Last Updated on November 16, 2023 by Louisa
There’s something enticing about a romance budding when you’re in the public eye 24/7, which is why I find political romance books to be one of the most intriguing tropes.
Political figures are always trying to avoid a scandal, which can be difficult when they fall in love – especially, if that person is not a good look for their reputation.
When new romances blossom, especially if they are from differing political backgrounds and opinions, it’s fascinating to get sucked into how two characters learn to accept each other for their differences.
If you’re looking for a steamy and captivating romance read to add to your reading list, well, political romance novels get my vote.
With tense scenes, incoming elections, polls, and handsome fictional candidates, these political romance stories will have you hooked from start to finish.
But if you’re not sure where to begin, take a look at my best romance books about politics below.
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What To Expect From Political Romance Books
Political romance books are a unique romance trope that steps into the world of high-stakes politics and challenging relationships.
They often have themes of power struggles and political elite classes, as well as prejudice and characters who have ambitious desires.
Political romances often weave together plots that are exciting and often tumultuous, with relationships that involve two people of opposite dynamics.
Common sub-tropes of political romances are enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, and opposites attract, and fake relationships.
Although the storylines are often based around a political event, the relationships between characters often make it to the forefront.
What’s captivating about a political romance is that the reader can see into the life behind closed doors – and behind that door is often very steamy and erotic.
However, some political romances have tender moments of intimacy and vulnerability and usually end with a happy ending.
Best Political Romance Books
Get captivated by romances that bud around politicians and delve deeper into the lifestyles that the public doesn’t usually get to see in these top political romances.
1. Misconduct – Penelope Douglas
If you’re up for a steamy political romance, I suggest Misconduct by Penelope Douglas.
Douglas is well known for writing hate-to-love romances, and this book doesn’t disappoint those who love seeing relationships bloom out of unlikely circumstances.
The story follows Easton who is trying to leave her past behind and live a new life. She’s started over as a teacher at a private school, and that’s where she meets Tyler.
Tyler is a wealthy businessman who is eager to start his path into politics and gain more power. His son is a student in Easton’s class.
After a parent-teacher meeting, Tyler leaves a wrong impression on Easton. But while the two can’t stand each other at first, there is a spark that neither one can deny.
This story is packed with sexual tension and angst. Despite it not being anything new in terms of plot, it’s well-written and easy to digest. I recommend it for anyone who loves smutty forbidden romance books.
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2. Mirror Image – Sandra Brown
Mirror Image is one of my favorite political suspense romance books because the plot was so far-fetched, fast-paced, and full of twists and turns, I couldn’t put it down until all the webs were untangled.
It’s an assassin novel that follows Avery who is a TV reporter that was able to turn a tragedy into a big career move. She was a passenger on a jet that crashed.
While she was lucky enough to survive, she had to have reconstructive surgery on her face. After surgery, she looks nearly identical to the wife of senatorial candidate Tate Rutledge.
This story gets even wilder as Avery discovers that someone has a plan to assassinate Tate. Now, she’s the only one who can save him.
If you love romance books mixed with mystery and suspense, then you’re going to love this book.
While the story is primarily focused on the action, there are some very steamy intimate scenes that are very explicit. In fact, I would argue it was a bit much – but if you’re into something more erotica, this is the book for you.
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3. Mr. President – Katy Evans
If you like a sweet and passionate president romance book to warm your heart then you may like Mr. President, which tells the story of a love that has burned unrequited for years, until she finally gets the guy.
The story follows Charlotte who has had a crush on Matthew since she was young. Everyone knew who Matthew was, as he was the president’s son.
Charlotte had always kept her crush a secret and even joked about helping him when he was older and ran for office one day.
Fast forward to 10 years later, and Charlotte gets an invitation to join Matthew’s campaign.
While she plans to keep this relationship professional, it is the hardest part of the campaign.
Charlotte knows that getting involved with each other could put Matthew’s campaign at risk. But is it a risk worth taking?
This is a great debut from Katy Evans and had a really sweet storyline, relatable characters, and a lot of passion. It will be a book that melts your heart and restores your faith in true love.
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4. American Queen – Sierra Simone
American Queen involves a political love triangle and has some super steamy scenes that will have you feeling hot under the collar. It’s intense, passionate, and has a well-written tale full of political intrigue.
Greer Galloway has always known politics on account of her grandfather being the former vice president.
She’s always been proud of her ability to read people, and at separate points in her life, she met Ash and Embry, desiring them both.
Now, Ash is president, and Embry is vice president. As Greer sets out to fulfill her desires in politics, she realizes that her ability to read people may not be as good as she thought.
If you love a tantalizing love triangle that’s beautiful and moving, then this is a great read for you. It’s not a reverse harem, but it does have some scenes of BDSM, M/F/M, and M/M.
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5. The Kingmaker – Kennedy Ryan
One romance book that takes political issues to the next level is The Kingmaker by Kennedy Ryan which focuses on a politician who has strong views on Native American rights.
This story features two characters from opposite walks of life who want to change the world for the better.
Maxim was born into a world of wealth and power, while Lennix, a Native American woman, values her culture and heritage above anything else.
They first meet at a protest, and Maxim is intrigued by Lennix. Several years later, fate brings them back together.
There’s something about Lennix that leaves Maxim thinking about her all time.
Yet, he feels torn because in his world, there are rules that he has to follow, and Lennix breaks all of the rules.
This novel had everything a political romance should – relatable characters from differing political backgrounds, a storyline that’s both captivating and unpredictable, as well as beautiful writing.
This story is compelling in every way and will hit you right in the feels.
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6. Prime Minister – Ainsley Booth & Sadie Haller
Another steamy political romance novel with lots of steam is Prime Minister, which is a joint effort by Ainsley Booth and Sadie Haller.
This fictional romance is steamy enough to keep you warm throughout a Canadian winter (this book is set in Canada).
The story follows Ellie, who works as an intern for the prime minister of Canada.
Every day she sees how controlling he is with his staff and how much of a perfectionist he is. Yet, she also finds herself thinking about him 24/7.
Gavin, the prime minister, knows not to cross the line with an intern.
But, whenever Ellie calls him sir, he gets in a frenzy. Making a move could be risky, especially since he has a side of him he keeps hidden from the public.
The story is well-written and flows effortlessly. The characters have depth and dynamics, and despite it being steamy, it doesn’t get lost in the heat and still has enough depth to the storyline. This is a very well done collaboration.
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7. A Political Affair – Mary Whitney
If you’re after a warm-hearted and feel-good book, then you might enjoy reading Mary Whitney’s novel A Political Affair. This is an eloquent story about two professionals who have trouble keeping things that way.
It begins after Stephen’s father passed away, and he is left filling his seat in the Senate.
With a tough election coming up, this young senate will need all the help he can get. That’s why he hired an intern, Anne Norwood.
This clever intern has a striking beauty, but it’s something Stephen must ignore if he wants to stay focused on the election.
Anne’s equally attracted to Stephen. She tries not to act on it because she doesn’t want to make a bad name for herself professionally.
As the two continue working together, they realize that love might really be worth the risk.
This story is very sweet and isn’t anything new, but it’s well-written and leaves you feeling fuzzy inside. It’s only 250 pages, so fast readers can devour it in no time. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a quick read.
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8. Dark Paradise – Winter Renshaw
Dark Paradise is quite different from any other political romance book on this list, as it’s a little bit like Pretty Woman but with suspense.
The story follows Camille who is a sugar baby, a name for someone who earns her money by going on dates with middle-aged men – mostly senators.
Her world completely changes when she gets booked exclusively for three months straight.
This man is different from the rest, he’s younger but has requirements for Camille to follow.
The man is Ronan. His father and grandfather were both presidents and now the same is expected of him.
While Ronan battles with choosing between what he wants and what his family demands, Camille serves as the perfect distraction.
However, this is one affair he will have to keep a secret.
Dark Paradise is everything it says on the tin – it’s a story about a woman who seemingly has it made with a job that grants her a lavish lifestyle, but with a man who has a dark side.
It’s a great read about political machinations and power struggles, and there’s enough secrecy to keep you hooked from start to finish. There are some erotic scenes but it doesn’t feel too much.
The only downside is it’s quite short at just 262 pages.
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9. Meet You In The Middle – Devon Daniels
If you want an optimistic romance with enemies-to-lovers themes, then Meet You In The Middle by Devon Daniels is a great addition to any bookcase.
The story is about Kate, a liberal senate staffer, and Ben, who is a gatekeeper for the most potent conservative senate.
These two couldn’t be more opposite from each other. In fact, they are so different that they completely despise each other.
A landmark registration brings these two opposites into each others’ lives. The more they deal with each other, the more they get on their nerves.
But all that tension could mean something different. All that hate could be a mask for how they really feel about each other.
This is a romantic comedy book that will have you smiling from ear to ear. I love the sass and wit of the characters, and the writing is clever and captivating. It’s perfect for fans of opposites attract romance novels.
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10. Red, White, & Royal Blue – Casey McQuiston
This list wouldn’t be complete without Red, White, & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, which became a Tiktok sensation. It’s a hilarious, LGBTQ political romance with an enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship storyline – all the tropes I love!
Readers can follow the unexpected love story of Alex, the American president’s son, and Henry, a member of the British royal family.
The two men can’t stand each other but they both know how important it is to avoid a public scandal for their family’s sake. So when a scandal between them comes forth in the media, their advisors suggest a fake friendship to smooth things over.
The friendship is only supposed to be for the sake of the public. Yet, behind closed doors, Alex and Henry are realizing they really do like each other. Possibly as more than just friends.
What I love about this book is the difference in cultures and how two very different people find common ground and a way to connect. It’s hilarious at times and makes your heart all fuzzy at other times. It’s no wonder it’s being turned into a movie.
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Related Reading: Books Like Red, White and Royal Blue
11. Off The Record – K.A. Linde
Off The Record by K.A. Linde is a political romance featuring two career-hungry leads, one in journalism and one in politics – what could possibly go wrong?
Liz and Brady both put their careers first. Liz is a reporter who is eager for her big break. Brady is a politician getting ready for the election.
The first big story Liz is assigned to cover is Brady’s press conference. This is when she asks him a challenging question that catches him off-guard.
Her question at the moment impressed everyone in the network. Liz finally got the career break she’s been working for.
Yet, as she’s assigned to cover more of Brady’s campaign, she falls for him.
While the storyline isn’t anything new, it has been well crafted and has enough tension to keep you hooked throughout. I enjoyed the character development, and I also learned a thing or two about politics!
It’s a slow burner though, so not for those who want something sizzling.
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12. Governor – Lesli Richardson
Looking for something more steamy? Then you should read Governor by Lesli Richardson, which is the first book in a five-book series about a complicated love triangle.
The story follows three college friends, Susa, Owen, and Carter, and their lives after college.
Owen is the governor, and his best friend Carter is his chief of staff. The only thing is, he’s in love with his wife, Susa.
The story is written from Owen’s POV and reveals the intensity of the love triangle with politics in the background. It starts off light, and innocent even, and then becomes a full-blown explosion of emotion and intensity.
This novel has scenes of BDSM.
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13. Catfish – Hazel Grace
Another romantic comedy with political intrigue that will have you laughing, weeping, and grasping for a cold towel is Catfish by Hazel Grace.
The story follows Wade, who is running for president of the US. He’s sophisticated and sexy and has caught the attention of every female voter.
His new intern Reagan has a feisty side that immediately catches Wade’s attention.
Reagan isn’t like the other women, though. Wade can’t use his playboy ways to seduce her. Reagan could see right through that act.
If he wants to make a move with this woman, he’s going to have to step his game up.
This is a steamy hot story told through dual POV, revealing a plot that’s packed with tension and intrigue. I enjoyed getting a glimpse into the shady side of politics and the build up romance between the two main characters.
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14. Serve – C.W. Farnsworth
Another great romance novel about an unlikely pairing is Serve by C.W. Farnsworth. It’s a slow-burn read with plenty of angst, and two characters that you can relate to as they share their vulnerability.
The story follows Georgette who is the president’s sassy daughter. This girl is always up to mischievousness and gets bored way too easily.
In her world, rules are meant to be broken. The only rules she will follow are the ones on the tennis court.
Knowing how much mischief his daughter can get into, the president hires the serious Ethan as a bodyguard to keep her out of trouble until she starts university in the fall.
Ethan thought his biggest challenge would be to keep Georgette out of trouble. However, this is one woman who can make even the most serious man crack a smile.
If you enjoy bodyguard romance novels with a well-developed plot, and tension between characters and will leave you feeling warm inside, this is the book for you.
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15. Yours In Scandal – Lauren Layne
Another quick read with political intrigue with a sweet storyline is Yours In Scandal by Lauren Layne.
The story follows Robert who has been named NYC’s man of the year. He’s also bidding for a seat as governor.
Addie is an event planner who’s known for her rebellious ways. She’s making good on her plan to settle down and stay focused on her career.
Another thing about Addie, she’s also the daughter of Robert’s #1 opponent.
Robert’s planning a party for his campaign, so he needs to hire an event planner. That’s what leads him to Addie.
As they start professionally, their mutual attraction becomes something they can’t keep hidden.
This book has it all – drama, humorous scenes, and sizzling romance. I love how both characters are unsure of their directions in life and yet find a way through it together. It’s a short book of only 235 pages, but there is a sequel if you enjoy it.
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Final Words On Best Political Romance Books
Political romances are one of my favorite tropes as they offer a unique perspective on both politics and romance.
Whether you want to read something funny, something sizzly, or something to restore your faith in love, I’m confident there is something for everyone on my list.
If you think I missed one of your favorite books, let me know about it in the comments below.
