Sizzling Mystery Romance Books
Read & Written By Briar Black (That Would Be Moi)
Hello, lovely souls, and welcome to the captivating world of Briar Black. I’m an English writer, hopelessly enamoured with all things romance. Whether it’s romantic mystery novels, historical mystery romance books, contemporary love stories, or fantastical escapades with paranormal elements, I can’t resist diving headfirst into the depths of every mystery romance genre out there. My passion is creating books about love and mystery that keep readers hooked until the final, thrilling page.
I also have a fondness for cosy mysteries and am currently contemplating penning some of my own. For those intrigued by romantic suspense and seeking the best reads where passion meets intrigue, I’ve compiled a list of the best mystery romance books available further down the page.
Passion and Peril: Romantic Mystery Novels and Fantastical Twists
Journey through the pages of my novels, where romance unfolds amid tangled webs of mystery and the occasional hint of fantasy. Maybe I read too much Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie as a child, but for some reason, whenever I pen a story, it evolves into a romantic mystery novel. Most often a murder mystery, though the lines tend to blur. (Although, I did surprise myself when I wrote Eve Was Framed, as it’s more Women’s Fiction and lacks anyone being unalived!) While most of my books are set firmly in the real world, I love fantasy far too much to resist weaving in the occasional fantastical twist.
If you’ve found yourself on my humble website, odds are you’re a fan of books about love and mystery, or perhaps you enjoy spicy novels and Romantasies. If so, we’re kindred spirits! Within these digital pages, you’ll find my thoughts on many mystery romance novels penned by others, as well as those I’m working on myself. I’m not only a writer but an avid reader, and I’ve never been much good at keeping my opinions to myself! So, if you love romance (in all its forms), dig through my reviews and recommendations to find your next great read.
About My Books
There’s something utterly magical about Romantasy, weaving together scorching lovers and fantastical settings. The way love dances amidst mythical landscapes and mystical adventures just sets my heart ablaze with passion. You will find many of my reviews and posts on social media touch on the fantasy genre. But while I adore reading fantasy novels, I have yet to venture into writing them. For that, I remain firmly grounded in reality well…almost. My books occasionally feature the odd fantastical feature; an otherwise perfectly regular romance novel with one magical or mystical element included.
The heart of all my stories (so far at least) is that they’re set in a reimagined version of my beloved home county, Cheshire, where the beauty of reality mingles with the allure of romance and the excitement of mysterious happenings. Each town I’ve called home over the years finds its way into the tapestry of my tales, merging together and reforming so that you’re never quite sure where you are. Don’t try to identify the location of any of my yarns; they don’t exist in reality. Instead, they’re an amalgamation of impressions and experiences gleaned over a lifetime. The landscapes may feel familiar, but they harbour secrets and surprises, just waiting for you to uncover.
Eve Was Framed
When Amelia randomly encounters the most beautiful, beefcake of man she’s ever clapped eyes on, it sparks a brutal self-assessment. The verdict? She’s trapped. Despite pouring her heart into her work, her career is stagnant, her boss steals her thunder and crosses boundaries, and her boyfriend’s lack of ambition is stifling. Amelia’s been told to lower her expectations, accept the mediocre. But she craves more. What if women don’t have to settle for the life they’re told to aspire to—a world where men always come out on top, in the boardroom and the bedroom? What if Amelia refuses to lead a vanilla existence and hide her true potential to protect the fragile egos of uninspired men?
Bane
Amelia returns to her hometown and runs into Michael Bane, her childhood crush. He’s exactly as he always was; painfully attractive with an edge of badboy. Amelia, however, is far from the geeky wallflower Michael despised in high school.
After a steamy reunion, Amelia dares to hope she might finally land the man of her dreams. But social cliques run deep, Michael’s friends still see her as an untouchable with no place in his world. And Michael’s in trouble. The really bad kind. It scares her just how far she’s willing to go to keep him safe.
As Amelia digs deeper into the world she left behind, desperate to find the truth and prove Michael innocent, she’s forced to confront a disturbing question: just how bad does she want this boy to be?
Nightshade
Suzie’s always been a little too… eccentric for Ashfordby. She’s spent most of her life avoiding home. But when a crisis threatens the future of Delaware Grange’s prized tea farm, she’s called in to help. Someone—or something—is killing the estate’s bees, and if she doesn’t figure out why, everything Hugh Delaware has fought to protect will collapse.
Hugh is not what she expected. Rugged, handsome, older—and married. Unattainable. A distraction she doesn’t need but can’t seem to resist. As Suzie digs deeper, what started as a simple investigation unearths something far more dangerous. Someone wants the Grange to fail, and they’ll destroy anything—or anyone—to make it happen.
Suzie came home to save the bees. She never expected to risk her heart—or her life.
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A Bit More About Me
I currently reside in the charming embrace of Chester, my sanctuary for creativity, where I dwell with an ever-growing collection of books that beckon me to explore new worlds and uncharted emotions. The only thing missing is a feline companion to stalk my bookshelves and curl up on my lap, and I aspire to one day own a cat. When I’m not reading or writing you’ll find me cooking or sewing, so if aspects of these additional hobbies creep onto these pages, do not be surprised!
My Favourite Mystery Romance Books
While I thoroughly enjoy writing romance novels with a mysterious flavour, my choice of genre is firmly grounded in a lifelong obsession with reading such tales. While it began with the cosy mysteries of Agatha Christie, it’s escalated over the years to include a wide range of authors and genres that blend romance and mystery. Here you’ll find some of my favourite mystery romance books from some exceptional authors.
Nora Roberts mesmerises with her intricate plots and deeply emotional storytelling. Julie Garwood’s elegant prose and rich character development transport you straight into the heart of her thrilling narratives. Linda Howard masterfully intertwines suspense with powerful character arcs, while Colleen Hoover captivates with her raw, poignant exploration of relationships. Deanna Raybourn‘s novels offer a historical richness, Lynette Eason and Colleen Coble infuse realism and urgency in their suspenseful tales. Sandra Brown balances thrilling plots with sensual romance, and HD Carlton enchants with dark, gothic elements in her captivating stories. Each author brings a unique flair, creating a collection that’s a treasure trove for mystery romance enthusiasts.
Spellbound in His Arms by Angel Sefer
In this heart-pounding romantic thriller, investigative reporter Jackie Alexander is swept into a dangerous mystery on the stunning Greek Isles. As she unravels a series of suspicious deaths connected to a powerful family, Jackie finds herself irresistibly drawn to the brooding detective Michael Apostolou. Their undeniable chemistry ignites a passionate romance as they race against time to uncover the truth. With twists and turns at every corner, this romantic suspense novel offers a perfect blend of high-stakes danger, romance, and exotic settings, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end.
There Are No Saints by Sophie Lark
This dark and gripping romantic suspense novel dives deep into the twisted world of crime, obsession, and passion. The story follows Cole, an enigmatic artist with a secret life as a serial killer, and Mara, a struggling young artist who becomes the object of his dangerous fascination. As Mara is drawn into Cole’s sinister world, their relationship blurs the lines between victim and lover, morality and desire. Full of psychological tension and unexpected twists, this book about love and mystery explores the darker side of romance, where the stakes are life and death, and passion comes with a deadly price.
The Dark Enquiry by Deanna Raybourn
In this riveting romantic mystery novel, Lady Julia Grey and her husband Brisbane find themselves investigating a high-stakes case involving her brother, which draws them into the shadowy world of Victorian London’s political intrigue. As the mystery deepens, secrets are revealed that threaten both Julia’s family and her own safety. The tension between Julia’s independent streak and Brisbane’s protective instincts adds emotional complexity to their relationship, creating a dynamic backdrop for the unfolding mystery. Packed with atmospheric detail and dramatic twists, this mystery romance book expertly weaves romance with suspense, offering readers a thrilling ride through danger, deception, and love.
Dark Road to Darjeeling by Deanna Raybourn
Set in the captivating landscapes of colonial India, Dark Road to Darjeeling follows Lady Julia Grey and her detective husband, Brisbane, as they embark on a perilous journey to uncover the truth behind the death of a friend’s husband at a remote tea plantation. As Julia navigates the complexities of the local culture, family secrets, and inheritance disputes, she becomes entangled in a web of deceit, mystery, and danger. Her relationship with Brisbane is tested as they work together to solve the mystery, balancing the thrill of the investigation with the tension of their growing emotional connection. Blending suspense, romance, and an exotic setting, this mystery romance novel offers readers a thrilling mix of intrigue and passion. For those who love books about love and mystery, this novel is a perfect blend of historical charm, romance, and captivating storytelling.
Haunting Adeline by HD Carlton
In the sequel to Hunting Adeline, Catrin and Adeline’s relationship is tested as new dangers emerge around them. Cryptic messages and eerie occurrences disrupt their tranquil life, hinting at dark secrets yet to be uncovered. As they delve into the haunting mysteries of Adeline’s past, the couple faces chilling revelations that challenge their trust and threaten their future together. This gripping mystery romance novel expertly weaves suspense with elements of romance, portraying a deep and enduring love confronted by the shadows of long-buried sins.
Hunting Adeline by HD Carlton
This mystery romance novel unfolds in the shadows of a haunting estate, where Catrin, a headstrong artist, crosses paths with a reclusive and enigmatic figure, Adeline. As unsettling secrets begin to surface, Catrin is drawn into a web of intrigue and hidden desires. Together, they delve into Adeline’s mysterious past, uncovering truths that challenge their perceptions and draw them irresistibly closer. Amidst the suspense, a complex relationship blossoms, blending fear with fascination as they navigate the dangerous waters of trust and betrayal. The dark, Gothic atmosphere amplifies the tension, creating a perfect backdrop for this tale of passion intertwined with peril.
In the Winter Woods by Isabelle Adler
This mystery romance novel is set in a tranquil small town, where Declan, a reserved and solitary man, encounters a mysterious stranger. The stranger’s arrival brings unsettling secrets and unresolved issues to the surface. As Declan finds himself irresistibly drawn to the newcomer, they embark on a journey of discovery, both of the truth behind the stranger’s past and of the growing feelings between them. Set against a picturesque yet isolated snowy backdrop, the novel explores the complexities of their burgeoning relationship amidst the deepening mystery, weaving a tale of vulnerability, strength, and the warmth of newfound love.
Lethal by Sandra Brown
Lethal by Sandra Brown is a thrilling novel that follows Honor Gillette, who discovers a ‘sick’ man, Lee Coburn, in her yard. Coburn, accused of murdering seven people, takes Honor and her daughter hostage. He claims that Honor’s late husband possessed something valuable and dangerous, and he must find it before The Bookkeeper, a crime boss, does. The story takes them from Washington, D.C., to coastal Louisiana, as they run for their lives while unravelling a web of corruption and danger. This narrative tests the characters’ trust and survival instincts, making it a gripping read.
Where Shadows Meet by Colleen Coble
Where Shadows Meet by Colleen Coble is a romantic mystery novel. The story centres around Hannah Swartz, who is betrothed to Noah Whetstone but is in love with Reece O’Connor, a non-Amish man. After the tragic death of her parents, Hannah flees her Amish community with Reece. Her journey reveals Reece’s true nature, leading to the dissolution of their marriage. Hannah never stops seeking her parents’ murderer and faces further challenges when her family is threatened. Reece’s claim that their daughter is still alive adds to the suspense, as Hannah navigates danger and deceit to protect her family and herself.
Her Stolen Past by Lynette Eason
Her Stolen Past by Lynette Eason is a suspenseful novel from the Family Reunions series. The story revolves around Sonya Daniels, who discovers a kidnapped baby’s birth certificate in her late mother’s home, leading her to question her family’s connection to the child, who has been missing for over twenty years. Sonya hires detective Brandon Hayes to assist her in uncovering the truth. However, their investigation is met with resistance, as someone is determined to keep the past hidden, putting their lives in danger. This novel combines elements of mystery and suspense, making it a gripping read.
Christmas Cover Up by Lynette Eason
Christmas Cover-Up by Lynette Eason is the second book in the Family Reunions series. The story focuses on Detective Katie Randall, who is determined to solve the fourteen-year-old kidnapping case of her sister, Lucy. Katie’s only option is to collaborate with former FBI agent Jordan Grey, whose family holds a grudge against her. As they delve into the investigation, Jordan struggles with his feelings for Katie while focusing on finding Lucy. Their search for the truth reveals shocking revelations, and they must confront a kidnapper who might turn into a killer. This book combines elements of suspense, romance, and family drama.
Hide and Seek by Lynette Eason
The first book in the Family Reunions series, Hide and Seek delivers a suspenseful and emotional narrative. The story follows Erica James, who has spent the last three years working as a skip tracer, a job that involves tracking down others. Erica’s motivation stems from a deeply personal tragedy: her daughter was kidnapped, and she hopes her job will someday lead her to find her missing child. Erica comes across a new suspect in her daughter’s disappearance – Max Powell’s missing sister. Max, a private investigator, has discovered evidence linking the two missing girls. Together, Erica and Max embark on a journey to uncover the truth, their mission intertwined with evolving feelings for each other. However, their search for answers puts them in the crosshairs of the kidnapper, who is determined to keep the truth buried, even if it means resorting to murder.
Silent In The Grave by Deanna Raybourn
Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn is the first instalment in the Lady Julia Grey series, which deftly combines historical fiction with mystery. The story begins with the sudden death of Lady Julia Grey’s husband, Sir Edward, during a social event, setting her on a path of investigation and discovery. With the assistance of private investigator Nicholas Brisbane, Lady Julia delves into her late husband’s secretive life, unravelling a complex web of intrigue and danger. Set in Victorian England, the novel offers a rich historical atmosphere, blending gothic elements and romance with a slowly unfolding mystery. The dynamic between Julia and Brisbane adds depth to the narrative, making Silent in the Grave a compelling read for fans of historical mysteries.
Silent In The Sanctuary by Deanna Raybourn
Silent in the Sanctuary by Deanna Raybourn is the second novel in the Lady Julia Grey series, offering a rich blend of mystery and historical romance. Set against the backdrop of a family Christmas gathering in Sussex, Lady Julia Grey finds herself embroiled in another intriguing mystery when a murder occurs within her family’s estate. The novel stands out for its atmospheric English country house setting, witty dialogue, and the evolving relationship between the sassy Lady Julia and the enigmatic Nicholas Brisbane. Combining elements of a traditional English Christmas with the suspense of a classic whodunit, Raybourn creates a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged with its mix of romance, family drama, and mystery.
Silent on the Moor by Deanna Raybourn
Silent on the Moor by Deanna Raybourn is a captivating addition to the Lady Julia Grey series, set against the eerie backdrop of the Yorkshire moors. This historical romantic suspense novel blends elements of a gothic mystery with an unfolding romance. The story follows the strong-willed and independent Lady Julia Grey, who, defying social conventions, embarks on an uninvited journey to Brisbane’s new estate, Grimsgrave. The narrative weaves through family secrets, an isolated manor, and a series of mysterious events, driven by Julia’s determination to uncover the truth. The book’s atmosphere, characterised by a haunting gothic ambiance, and the complex relationship between Julia and Brisbane, make it a compelling read for fans of historical romance and suspense.
A Curious Beginning by Deanna Raybourn
In this Victorian-era mystery romance, Veronica Speedwell, an intrepid lepidopterist, becomes embroiled in a thrilling adventure after a chance encounter at her aunt’s funeral. Teaming up with the enigmatic natural historian Stoker, Veronica finds herself at the centre of a conspiracy that stretches back decades. As they race to uncover the truth and clear her name, a slow-burning romance develops between them, adding to the novel’s charm. The story skillfully mixes historical detail with mystery and romance, creating a captivating world filled with intrigue, witty banter, and undeniable chemistry.
Mr. Perfect by Linda Howard
Mr. Perfect by Linda Howard is a thrilling mystery romance novel where a casual conversation among friends about the ideal man spirals into unforeseen danger. Jaine Bright and her friends compose a light-hearted, yet racy list of attributes for the perfect man, which unexpectedly becomes viral, triggering intense public and media attention. This seemingly innocent fun turns deadly when one of the women is murdered, leading to a suspenseful investigation. The story masterfully intertwines elements of romance, humour, and suspense, as Jaine and her friends, along with a resourceful police detective, navigate through this chilling ordeal where trust and love become matters of survival.
Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood
Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood is a riveting blend of suspense and romance. Set against the backdrop of a confessional’s secrecy, a chilling confession sets the stage for a suspenseful chase. The story revolves around FBI agent Nick Buchanan, who faces the task of stopping a cunning killer threatening his best friend’s sister, Laurant Madden. As Nick and Laurant’s paths cross in the small town of Holy Oaks, Iowa, an electrifying attraction grows, intensifying the stakes of the chase. Garwood’s narrative is marked by her signature style of combining compelling romance with a gripping thriller plot, creating a novel that is both emotionally rich and suspenseful.
Northern Lights by Nora Roberts
Set in the isolated town of Lunacy, Alaska, with a population of 506 including Nate Burke. A former Baltimore cop, Nate becomes Lunacy’s Chief of Police, seeking solace from the haunting memories of his partner’s death. He is drawn to Meg Galloway, an independent pilot, and faces romantic complications involving Meg’s mother. The story features unique minor characters, such as Peach, the dispatcher with a love for baking, and the Mackie brothers, known for their tempers. The harsh Alaskan weather plays a central role, symbolizing the initial emotional distance between Nate and Meg, and later, the warmth of their growing connection. This romance is intertwined with elements of mystery and drama, including a daring mountain rescue and murder, making it a compelling read.
Proper English by KJ Charles
This historical mystery romance novel transports readers to Edwardian England, where a shooting party at a country estate becomes the backdrop for murder and forbidden love. Pat and Fen, two women from very different worlds, find themselves unexpectedly drawn to each other amidst the chaos. As they work together to unravel the mystery, their attraction grows, challenging the societal norms and expectations of the time. The novel beautifully blends romance with suspense, offering a glimpse into the complexities of love and identity in a period marked by rigid social conventions.
Flawless by Heather Graham
Set against the backdrop of New York, Flawless is a romantic mystery novel that weaves together a thrilling diamond heist and a blossoming romance. Kieran Finnegan, a psychologist and part-owner of a pub, finds herself unexpectedly involved in a high-stakes crime. When FBI agent Craig Frasier steps in to investigate, sparks fly between them. As they navigate the dangerous world of organized crime and betrayal, their attraction grows. The novel masterfully combines elements of danger, intrigue, and passion, making it a captivating read for those who love their romance with a dose of adrenaline.
Sex, Murder and a Double Latte by Kyra Davis
This mystery romance novel features Sophie Katz, a sassy mystery writer whose life turns chaotic when she suspects someone is mimicking the murders from her books. Balancing a blend of humour, suspense, and steamy romance, Sophie embarks on an unpredictable quest to uncover the truth. As she delves deeper into the mystery, Sophie navigates through quirky characters, dangerous situations, and romantic entanglements. Her sharp wit and fearless attitude make her an endearing protagonist in this lighthearted yet suspenseful story that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
Verity by Colleen Hoover
In this enthralling mystery romance novel, Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer, finds herself embroiled in the complex life of the famous author, Verity Crawford. Tasked with completing Verity’s renowned series after her incapacitation, Lowen uncovers a disturbing unpublished autobiography. The manuscript reveals shocking truths about Verity and her family, entangling Lowen in a web of moral dilemmas and growing affection for Verity’s husband, Jeremy. As she navigates through the complexities of her feelings and the eerie discoveries, Lowen is drawn into a dangerous blend of reality and fiction.
What Makes a Great Mystery Romance?
In my journey as an author, I’ve found that the most engaging mystery romance novels succeed when they create an enticing balance between romance and mystery. A strong mystery romance book doesn’t just focus on unravelling a puzzle or crime; it also brings out the emotional depth of its characters, especially in how they interact and connect romantically while navigating danger. In these books about love and mystery, the plot twists and reveals are as crucial as the development of the romantic tension between the characters.
What draws readers to mystery and romance books is the excitement of solving a mystery, paired with the passion and emotional intensity of the romance. Whether it’s uncovering hidden secrets, solving a crime, or dealing with a sinister threat, the best mystery romance books weave together these elements, making both the romance and the mystery equally integral to the story. As an author, I find that readers are drawn into these worlds not just because they want to know ‘whodunit,’ but because they are equally invested in seeing if the characters’ love will survive the challenges thrown at them.
For example, in my own work, the mystery often drives the romantic relationship forward—secrets revealed, trust tested, and passions ignited under high stakes. I aim to create a narrative where the mystery intensifies the romantic connection, and the romance deepens the tension of the mystery. The best romance mystery books I’ve read and written combine a carefully constructed puzzle with emotional stakes that keep readers hooked until the very last page.
In addition, the setting in a mystery romance novel is a key factor in enhancing both the suspense and the allure of the romance. Whether it’s the brooding countryside, a haunted mansion, or a bustling city, the backdrop serves as more than just a place—it becomes a character in itself, influencing the unfolding mystery and the growing romance. The combination of atmosphere, suspense, and emotional tension is what makes these books mystery romance enthusiasts gravitate toward.
Ultimately, a great romantic mystery novel pulls readers into a world where passion and peril intertwine. The perfect blend of love and danger keeps them guessing—not just about the outcome of the mystery, but also about the fate of the romance. It’s that delicate dance between intrigue and intimacy that makes the genre so thrilling and satisfying for fans of mystery romance novels.
