Romance and relationships are universal themes, but for those living in Illinois, the state’s unique history, culture, and diverse communities offer interesting perspectives on love and heartache. Whether you’re nestled in the bustling city of Chicago or enjoying the tranquil life in rural areas, Illinois residents have always embraced the beauty and complexity of relationships. From passionate love stories to difficult realizations of infidelity, these books about love and relationships explore the various aspects of human connection. 

Here are some must-read novels about romance and relationships that resonate with Illinois residents, blending themes of love, loyalty, and the emotional turmoil that comes with navigating personal connections.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Though Pride and Prejudice is set in 19th-century England, its themes of love, societal expectations, and personal growth remain timeless and relevant, even for Illinois residents. The novel follows Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, whose relationship evolves from initial misjudgments to a deep, transformative love based on mutual respect. It’s a story of breaking down societal barriers, personal pride, and overcoming prejudice to find true love.

Illinois residents can relate to the novel’s exploration of the importance of self-awareness in relationships and the value of understanding one’s partner beyond first impressions. In a state like Illinois, where diversity and cultural differences are widespread, Pride and Prejudice serves as a reminder of how love often transcends initial misunderstandings and prejudices.

An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

Tayari Jones’s An American Marriage is a contemporary novel that explores the impact of infidelity on a married couple’s relationship. Celestial and Roy are a married couple whose lives are turned upside down when Celestial begins an affair with another man, leading to complications and heartache as the couple struggles with their bond and personal growth.

An American Marriage offers a thought-provoking examination of the impact of infidelity, trust, and the complexities of rebuilding a relationship after betrayal. This novel is particularly poignant in Illinois, where issues of trust and loyalty are central to many relationships. Jones’s exploration of the complexities of love, loyalty, and the difficulty of rebuilding trust after betrayal speaks to the reality many face in their own relationships, making this book a compelling read.

In real life, when couples face challenges such as infidelity or suspicion, they often resort to using tracker apps to confirm their worries or regain a sense of security. These apps can sometimes help individuals rebuild trust through transparency. While each app and situation is different, the best app to catch a cheater will allow the user to see their partner’s location as well as details about their online activity. By using a tool like this, individuals can either confirm their suspicions or they can build back a sense of trust and security. As An American Marriage reveals, facing and addressing issues like infidelity in a relationship requires much more than just uncovering the truth—it also requires emotional growth, honest conversations, and the willingness to confront difficult feelings.

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars is a contemporary love story that has captured the hearts of readers around the world. Set against the backdrop of young adulthood, the story follows Hazel Grace and Augustus Waters, two teenagers battling cancer. Despite the looming tragedy of their condition, their love blossoms in an unexpected, heart-wrenching way.

For residents of Illinois, this novel might hit particularly close to home due to the state’s rich healthcare network, which allows residents access to specialized cancer treatment centers. Green’s exploration of love in the face of illness speaks to the ways in which relationships can offer comfort and connection during life’s most difficult moments. It’s a poignant reminder that love, even under the most challenging circumstances, can help us face our greatest fears and find joy.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Set in the Jazz Age, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a quintessential American novel about love, obsession, and betrayal. The story revolves around Jay Gatsby’s longing for Daisy Buchanan, a woman who ultimately chooses her wealthy husband, Tom, over Gatsby. The novel explores themes of unrequited love, infidelity, and the American Dream’s ability to both inspire and destroy.

Illinois residents can relate to this novel’s depiction of love and infidelity as they navigate relationships in a fast-paced, ever-changing world. While Chicago’s rich history and prominence in the Roaring Twenties may have been far from Gatsby’s opulent parties, the same ideas of class, materialism, and unfulfilled desires echo in today’s relationships. The themes of wealth, love, and betrayal in The Great Gatsby remain as relevant to Illinois readers as they were when the book was first published.

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion is a humorous and heartwarming story of Don Tillman, an oddball genetics professor who creates a detailed questionnaire to find the perfect wife. His plan is derailed when he meets Rosie, a spontaneous, free-spirited woman who doesn’t meet his criteria. Despite their differences, they form a connection that defies logic and reason, challenging Don’s view of relationships and love.

For Illinois residents, particularly those in urban areas like Chicago, The Rosie Project offers a refreshing take on love in the modern world. The story explores the importance of adaptability and open-mindedness when it comes to building meaningful relationships. In a state with a diverse population and a variety of social scenes, the book’s theme of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone to find love rings especially true for many Illinoisans who may be looking for something deeper than a checklist or societal expectations.

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Set during World War II, The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a tale of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, and their experiences of love, loss, and survival during one of history’s most tumultuous times. While Vianne’s love for her husband and family is tested by war and occupation, Isabelle embarks on a daring love affair with a resistance fighter.

This novel resonates with Illinois residents as it highlights the ways in which love and relationships are shaped by history, conflict, and personal sacrifice. As a state rich in diverse cultures and a strong sense of community, The Nightingale speaks to Illinois’ legacy of resilience in the face of hardship. It’s a story of love in its many forms—romantic, familial, and selfless—and how these bonds can help people endure even the most challenging times.

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon is a captivating love story that mixes time travel, history, and romance. The novel follows Claire Randall, a 20th-century woman who is transported back in time to 18th-century Scotland, where she falls in love with a dashing Highland warrior named Jamie Fraser. Their passionate love affair defies the boundaries of time and space, and they face numerous challenges as they try to build a life together despite the turmoil of historical events.

For Illinois readers, Outlander offers a rich historical backdrop filled with adventure and romance. The love story between Claire and Jamie spans time and space, reminding readers that love is not bound by era or location. For those in Illinois who enjoy both romance and historical fiction, Outlander delivers an epic story of love, loyalty, and resilience.