by Nikki DeMarco
For romance lovers, the “marriage of convenience” trope offers the perfect blend of tension, slow-burn chemistry, and heartfelt emotion. These stories usually begin with practical agreements—whether for financial security, social obligation, or unexpected circumstances—but what makes them irresistible is how love sneaks its way in, often taking the characters (and us readers!) by surprise.
At the heart of these novels, two people who barely know or trust each other are thrown together under the guise of marriage. But as they navigate life side by side, sparks fly, and the connection between them deepens. Readers are treated to some of the best character development and relationship-building, where what starts as a practical arrangement gradually transforms into true, undeniable love.
Whether you’re in the mood for historical settings, contemporary romance, or something with a touch of fantasy, the marriage of convenience trope spans a wide range of styles and settings. From tender moments of vulnerability to playful banter, these books on marriage of convenience pull you in with emotional depth and satisfying happily-ever-afters.
Here are seven must-read marriage of convenience romance novels that promise to sweep you off your feet—perfect for your next binge-reading session!
7 marriage of convenience romance novels
PRINCESS BRIDE SWAPbyLorraine Hall
Crown Prince Lyon is in want of heirs, especially if he wants to keep his claim on the throne. An arranged marriage is the most efficient way to fix this, but when the intended bride bails, Prince Lyon agrees to marry her twin sister instead. Princess Beaugonia agreed to marry Prince Lyon in order to save her sister. Neither expects the instant chemistry between them. Princess Beaugonia has some major trust issues (hello, being a backup bride in an arranged marriage!), and it takes some time for Prince Lyon to dismantle her walls. Then he discovers a secret that’s made her such a wallflower, and he wants to do everything he can to give her the spotlight she deserves.
GREEK’S SHOTGUN WEDDINGbyLynne Graham
Jace Diamandis isn’t used to working for a woman’s affections. That’s because veterinary surgeon Gigi Campbell isn’t easily impressed by glitz and glamor. Jace has to put his Diamandis charm into overtime to convince Gigi to join him on his luxury yacht for an unforgettable date. Down to Earth Gigi doesn’t think the relationship can work, but when she realizes that she’s pregnant, everything changes.
QUEEN’S WINTER WEDDING CHARADEbyHeidi Rice
Queen Isabelle of Androvia must marry if she wants complete control of her kingdom. Isabelle doesn’t care who; whichever eligible bachelor is closest. Billionaire Travis Lord loves becoming Prince Consort. It gives him validation that he has finally overcome his poor upbringing. They soon find out that upholding a newlywed facade while fighting their own growing feelings for each other isn’t as easy as they thought.
MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE COLLECTIONbyMaisey Yates
Three books for less than the price of one! You shouldn’t pass this opportunity up, especially since they are by the compelling Maisey Yates. InThe Argentine’s Price, a self-made billionaire and the CEO of a failing company agree to marry if he agrees to bail her business out of trouble. InA Game of VowsHannah is ready to get over her first marriage and move on, but moments away from I do, Eduardo returns to let everyone know they are still married. InGirl on a Diamond Pedestal,Ethan needs a wife if he’s to take control of the family empire. Destitute after a failed venture, Noelle must say yes to the billionaire even though she knows his main motive is revenge.
THE MARRIAGE OF INCONVENIENCEbyNina Singh
Angeline Scott is in danger of losing her business and immediately seeks help from her estranged husband, RJ Davet. She needs him to be her husband again for an important business deal. As soon as he’s back in her life, she realizes she still has feelings for him and a limited time to act on them!
JUST A LITTLE MARRIEDbyReese Ryan
Riley George has been fighting feelings for former fling Travis Holloway since they stopped seeing each other. When Riley’s inheritance depends on her marital status, she must find a husband fast and asks Travis if he’d be willing to help. He’ll do anything to help his family save their luxury resort. As long as they keep it strictly business, they can both get what they want. The real question is will they be able to get the love they both need?
COMPROMISED INTO A SCANDALOUS MARRIAGEbyLydia San Andres
A historical marriage of convenience novel set outside England is always a treat, and Lydia San Andres’s writing is just as delicious. Paulina Despradel’s family banishes her from their ancestral home in the middle of a raging storm. Desperate to find refuge, she seeks shelter with handsome neighbor Sebastian Linares. Attraction strikes them immediately, but their night together is completely innocent. Regardless, they must marry. Is the electricity between them enough to spark a real marriage?
Nikki DeMarco is a high school librarian in Richmond, Virginia, and works hard to keep her students’ joy of reading intact. She rescued the cutest, grumpiest Yorkie and took up an expensive house plant hobby. She has her MFA in creative writing with a concentration in non-fiction. And is constantly working on her romance novel. You can find her on all social media @iamnikkidemarco