There’s something thrilling about apocalyptic settings in books, where characters face the end of the world and all the challenges that come with it. Now, mix in a dash of romance, and you get a tale that’s both exciting and heartwarming. Apocalyptic romance books combine the suspense of a world in chaos with the beauty of love blossoming in unexpected places. These stories show us that even in the darkest times, love can light the way and offer hope.
In this article, we’ve gathered some of the best apocalyptic romance books that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You’ll find tales of survival, brave heroes, and love stories that prove true love can thrive even in the most challenging circumstances. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed adventures or touching love stories, these books promise a gripping and emotional ride.
Best Post Apocalyptic Romance Books
Claire Kent
Haven
"Haven" by Claire Kent is a gripping post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future. The world outside has descended into chaos and constant warfare, leaving the characters with no choice but to fight. The protagonist, Jackson, is not like other people. However, when he is in love or in a relationship, he might be different. The story follows the intense and passionate encounters between the protagonist and Jackson, as they seek solace in each other's arms amidst the darkness.
Claire Kent
Last Light
Last Light by Claire Kent is a gripping post-apocalyptic novel that takes place four years after the world has fallen apart. The protagonist, the last surviving member of her family, embarks on a dangerous journey across three states to find the only people she knows who are still alive. In order to survive, she must scavenge for food and supplies while avoiding violent men who prey on the vulnerable. The only person she can rely on is Travis, a man she barely knows and doesn't particularly like. Despite their differences, they form a bond and depend on each other for safety and support. As they make their way back to their hometown, they must confront their feelings and decide whether to continue their journey together or part ways.
Courtney Konstantin
Survive
In "Survive" by Courtney Konstantin, Max Duncan is faced with a terrifying reality. A deadly virus has spread across the United States, turning people into flesh-eating zombies. Max must escape South Carolina with her daughter Jack and make it to their family compound in Montana for a chance at survival. Along the way, Max must decide whether to risk everything to reunite with her high school sweetheart, Griffin Wells, who is unaware that Jack is his child. As they navigate through the dangers of the apocalypse, they soon realize that the government and military have hidden secrets about the infected that could change everything.
Crystal Ash
Lawless
In the book "Lawless" by Crystal Ash, the world has been completely transformed by a catastrophic event known as the Collapse. In this lawless society, I find myself belonging to four ruthless men who are part of the Steel Demons MC, a powerful motorcycle club. As a medic, I thought I was just making a routine stop at an inn, but these bikers have other plans for me. Reaper, Jandro, Gunner, and Shadow, the most dangerous members of the club, have taken a keen interest in me. They thrive on the chaos and violence of this new world, and they will do whatever it takes to possess me.
E.M. Raegan
Defy The Ravaged
"Defy the Ravaged" by E.M. Raegan is a captivating dystopian romance novel that follows the story of Willow and Jason. Willow and Jason used to hate each other, but everything changes when they wake up to chaos and danger. Now, with the ravaged creatures threatening their lives, Jason becomes Willow's protector. As they navigate this dangerous world together, their feelings for each other begin to change.
Erik J. Brown
All That’s Left in the World
"All That's Left in the World" by Erik J. Brown is a gripping post-apocalyptic novel. Andrew and Jamie, both devastated by the loss of their loved ones due to a deadly virus, find solace in each other's company. As they embark on a dangerous journey to find civilization, they must confront their own secrets and trust issues. Along the way, their friendship evolves into something deeper, adding another layer of complexity to their already challenging quest. With the future at stake, they must confront their fears, face the consequences of their choices, and fight together for the future they long for. The undeniable bond between them becomes their only certainty in a world that has been stripped of everything else.
Gwendolyn Harper
Bloody Sunrise
In "Bloody Sunrise" by Gwendolyn Harper, Caitlin Meadows embarks on a business trip expecting only the usual airport inconveniences. However, her journey takes a terrifying turn when her plane is shot down and she finds herself in the midst of a zombie virus outbreak. With no one to rely on but herself, Caitlin's sole focus becomes survival. Along the way, she encounters Jack Booker, a former Marine with a mysterious past who constantly challenges her. As they navigate through the chaos of the undead, corrupt government agencies, and the darkness within humanity, Caitlin and Jack form an unlikely bond. Will they find solace in each other as the world crumbles around them, or will their luck eventually run out?
Imogen Keeper
Broken
"Broken" by Imogen Keeper is a gripping book that explores the impending doom of humanity. The story follows a group of survivors who are faced with the devastating reality of a world without order. As they navigate through the chaos, they find solace in each other and discover unexpected connections.
Jacqueline Hayley
After Today
"After Today" by Jacqueline Hayley is a gripping story about love and survival in the face of an apocalypse. Mackenzie Lyons escapes the devastation of a deadly virus in Chicago and seeks refuge in her childhood hometown with the help of her best friend's brother, Jake. However, the small-minded community of Sanford is not welcoming, and there are other battles brewing besides the virus. Jake has always loved Mac, and despite the uncertain times, he is determined to make the most of their time together and hope for a better future. As the survivors face torment from Sanford's misogynistic council and threats from a lawless motorcycle gang, Jake and Mackenzie must form new alliances and confront dangerous enemies in a struggle that proves to be even worse than the outbreak itself.
Kat Bostick
Moonshine
Moonshine by Kat Bostick is a gripping post-apocalyptic novel set in a world where the lights suddenly go out, leaving the protagonist, a college student in Seattle, to fend for herself. She flees to the east coast in search of hope, but ends up alone in the forest. Just when all seems lost, she stumbles upon Joshua, a survivalist with a cabin and farm. Despite his initial reluctance, the protagonist realizes that Joshua may need her as much as she needs him.
Kate L. Mary
Broken World
In "Broken World" by Kate L. Mary, a deadly virus is spreading across the country. Vivian, desperate to see her daughter, embarks on a journey to California. However, her car breaks down and she is faced with a difficult decision: accept a ride from two redneck brothers, Angus and Axl, or give up. Despite the risks, Vivian chooses to take the ride in order to reach her daughter in time. As they make their way to California, they discover that most of the population has been wiped out and the dead are coming back to life. Vivian must navigate being a mother in these terrifying circumstances, deal with Angus's mood swings, and navigate her growing attraction to Axl. Along the way, they encounter a wealthy man who may hold the key to their survival, but trusting him means venturing into the dangerous Mojave Desert. With no other options, they must decide if he is their only chance for survival.
Keri Lake
Juniper Unraveling
Juniper Unraveling by Keri Lake is a heart-wrenching story of survival, love, and resilience. It takes place in a world of brutal inhumanity, where a deadly contagion has divided the population into the pure, the infected, and the Ragers. The book follows the protagonist's journey, starting with the moment they meet a mute boy named Six from the other side of the wall. Six touches their heart in ways that words never could and gives them the courage to face their darkest truth.
Kit Rocha
Deal with the Devil
"Deal with the Devil" by Kit Rocha is a thrilling book set in a crumbling America. Nina, an information broker, leads a team of mercenary librarians who use their knowledge to help those in desperate need. Knox, a battle-weary captain, is fighting to survive with his squad of supersoldiers who went AWOL to avoid harming innocent people. As their paths cross, a dangerous passion ignites between them. They must decide whether to destroy each other or join forces to accomplish the impossible.
Kresley Cole
Poison Princess
Poison Princess by Kresley Cole is a thrilling young adult novel about sixteen-year-old Evangeline "Evie" Greene. Evie's life takes a dark turn when she starts having terrifying visions of the future, which later become a reality during an apocalyptic event that destroys her hometown and kills everyone she loves. Desperate for answers and fighting for her life, Evie teams up with Jack Deveaux, a classmate from the wrong side of town. Despite their complicated history, Jack agrees to protect Evie on her quest. As they search for the source of her visions, they discover others with special powers who are also involved in an ancient prophecy. With danger lurking at every corner, Evie must navigate a world where it's hard to distinguish between good and evil.
L.J. Baker
Save Me
Andi was managing fine on her own after a deadly outbreak turned people into flesh-eating zombies. She had lost everyone she loved, but she was alive and independent. She had no interest in forming relationships with others, as she believed people were untrustworthy and didn't stick around for long. However, everything changed when Will arrived to save her. Will, with his captivating green eyes, tempting lips, and charming smile, refused to let Andi push him away. Despite her efforts to resist her feelings and distance herself from Will, the more time they spent together, the harder it became. In a world where survival was uncertain, wasting even a single moment could mean missing out on the only chance for happiness.
L.K. Magill
Outlasting After
In "Outlasting After" by L.K. Magill, Cole Tanner is convinced that all women have perished after the war. However, he comes across a lone woman on the road who appears vulnerable and in need of help. But when she points a gun at him, Cole realizes she is not a damsel in distress. Despite this, Cole believes they still need each other and he will attempt to convince her to join his team.
Laura Thalassa
Pestilence
In this book by Laura Thalassa, four horsemen known as Pestilence, War, Famine, and Death arrive on Earth with the intention of destroying humanity. When Pestilence targets Sara Burn's town, she decides to take matters into her own hands and shoots him. However, she soon learns that Pestilence cannot be killed. Instead, he takes her captive and intends to make her suffer. As Sara spends more time with him, she becomes unsure of his true feelings for her and her own feelings towards him. In order to save the world, Sara must make a difficult choice and sacrifice her heart.
Linda Howard, Linda Jones
After Sundown
"After Sundown" by Linda Howard and Linda Jones is a captivating story about Sela Gordon, a shy store owner in Tennessee, who finds solace in her solitude. However, her protective shell is pierced by a handsome and mysterious ex-military man living alone in the wilderness of Cove Mountain. He warns her about an impending catastrophic solar storm that could bring down the power grid. Sela must gather the courage to become the leader her community needs. Ben Jernigan, a former soldier, has learned to prioritize his own safety. Despite his self-imposed exile, he feels compelled to inform Sela about the threat. As panic spreads, Sela and Ben realize that in the darkness and isolation, they can no longer play it safe, both in life and in love.
Lissa Bryan
The End of All Things
"The End of All Things" by Lissa Bryan is a gripping post-apocalyptic novel that follows Carly Daniels, one of the few survivors of a devastating virus. Hiding in her apartment in Juneau, Carly struggles to survive and finds solace in her companion, Sam, a wolf puppy. When she is discovered by Justin, an ex-soldier with a plan to reach Florida, Carly is convinced to join him on a dangerous journey. As they navigate through a ravaged nation, facing challenges and encountering both friendly and dangerous survivors, Carly and Justin find love and hope amidst the chaos.
Madeline Sheehan, Claire C. Riley
Thicker Than Blood
"Thicker Than Blood" by Madeline Sheehan and Claire C. Riley is a gripping story about the enduring power of friendship. Leisel and Evelyn have lost everything in an apocalypse, but they still have each other. However, their safety is shattered one night, forcing them to navigate a cruel and dangerous world. With the help of unlikely allies, they must find a way to stay alive and hold onto their humanity. Along the way, they also discover the possibility of love. In a world filled with violence and despair, their unbreakable friendship and love against all odds may be their only chance at survival.
N.K. Jemisin
The Fifth Season
"The Fifth Season" by N.K. Jemisin is a gripping novel about a world on the brink of destruction. The story begins with a massive rift that splits the continent, causing darkness to cover the land. Death, betrayal, and old wounds resurface, creating a chaotic and unforgiving environment known as the Stillness. In this land, the power of the earth is used as a weapon, leaving no room for mercy.
Nikita Slater
Sanctuary’s Warlord
In "Sanctuary's Warlord" by Nikita Slater, the story takes place in a hostile world plagued by a disease that transforms humans into primitive beings. Taran, known as the Desert Wren, risks her life to help illegal refugees find safety in her Sanctuary city. However, when she is captured, she faces a fate worse than death - losing her freedom. On the other hand, Diogo, the powerful Warlord, is determined to maintain control over the Sanctuary by eliminating the weak. When he captures Taran, he sees an opportunity for redemption and envisions her as his bride who can help shape the future of the Sanctuary.
Nora Roberts
Year One
Year One by Nora Roberts is a gripping post-apocalyptic novel that takes place after a sudden and deadly sickness spreads across the world. As society crumbles and technology fails, magic begins to emerge. Lana, a witch, and her lover Max navigate the chaos of a ruined New York City, while other survivors embark on their own journeys. With danger lurking around every corner, these characters must rely on each other to survive. As they face unknown challenges and encounter both allies and enemies, they are driven by a mysterious purpose that will shape their futures and the fate of humanity. The end is here, but the beginning is just beginning.
Rebecca Zanetti
Mercury Striking
In the book "Mercury Striking" by Rebecca Zanetti, North America has been devastated by a deadly disease called the Scorpius Syndrome. The remaining survivors are struggling to avoid getting infected and rebuild society. Dr. Lynne Harmony believes she can find a cure, but she knows she can't do it alone. She embarks on a dangerous journey to find a mysterious man named Jax Mercury, who is known for protecting the weak and leading the strong. Jax is more than just a strong fighter, and in a post-plague Los Angeles, he becomes Lynne's only hope. However, there are powerful forces searching for Lynne, and some people in Jax's group are willing to betray him. To survive, Lynne and Jax must stick together and stay close.
Reese Rivers
Dying to Love
"Dying to Love" by Reese Rivers is a comedic and steamy novel set in a post-apocalyptic world. Kelsey, who has survived the initial chaos, finds herself alone and mentally broken. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when three sweet and sexy men, along with one not-so-nice individual, seek refuge in her sanctuary. As Kelsey navigates her complicated emotions and deals with her best friend's ghostly antics, she must decide whether to continue living a mundane existence or embrace the love and passion that these men offer. With zombies making occasional appearances, this book is not your typical blood and gore zombie novel. Instead, it focuses on humor, overprotective men, and the steamy romance that unfolds behind double fences.
Sarah Lyons Fleming
Until the End of the World
In "Until the End of the World" by Sarah Lyons Fleming, Cassie Forrest finds herself in the midst of a zombie apocalypse just as she decides to turn her life around. Along with her friends, Cassie must escape Brooklyn before they too become zombies. However, her ex-boyfriend and a troublesome sister make their journey even more difficult. As they face deadly threats, Cassie realizes she will do whatever it takes to protect her loved ones. Amidst the chaos, Cassie also hopes to confess her love to Adrian. With faith in herself and her abilities, Cassie learns that survival is not the only thing that matters in this post-apocalyptic world.
Susan Ee
Angelfall
In the book "Angelfall" by Susan Ee, the world has been destroyed by angels of the apocalypse. Street gangs now control the day, while fear and superstition dominate the night. When a young girl is taken by warrior angels, her sister Penryn, who is seventeen years old, is determined to do whatever it takes to save her. This includes making a deal with Raffe, an injured angel who is their enemy. Together, they travel through a dark and twisted Northern California, heading towards the angels' stronghold in San Francisco. Penryn is willing to risk everything to rescue her sister, and Raffe is willing to face his greatest enemies in order to regain his strength.
Tiffany Roberts
Dustwalker
In the book "Dustwalker" by Tiffany Roberts, a robot named Ronin has been wandering the desolate Dust for centuries, searching for purpose. One night, he encounters Lara Brooks, a woman who sparks something within him. Lara is desperate to find her missing sister and turns to Ronin for help. In exchange, Ronin asks Lara to dance for him. As they spend more time together, Lara begins to see Ronin as more than just a machine, and Ronin discovers that he is capable of feeling emotions. However, if they give in to their desires, they risk angering the tyrannical Warlord and putting Lara in danger. Can they learn to love in this broken world without facing dire consequences?
B.B. Easton
Bad Boys Don’t Die
"Praying for Rain" by B.B. Easton is a gripping novel set in the small town of Franklin Springs, Georgia, just days before the predicted apocalypse. The town is in ruins, with abandoned cars, homes, businesses, and people. Rainbow Williams, a young woman who is not afraid of death, is hoping to outrun her pain until April 23. Wes Parker, a resourceful and attractive man, returns to his hometown and seeks help to survive the end of the world. As society crumbles and secrets are revealed, these two lost souls are brought together by fate. Can they learn to live before it's too late?
