There’s something about the great outdoors that just screams romance. Maybe it’s the isolation, the sense of adventure, or the pure beauty of nature, but there’s no denying that nature makes for a perfect backdrop to a love story. That’s why wilderness romance novels are so popular, and why we’ve compiled this guide to help you find your next great read.
What are Wilderness Romance Novels?
Wilderness romance novels are a subgenre of romance that takes place in a remote, natural setting. These novels often feature characters who are forced to rely on their survival skills to make it through the wilderness, and who end up falling in love along the way. The setting is as much a character as any of the people in the story, and the beauty and danger of nature play a large role in the plot.
The Appeal of Wilderness Romance Novels
There are a number of reasons why wilderness romance novels are so appealing to readers. First and foremost, there’s the romance itself. The idea of two people being thrown together in a dangerous situation and having to rely on each other for survival is incredibly romantic. It’s the ultimate test of trust and vulnerability, and it can create a bond that’s hard to replicate in any other setting.
In addition to the romance, there’s also the allure of the great outdoors. For many of us, spending time in nature is a way to escape the stress and noise of our everyday lives. It’s a chance to connect with something larger than ourselves, to feel small in the face of the natural world. Wilderness romance novels capture that feeling and bring it to life on the page.
Examples of Wilderness Romance Novels
If you’re interested in exploring the world of wilderness romance novels, here are a few examples to get you started:
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Outlander is a classic example of a wilderness romance novel. The story follows Claire Randall, a British nurse from the 1940s, who is transported back in time to 18th-century Scotland. There, she meets Jamie Fraser, a Scottish warrior, and the two fall in love amidst the turmoil of the Jacobite uprising.
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
The Great Alone is a more contemporary wilderness romance novel, set in the wilds of Alaska in the 1970s. The story follows a family who moves to Alaska in search of a fresh start, but who find themselves facing the harsh realities of life in the wilderness. Against this backdrop, the protagonist, Leni, falls in love with a boy named Matthew, and the two must navigate the dangers of the Alaskan wilderness together.
A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks
While A Walk to Remember isn’t strictly a wilderness romance novel, it does feature a number of elements that make it a great example of the genre. The story takes place in a small North Carolina town, and follows the relationship between a teenage boy named Landon and a girl named Jamie. As the two get to know each other, they take long walks together in the nearby woods, and their relationship blossoms amidst the natural beauty of their surroundings.
In Conclusion
Wilderness romance novels offer a unique blend of romance and adventure, set against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. If you’re looking for a new romance novel to read, or if you’re simply interested in exploring the world of wilderness romance, we hope this guide has given you some inspiration. Happy reading!