Do you love books with the magic of epic time travel romance, like “Outlander,” but with a little less steaminess? I’ve got you covered!
I’ve compiled a list of enchanting time travel romance books that keep the magic alive while offering a cleaner reading experience. These novels take you on a journey through time, where love transcends centuries and historical settings come to life.
Without further ado, let’s embark on our adventure filled with romance and time-bending mysteries through seven top time travel romance books based on Goodreads and Amazon reviews!
1. “To Say Nothing of the Dog” by Connie Willis
This time travel romance book is a little older but still just as fun and enjoyable to read today!
This charming and witty novel combines elements of science fiction, comedy, and romance. Set in the 21st century, the story follows Ned Henry, a time traveler suffering from “time lag” after too many assignments. He’s sent back to the Victorian era to restore a lost–and rather ugly–artifact, but things take a hilarious turn when he becomes entangled in a web of quirky characters.
Willis’ expert blend of humor and romance keeps you engaged from start to finish. While the book focuses more on time-traveling, adventure, and comedy, you won’t be able to resist the heartwarming charm of the budding romance between Ned and Verity. It’s the perfect choice for anyone wanting a clean yet captivating time travel romance.
2. “The Rose Garden” by Susanna Kearsley
Susanna Kearsley is a master of time travel romance books, and “The Rose Garden” is a shining example of her talent. In this novel, Eva Ward travels to Cornwall to scatter her sister’s ashes and discovers a hidden garden with a mysterious stone circle. To her astonishment, she finds herself transported back to the 18th century, where she encounters the dashing Captain Daniel Butler (and the rest is history…literally).
This book has it all! Vivid historical descriptions, swoon-worthy slow-burn romance, and meaningful relationships.
It truly is a timeless tale of love that defies the boundaries of time.
3. “Second Sight” by David L. Williams
“Second Sight” by David L. Williams offers a fresh take on time travel romance books with a blend of science fiction and romance. The story revolves around young psychic Caisey Dunquar, who stumbles upon a time-travel experiment gone awry. She finds herself in the 19th century, where she meets Dr. Jack Walker, a scientist entangled in a dangerous experiment.
Williams weaves a suspenseful narrative, combining the thrill of time travel with a blossoming romance, plus a fun dose of mystery for all you True Crime lovers out there. You won’t be able to resist the chemistry between Caisey and Jack as you join them in their journey through time packed with peril and discovery.
“Second Sight” is a clean and exciting choice for readers looking for a unique spin on time travel romance.
4. “Mariana” by Susanna Kearsley
Here is another great Susanna Kearsley time travel romance book! “Mariana” is a gem in her collection of time travel romance novels. The story follows Julia Beckett, who moves into a charming English farmhouse and soon discovers she has a deep connection to its past. Through a mysterious mirror, she finds herself transported to the 17th century, where she assumes the life of Mariana, a woman who once lived there.
Kearsley’s narrative prowess shines in “Mariana” as she seamlessly weaves together the lives of Julia and Mariana. The romance that unfolds across centuries is filled with longing and passion, making it a poignant read.
5. “The Winter Sea” by Susanna Kearsley
Yes, yet another Susanna Kearsley time travel romance book makes the list, and for good reason!
“The Winter Sea” is a beautifully crafted historical romance with a touch of time travel magic. Author Carrie McClelland is drawn to the Scottish coast to write a novel based on the Jacobite uprising of the 18th century. As she immerses herself in her research, she experiences vivid dreams and memories that transport her back in time to witness the events she’s writing about.
Kearsley’s meticulous historical research and evocative storytelling create a vivid tapestry of the past. The dual narrative of Carrie in the present and her ancestor Sophia in the past adds depth to the story, and the romance that unfolds is both poignant and enduring.
Can we all agree that Kearsley should be nominated the time travel QUEEN?
6. “Waterfall” by Lisa T. Bergen
Calling all Italy novel lovers–this time travel romance book is for you!
Lisa Tawn Bergen’s “Waterfall” is the first book in the “River of Time” series, a thrilling blend of historical fiction, adventure, and romance. Sisters Gabi and Lia Betarrini find themselves transported to 14th-century Italy while exploring an ancient tomb. In this tumultuous time period, they become entangled in political intrigue and romance with two brave knights, Marcello and Luca.
Bergen’s storytelling is fast-paced and filled with action, making “Waterfall” a page-turner. The romance that blossoms between Gabi and Marcello is passionate and intense, set against the backdrop of a perilous journey through medieval Italy.
7. “Gideon the Cutpurse” by Linda Buckley-Archer
“Gideon the Cutpurse” by Linda Buckley-Archer is the first installment in the “Gideon Trilogy,” blending science fiction, historical adventure, and romance. In this thrilling tale, two children, Peter and Kate, accidentally stumble upon a time machine and are transported from the 21st century to 1763 London. There, they meet the resourceful and charming Gideon Seymour.
Buckley-Archer’s story is a rollicking adventure through time, filled with excitement and discovery. While the book focuses on the young protagonists and their quest to return home, the budding friendship and hints of romance between Peter and Kate add a delightful layer of sweetness to the tale.
Make More Time for Time Travel Romance Books!
It’s time to grab your favorite cozy spot, a cup of coffee (or tea), and immerse yourself in these timeless tales of clean fantasy time travel romance. You’ll find yourself transported to different eras, where love knows no bounds and the magic of romance prevails.
If you liked this list of the best time travel romance books, check out my list of top pirate romance books.
If you’re looking for other book recs, check out my book reviews!