10 Romance Novels Perfect for TV Adaptations Following Netflix's Latest Hit

In recent years, there has been a trend of turning popular novels into TV shows. With the success of Netflix's adaptation of David Nicholls' novel One Day, which tells the story of Emma and Dexter's complicated relationship over two decades, more modern-day romance books are now being considered for TV adaptations. One Day was praised for its contemporary love story and unique pacing, attracting a large audience worldwide.

TV channels and streaming services are now investing in adapting books into shows, with bigger budgets and well-known actors getting involved in the process. This allows for TV adaptations to include more details from the original source material, creating productions that can compete with Hollywood films. While there are many new and captivating love stories being written in book form, there are certain novels that stand out as deserving of being transformed into TV series.

Call It What You Want

By Alissa DeRogatis

The book cover of Call It What You Want by Alissa DeRogatis - By Alissa DeRogatis

Alissa DeRogatis' first book, Call It What You Want, tells the story of Sloane, a romantic who loses faith in love after her parents' divorce. She decides to avoid relationships but unexpectedly connects with Ethan, a man who struggles to fully commit to her. This modern concept of a "situationship" is something many people can understand, especially with the added complexity of defining relationships with labels in today's world. This storyline could definitely captivate viewers if turned into a TV show.

The Rachel Incident

By Caroline O'Donaghue

The book cover of The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donaghue - By Caroline O'Donaghue

In "The Rachel Incident" by Caroline O'Donaghue, we follow the journey of a bookseller who finds herself entangled in a complicated love triangle. Rachel forms a close bond with James while also harboring feelings for her married professor, Dr. Fred. With the help of her new roommate, Rachel attempts to win over Dr. Fred, but her plans go awry, causing chaos in the town of Cork. Through clever humor, the novel explores the complexities of relationships in today's world, making it a great candidate for a TV adaptation.

Romantic Comedy

By Curtis Sittenfeld

The book cover of Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld - By Curtis Sittenfeld

In "Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld, the author cleverly twists the usual romantic novel cliches to create a funny and heartwarming story. The main character, Sally, a writer for a comedy show, unexpectedly finds herself drawn to Noah Brewster, a famous pop star. This unexpected attraction comes after Sally had made fun of a colleague for dating a celebrity, only to realize she may have misjudged Noah.

Romantic Comedy explores the fantasy of meeting a celebrity and challenges societal norms by showcasing how love can conquer all obstacles. Shows like 30 Rock, featuring Tina Fey as a TV comedy writer struggling in the romance department, have been successful. Therefore, Romantic Comedy could be a great choice for adaptation. Additionally, the idea of an ordinary person and a celebrity falling in love is not only a captivating concept but also a clever marketing strategy that would attract viewers.

Starter For Ten

By David Nicholls

The book cover of Starter for Ten by David Nicholls - By David Nicholls - Starter For Ten

One Last Stop

Casey McQuiston, renowned for their novel Red, White & Royal Blue, also penned the captivating story One Last Stop. This novel follows the journey of August, a young woman who meets a mysterious girl named Jane on the subway in New York City. As their relationship blossoms, August discovers that Jane is displaced in time from the 1970s and is unable to leave the subway. The charming and heartwarming love story between August and Jane, along with the element of time travel, offers a unique and engaging plot that would make for an intriguing TV adaptation.

By Casey McQuiston

The book cover of One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston - By Casey McQuiston

Arthur and Teddy Are Opening Up

Arthur and Teddy are two characters in One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston who are ready to share their truth with the world. In the story, they navigate their journey of coming out as LGBTQ+. The way their relationship unfolds is a beautiful and heartwarming aspect of the book.

By Ryan Love

The book cover of Arthur and Teddy Are Coming Out by Ryan Love - By Ryan Love

Arthur and Teddy Are Coming Out by Ryan Love is another captivating LGBTQ+ story that deserves to be adapted into a TV show. The novel follows the journey of 79-year-old Teddy and his 21-year-old grandson Arthur as they both navigate their sexualities. While Teddy is finally ready to come out after years of hiding, Arthur finds himself struggling with feelings for a coworker. Through their bond and support for each other, the story highlights the importance of family acceptance for queer individuals and showcases the unique experiences of coming out.

Luster

By Raven Leilani

The book cover of Luster by Raven Leilani - By Raven Leilani

Edie from Luster by Raven Leilani is a relatable character for many. Feeling stuck in a routine and caught up in a toxic hook-up culture, Edie's life takes a turn when she meets Eric. As their relationship unfolds, Edie navigates the challenges of Eric's open marriage and his bond with his adopted daughter, who shares Edie's Black heritage. Touching on themes of racial dynamics and the complexities of long-term relationships, Luster has the potential to captivate a wide audience as a TV series that offers a fresh take on love stories.

Canadian Boyfriend

By Jenny Holiday

The book cover of Canadian Boyfriend by Jenny Holiday - By Jenny Holiday

Jenny Holiday's Canadian Boyfriend is a hilarious take on the classic tale of having an imaginary partner from another country. Teacher Aurora is unexpectedly reunited with professional hockey player Mike after many years. When they first met as teenagers, Aurora had jokingly told people that Mike was her Canadian boyfriend, without his knowledge. Now, years later, Aurora finds herself becoming the nanny to Mike's troubled teenager, who is struggling after the loss of her mother.

The story of Canadian Boyfriend would make a fantastic TV adaptation for several reasons. It touches on relatable themes, such as the idea of having a long-distance partner, which many viewers can connect with. Additionally, the show would be a great opportunity for representation of diverse characters. The emotional journey of a grieving family, combined with Aurora's growing feelings for Mike, would create a captivating narrative that audiences would eagerly anticipate.

Girl Abroad

By Elle Kennedy

The book cover for Girl Abroad by Elle Kennedy - By Elle Kennedy

In Elle Kennedy's "Girl Abroad," determined nepo baby Abbey seizes the chance to study in London and escape her famous rock star father. Living in a house with several good-looking men, she sets firm boundaries to avoid any romantic entanglements. However, Abbey finds herself drawn to not just one, but two of her housemates, one of whom is already in a relationship. Juggling her emotions and academic responsibilities, Abbey is torn about her future in London. This captivating coming-of-age story has the potential to captivate viewers on the small screen.

Wallbanger

By Alice Clayton

The book cover of Wallbanger by Alice Clayton - By Alice Clayton

Caroline, a new resident of San Francisco, gets an earful about her neighbor Simon and his romantic escapades in Wallbanger by Alice Clayton. She decides to steer clear of dating, but her annoyance builds as she overhears Simon's nightly activities. The tension escalates until Caroline finally confronts him face to face. Filled with humor and insight, Wallbanger sheds light on the complexities of love at first sight, making it a captivating and charming read that would pair well with One Day.

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