These 10 Romance Novels Will Leave You Breathless (In the Best Way)
Love Getting Lost in Romance? Don’t Miss These Summer Must-Reads
If your idea of a perfect summer includes a cozy chair, a cold drink, and a swoon-worthy book in hand, then get ready — because romance novels are having a major moment right now.
From sizzling enemies-to-lovers tales to tender second-chance romances, the shelves are overflowing with heart-tugging, smile-inducing stories. Whether you’re a longtime fan of love stories or just dipping your toes in the genre, there’s something new (and irresistible) waiting for you.
We’ve rounded up some of the hottest romance novels hitting shelves this summer — and trust us, you’re going to want to make room in your beach bag.
1. “The Love Haters” by Katherine Center
Katie’s career is on the line when she’s assigned to profile a swoon-worthy Coast Guard swimmer, Hutch — there’s just one small problem: she can’t swim. Add in his competitive (and charming) brother Cole, and Katie’s trip to Key West becomes a dive into deep emotional waters — in more ways than one.
2. “The Roommate Pact” by Allison Ashley (New Addition)
A fresh take on the friends-to-lovers trope. Claire and Graham are best friends and roommates with zero romantic interest — until a health scare and a pact shake up their lives. Heartfelt and sweet with just the right amount of spice, this one will leave you smiling.
3. “Problematic Summer Romance” by Ali Hazelwood
Maya is a 23-year-old grad student with a secret crush on her older brother’s best friend — who’s also 15 years older. The forbidden tension and Italian wedding setting make for a slow-burn, summer escape that fans of age-gap romance will eat up.
4. “Till Summer Do Us Part” by Meghan Quinn
Scottie pretends to be married to fit in at her new workplace, and her best friend’s improv-loving millionaire brother steps in to play the role of fake husband. With wild antics and hilarious improv rules, this laugh-out-loud rom-com is all about saying “yes” to love.
5. “The Beach Trap” by Ali Brady (New Addition)
Two women inherit the same beach house — and discover they’re actually half-sisters. Add in summer jobs, unexpected crushes, and deep emotional healing, and you’ve got the perfect blend of heart and heat. If you love family drama mixed with romance, don’t miss this gem.
6. “My Best Friend’s Honeymoon” by Meryl Wilsner
Elsie ditches her fiancé and ends up taking her best friend Ginny on their planned honeymoon. Ginny’s been secretly in love with Elsie for years, and what starts as a supportive vacation turns into something much deeper. Tender, sexy, and full of longing.
7. “It’s a Love Story” by Annabel Monaghan
A forced-proximity romance that reunites a former child star with the pop icon who gave her her first kiss — and she needs his help to save her career. Add a grumpy cinematographer and a week of close quarters, and you’ve got a recipe for romantic fireworks.
8. “You, Again” by Kate Goldbeck (New Addition)
A New York-set, banter-filled, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers story about two very different people whose paths keep crossing — until friendship turns into something much more. Think sharp wit, emotional depth, and characters who feel achingly real.
9. “Winging It With You” by Chip Pons
Asher’s plans are wrecked when his boyfriend bails on their reality-show adventure. Enter Theo, a pilot trying to find his own balance in life. What begins as a fake-dating scheme slowly turns into the real thing in this feel-good, LGBTQ+ romance full of heart.
10. “The Re-Write” by Lizzie Damilola Blackburn
Temi’s dream of becoming a published author is crumbling — until she’s offered a ghostwriting job for a reality show star… who just happens to be her ex. Cue awkward tension, rekindled feelings, and one last shot at rewriting their love story.
Ready to Fall in Love?
Whether you’re in the mood for slow-burn chemistry, sizzling tension, or tear-jerking tenderness, this summer’s romance lineup has something just for you. So grab a book, find a sunny spot, and let yourself swoon — because love stories like these are meant to be enjoyed under the sun.
