7 Contemporary Romance Books set in Ireland
It’s impossible to resist a book set in Ireland—the vast rolling hills, the adorable small towns, and the neighborhood pubs with friendly locals. On top of the magical countryside, there’s also the allure of a rugged Irish hero. It’s no wonder there’s a whole subset of books that feature characters running away from their problems to Ireland, finding themselves, and finding love in the process—the country is the perfect backdrop for a swoon-worthy love story.
If you’d like a book with some heart-melting chemistry and the next best thing to a plane ticket to Dublin, then you’re in luck. Here are some of the best romances set in Ireland.
My Life in Shambles by Karina Halle
Karina Halle always delivers on spice and trope-filled stories, and this one’s no different. I loved the fake fiancé storyline, I found the characters endearing, and it’s a super hot read!
The Half of It by Theresa Christine
Obviously, I have to include my debut in here! Juniper goes to Ireland to meet her newly discovered half-sister, NOT flirt with her half-sister’s best friend, Aidan. But as they’re forced to spend more time together, they can’t deny the chemistry between them. The Half of It is great if you’re craving a cinnamon roll MMC! You can read it on KU here.
The Matchmaker by Catherine Walsh
This book feels like a Hallmark movie in all the best ways, and it’s got romcom energy so it’s a super fun read. Enemies to lovers with great banter.
Morbidly Yours by Ivy Fairbanks
This one has such an interesting set-up—a widow moves to Ireland for her job, right next door to a hunky undertaker. It’s a unique story that’s also got some Irish language thrown into the spicy scenes. 👀 Absolutely delightful, and the sequel comes out later in 2025.
Off the Map by Trish Doller
A road trip through Ireland? Yes, please. Trish Doller’s books are a great mix of funny moments, teary moments, and (especially this book), spice. If you like the complications that come with insta-lust and forced proximity, you’ll love this.
Her Best Laid Plans by Cara McKenna
A nice, spicy novella that’s basically the fantasy of going to Ireland and meeting a hot bartender and thinking it will be all fun and no strings attached but then…well, you get the gist. A must-read and excellent palate cleanser.
The Irish Goodbye by Amy Ewing
Grumpy sunshine never gets old. I’m a sucker for a photographer main character (I don’t know what it is, but it works), and the meet cute here is perfection and sets them off on an enemies to lovers journey.