A marriage of convenience is a marriage contracted for reasons other than that of love and commitment. Instead, such a marriage is entered into for personal gain, or some other sort of strategic purpose.
There’s just something about a Marriage of Convenience Trope that’s highly satisfying. Often paired with forced proximity, family drama, contractual obligations, or all three, this trope lends itself to building sexual tension between the two main characters until one of them breaks all of their carefully crafted rules.
This trope can span many genres and sub-genres, and it is often the main driving plot point of the story. Contemporary, fantasy, paranormal, sci-fi, dystopian, it doesn't matter to me I'll read them all as long as the marriage of convenience trope is well played out.
I divvy up this specific trope into two categories: strangers or familiar faces. Both have their benefits and opportunities story-wise, I'd say most marriage of convenience books I read are of the familiar faces variety which lends itself to either an enemies-to-lovers or friends-to-lovers subplot.
The forced proximity aspect of many of these books only enhances the overall tension. Many times our main characters are forced to live together and pretend in front of family or friends, leading to a blurred line between reality and fantasy. This trope is a slow burn by nature, even if the characters are coerced into any physical actions to keep up appearances, the ultimate 'will they decide to stay together?' is drawn out. The struggle to win each other's hearts is what really entices the reader.
I’ve listed out some of my favorite books with this tropes list, but not in any particular order. There are many many many more out there, but these are the ones that I’ve enjoyed and would recommend. Marriage of convenience books come in all shapes and sizes. Some are dark, others funny, some with high stakes, and others contract solely because of family expectations.
1. The Wall of Winnipeg and Me
Author: Mariana Zapata
Series: Stand Alone
Category: Sports Romance
This book is one of my all-time favorites, I have reread it at least nine times. It is a lukewarm enemies-to-lovers on the longer side, which was perfect for building respect and trust between the two main characters. This book has family drama, a stoic man who has no room for relationships other than his one with professional football, and a woman who learns to speak grumpy and accept the help of someone she doesn't yet trust. Not much spice to be mentioned in this one, but there is plenty of tension and intimate moments.
2. Terms and Conditions
Author: Lauren Asher
Series: Dreamland Billionaires book #2
Category: Contemporary Romance
A megalomanic future CEO hell-bent on obtaining ownership of his family's company, even if he has to marry. A hardworking, dedicated, smart boss-lady who will keep him on his toes and worship the ground she walks on. This friends-to-lovers book shows how well past history can be woven into new beginnings.
3. Luxuria
Author: Colette Rhodes
Series: Shades of Sin book #1
Category: Monster Romance
A classic twist on a corrupt human council marrying off a woman to another culture in a bid for peace. Only the other culture is made of actual monsters and the woman marrying isn't doing it against her will. Cultural miscommunication and prejudices abound and trust takes time. Spice read of the monster variety with a great plotline and interesting world-building.
4. Never Seduce a Scot
Author: Maya Banks
Series: The Montgomerys and Armstrongs book #1
Category: Historical Romance
As part of an arranged marriage, Eveline does her best to embrace life in a new clan while attempting to keep her hearing disability a secret while her new husband Graeme does everything in his power as clan chief to keep her safe and get her to open up to him.
5. Radiance
Author: Grace Draven
Series: Wraith Kings book #1
Category: Fantasy Romance
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, something Prince Brishen and Ildiko must learn as their politically arranged marriage means marrying someone they find hideous. Forming a fast friendship despite their respective appearances, the two quickly learn to lean on each other in acceptance and duty to their kingdoms while also falling in love.
6. The Bluff
Author: Willa Nash
Series: Calamity Montana book #2
Category: Contemporary Romance
After a one-night stand and peaking at some private text messages, Everly convinces single dad Reese that she is the answer to his problems. Of course, that means life gets even more complicated for both of them as they try to glue a makeshift family together with secrets, nosy friends, and small-town gossip.
7. Lady Luck
Author: Kristen Ashley
Series: Colorado Mountain book #3
Category: Contemporary Romance
Leaving prison for another one with slightly better scenery but still roving with danger and threats, Ty's lucky break is meeting Lexie, though he doesn't know it. Bent on revenge, a man will do just about anything to get it, while the woman who accidentally fell in love will do just about anything to help him, including holding on until she breaks.
8. Choosing Theo
Author: Victoria Aveline
Series: Clecanian book #1
Category: Sci-Fi Romance
Jade's been kidnapped, rescued, then bullied into a marriage of convenience by aliens whose culture she must abide by for one year. Theo doesn't trust his new wife, and he is willing to go to extremes to prove she is a spy - the only reason she would choose a scared male for her husband. 'Will she stay?' takes on a whole different meaning when after a year, Jade has the option of going back to Earth.
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