by 
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site. Your purchases help fund my content and come at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
There’s nothing quite like the intense emotions and gripping narratives that can be found in any marriage in trouble romance book.
The heartbreaking push and pull and the constantly warring emotions are enough to drive anyone up the wall, and these amazing novels capture this feeling perfectly.
In the marriage-in-trouble romance trope, the protagonists’ marriage is usually at a crossroads, and the story delves into their efforts to confront their problems, repair their relationship, and rekindle love.
From broken promises to shattered trust, these novels explore the complexities of relationships on the brink of collapse.
But amidst the turmoil, sparks can reignite, and I frankly believe that’s the most beautiful thing ever.
In this article, I’ll be listing some of the best marriage on the rocks historical romance books, where passion and love find a way to survive, no matter the obstacles.
In some of these articles, the couple might be separated on paper, but their lives are inextricably linked together.
Contemporary troubled marriage books to read
1. Ever After Always by Chloe Leise
Freya and Aiden have been married for 12 years, but things are falling apart.
They’ve been struggling with infertility, and Aiden can’t open up about how he feels.
Freya feels lonely, and when it gets too much, she asks him to leave. But they’re not ready to give up yet.
So, they try marriage counseling and even take a family trip to an island, where they rediscover their love for each other.
2. Love Her or Lose Her by Tessa Bailey
Rosie and Dom have lost their spark. Rosie dreams of becoming a chef, but Dom is stuck in his routine.
To save their marriage, they sign up for a quirky marriage boot camp run by a hippie guru.
With some funny and heartfelt exercises, they start finding their way back to each other.
Honestly, this book is one of my favorites about marriages in trouble—it’s sweet, hilarious, and full of heart. You’re going to love it.
3. What He Doesn’t Know by Kandi Steiner
Charlie used to have the perfect life: a cozy house, a loving husband, and even pet birds.
But something shifted, and one night, she just left.
She doesn’t know who she is anymore, and her journey to figure it out is emotional and raw.
4. Nothing But This by Natasha Anders
Libby is thrilled to be pregnant—until her husband, Greyson, shocks her by claiming the baby can’t be his.
Heartbroken, she leaves him.
But Greyson realizes he’s made a huge mistake and wants her back.
Can he fix what he broke? This story is all about trust, forgiveness, and love, and it’s such a powerful read.
5. Untying the Knot by Meghan Quinn
After 11 years of marriage, Myla and Ryot are falling apart. Myla files for divorce, but Ryot isn’t ready to give up.
So, he turns on all his charm to win her back.
This story is equal parts sweet and steamy and it’s perfect if you’re in the mood for a little drama and a lot of heart.
6. Method by Kate Stewart
Mila and Lucas seem like the perfect couple, but a tragic loss and Lucas’s intense role as an actor test their bond.
Mila tries to hold on, but Lucas is changing in ways she never expected.
This one’s emotional, intense, and so worth the read.
7. Love in a Sandstorm by Zoe York
Jenna and Sean’s love story is full of heartbreak.
Sean, a wounded soldier, wants to forget the past, while Jenna believes in their future.
She won’t give up on him, even when he tries to push her away.
This is such a beautifully written story about love, resilience, and healing.
8. Happy Place by Emily Henry
Harriet and Wyn broke up, but they’re pretending to still be together for one last vacation with friends.
Being in their favorite Maine cottage, surrounded by wine, seafood, and memories, makes it hard to keep their distance.
Emily Henry does it again with this swoon-worthy and emotional story.
9. Is It Over Yet by L.A. Witt
Rhys and Derek are ready to divorce, but they have to fake being happy for their daughter’s wedding.
As they play the part, old feelings resurface, making them wonder if their story is really over.
10. Arouse by Nina Lane
Olivia and Dean’s marriage looks solid, but one innocent question brings up secrets and lies that threaten to tear them apart.
This one is a rollercoaster of emotions, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
11. The Ultimate Betrayal by Michelle Reid
Rachel thought her life with Daniel was perfect until she discovered his affair.
This book is heartbreaking, realistic, and a deep dive into what it means to fight for—or let go of—a marriage.
12. If You Love Something by Jayce Ellis
DeShawn and Malik are still technically married, even though they’ve been apart for years.
When they reunite to deal with family drama, old sparks—and issues—come back.
It’s such a touching and real LGBTQ romance about second chances.
13. Strong, Silent Type by Lorelei James
Quinn and Libby have been separated for months, but they can’t seem to move on.
They agree to a weekend together to sort things out, and wow, it’s steamy, emotional, and everything you want in a second-chance romance.
14. The Unwanted Wife by Natasha Anders
Sandro married Theresa but didn’t treat her well.
When she asks for a divorce, he realizes how much he loves her and fights to win her back.
Sandro isn’t perfect, but his journey makes this book unforgettable.
15. After I Do by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Lauren and Ryan are struggling to keep their marriage alive, so they come up with an unusual plan: take a year apart with no contact at all.
During that time, Lauren starts figuring out who she is and what she really wants, while also facing pressure from her family and friends about the whole situation.
This book really captures what it means to grow as an individual while still holding on to the hope of love.
If you’ve ever wondered what taking a break could actually look like, this story is a great read.
16. When Love Isn’t Enough by Kathleen Gilles Seidel
Janet and Wiley’s marriage seems perfect on the surface—she’s a creative writer at an ad agency, and he’s a respected lawyer.
But underneath all the success, their dreams don’t line up. Janet wants a loving, supportive home life, while Wiley is chasing bigger career goals, even if they go against their values.
The characters in this book feel so real, and the relationship struggles are at the heart of the story, which makes it a thoughtful and emotional read.
17. Perfect by Delaney Diamond
Daniella Barrett-Johnson has been trying to divorce her wealthy and controlling husband, Cyrus, for what feels like forever.
But he keeps dragging things out ane refusing to let her go.
Just when she thinks it’s finally over, Cyrus makes one last demand that complicates everything.
It’s definitely one to pick up if you’re into high-stakes romance with drama and heart.
18. Written in the Stars by Adriana Locke
Ty and Elin Whitt thought they had their happily ever after, but life had other plans.
When Ty decides to return and fix their broken marriage, Elin has to decide if she can trust him again.
If you love stories about overcoming pain and finding your way back to love, this one will hit all the right notes.
19. Nothing in My Heart by Perry Elizabeth Scott
Beckett Kilmer married Grace out of duty, not love, and treated her coldly even though he secretly wanted her.
After losing their baby, Grace decides to leave, which wakes Beckett up to the mistakes he’s made.
Now, with Grace pregnant again, he’s determined to make things right.
This one’s all about redemption and forgiveness.
Watching Beckett fight for Grace while she learns to trust him again makes for a heartwarming story.
20. Do I Know You? by Emily Wibberly and Austin Siegmund-Broka
Eliza and Graham decide to celebrate their fifth anniversary at a romantic resort, but they’ve got a secret—they’ve drifted apart and don’t really feel like a couple anymore.
Instead of rekindling their old spark, they decide to pretend they’re meeting for the first time.
This fresh take on a marriage-in-trouble story is so charming.
If you love the idea of falling in love with your partner all over again, this book will definitely make you smile.
21. Living in Secret by Jackie Ashenden
Victoria’s secret destroyed her marriage to Connor, and now she’s ready to move on.
But before the divorce is final, Connor suggests one last week together with no limits.
What starts as a steamy deal turns into something more as hidden feelings come to the surface.
22. Turning Up the Heat by Laura Florand
After 11 years of marriage, Léa decides she needs a break and leaves for a remote island.
Her husband Daniel, a world-famous chef, is shocked and confused but knows he wants her back.
He follows her, determined to reignite their passion and figure out what went wrong.
If you’re looking for a quick, emotional read about reigniting love and fixing what’s broken, this is the book for you.
23. One Last Weekend by Linda Lael Miller
Teague and Joanna Darby are ready to call it quits, but before they divorce, a friend convinces them to spend one last weekend together at their beach cottage.
Things take an unexpected turn when they’re stranded on the island due to a ferry strike that forces them to confront their feelings.
This is a sweet story about how sometimes being stuck together is exactly what a couple needs to find their way back to each other.
24. A Heartless Marriage by Helen Brooks
Leigh thought she’d found her forever with Raoul de Chevnair, but his betrayal shattered her trust.
After five years apart, Raoul is determined to win her back, so he takes her to a tropical paradise to show her he’s changed.
This book is a great pick if you’re into stories of personal growth and second chances.
25. Marriage Games by CD Reiss
Diana is ready to leave her husband Adam and take over their business, but Adam isn’t giving up that easily.
He challenges her to spend a month with him in a secluded cottage, where he plans to remind her of their passion and love.
Most amazing marriage in crisis historical romance novels
1. Lord and Lady Spy by Shana Galen.
Lady Sophia Smythe is a secret agent who has been outsmarting her husband, Lord Adrian Smythe, for years.
She thinks he is a boring gentleman, unaware that he is also a spy for England.
When the Napoleonic wars end, they both face the prospect of returning to their dull marriage.
But everything changes when they discover each other’s true identities in the dark of night.
Now they have to work together to solve a mystery that threatens their country and their love.
This no-holds-barred troubled marriage romance novel is a thrilling and romantic adventure that explores the secrets and lies that can make or break a marriage.
2. An Infamous Marriage by Susanna Fraser.
Elizabeth Armstrong has been humiliated by her husband’s infidelity for years, so she doesn’t want anything to do with him when he comes back from war.
But General Jack Armstrong is determined to make up for his mistakes and win her love.
Instead of the weak girl he left behind, Jack finds a confident and spirited woman and he’s more drawn to her than ever, but she resists all his advances.
Now, he must prove to her that he has changed and that he can be the husband she deserves.
If you’re in the mood for a historical romance novel about an estranged husband and wife, this romantic and lively story of a couple who must face their past is perfect for you.
Also See: 20 Exquisite Amish Romance Novels to Get Lost In This Weekend
3. To Have And To Hoax by Martha Waters.
Violet and James are a married couple who have grown apart. They don’t talk or touch anymore, and their love has faded into indifference.
But when Violet hears that James is hurt, she runs to him, only to find him fine and clueless about her concern.
She is angry and hurt and decides to pretend to be sick to make him care.
James knows she is lying, but he decides to go along with it in a game of lies and seduction.
They both try to fool each other, but they might end up falling in love again.
This book is a somewhat humorous and romantic marriage in crisis historical romance novel of a couple who must overcome their hidden resentment and rediscover their spark.
4. The Admiral’s Penniless Bride by Carla Kelly.
Sally Paul has no money and no hope, and when she splurges on a cup of tea with her last coin, she’s convinced that this is her last meal.
So, she is surprised when Admiral Sir Charles Bright, a wealthy and retired sailor, proposes to her.
He needs a wife, and she needs a home.
They marry in haste, and the challenges start mounting from their very first night together.
5. Trial by Desire by Courtney Milan.
Lady Kate Carhart has built a new life for herself after her husband left her three years ago.
But when Ned Carhart comes back, he threatens to expose her secrets and rekindle her feelings.
He wants to win her trust and love again by seducing her. But Kate has a past that could ruin her.
Now, Kate must decide whether to trust Ned, the only man who ever loved her and betrayed her.
In this marriage in trouble historical romance novel, Kate and Ned must face their past and find their future.
6. Lady Isabella’s Scandalous Marriage by Jennifer Ashley.
Lady Isabella Scranton eloped with Lord Mac Mackenzie six years ago but left him after three years of marriage.
Now Mac is back, and he wants to win her over with his charm and his art.
He convinces her to pose nude for his paintings, and they rekindle their passion.
But when a dangerous forger makes it clear that he’s after Mac’s paintings and Isabella’s life, Mac decides to protect her whether she likes it or not.
7. The Elusive Wife by Callie Hutton.
The Earl of Coventry married Lady Olivia in a drunken haze and promptly forgot all about her.
He doesn’t know who she is when he meets her again in London.
She decides to teach him a lesson by sending him her bills and seducing him by night.
But she soon realizes she loves the handsome earl. He is fascinated by her, but he doesn’t know she is his wife.
Related: Top 10 M/M Historical Romance Fantasies That Will Blow You Away
8. The Earl’s Error by Kathy L. Wheeler.
Thorne Grey has made many mistakes that hurt his wife Lorelei Grey – the worst of all being his callous act of banishing her brother and then impregnating his ex-mistress.
Now, she’s ready to leave him, but he pleads with her to stay, and even offers her money and promises to find her brother to clear his name.
He adores her more than anything, but he has to deal with the many well-earned rumors that ruin his reputation, and he’s willing to fight for her with his last breath.
This marriage in crisis historical romance novel is a passionate and thrilling story of a couple who try against odds to revive their relationship.
9. The Duke’s Regret by Catherine Kullmann.
Flora, the Duchess of Gracechurch, has a cold and distant marriage with her husband Jeffrey.
Now, she is ready to move on with her life and find new love, but Jeffrey, the Duke of Gracechurch, has a change of heart and decides to save his marriage and bond with his wife and children.
He tries to prove his love and loyalty to her, and Flora must decide between her freedom and a chance at happiness.
10. The Sins of Lord Lockwood by Meredith Duran.
Liam Devaliant, Lord Lockwood, had it all: charisma, power, and the love of Anna, his bride-to-be.
But a wicked plot robbed him of his freedom and future on his wedding day.
Four years later, he returned from the dead, bent on revenge. But Anna, his long-lost countess, refused to fear or forget him.
She was determined to win back his love or save his soul, no matter the cost.
If you like strong female protagonists in fiction and you’re in the mood for a historical romance novel about overcoming both personal and marital challenges, then you’re in for a treat with this marriage-in-crisis historical romance novel.
11. Regarding the Duke by Grace Callaway.
Adam Garrity, the Duke of the City, was a powerful and vengeful moneylender who married Gabriella, a sweet and naive redhead, with plans to revenge after his father abandoned him and ordered his killing.
But an accident makes him forget everything, including his decision to never show his feelings at the beginning of their union.
Gabriella stayed by his side, hoping to heal his wounds, and in the process learned that Adam was not the man she thought he was.
This author puts the steam in steamy historical romance novels, so if you fancy the theme of rebuilding love in historical romance novels with troubled marriages, then you’re going to love this amazing story of love, loss, and redemption.
12. The Day of the Duchess by Sarah Maclean.
Seraphina, Duchess of Haven, left her husband Malcolm, Duke of Haven, three years ago after a tragic accident.
She returned to London to reclaim her life, but he offered her a deal: find him a new wife and she could be free.
Seraphina agreed but soon realized that she still loved him. Malcolm also discovered that he had never stopped loving her.
As they searched for her replacement, they are allowed to confront their past and enemies, and they realize that they have a second chance at happiness.
This is one of the best marriage in crisis historical romance books about a broken marriage and renewed love.
13. Keep No Secrets by Charlie Lane.
Nathan Knightly, Earl of Beckingham, loved his wife Lola more than anything, and they had a blissful marriage, despite being childless.
But everything changed when he accused her of something unthinkable.
Lola Knightly, a champion of London’s poor and independent women, was heartbroken by her husband’s words, and so she left him, determined to start a new life.
But fate brought them back together, and they had to face their shattered love.
This is another fantastic portrayal of marriage struggles in a historical romance about a couple who try to overcome their pain and find happiness again.
14. Simply Insatiable by Kate Pearce.
Seven years ago, Lord Minshom and Lady Jane parted ways after a disastrous marriage.
He became a famous libertine who pursued every scandalous desire, while she stayed a pure and innocent lady who wanted to save their relationship.
When she returns to London with a demand, he defies her even though it means she will have to attend the House of Pleasure, a notorious bordello.
There, they start a risky game of seduction and jealousy with other patrons.
But soon, they discover that they still have feelings for each other and want to be together.
Now, they will have to overcome their conflicts and secrets to find true happiness.
15. Passions of a Wicked Earl by Lorraine Heath.
Claire Lyons was a naive girl when she married Morgan Lyons, a notorious libertine.
Soon enough, he exiled her to the country after he caught her with his brother, but she never stopped loving him.
Now she is back in London, transformed into a stunning lady, and ready to seduce her estranged husband.
She has one Season to prove her loyalty and passion to Morgan, who still harbors a grudge against her.
16. An Inconvenient Match by Susanna Malcolm.
When Honora, a wealthy tradeswoman, marries Ashland, an impoverished earl, they both have different expectations from their union.
While Honora hopes to enjoy the sensual pleasures of marriage and fulfill her grandmother’s dreams of joining the nobility, Ashland reluctantly agrees to wed Honora to save his family name and fortune, but he resents her for her cold and officious demeanor.
As they struggle to adjust to their new roles and responsibilities, they discover a mutual attraction that sparks between them.
If you’re in the mood for a marriage in crisis historical romance novel that’s pretty much doomed from the beginning, then you’re going to enjoy this title.
Read This Next: Top 18 Enemies To Lovers Historical Romance Books You’ll Want To Read
17. Private Arrangements by Sherry Thomas.
Gigi and Camden are married, but they haven’t seen each other in a decade.
They live on different continents and enjoy their freedom and independence.
But their marriage wasn’t always like this.
They used to be madly in love and ran away to get married until a terrible secret ruined their wedding night.
Now, Gigi wants a divorce and she’s ready to move on with her life. But Camden has other plans, and he makes an outrageous demand.
He still loves her and he wants to make her stay.
In this troubled marriage about an estranged couple, they’ll have to give their best and lay open their weaknesses to overcome the past and rekindle their romance.
18. The Slightest Provocation by Pam Rosenthal.
Kit Stansell and Mary Penley ran away from their warring families to marry, but they soon realized they had different dreams and they eventually separated.
While Kit became a military hero, Mary joined a radical circle of poets, and when they crossed paths again after nine years in a dangerous period, their old love was reignited – and its attendant conflicts.
As they raced against time to stop a plot that could destroy England, they strived to bridge their gap to save their country and love.
19. An Affair Before Christmas by Eloisa James.
Four years ago, Poppy and Fletcher had a fairy-tale wedding.
They seemed to be the perfect couple, but their marriage has lost its spark.
Now, Fletcher is a busy duke who doesn’t pay enough attention to his wife, and Poppy is a beautiful and innocent young woman who feels bored and lonely.
Soon enough, Fletcher realizes he needs to win back his wife’s love and sets out to seduce her with a sinful plan.
But, there’s a whole lot of secrets and misunderstandings between them, and fighting for love in this marriage in crisis historical romance novel is going to leave their souls feeling stripped.
20. Unforgivable by Joanna Chambers.
Rose Davenport was a beautiful girl until a disease scarred her face.
Her father arranged a marriage for her with Gil Truman, a wealthy earl’s son. But Gil didn’t love Rose and left her alone in his country estate.
Five years later, Rose decided to confront Gil at a masked ball in London and was shocked when he didn’t recognize her and even flirted with her.
So, Rose faced a dilemma: should she reveal her identity or enjoy his attention?
I liked the way the couple went about healing their broken marriage in this historical romance novel, and I know you’ll enjoy it too.
21. A Tryst By The Sea by Grace Burrowes.
Penelope has had enough of her unhappy marriage and decides to leave Vergilius – her cold and distant husband.
So, she escapes to a seaside cottage, hoping to start a new life. But Vergilius follows her there, determined to win her back.
He’s bent on impressing her with his many romantic gestures, and while she’s not swayed (yet), the picturesque scene at the Siren’s Retreat makes him feel like there’s hope for a second chance in their troubled marriage.
In these marriage-in-trouble romance books, the journey toward the revival of love is nothing short of breathtaking.
With their innermost feelings bared and their weaknesses on display for their partner, a good many of these stories might have you in your feelings.
If you’re in the mood for some more reading, make sure you check out the related posts below!
