Jenna Bush Hager's Favorite Romance Books Will Make You Swoon
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
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 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 Prideand 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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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 2:00 PM.