known for delivering intense, feel-good, and romantic love stories. When it comes to White Whiskey Bargain, fully expect the characters and dialogue — as well as the scenery around them — to come alive.

When Hannah's mother suddenly dies, she knows she's next in line to become the boss of the family's moonshining business. The last thing she needs is trouble to come knocking on her door. But when a band of vicious enemies appear in her small town, she believes that forming an alliance with a rival moonshining business is the perfect answer to protect her people.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

11. Xeni by Rebekah Weatherspoon

Rebekah Weatherspoon

Why you should read it: Most of the time, in romance novels, you'll find this trope whenever a character wants to claim an inheritance. One of the clauses is to be married before the year's end, before a certain age, etc. This is the case with Xeni by the wonderful and talented Rebekah Weatherspoon.

Xeni's late Aunt Sable has left her an estate that could set her up for life. But before she can claim it, her aunt has left some conditions: Xeni must marry...and the ruggedly handsome Scotsman is the perfect groom for her. Thirty days, one marriage of convenience — but can they make it? After all, falling in love was never in the cards.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

12. Electric Idol by Katee Robert

Sourcebooks Casablanca

Why you should read it: Robert uses this trope in many of her romance novels, but I have to choose Electric Idol — the second title in her Dark Olympus series. In this book, she pairs up Eros and Psyche, who you may know if you're familiar with Greek mythology. The Dark Olympus series showcases the myths in a glamorous but dangerous setting where survival is not exactly easy to achieve.

Electric Idol follows Eros, whose mother (Aphrodite) assigns him to assassinate Psyche, but instead of ending her, Eros proposes that they get married. But as lines blur and loyalties shift, Eros and Psyche soon realize that it's harder to survive when you're falling for your enemy.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

13. Radiance by Grace Draven

amazon.com

Why you should read it: Another impressive fantasy romance you need to be reading is Radiance. Imagine getting married to someone you have never seen in your life. Yeah, that happens to Ildiko and Brishen. Ildiko and Brishen come from two different worlds, and neither seem to be remotely attracted to the other, let alone in a romantic way. Love at first sight? Not here! But what starts as a marriage of convenience for peace between kingdoms soon turns into companionship. And then friendship. When you find the person who understands you and makes you feel important when no one has ever done it... *chef's kiss*

Get it from Amazon.

14. Some Dukes Have All the Luck by Christina Britton

Forever

Release date: November 8, 2022.

Why you should read it: When the marriage starts as only business, but soon turns into romance...YEAH. That never disappoints. I'm sure this is one of the reasons why I adore this trope. 

In Some Dukes Have All the Luck, the Duke of Buckley needs to find a wife. He knows he won't ever marry for love, but at this point in his life, he doesn't care. He needs to find someone who can benefit from a marriage of convenience as much as he does. Enter Bronwyn, a young woman who wants the freedom to pursue her dream of becoming an entomologist. Marrying each other can solve many of their problems, but when unexpected attraction arises, what will they do?

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

15. Terms and Conditions by Lauren Asher

Bloom Books

Why you should read it: If what you're looking for is a romance novel featuring a billionaire entering a marriage of convenience, Terms and Conditions is the perfect book for you. 

What Declan needs to inherit his family's media empire is a wife. Getting married and having an heir seemed impossible — until his assistant Iris offers herself for the position. They thought it could be a simple transaction: move in together, get married, have a baby. They set the rules, but it becomes harder to follow them when feelings appear.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

16. The Captain's Midwinter Bride by Liana De la Rosa

amazon.com

Why you should read it: This is not only a marriage of convenience romance, but also a romance where the main characters happen to be estranged spouses. This take on this trope is fabulous because the protagonists have been married for so many years — they even have children who are ready to get married as well! Their marriage started as convenience, but it developed into love. How did they become estranged, though? Captain Phillip Dalton has been at sea for the better part of his life because of work. But now, he's back, and he's planning his daughter's upcoming wedding with his estranged wife. Before they start to build their life back together, they have to find the way to overcome all the secrets between them.

Get it from Amazon.

17. The Fiancée Farce by Alexandria Bellefleur

Avon Books

Release date: April 18, 2023

Why you should read it: This book doesn't come out until next year (April 18, to be exact) but I want to talk about it anyway, because it's fantastic! 

Bellefleur returns with a steamy sapphic rom-com where a quiet bookseller and a romance novel cover model have to pretend to be married. Tansy wants to save her bookstore while Gemma needs to marry to inherit her family's publishing company, Van Dalen Publishing. Their plan might work if they're able to convince everyone that the marriage (and their feelings for each other) are real!

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

18. Waking Up Married by Reese Ryan

amazon.com

Why you should read it: Ryan knows how to catch our attention. I mean, when you say your book is a romance between friends who wake up married in Vegas and stay married because of convenience? Let me tell you something...you're going to make me buy the book immediately. 

If you read one book series in your life, let it be The Bourbon Brothers series. In Waking Up Married, the fifth book (although can be read as a stand-alone), you'll meet Zora and Dallas, best friends who spend a fabulous night in Vegas celebrating only to wake up married to each other! 

Get it from Amazon.

19. A Rogue by Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean

Avon Books

Why you should read it: For angsty reads, definitely choose Sarah MacLean. The roller coaster of emotions you'll go through when you're reading one of her books...my god. Give them to me! 

Loosely inspired by the myth of Hades and Persephone, A Rogue by Any Other Name is a wonderful tale of reunions and second chances. Once upon a time, they knew each other, but things change with time. Now, the Marquess of Bourne is ruthless, cold, and unforgiving. He would do anything to take back his inheritance, including marrying proper Lady Penelope Marbury.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

20. I Temporarily Do by Ellie Cahill

Liz Czukas

Why you should read it: Just days before she moves to the other side of the country to start a prestigious graduate program, Emmy finds out that she has been robbed by a con artist, leaving her with no money. She thinks she is having the worst day ever, but Beckett's day is worse. His fiancé just called off the wedding, and he suddenly has become ineligible for his place in married student housing. The solution to all their problems? A quickie Vegas wedding. 

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

21. How to Catch a Queen by Alyssa Cole

Avon Books

Why you should read it: Becoming a queen has been Shanti's dream for a very long time. It finally comes true when she weds the king of Njaza, Sanyu. While their attraction is undeniable, her subjects still see her as an outsider, someone who doesn't belong in their kingdom. She wants to help bring her kingdom to a brighter future — to make a difference in this world — but no one seems to be listening to her. Her reluctant husband isn't making matters any easier, but things start to change and Shanti, alongside Sanyu, will have to learn how to lead their people toward something greater.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

22. Tempest by Beverly Jenkins

Avon Books

Why you should read it: Who ordered a mail-order bride? Dr. Colton Lee. But he never expected to be greeted by a bullet instead of a kiss! From that point forward, the first meeting between Regan and Colton sets the tone of this book perfectly. Ms. Beverly Jenkins gives us a beautiful story that has so much care, love, and excitement. And if you're familiar with her novels, you know that you're about to have a sleepless night (because you won't want to stop reading!).

In Tempest, Dr. Colton Lee wants a bride to care for his daughter. There won't be any love in the match. But, when he finally meets his mail-order bride, Regan Carmichael, an independent spirit, nothing goes as planned. 

Get it from Bookshop.

23. In a Jam by Kate Canterbary

Vesper Press

Release date: September 20, 2022

Why you should read it: You can never say no to a Canterbary book! This time around, Kate Canterbary blesses us with a marriage of convenience romance. 

In a Jam follows Shay Zucconi whose step-grandmother just passed away. She has left Shay her tulip farm, but with two conditions. First, Shay has to move to a small town, and second, Shay must be married within one year. This is obviously difficult for Shay because her fiancé just called off the wedding! Who comes to her rescue, though? Single dad Noah...who used to have a massive crush on Shay back in high school.

Get it from Barnes and Noble.

24. The Belle of Belgrave Square by Mimi Matthews

Berkley Books

Release date: October 11, 2022

Why you should read it: If you're a fan of Beauty and the Beast, this regency romance will rapidly become a new favorite of yours. Wallflower meets an infamous war hero in this fascinating and intriguing love story.

In the second book of the Belles of London series, Julia finds it difficult to navigate the occasional ballrooms. With her social anxiety, she prefers to stay indoors, away from gatherings and parties. Meanwhile, Captain Jasper Blunt needs a rich wife to save his failing estate, but not just any woman will do. He needs Julia. And maybe Julia needs Jasper, too.

Get it from Bookshop or your local bookstore via Indiebound.

25. First to Fall by Laney Hatcher

amazon.com

Why you should read it: The cover pulled me in, the synopsis intrigued me, and I know when I finally read it...it's going to become one of my favorite books. When I saw that First to Fall is a marriage of convenience between best friends, I was already half in love with it.

Hatcher's sophomore novel tells the story of Emery and Augustus, life-long friends who decide to enter a marriage of convenience so Emery can avoid the pressure of searching for a husband during the London season.

Get it from Amazon.