5 Must-Read Summer Romances
Words by Loviisa Pasternak
Graphics by Mia Cruz
My TBR may already be overflowing, but I had to add these five contemporary romances. Join me in getting swept away by these new releases that range from tropey to grounded, from gut-wrenching to hilarious, from high-stakes to dreamy, all out just in time for the summer!
First up is “Can’t Get Enough” by Kennedy Ryan. I read the previous installment in the “Skyland” series on vacation last year, and the experience cemented Kennedy Ryan books in the beach read category for me. Her works are so immersive and emotive and empowering, and there is something extra-special about diving headfirst into one during a period of time with no (or at least fewer) distractions. Starring a thriving heroine who isn’t looking for love and a devoted hero who might just change her mind, this book sets a dreamy romance in stark reality and promises an inimitably complex, moving, and grounded read.
In “When Javi Dumped Mari” by Mia Sosa, a college pact to vet each other dates backfires when Mari unexpectedly informs Javi that she’s getting married. Javi has been trying to get his theatre career on track before admitting his feelings for Mari, but now it may be too late. Because successful entertainment lawyer Mari hasn’t been waiting for him; she’s moved on. But if Javi can stop the wedding, they might just be perfect for each other. With charming side characters, clever banter, and undeniable chemistry, this hilarious romcom is sitting right at the top of my TBR.
Next, “The Love Haters” by Katherine Center has—dare I say—the most beach-read cover out there. If that weren’t enough to earn it a spot on this list, it’s Katherine Center, so you already know these darling characters are going to be getting up to some serious shenanigans. This story kicks off with Katie, in an effort to rekindle the embers of her career, accepting an assignment to write a profile on a Coast Guard rescue swimmer. Hopefully the fact that she can’t swim won’t be a problem! Key West should be paradise. The reality is somewhat more complicated.
The fifth book in the “Meant to Be” series, “Worth Fighting For” by Jesse Q. Sutanto, is a contemporary retelling of Disney’s “Mulan.” Set in the cutthroat business world, it stars a clever and capable heroine and explores themes of sexism, familial responsibility, and self-discovery. For some readers, this self-discovery might hit even harder than the romance! Either way, this book promises nostalgia and humor, with a strong forbidden love subplot.
Finally, this list wouldn’t be complete without “Problematic Summer Romance” by Ali Hazelwood, the second book in the “Not In Love” series. I am not usually a big fan of age gaps, however, if there is one person I trust to do it right, it’s Ali. She hasn’t disappointed me yet! This Italian-set, brother’s-best-friend, grumpy/sunshine, forced-proximity, vacation romance packs in all your favorite tropes. If cliché is wrong, I don’t want to be right.