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Whenever I have a discussion with anyone about reading preferences, my number one rule is to never, ever yuck anyone’s yum.
Of course, this changes if the yum in question is something illegal or downright reprehensible; in this case, you definitely want to let them know they are wrong.
As any romance reader will tell you, we’ve seen everything, which is why the subject of trigger warnings is very important, especially in books of this genre.
I digress.
Anyway, this post is going to be about my personal favorite father’s best friend romance books, where the protagonist falls in love with their father’s friend.
The majority of the books here are age-gap romances because, again, we have the father’s best friend situation.
But, some of them feature the primary love interest being younger or not really having a significant age gap from the protagonist, so you should be aware of that.
Regardless, I can tell you for certain that every single book on this list is absolutely precious to me.
I loved every one of them, and I made the effort to divide them into different groups so you can find exactly what you want to read.
Must-Read Father’s Best Friend Romance Books
1. Torn by Carian Cole
In Torn, Kenzi and Toren have been close for as long as they can remember.
Toren, her dad’s best friend, has always looked out for her, but as Kenzi grows up, their relationship starts to change. Suddenly, it’s not just friendship anymore.
They try to ignore the attraction, but one kiss makes everything way more complicated. Toren struggles because of their age difference and his loyalty to Kenzi’s dad, but their connection is undeniable.
They want to be together, but the fear of hurting her dad keeps holding them back.
This book really pulled at my heartstrings.
The chemistry between Kenzi and Toren is off the charts, but it’s not just about the physical connection—it’s about the years of friendship and how much they care about each other.
You can really feel Toren’s inner struggle, trying to do the right thing even though his feelings for Kenzi are so strong.
If you like slow-burn romances with a lot of emotional depth, Torn will definitely have you hooked.
2. Before I Ever Met You by Karina Halle
Before I Ever Met You follows Jackie, a single mom who moves back to Vancouver to work at her dad’s company.
On her first day, she’s reunited with Will, her dad’s best friend and business partner.
She knew him back when she was a teenager, but now he’s recently divorced and looking way too good.
They both try to keep things professional, but it’s hard to deny the growing attraction. With her dad being his best friend, things get messy fast.
This one is all about second chances and finding love in the most unexpected places.
Jackie and Will’s relationship has that perfect mix of tension and sweetness—he’s mature and grounded, and she’s trying to balance being a mom and figuring out her own life.
Their connection feels real, and the whole “forbidden” aspect just adds to the tension.
3. Her Dad’s Friend by Penny Wylder
In Her Dad’s Friend, Rachel has had a crush on Paul, her dad’s best friend, for years.
When she sees him again at her 21st birthday, things heat up fast.
They start a secret fling, but it’s not long before Rachel finds out she’s pregnant, and keeping their relationship hidden becomes a lot harder.
Both of them know her dad would flip if he found out, but they can’t seem to stay away from each other.
The chemistry between Rachel and Paul is intense from the start, and their secret relationship just makes everything feel even more exciting.
Rachel’s pregnancy adds a whole new layer of tension, and you can really feel her struggle between wanting to be with Paul and fearing how her dad will react.
This one is perfect if you enjoy a steamy, high-stakes romance with a lot of heart and I know you’re going to love every bit of it.
4. Inappropriately Yours by Cara Dee
Inappropriately Yours follows Isla, a writer whose debut novel didn’t exactly take off.
Her dad suggests she get advice from his old college buddy, Jack Grady.
But when Isla meets Jack, he’s not only good-looking but also brutally honest about her book.
Sparks fly as they work together, though her dad starts getting suspicious. With their growing connection, things get complicated fast.
This book is all about chemistry and tension. Jack is that perfect mix of grumpy and charming, and his relationship with Isla has this slow-build intensity that keeps you hooked.
Watching their relationship develop is really satisfying, especially with the added challenge of keeping it a secret from her dad.
If you’re into stories where opposites attract and there’s a ton of slow-burn chemistry, Inappropriately Yours is a great pick.
5. Silver’s Troubles by Lacey Silks
In Silver’s Troubles, Julian has always been there to protect Kendra, his goddaughter, but things take a turn when their feelings start to grow into something more.
Despite promising her parents he’d look after her, Julian finds it impossible to resist his feelings for Kendra.
She feels the same way, and together they have to navigate their complicated relationship while keeping their emotions in check.
Julian’s struggle to reconcile his protective role with his growing feelings for Kendra makes for a lot of heartfelt moments.
Their connection is undeniable, and you really feel for both of them as they try to figure out their complicated dynamic.
Silver’s Troubles will hit all the right notes if you enjoy stories about forbidden love with characters who share a deep bond.
6. An Office Affair by Shaniel Watson
An Office Affair follows Ian, a successful boss who has three strict rules for his summer: no affairs with interns, no messing around with his friends’ daughters, and definitely no getting involved with his ex’s niece.
Enter Jade, who just so happens to check all three boxes. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but Ian knows acting on it would break all his personal rules and create a world of trouble.
As things heat up, Ian has to figure out how to handle the growing tension without crossing the line.
This book does a great job of balancing the professional with the personal.
Ian’s internal struggle between his attraction to Jade and his need to follow his own rules adds a lot of tension, which will keep you invested in what will happen next.
Jade is a fun character, and her chemistry with Ian is instant and electric.
The stakes are high, but the romance is full of playful moments too and that only makes it both intense and enjoyable.
Also See: 12 Romantic Books With Autistic Characters Who Find Love In Their Time
7. Second Semester by Q.B. Tyler
Second Semester centers around Serena, a woman who has always lived life by the book.
But when she falls in love with Landon, her boss and her father’s best friend, all her carefully laid plans are thrown into chaos.
Their relationship is full of passion, but with her father on the verge of finding out, Serena must decide if she’s ready to risk everything for love.
The emotional stakes in this book are through the roof.
Serena’s struggle between following her heart and protecting her relationship with her father is deeply compelling.
Landon’s character adds a lot of depth to the story as well—he’s caring but also conflicted, so the romance feels intense even more realistic.
If you’re a fan of forbidden love stories with lots of emotional tension, Second Semester will keep you hooked.
Best Historical Father’s Best Friend Romance Books
8. My Dirty Duke by Joanna Shupe
In My Dirty Duke, Violet has always been drawn to her father’s best friend, the Duke of Ravensthorpe.
He’s powerful and notorious in London society, making him the last person Violet should fall for.
But despite their age difference and the obvious obstacles, Violet is determined to break free from her sheltered life and pursue the man she desires, even if it means risking her reputation.
Violet’s boldness in going after what she wants is refreshing, and the tension between her and the Duke was an absolute balm.
The stakes are high, but Violet’s determination to take control of her own life makes her an easy character to root for.
9. These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer
Set in the backdrop of Louis XV’s France, These Old Shades follows Lord Justin Alastair, the Duke of Avon, who is known for his cold demeanor and dark reputation.
When he crosses paths with Leon, a young boy fleeing a cruel guardian, he sees something familiar in him.
As the Duke takes Leon under his wing, secrets are revealed, leading to a story filled with intrigue, deception, and romance.
This classic romance is filled with rich historical detail and complex characters.
The Duke’s transformation from a cold-hearted nobleman to someone capable of love is satisfying, and the twists and turns in the story keep you engaged.
Heyer’s wit and charm come through in the dialogue and interactions, which makes this dad best friend historical book more than worth it.
10. Audacious by Minerva Spencer
Audacious is a story about Antonia Redvers, who has been in love with Captain Lucas “O Duque” Cruz, her father’s best friend, for as long as she can remember.
This Christmas, Antonia decides she’s done waiting and takes matters into her own hands, determined to win his heart once and for all.
But the notorious privateer isn’t easily swayed, and Antonia will have to show him that they’re meant to be together.
This is a heartwarming, holiday-themed romance with a fierce heroine and a brooding hero.
Antonia’s determination to go after what she wants is both charming and fun to watch, while Lucas’s struggle to keep his distance adds plenty of tension.
The holiday setting gives the story a cozy feel, but there’s still plenty of drama and passion to keep things interesting.
Steamy Father’s Best Friend Romance Novels
11. Naughty Good Girl by Sapphire Knight
Naughty Good Girl introduces us to Victoria, who has always had feelings for Adam, her father’s business partner.
She’s kept her feelings hidden for years, but when the tension between them finally breaks, Victoria discovers a side of herself she didn’t know existed.
Their relationship is complicated by debts and outside pressures, but Adam is willing to risk everything to be with her.
This story is packed with intensity and high stakes.
The connection between Victoria and Adam is electric from the start, and the challenges they face only make their relationship more compelling.
What stands out is the way their romance develops—it’s not just about attraction but also about trust and loyalty.
If you enjoy stories where love is tested by outside forces, Naughty Good Girl delivers a steamy yet heartfelt ride.
12. Entice by Ava Harrison
In Entice, River reconnects with Grayson, her father’s best friend, years after he saved her during a difficult time in her life.
Now grown up and facing him again, River realizes that her feelings for Grayson have never gone away.
Despite their age difference and Grayson’s reluctance, their attraction is undeniable, but their connection is complicated by their shared history.
Entice is all about unresolved feelings and the slow build of a forbidden romance.
River and Grayson’s relationship is rooted in a deep emotional connection, which makes their story feel more meaningful.
The tension between them is palpable, and the story explores both their shared past and the challenges of navigating their future.
13. What Was Meant To Be by Q.B. Tyler
What Was Meant To Be follows Whitney, who was once in a passionate relationship with Jacob, her dad’s best friend.
Three years ago, Jacob ended things, fearing their relationship was too complicated.
Now, Whitney is engaged to another man, but when Jacob returns, the feelings between them reignite, and both are forced to confront the emotions they tried to bury.
With her engagement on the line, Whitney must decide between the life she’s built and the love she never truly let go of.
This story is packed with emotional tension and tough choices.
Whitney’s struggle between her past with Jacob and her current engagement creates a love triangle that feels deeply personal and real.
Jacob’s return brings all the unresolved feelings to the surface, and the way they deal with their shared history adds a lot of depth to the romance.
Related: 31 Lovely Enemies To Lovers Books That Raise The Bar For Romance
14. His to Claim by Lillian Cole
In His to Claim, Kaylee is off-limits, but Colter can’t resist her.
As her protector and her father’s best friend, he’s supposed to keep her safe, but their undeniable chemistry leads to a forbidden romance.
Colter has already broken one rule by taking her virginity, and now he’s determined to have all of her, even though it risks everything—his friendship with her father and his role as her guardian.
Colter’s protective nature combined with his deep feelings for Kaylee makes their relationship complicated but compelling.
The stakes are high, and their connection feels raw and passionate.
And the push-and-pull between duty and desire adds layers to the story, so it’s the perfect thrilling read for those who love a protective hero and forbidden love dynamic.
15. Loving My Dad’s Best Friend: The Cowboy by Kendall Kannon
In Loving My Dad’s Best Friend: The Cowboy, Faith is freshly divorced and back on her family’s ranch, only to find herself falling for Zion, her dad’s best friend.
Zion is everything she never expected to want—older, strong, and a cowboy with a rugged charm.
Though they both know the relationship could cause problems with her father, their chemistry is impossible to ignore, and Faith must decide whether to pursue this forbidden romance or let it go.
This story has a sweet, small-town charm that makes the romance feel both grounded and exciting.
The cowboy setting adds a fun twist, and Faith’s journey from heartbreak to finding love again with Zion is heartwarming.
Their relationship feels natural and believable, with just enough tension to keep things interesting.
If you like slow-burn romances set in cozy, small-town environments with a dash of cowboy charm, Loving My Dad’s Best Friend: The Cowboy is the perfect escape.
16. It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time by Kylie Scott
It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time follows Adele, who once made a very awkward pass at her dad’s best friend, Pete, when she was younger.
It led to a lot of embarrassment and years of avoiding each other. Now, Adele is back in town for her father’s wedding, and seeing Pete again stirs up old feelings.
This time, she’s older, wiser, and ready to handle the situation—except those feelings from the past are still there, and she isn’t sure if she should act on them or keep her distance.
Adele’s awkward past with Pete adds a fun, lighthearted element to the story, but as they reconnect, the romance feels genuine and sweet.
The age gap and the history between them make their relationship complicated, but also very satisfying to watch unfold.
17. Your Dad Will Do by Katee Robert
Your Dad Will Do tells the story of Lily, who catches her fiancé cheating on her and decides to take revenge by seducing his father, Shane.
She’s been secretly attracted to Shane for years, and now, she’s determined to finally have him.
While their relationship starts off as a way for Lily to get back at her ex, it quickly turns into something much deeper as she and Shane explore their chemistry.
This book is all about bold, daring choices and intense attraction. Lily’s decision to go after Shane is both thrilling and risky, and their relationship moves from revenge to real feelings in a way that feels believable.
The dynamic between them is filled with tension, and their connection is undeniable.
If you like steamy, high-stakes romances with characters who aren’t afraid to go after what they want, Your Dad Will Do is a wild, fun ride.
Top MM Father’s Best Friend Romance Novels
18. Firm Hand by Nora Phoenix
Firm Hand follows Cornell, who’s struggling after the loss of his best friend and dealing with his own physical injuries.
He feels too broken to ever attract someone again, especially a Dom like Rhys.
But Rhys, who is much younger and happens to be the son of Cornell’s late best friend, sees something in Cornell that he can’t resist.
As they navigate their complicated dynamic, Cornell starts to realize that maybe Rhys is exactly what he’s been needing all along.
This book beautifully explores the themes of healing and finding love after loss.
Cornell’s journey is touching, and his relationship with Rhys is both tender and intense.
The age gap and the fact that Rhys is the son of Cornell’s best friend add an extra layer of complexity, but their bond feels real and deeply emotional.
19. The Cost of Desire by Kate Hawthorne
In The Cost of Desire, Danny has always harbored a secret crush on his dad’s best friend, Jordan.
When Danny starts helping Jordan with some late-night filing, one thing leads to another, and they find themselves in the middle of a secret romance.
While their relationship deepens, external pressures mount—Danny is off at school, and his mother is trying to set Jordan up with someone else.
Eventually, their secret relationship comes to light, forcing them to deal with the consequences of being together.
Danny’s long-standing crush on Jordan adds depth to their relationship, which only. Akes the romantic buildup all the more satisfying.
The tension of keeping their relationship under wraps, paired with the challenge of being in a hidden relationship, keeps you on edge.
If you’re into slow-burn romances with a lot of heart and a touch of forbidden love, The Cost of Desire will definitely pull you in.
Must-Read Small Town Father’s Best Friend Romance Books
20. Bring Me Home by Annabeth Albert
In Bring Me Home, Monroe inherits his aunt’s historic house in Oregon and needs to fix it up fast before moving on with his big-city dreams.
Enter Knox, his best friend’s son, who is not only handy with tools but also the guy Monroe shared a passionate kiss with in the past.
As they work together on the house, their secret summer fling turns into something more.
But with Knox being his best friend’s son, Monroe must decide whether pursuing this relationship is worth risking a friendship that’s always been important to him.
This story combines heartfelt moments with a touch of nostalgia and the charm of small-town life.
The tension between Monroe and Knox is so obvious, especially as they work together and try to navigate their past feelings.
The home renovation setting gives the book a cozy feel, while the emotional stakes remain high.
If you like stories that blend small-town charm with second-chance romance, Bring Me Home will be a heartwarming read.
You May Also Like: 10 Must-Read M/M Historical Romantasy Books That Will Make You Swoon
21. Rushing In by Claire Kingsley
In Rushing In, Gavin Bailey, a reckless firefighter known for his daredevil ways, finds himself slowing down when life takes an unexpected turn.
Skylar Stanley returns to her quirky hometown after a major personal setback, needing time to regroup after losing her job, agent, boyfriend, and home.
Gavin is eager to help Skylar get back on her feet, and as their friendship blossoms into something more, there’s only one problem: Skylar is his boss’s daughter.
Getting involved could risk Gavin’s career and his mentor’s trust, but their connection is undeniable.
This story is filled with warmth and humor, thanks to Skylar’s quirky hometown and Gavin’s charming personality.
The push and pull of forbidden romance is handled beautifully, with real stakes on the line for both characters.
The balance of lighthearted moments and deeper emotional connections makes Rushing In a fun, feel-good read.
22. Vodka and Virtue by Raquel Riley
Vodka and Virtue tells the story of Rory MacGregor, who returns home after spending years overseas and is immediately drawn to Carlisle Carrick, his best friend’s nephew.
Carlisle is younger, unsure, and hesitant about starting a relationship, but Rory is determined to show him they’re a good match.
As Rory works to win Carlisle over, Carlisle struggles with his own feelings, but their connection grows stronger despite their differences.
This is a slow-burn romance with a lot of heart.
Rory’s confidence contrasts nicely with Carlisle’s hesitance, and their relationship develops naturally over time.
The age gap adds a unique dynamic without overshadowing the emotional connection between them.
If you like stories where opposites attract and the romance unfolds at a steady pace, Vodka and Virtue will hit all the right notes.
23. Doctor Everything by Emma Blake
In Doctor Everything, Ava has a one-night fling with a charming doctor, only to realize later that he’s her dad’s best friend and the new doctor in town.
Things get even more complicated when Ava discovers she’s pregnant, turning what was supposed to be a fun, no-strings-attached night into something much more serious.
As she navigates her pregnancy and growing feelings for the doctor, they must figure out how to deal with their new reality, especially with her dad in the picture.
Ava’s change from carefree fun to dealing with a life-changing pregnancy is handled with depth and care, while her relationship with the doctor grows into something meaningful.
The doctor’s connection to her dad adds tension, but also creates plenty of opportunities for heartfelt moments.
This one is perfect if you enjoy romances that deal with real-life complications and the growth that comes with them.
24. The Cowboy and His Best Friend’s Daughter by Kaci M. Rose
The Cowboy and His Best Friend’s Daughter follows Jenna, who dreams of a different life but finds herself constantly thinking about Josh, her dad’s best friend.
Josh is everything she never expected to fall for—older, rugged, and a cowboy.
He knows he shouldn’t get involved with Jenna, but as they spend more time together, their mutual attraction becomes harder to resist.
Despite knowing the potential fallout, they must decide if their feelings are worth the risk.
This book combines the appeal of a small-town romance with the excitement of forbidden love.
Jenna’s crush on Josh feels relatable, and the slow build-up to their relationship adds a lot of tension and anticipation.
The cowboy setting and close-knit community make the story feel grounded and cozy, while the emotional stakes keep things interesting.
If you enjoy age-gap romances with a small-town feel, The Cowboy and His Best Friend’s Daughter is a great pick.
How many of these books are you going to check out?
That is to say, how many of these lovely father’s best friend romance books caught your eye, and which ones do you think you’ll add to your to-be-read list later on?
Let me know in the comment section if you found your favorite or if there’s a father’s best friend romance novel you’ve read and enjoyed that I have committed the crime of omitting from this list.
I’ll definitely check it out because you all know I love my recommendations!
