For me, when it comes to love stories, the more complicated, the better. Books that are all about love but delve into relationships in unique and often devastating ways are always the ones that remain in my mind long after reading.
For so many people, love is messy and complex, so this is an edit that captures those stories. Truly some of the most memorable books I’ve read – joyous and heart-breaking in equal measure. For those moments when you know you want a read that’s going to deliver an emotional punch.
5 powerful love stories… that will make you cry
/ Here is the Beehive by Sarah Crossan
This is the only book I’ve read told from the point-of-view of ‘the other woman’ dealing with the death of her lover. Ana and Connor are both married to other people when they meet, and when he dies, Ana has to not only deal with the grief but hide it from her family too. So beautifully written, Here is the Beehive takes this tricky angle on a relationship and gives us a truly memorable story.
/ Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield
This is such an amazing read. When Miri’s wife, Leah’s 2 week submarine mission unexpectedly turns into 6 months, she doesn’t know what to think. We get the story from both women – Miri the grieving wife on land, and Leah the terrified wife in the sea. Their relationship is explored in the past and present and the end will have you weeping.
/ Seven Days in June by Tia Williams
For some balance, this choice is more overtly joyous than the previous two, but still covers the heartbreaking topic of unrequited love and how hard that can be. Eva and Shane’s story will have you frustrated with them and rooting for them. Their ending isn’t as devastating as the other picks in this list, but their journey will absolutely pull at your heart-strings.
/ Trespasses by Louise Kennedy
Set in Belfast in the 1970s, Cushla is Catholic and Michael is not only Protestant, but married too. You can see how this relationship is doomed. But the heart wants what it wants and the way Trespasses is so amazingly written, you’ll want to get to know Cushla and will be so invested in her story. A visceral, emotional read.
/ The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Ending on a bittersweet choice. Your heart will break for the enigmatic movie-star, Evelyn. Although married seven times, never to the true love of her life. Why? Well I won’t give it away here. If you haven’t read it yet – add it to your TBR list!
So there were my slightly off-centre 5 powerful love stories… that will make you cry Valentine’s choices, because love really is complex mixed bag. If you have any other suggestions, let me know below!
Books on the 7:47 