Books on online romance and virtual relationships
Let’s delve into some virtual relationships, shall we?
I’m a big fan of stories that explore virtual romances and online dating. Even before I met Mattias, I was already into it. I think what’s so intriguing for me is the idea of storytelling through a different medium – through text messages, emails and virtual platforms.
So, here are some books on online romance, virtual relationships and the use of technology in fostering such relationships.
The Boy Is Back by Meg Cabot
Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Romance
You have no idea how happy I was to walk into the bookstore and see a brand spanking new Meg Cabot book on the shelf. I just about died. I also gave up my entire day to read the book – no breaks.
I’ve always been a big fan of Meg Cabot’s ‘boy’ books. She writes them so creatively and it’s not your standard A to B novel. The Boy Is Back takes you through the story of Becky and Reed who were once high school sweethearts and how they rekindle their romance after years of separation. It’s told through emails, text messages, social media posts and notes. It makes the book a fast read and gives it a contemporary narrative that keeps you turning the page for more.
Man, it feels so good to read a Meg Cabot novel. She is my literary drug.
Lolito by Ben Brooks
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Fans of Vladmir Nabikov’s “Lolita” will understand the play on this title. When I picked this book up at the bookstore, the thing that captured my attention was the blurb.
Age is just a number…
She’s online.
“I booked a hotel,” I say.
“Near Marble Arch.”
“That sounds great, hon.
I can’t wait to see you.”
“Yeah. Me too.”
“I’m vaguely nervous.”
“Don’t be.”
Do be. I’m a child.
Suffice to say, I’m not afraid to read stories that delve into taboo subjects. Lolito explores the story of fifteen-year-old Etgar, who after being betrayed by his long-term girlfriend, seeks solace in cyber space where he meets middle-aged woman Macy.
At the root of their online relationship is the aching loneliness of both Etgar and Macy. I think that’s what makes the story so human – that these are two realistic characters searching for intimacy and they both discover the consequences of that intimacy. I ended the book feeling a little disappointed but nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read.
Love Virtually by Daniel Glattauer
Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Romance
I’ve raved about this book previously – in fact, it’s one of my favourite books ever. Love Virtually by Daniel Glautteur is about an online relationship that blossoms by a chance encounter – a misguided email that lands in the wrong inbox. The main characters are Leo and Emmi – Emmi is ‘happily married’ yet pursues this romantic online exchange as it gives her an escape from her family life.
There are moments in the book that are total gems – wonderfully intimate and precious. They plan to meet up in person but it always ends up getting put off. It ends on a total cliffhanger that seriously left me wanting more. There is a sequel, but I would say that it’s not as good as Love Virtually.
If you’re in the mood for a love story, then definitely give this a go. Honestly, one of my favourites.
Sex, Lies and Online Dating by Rachel Gibson
Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Romance
If you’re in for a romantic thrill, Rachel Gibson’s “Sex, Lies and Online Dating” may just get you hooked. I’ve read a few of her books and they’ve always been enjoyable. Memorable? Not so much, but in a world that’s brimming with fantastic reads, it’s hard to remember all the plot lines.
This novel follows the story of Quinn McIntyre – an undercover cop – and Lucy Rothschild – a thriller writer. Their paths cross as they are on the hunt for a female serial killer. The “murder” mystery itself is kind of B+ but the steaming romance between Quinn and Lucy definitely makes this book a steamy romantic read.
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So those are some of my favourite books on online dating and virtual relationships! I’m always on the prowl for more books on this topic though, so if you know of any, please share them with me in the comments!
Also, let me know if you end up picking up some of the books I’ve mentioned – it’ll be great to see what you guys thought of them.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out my Top 10 Favourite Books video on YouTube!
Happy reading!
Leonie xo.