Romance novels have always been a popular genre for readers of all ages, but some romance novels push the boundaries of what is considered socially acceptable. These novels often explore taboo relationships and forbidden love, which can be controversial but also captivating. In this article, we will look at the best romance novels that push the boundaries and explore forbidden love.

1. Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Lolita is a classic novel that explores the controversial topic of pedophilia. The story is about a middle-aged man, Humbert Humbert, who falls in love with a twelve-year-old girl named Dolores Haze, whom he calls “Lolita.” The novel is told from Humbert’s perspective, which makes it an unsettling and thought-provoking read. Although the subject matter is taboo, the writing is beautiful and lyrical, which makes it a classic in the literary world.

2. The Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller

The Bridges of Madison County is a novel that explores the forbidden love between a married woman and a National Geographic photographer who is visiting the area to photograph the covered bridges. The story is set in Iowa and spans four days, during which the two characters fall in love and must decide whether to pursue their relationship or stay true to their respective spouses. The novel was a bestseller and was later adapted into a movie starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood.

3. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

Wuthering Heights is a classic novel that explores the love between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, who is her foster brother. The two characters are deeply in love, but their relationship is forbidden because of their social status and class differences. The novel is a masterpiece of gothic literature and explores themes of love, revenge, and social class.

4. The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

The Time Traveler’s Wife is a novel that explores the relationship between Henry, a time traveler, and Clare, his wife. The novel is told from both characters’ perspectives and spans several decades, during which the two characters struggle to maintain their relationship despite the challenges of Henry’s time-traveling. The novel was a bestseller and was later adapted into a movie starring Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams.

5. The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough

The Thorn Birds is a novel that explores the forbidden love between a Catholic priest, Ralph de Bricassart, and Meggie Cleary, who is the daughter of a sheep farmer. The novel is set in Australia and spans several decades, during which Ralph and Meggie’s relationship is tested by the challenges of their respective careers and social status. The novel was a bestseller and was later adapted into a TV mini-series.

Conclusion

Forbidden love and taboo relationships are a popular theme in romance novels, and the books listed above are some of the best examples of this genre. Although these books can be controversial, they also offer a thought-provoking look at love and relationships, and the challenges that people face when they are in love with someone who is considered taboo. If you are a fan of romance novels, these books are definitely worth checking out.