Post-apocalypse and romance combine into a sub-genre called Post-Apocalyptic Romance in which relationships between characters prosper in a future of devastation. There is a massive following for this subgenre through media like books and movies. So, here are 10 of the best Post-Apocalyptic Romance Books out there right now!
“Enclave” by Ann Aguirre:
Set in a dystopian future where the surface world has become uninhabitable, humanity is forced to live in underground enclaves. Deuce, a young huntress, and Fade, a mysterious outsider, form an unlikely bond as they navigate the dangerous tunnels and fight for survival against mutated creatures and rival factions. As they confront the harsh realities of their world, their relationship deepens, offering them solace and strength amidst the darkness.
“The 5th Wave” by Rick Yancey:
Following a series of devastating alien attacks that decimated Earth’s population, Cassie Sullivan embarks on a perilous journey to find her younger brother. Along the way, she encounters Evan Walker, a mysterious and enigmatic figure whose secrets challenge her perceptions of trust and love. As they navigate the dangers of a world on the brink of extinction, Cassie must confront her fears and vulnerabilities while grappling with her growing feelings for Evan.
“Warm Bodies” by Isaac Marion:
In a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, “R,” a zombie who retains fragments of his humanity, falls in love with Julie, a living girl. Their unlikely romance sparks a chain of events that could change the course of their world. As “R” struggles to regain his humanity and Julie grapples with her feelings for a creature she’s been raised to fear, they must confront the prejudices and dangers that threaten to tear them apart. Against all odds, their love offers hope for redemption and renewal in a world consumed by darkness.
“The Fireman” by Joe Hill:
In “The Fireman,” Harper Grayson finds herself amid a terrifying pandemic known as Dragonscale, where those infected burst into flames. Amidst the chaos, she meets a mysterious man known as the Fireman, who possesses the ability to control the flames. Despite the danger, Harper is drawn to him, and together they navigate the challenges of survival, forming a bond that transcends the devastation around them.
“Ashfall” by Mike Mullin:
“Ashfall” follows the story of Alex, a teenager who must navigate a world plunged into darkness and chaos after a supervolcano erupts. Along the way, he meets Darla, a fellow survivor, and together they embark on a perilous journey through the ash-covered landscape. As they face unimaginable challenges, their relationship deepens, offering them solace and hope in a world of uncertainty.
“The Forest of Hands and Teeth” by Carrie Ryan:
Set in a world overrun by zombies, “The Forest of Hands and Teeth” follows Mary, a young woman living in the safety of her village. When the fences protecting the village fail, Mary is forced to confront the dangers lurking beyond. She discovers love amidst the chaos along the way and uncovers shocking truths about the world she thought she knew.
“Pure” by Julianna Baggott:
“Pure” takes place in a world ravaged by detonations, where survivors are divided into two groups: the Pures, who live inside a protected dome, and the Wretches, who struggle to survive outside. Pressia, a Wretch with a doll’s head fused to her hand, forms an unlikely bond with Partridge, a Pure with secrets of his own. Together, they navigate the dangers of their world and discover that love can transcend even the harshest of circumstances.
“Life as We Knew It” by Susan Beth Pfeffer:
In “Life as We Knew It,” Miranda records her family’s struggle to survive in the aftermath of a catastrophic event that alters life on Earth. As resources dwindle and the world grows increasingly hostile, Miranda navigates her first love and grapples with the complexities of growing up in a world forever changed by disaster.
“This Is Not a Test” by Courtney Summers:
A group of teenagers seeks shelter in their high school during a zombie apocalypse, where they must confront their fears and desires amidst the chaos. As tensions rise and relationships develop, they discover that love and human connection are perhaps the most powerful weapons against the darkness that surrounds them.
“The Age of Miracles” by Karen Thompson Walker:
As the rotation of the Earth begins to slow, causing days and nights to lengthen unpredictably, Julia navigates the challenges of adolescence and discovers love amidst the uncertainty of an increasingly unstable world. Against this backdrop of cosmic upheaval, Julia learns the importance of cherishing the moments of connection and intimacy that sustain her.
Have you read any of the books listed? What is your favourite Post-Apocalyptic romance book? We’d love to hear from you.
Other things you might want to know:
What is the most read romance book in the world?
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.
What are dark romance books like?
Romance books that include dark themes and characters.
What is the post-apocalyptic genre?
This genre depicts a world post a tragic event like war or natural disaster.
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