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Believe it or not, these romantic customs were commonly observed in Elizabethan England during the time when Shakespeare wrote his plays and poetry.

From secret loves to shocking betrayals, explore seven classic novels with romantic twists that left readers gasping.
Paul Anthony Jones|
Shakespeare popularized many of our favorite romance tropes, from "will-they-won't-they" romances to "star-crossed lovers."
Paul Anthony Jones|
William Shakespeare's wife Anne Hathaway was 26 when she married the 18-year-old Bard. New findings reveal they may have had a closer relationship than previously thought.
Eden Gordon|

Books

From 'forced proximity' to 'MMC,' these slang terms will help you become fluent in the language of modern romance fiction.
Eden Gordon|
Love 'Wuthering Heights'? Discover six classic Gothic novels filled with dark romance, obsession, and tragedy, from 'Jane Eyre' to 'Rebecca.'
Nitya Rao|
From another 'Game of Thrones' prequel to psychological dramas like 'Scarpetta,' these book-to-TV adaptations are gracing our screens in 2026.
Eden Gordon|
The enigmatic Emily Brontë left behind just a few clues as to what inspired her to write the epic romance that inspired Emerald Fennell's controversial 'Wuthering Heights' movie.
Eden Gordon|
Add these book adaptations to your watch-list for the year, with one already available to stream!
Michelle Polizzi|
Looking for your next romance read? These six swoon-worthy novels offer 'Bridgerton'-style love stories full of passion and unforgettable characters.
Logan DeLoye|
From Pride and Prejudice to Fourth Wing, these eight books follow sworn enemies as they slowly acknowledge their feelings for each other.
Eden Gordon|
A quiz for the well-read cinephiles out there!
Chelsea Thatcher|

Authors

You might know the classics, but how deep does your Shakespeare knowledge run? Take our quiz to test your knowledge of his plays.
Natalie Zamora|
A look inside the lives of several female authors who used male pseudonyms to shape literature and bypass societal boundaries.
Logan DeLoye|
From ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ to ‘Baby Doll,’ these are the definitive best adaptations of Tennessee Williams’s works.
AJ DiCosimo|

Libraries

These locations across the globe deliver unique experiences, from the Human Library to the Sourdough Library and more.

Poetry

If you’ve ever talked about “the birds and the bees” or referenced “the best laid plans of mice and men,” then you’ve inadvertently quoted some of the English language’s most famous poets.
Paul Anthony Jones|
Discover which literary genres captivate each state and Washington D.C.
CaLea Johnson|
Where did this curious expression come from, and what’s so right about rain, anyway?
Marla Mackoul|
On New Year’s Eve, after the ball has dropped, revelers queue up “Auld Lang Syne”—that song that makes you cry, even though you don’t understand it and know almost none of the words.
Caitlin Schneider|
Add these 10 to your TBR in time for the holiday season.
Paul Anthony Jones|
These books eerily predicted technological advancements of today, including ‘Snow Crash,’ ‘Player Piano,’ and more.
Nicolle Sloane|
If you fancy a break from corrupt politicians and dark futures, consider diving into one of these books.
Chris Wheatley|
Add these books to your TBR this spooky season.
Chris Wheatley|

Reading

If you’re crafty and love learning, this all-but-forgotten old-timey hobby may be for you.
Marla Mackoul|
Use it to write down quotes, facts, jokes, and any other random snippets you accumulate.
Marla Mackoul|
If you’re trying to teach yourself how to fall asleep faster, reading before bed is a good habit to pick up—here’s why.
Ellen Gutoskey|

Nursery Rhymes

A deep dive into the origins and meaning of the classic nursery rhyme “Little Miss Muffet.”
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