Jenna Bush Hager’s Favorite Romances—Including One She Says Will ‘Sweep You off Your Feet’
From 'Pride and Prejudice' to a deconstructed love story, here are Jenna's all-time favorite romances
Key Takeaways
- Jenna says her grandmother introduced her to 'Pride and Prejudice,' which remains a favorite.
- Jenna calls 'Good Material' a deconstructed love story unlike anything she has ever read.
- Jenna recommends 'This Is a Love Story' for anyone who wants to fall in love with NYC.
If you ask Jenna Bush Hager what she looks for in a romance novel, don’t expect her to say something simple. The Today co-host has a soft spot for love stories that go beyond the swoony moments—you know, the ones that deal with heartbreak, devotion and the messy, beautiful reality of loving someone for a lifetime. Curious which books made her list? Keep scrolling to discover Jenna’s favorite romance reads—and why each one left a lasting impression.
Jenna Bush Hager’s favorite romance books
From timeless classics to swoon-worthy new releases, here are the romance books the Today host loves.
‘One & Only’ by Maurene Goo
Fans of magical realism romance will adore this enchanting novel. Cassia Park comes from a long line of soul-mate matchmakers—but as her 40th birthday draws near, Cassia still hasn’t found the one. Enter Ellis, a handsome 28-year-old man who can’t possibly be her match…right? As family secrets surface, Cassia begins to question everything she thought she knew about destiny. Soon chaos, passion, unexpected love and second chances collide in ways she never imagined.
What Jenna says: “This is a book about fate versus free will, love and commitment, mother and daughters. It has a great love triangle. It’s about writing our own story.”
What readers are saying: “One & Only by Maurene Goo is a surprisingly sweet, deeply universal love story—one that tugs at your heart and gently nudges you into believing in fate, if only you’re willing to loosen your grip on expectations. It’s a wholehearted, enthusiastic hell yes from me.”
‘This is a Love Story’ by Jessica Soffer
This powerful, heartfelt story of true love will stay with you long after the final page. The plot follows Abe and Jane through every stage of their lives—from young lovers to devoted parents and beyond—with New York City’s Central Park serving as the backdrop to their greatest moments. For half a century, the iconic landmark has witnessed their journey through joy, heartbreak and everything in between. Now, as Jane’s health declines, Abe reflects on the beautiful life they built together. Told from multiple perspectives, this radiant novel captures the profound depths of life, family and enduring love.
What Jenna says: “In this beautiful book, we meet Abe and Jane who, upon the end of their life, are recounting their love story as a way to keep their memories alive. We find out both the beautiful things that tied them together, but also the more difficult ones that threaten to tear them apart. This is a book about marriage and devotion. If you want to fall in love with New York, pick up this book.”
What readers are saying: “This book is both dearly familiar and utterly original. Comforting, reassuring, and still manages to spark all kinds of ideas about loyalty and love in the long-term. You won’t be able to put it down. And after you’re finished, you’ll want to recommend it to everyone you know.”
‘Good Material’ by Dolly Alderton
Unforgettable characters, a moving love story and more abound in Dolly Alderton’s bestselling novel. Thirty-five-year-old Andy never expected that at this age he would be living in his best friend’s spare room, waiting for his stand-up comedy career to take off. To make matters worse, he’s working hard to process the end of his relationship with the only woman he ever loved. Can he find a way to get her back or will he be forced to accept the fact that she’s gone forever? A moving tale about love, loss and moving on.
What Jenna says: “I love this book so much. I’m obsessed with it because it’s a deconstructed love story. I’ve never read anything quite like it—it’s the unwinding of a love story. And yet, there’s so much love in it.”
What readers are saying: “This book is engaging, funny, and a page turner from the very beginning! The ending is a pivot that you aren’t expecting, but brings the novel home and elevates it from really good, to amazing! A must read for novel lovers!”
‘The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus’ by Emma Knight
This captivating debut novel has everything readers crave: unforgettable characters, sharp wit and a love story with an enchanting backdrop of Scotland. When Penelope Winters arrives at the University of Edinburgh, she’s determined to uncover the truth her parents have been hiding from her for years. As she befriends her father’s mysterious old friend, Lord Lennox, long-buried secrets begin to surface and romances begin to take flight. What follows is a powerful journey through love, loyalty, impossible choices and the kind of friendship that changes everything.
What Jenna says: “This is a book about friendship, motherhood and finding ourselves with mystery and romance at its core. This debut novel will sweep you off your feet.”
What readers are saying: “This was a beautiful story of friendship and just being human. Emma Knight’s writing style is smooth and engaging—it’s almost like sitting by a fire and listening to someone sharing a story. I can’t wait for her next novel.”
‘Pride and Prejudice’ by Jane Austen
This beloved classic follows the spirited Elizabeth Bennet after she meets the proud and wealthy Fitzwilliam Darcy. From their first encounter, the two can’t stand each other. But when Elizabeth realizes that her entire future depends on getting married, everything changes. As circumstances throw them together again and again, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy discover an unexpected connection—and soon, sparks begin to fly.
What Jenna says: “Pride and Prejudice is one of my favorite books. My grandmother introduced me to Jane Austen, and I’ll never forget how, when I stayed with my grandparents in Maine, we would listen to Pride and Prejudice together and then watch the entire PBS miniseries. Jane Austen was one of the first female authors to teach us about love and what it means to be a woman.”
What readers are saying: “This is definitely one of my ‘comfort books.’ Whenever I have had an unpleasant day or need to relax, rereading Pride and Prejudice always makes me feel better. Truly, it is one of the best books I’ve ever read.”
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