Love stories, in their finest form, can sweep you off your feet and leave you breathless. It’s the kind of writing that lingers, making you believe in soulmates and grand gestures. I’ve always been a sucker for a well-written romance, those passages that just perfectly capture the feeling of falling in love. So, I’ve compiled some of the most swoon-worthy excerpts from novels that have stayed with me long after I finished reading them.
This list is for anyone who needs a dose of romance, whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just appreciate beautiful writing. These excerpts showcase different aspects of love, from the initial spark to deep, enduring connection. Get ready to feel all the feels.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: Classic banter, undeniable chemistry.
- The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks: Timeless love, enduring devotion.
- Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë: Passionate, tormented, unforgettable.
- Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman: Sensual, evocative, coming-of-age.
- The Princess Bride by William Goldman: Fairy tale romance, humor, and adventure.
Top 5 Best Romantic Excerpts From Novels
1. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice isn’t just a novel; it’s a masterclass in romantic tension. The back-and-forth between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is legendary, fueled by witty banter and underlying attraction that neither wants to admit. This excerpt perfectly captures their complex dynamic.
Pros:
- ✅ Timeless classic.
- ✅ Witty and intelligent dialogue.
- ✅ Perfect slow-burn romance.
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel slow-paced for modern readers.
- ❌ The language can be a bit challenging.
- ❌ Some may find the social conventions outdated.
Verdict: Perfect for those who appreciate classic literature and a slow-burn romance with plenty of wit and social commentary.
2. The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks
The Notebook is a quintessential love story that has captivated readers for decades. It follows Noah and Allie, two young lovers from different backgrounds who find themselves drawn to each other. This excerpt highlights the deep and enduring nature of their connection, even in the face of adversity.
Pros:
- ✅ Heartwarming and emotional.
- ✅ A classic tale of overcoming obstacles for love.
- ✅ Easy to read and engaging.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be overly sentimental for some.
- ❌ Relies on some common romance tropes.
- ❌ Predictable plot points.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a feel-good, tear-jerking love story, The Notebook is a solid choice. Just be prepared for some serious emotions.
3. Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights is a dark and passionate love story unlike any other. The intense connection between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff is both destructive and all-consuming. This excerpt showcases the raw emotion and untamed nature of their love.
Pros:
- ✅ Deeply emotional and complex characters.
- ✅ Gothic atmosphere adds to the drama.
- ✅ Explores the darker side of love and obsession.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a difficult and challenging read.
- ❌ The characters are often unlikeable.
- ❌ The plot is convoluted and dark.
Verdict: Wuthering Heights is for readers who enjoy dark, complex, and passionate romances with flawed characters and a gothic setting.
4. Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman
André Aciman’s Call Me By Your Name is a beautifully written coming-of-age story centered around the passionate relationship between Elio and Oliver. Set against the backdrop of an Italian summer, the novel explores themes of desire, identity, and first love. This excerpt captures the sensual and evocative nature of their connection.
Pros:
- ✅ Beautiful and lyrical prose.
- ✅ Explores themes of identity and desire.
- ✅ Set in a stunning Italian location.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slow-paced and introspective.
- ❌ Some may find the explicit content uncomfortable.
- ❌ Focuses on a very specific and privileged experience.
Verdict: Call Me By Your Name is a good choice for readers who appreciate lyrical writing and stories that explore the complexities of love, identity, and desire.
5. The Princess Bride by William Goldman
The Princess Bride is a fairy tale romance with a twist. It’s filled with adventure, humor, and, of course, true love. The connection between Buttercup and Westley is the heart of the story, and this excerpt perfectly captures their unwavering devotion to each other.
Pros:
- ✅ Humorous and entertaining.
- ✅ A classic fairy tale with a modern twist.
- ✅ Appeals to a wide range of readers.
Cons:
- ❌ May not appeal to those who dislike fantasy or humor.
- ❌ The plot can be a bit predictable.
- ❌ Some may find the framing device distracting.
Verdict: The Princess Bride is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a fun, lighthearted, and romantic read. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, humor, and true love.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right romantic novel can be tricky, as everyone has different tastes. Here are a few things to consider before diving in:
- Your preferred genre: Do you like historical romance, contemporary romance, fantasy romance, or something else? Knowing your favorite genre will help you narrow down your options.
- Your tolerance for angst: Some romance novels are full of angst and drama, while others are lighter and more feel-good. Consider what you’re in the mood for.
- The author’s writing style: Some authors are known for their lyrical prose, while others are more straightforward. Read a sample of their writing to see if you enjoy it.
- Reviews and recommendations: Look at what other readers are saying about the book. Check out reviews on Goodreads or Amazon to get an idea of what to expect.
- Consider the setting: Do you want a romance set in a specific location or time period? Some romances are heavily influenced by their setting, which can add to the reading experience.
FAQs
Q: What makes a romantic excerpt “good”?
A: A good romantic excerpt should evoke emotion, showcase the connection between the characters, and be beautifully written. It should leave you wanting to read more.
Q: Are these books suitable for all ages?
A: It depends on the book. Pride and Prejudice and The Princess Bride are generally suitable for all ages. The Notebook and Wuthering Heights may be better for older teens and adults due to their mature themes. Call Me By Your Name contains explicit content and is best suited for adults.
Q: Where can I find more romantic excerpts?
A: Many websites and blogs compile romantic excerpts. You can also search for specific themes or tropes you enjoy to find relevant passages.
Q: Do I have to read the whole book to enjoy these excerpts?
A: While reading the entire book will give you a deeper understanding of the context, these excerpts can be enjoyed on their own as a taste of the story.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – five of the most romantic excerpts from novels that have stayed with me. Whether you’re a fan of classic literature, tear-jerking love stories, or fairy tale romances, there’s something on this list for everyone. I hope these excerpts have inspired you to pick up a new book or revisit an old favorite. Happy reading!
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