This post may include affiliate links. See my full disclosure.
There’s just something irresistible about a love story wrapped in mystery, danger, and a whole lot of emotional tension. If you’re anything like me, you love a good romance. But when the hero is a sharp, broody detective or a fiercely determined heroine chasing clues and catching feelings along the way?
Chef’s kiss.
Detective romance books blend the best of both worlds. Heart-racing suspense and swoonworthy moments that’ll make you want to curl up with a cup of coffee and read “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s 2 a.m. These stories are perfect for readers who enjoy slow-burn tension. Protective love interests, and plots that keep you guessing while your heart does little happy flips.
Whether it’s a forbidden workplace romance between two people on opposite sides of the law. A steamy connection sparked during a high-stakes investigation. Or a second chance at love in the middle of a murder case—these book recs have a little bit of everything to satisfy your craving for danger and desire. So if you’re ready to fall for characters who know how to solve a mystery and steal your heart, keep reading. These detective romance books are calling your name.
Detective Romance Series

The Detective and the Baroness by Karyn Gerrar
Detective Sergeant Mitchell Simpson’s only purpose is his job with London’s Metropolitan Police. But when he’s seriously injured in the line of duty, he has no idea what to do. So, when he’s offered a private investigation to work on while he recovers, he jumps at it. His client is the baroness who nursed him back to health…and stole his heart while doing it.

Off-Limits Detective by Daisy Grace
I’m stuck on a murder case with Olivia, my brilliant ex-girlfriend. She’s a whirlwind of passion and mystery, with a body that could tempt a saint. We clash like thunder and lightning, but when we’re in sync, it’s magical. But I fear my mistakes have damaged our chances. Will I lose the woman I can’t live without?

The Charming Rebellious Detective by Mayla Goode
When news surfaces that foul play might have caused her dad’s illness, Brooke is determined to find out who is responsible. As she and Detective Blackwood join forces to investigate, they realize that love at first sight is possible, even at their age. As justice prevails, witty banter, humor, respect, and love might be enough to bind them together.

Claimed By The Detective by Flora Ferrari
She’s gorgeous, and I want her to be mine. But she’s only eighteen. Is this right? Maybe I am going to hell, but damn it, she’s worth it. I will do anything to protect her even if that means digging into her father’s life. But what is he hiding? And is my woman in danger? Wrong or right? I need her, and I need her now.

The Detective Duke by Scarlett Scott
Elysande was aware the last Duke of Wycombe was marrying her for her immense dowry, and she has no doubt his grim successor wishes to wed her for the same reason. But she has motives of her own for accepting the new duke’s offer. Never mind that he is harsh and unsmiling, with a reputation for ruthlessness. Their marriage of convenience suits her perfectly fine.

Secret Nights with the Billionaire Detective by Maci Rowan
Helping at a small-town bakery should have been simple. Instead, break-ins and threats have me living under Jackson Harding’s roof. My best friend’s older brother is no longer just the cocky, overbearing man I grew up with. He’s a billionaire detective with sharp instincts, rough hands, and a relentless need to protect.

Jealous Detective by Lena Little
I don’t believe in fate or any of that Hallmark b.s. At least I didn’t until today. Now it all makes sense. All of it. Because of her. My woman. She was made for me and me for her. I never second-guess my instincts. So why start now? Once in a lifetime, in so many ways. That’s the best way to describe her. And mine. Because that’s what she will be, mine.
I hope these detective romance books have helped you discover your next favorite read (or five). Whether you’re in the mood for something steamy, angsty, sweet, or suspenseful, there’s a story here that’ll keep you turning pages well into the night. And let’s be real. There’s nothing quite like solving a mystery and getting a happily ever after, all in one go.
If you end up loving any of these books, or if you have your own favorite detective romance recs, I’d love to hear about them! Let’s keep the conversation going.
Happy reading, my friends—and don’t be surprised if you find yourself falling a little bit in love with a fictional detective or two. 😉