Who needs the heat of summer when a book can leave you feeling hot and steamy? These romance novels might play up the cheese factor, but they are also compelling stories that demand you finish them in a single sitting.
The Dating Plan by Sara Desai
If you’re a fan of witty conversation, quick reads, and quirky characters, this novel is the one for you. Desai’s sense of humor shines throughout the text, as do the multidimensional characters that you’ll be rooting for from the get-go.
The laugh-out-loud exchanges, meet-cutes, and sweet moments read just like your favorite rom-com, which means you’ll root for these characters from beginning to end.
Get it: $14.49, shop here
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This historical fiction is many things, but it’s the romantic elements that’ll have you enthralled with this novel. The glitz and glamour of old Hollywood and the societal standards of the age will transport you within seconds, and from there, you’ll be hanging on the author’s every word.
Bonus: Freeform has reportedly picked up the rights to The Seven Husbands for an upcoming adaptation, so even after you finish the book, there’s plenty more to come!
Get it: $9.49, shop here
The Two Lives of Lydia Bird by Josie Silver
From New York Times best-selling author Josie Silver comes another witty and warm romantic novel that turns the impossible into reality, giving one woman the best of both worlds and another chance at true love.
At times heartbreaking, emotional, and downright beautiful, this novel is one you’ll have a difficult time walking away from, so make sure you carve out plenty of time to finish it in a single sitting. You’ll be glad you did.
Get it: $6.50, shop here
The Wife Upstairs by Rachel Hawkins
If romance isn’t your typical genre, how about a novel that combines the best elements of a thriller with a romantic atmosphere? The Wife Upstairs delivers all that and more in a modern twist on Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre. It’s a heart-pounding love story shrouded in mystery. If you’re familiar with the story, you may see the twist coming, but it’s no less riveting.
Don’t be afraid of getting too swept up in the lovey-dovey nature of the book – there is plenty of mystery to undercut any emotional fluff. If you’re ready to dip a toe into romance, this is the perfect starting point.
Get it: $16.99, shop here
Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers
Named one of the most anticipated books for 2021 on literal minded news outlets and blogs, Honey Girl promises to be a beautiful coming of age story full of representation, empowerment, and self-love.
Driven over-achiever Grace Porter must reevaluate her goals and ambitions when she meets her wife on a trip to Vegas. Honey Girl isn’t your typical romance novel. It goes a bit deeper into relatable subjects like burnout, the pressure to succeed, and parental expectations. Still, you won’t want to put down this beautiful, complex story.
Get it: $11.55, shop here
Romance novels aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but if you need the occasional light, feel-good read to round out your collection, there’s nothing quite like them. Do yourself a favor and indulge your inner romantic with these quick and entertaining reads.