Romance

This modern-day Latinx rom-com was so fun, smart, and sexy! Jasmine and Ashton both have a lot on the line as stars of Carmen in Charge—a telenovela remake for a mainstream US audience—and aren’t looking for love. The immediate tension (sexual and otherwise) between the two plays out against each other’s ambition (and secrets) in the real-life world of television acting and production. This story is as much about community and family as it is about romance. — Jocelyn 

Lori Matthew had me laughing in public— exactly what I needed in these stressful times. She completely sucked me in! The characters were almost familiar, like friends I already have. The romance felt real, and I never doubted the motives behind Sam and Alex’s actions. I spent many years so hungry for representation that I’d read anything you threw at me, but I’m happy to say this book set the bar so much higher for me. A flirty, fun romp through Hollywood. — MJ

I have been waiting my whole life for a f/f bodice ripper, written by a woman who experiences same-gender attraction. To make it even better, the two main characters are an astronomer and an artist with deep love for plants and natural history! Lady's Guide manages to be fun and evocative; I'd suggest it to romance lovers who are nerds for historical fiction like me. - MJ

Shoutout to bookseller Karena for introducing me to contemporary romance through Alisha Rai. Her characters are diverse, flawed, and completely relatable (and the chemistry is hot as heck). I generally read non-fic, but Rai’s books have me hugging them and squeaking out happy noises because of how straight-up delighted they make me. Clear your mind of any preconceived notions of the genre and enjoy this amazing book. - Rachel

A tattoo artist and budding CEO, haunted by their shared past, are given a second change – at love, but more importantly at their own lives. I was pulled in from the start to this taut tale of redemption, betrayal, sex, and romance. With complex characters, sizzling tension, juicy drama, and intricate tattoos (and desert) I finished this book fully satisfied – but ready for Alisha Rai’s next installment. - Jocelyn

In the center of New Orleans's Reconstruction efforts, Drake LeVeq and Valinda Lacy are trying to build a better world for the newly free city. I'd never read a historical novel set in this era before and I completely devoured this. Jenkins brings this world to life with all its competing factions, lively rebirth, ruling families, and steamy passion. Laissez les bon temps rouler! - Clara

I love when an author continues to delight. Helen Hoang is that author. The charm and sexiness of her earlier The Kiss Quotient is also in abundance in The Bride Test. Even though I know the book ends in a happily-ever-after (it’s a romance, that’s what they’re supposed to do!), I had no idea how we were going to get there. Hoang handles autism, being an immigrant, and meddling mothers while giving you the steamiest of sexy times and all the feels. - Karena

I love a good Robin Hood story. This one just happens to take place in space in this perfect blend of scifi and romance. It's so very steamy, full of adventure, and really just a lot of fun. Bouchet knows how to create characters you want to go on a journey with. While you're waiting for the rest of this series, also read her Kingmaker Chronicles. - Karena

I hesistate to tell you anything about the plot of this book because it absolutely should not work. And yet, it is one of the most touching, charming, and romantic books I've ever read. It’s a neurodiverse, feel-good, feminist rom-com. Take a break from the stress of life and immerse yourself in this smart, sexy fantasy. - Clara

I loved Guillory’s debut The Wedding Date so much that I jumped at the chance to read The Proposal. The story starts with the Most Awkward Meet Cute, then blends together hilarious dialogue and steamy sexy times. Guillory gives Nik fantastic girlfriends who are there for her but will not let her get away with anything. This is the romcom we’ve been waiting for. Someone call Shonda Rhimes and make this a movie. - Karena