If you’re anything like me, summer isn’t just about travel or brunch—it’s about romanticizing the little moments. Reading near a window or on a porch with a cold drink, curled up in the AC while the sun blazes outside, or flipping through chapters at the beach with sand between your toes and a smoothie in hand. That’s my idea of peace.
And this year? The summer vibe is crystal clear: small town romance and found family. I’m talking about those slow burns that make your heart ache, cozy little towns that feel like home, and communities that wrap around you like a warm hug.
There’s something magical about reading stories where love blooms in coffee shops, diners, or tiny bookstores—and where healing doesn’t come just from romance, but from people showing up for one another. Whether it’s a childhood friend turned lover, a grumpy neighbor softening, or someone finally realizing they deserve love and belonging, these are the stories that fill me up.
Of course, I had to add a sprinkle of romantasy in the mix (because let’s be honest, I’m always going to be that girl), but the heart of this list is rooted in soft, affirming love. The kind that grows in unexpected places and reminds you that you’re never too broken to be chosen.
Trying to read more books this year? I’ve got you—check out my tips in How to Read More Books in 2025 to make your reading goals stick (no shame if you’ve restarted that Goodreads goal three times already).
So if you’re looking for your next swoony escape—whether it’s with a cinnamon roll hero, a sassy heroine, or a ragtag crew of ride-or-dies—this list has you covered.
Here’s my 2025 summer romance reading list, packed with books that’ll give you all the cozy, steamy, plot-packed cravings your little nerdy heart desires.
(Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases—aka, your support helps keep the nerdy magic alive! 💫)
1. A Cowboy to Remember by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Okay, so I don’t usually reach for cowboy romances—but lately? They’ve been calling my name. And this one? Written by a Black author and features Black love, so I was already sold.
The story follows a woman who wakes up with amnesia and finds herself drawn to her childhood best friend in a cozy little California town. She doesn’t remember their past, but something about him feels… safe. Familiar. Meanwhile, he remembers everything—which makes their dynamic all the more tender (and complicated).
There’s this quiet emotional tension running through the story—he’s holding the full weight of their history while she’s starting from zero. And somehow, they have to navigate love, loss, and second chances without the same foundation. I’m so curious to see how the author balances the heartbreak and healing.
This feels like one of those books that sneaks up on you emotionally.
2. A Girl Like Her by Talia Hibbert
Okay, let’s talk about A Girl Like Her by Talia Hibbert—because she never misses. Heart, heat, and humor? She’s got it down to a science. I’ve loved everything I’ve read from her, so I’m finally diving into this one—and the setup already has me grinning.
The story centers on Ruth Kabbah, a brilliant comic book artist who’s autistic, reclusive, and totally fine with keeping folks at a distance. She’s sharp, unapologetically honest, and perfectly content in her own bubble. But of course, life has other plans—in the form of Evan Miller, her new neighbor who just so happens to be a soft-spoken, ex-military cinnamon roll of a man.
He’s patient, gentle, and not even a little bit intimidated by Ruth’s tough exterior. Instead of trying to fix her, he just sees her. And whew—what unfolds is a slow-burn romance that builds through everyday intimacy: shared meals, quiet moments, and the kind of mutual respect that makes your heart ache (in the best way).
It’s giving opposites attract. It’s giving softness and safety. And it’s giving “I see you exactly as you are, and I’m still choosing you.” I already know this one’s going to stay with me.
3. Long Shot by Kennedy Ryan
I already know Kennedy Ryan is about to emotionally wreck me—and honestly? I’m ready. I devoured Before I Let Go and was obsessed with how she wrote healing, heartbreak, and love with such care. Her characters always feel real, like people you know. People you root for. And Long Shot? It’s been sitting on my TBR for a minute, and this summer feels like the right time to finally go there.
This isn’t your typical romance. It’s raw, intense, and deeply human. At the center is Iris—brilliant, brave, and slowly breaking inside a relationship that’s draining the light out of her.
Her story is heartbreaking, but what makes it powerful is how fiercely she fights for herself. You feel every moment of her pain and every inch of her resilience.
Then there’s August. Patient, kind, the kind of man who doesn’t try to swoop in and save the day—he just sees Iris. He holds space for her, believes in her, and waits. Their connection builds slowly, with so much tenderness and tension it almost hurts. But it’s not just about romance—it’s about reclaiming your voice after it’s been silenced.
I’m fully expecting to cry, gasp, highlight a million quotes, and maybe journal afterward. If you want a story that grabs your heart and doesn’t let go, this one’s it.
4. Lore of the Tides by Analeigh Sbrana
I just know Lore of the Tides is about to give me everything I need—magic, vibes, and a plot twist I’ll be thinking about for days. I read the first book (Lore of the Wilds) and while the middle had a few slow stretches, the ending? Baby, it snapped. I had to sit in silence for a minute like… wait, what just happened??
So now we’re back in this whimsical little world for book two—and I’m hype. Lore of the Tides picks up where the story left off and takes everything deeper: richer lore, higher stakes, more magic. It’s set against a dreamy coastal backdrop but still holds onto that woodland-cabin energy that makes the world feel soft, secretive, and totally enchanting.
There’s something really comforting about this series—it’s peaceful without being boring, magical without being chaotic. Like you’re solving ancient mysteries while sipping something warm on a foggy porch. If you’re curating a summer romance reading list that leans a little whimsical but still gives you those emotional beats and cozy tension, this is one to add. I’ve got my matcha, I’ve got my tabs, and I’m ready to disappear into the magic.
5. Seven Days in June by Tia Williams
This one has been sitting on my shelf giving me the look for months. You know those books that feel like they’re just waiting for the right season to hit? That’s Seven Days in June. Every time I reorganize my books, it stares me down like, “Girl. You know it’s time.” And honestly? This summer feels like the perfect moment to finally crack it open.
The story follows two authors—Eva and Shane—who reconnect after years apart, and whew… the tension? The unresolved pain? The chemistry? All of it comes rushing back during a week-long reunion neither of them is really ready for. What unfolds isn’t just a second chance romance—it’s a story about grief, addiction, motherhood, and the lies we tell ourselves just to keep going. It’s raw, sexy, and deeply emotional in that way Kennedy Ryan fans will eat up.
Set in the heat of June, this feels like a book meant to be read in bed with a fan blowing, your legs kicked up, and the scent of sunscreen still clinging to your skin. If you’re building a summer romance reading list that brings the feels and the steam, this one needs a spot. I’m emotionally bracing myself—in the best way.
6. Immortal Dark by Tigest Girma
Okay, hear me out—Immortal Dark totally gives winter reading energy. We’re talking gothic castles, cursed bloodlines, moonlit forests, and all the brooding magic you could want. But honestly? I’m over saving the dark romantasy reads for cold weather. Summer deserves a little spice and shadow too.
This one’s been sitting on my list forever, and I finally decided to stop playing. The vibe is rich and intense—slow burn, morally gray characters, forbidden desire, and a plot that builds tension piece by piece until you’re fully consumed. It’s not just about romance or magic—it’s about power, secrets, and that dangerous pull between what we want and what we shouldn’t have.
There’s something delicious about reading this kind of book in the middle of a sunny afternoon, like you’re balancing out the brightness with just the right amount of edge. I’m ready for the drama, the longing, and the inevitable “just one more chapter” lies at 2am.
If you’re building a summer romance reading list with a little bite to it—this one’s calling your name. Let’s suffer (and swoon) together.
7. Savage Lands by Stacey Marie Brown
I already know Savage Lands is about to scratch that romantasy itch I’ve been feeling all season. The vibes? Immaculate. We’ve got magic, danger, court drama, and just enough sexual tension to make you kick your feet under the covers like a teenager in love.
Set in a gritty, post-war world where fae and humans are barely holding it together, this book throws you into a mess of power plays, forbidden secrets, and enemies-to-lovers heat that simmers on every page.
Our heroine? Fierce, rebellious, and absolutely not here to play by anyone’s rules. And the love interest? Morally gray and 100% the kind of man you know is bad for you… but you still want him to ruin your life just a little.
I’m a sucker for banter, betrayal, and the kind of slow burn that turns your stomach inside out. This feels like the type of book that’ll have me giggling at my phone and thinking about the characters the next morning like they’re my coworkers. If you’re building a summer romance reading list full of magic, scheming, and dangerously hot tension, add this one immediately. I already know I’ll be up way too late with this in hand.
If you’re into fantasy worlds filled with betrayal, slow-burn tension, and morally gray love interests, you’ll definitely want to check out my list of the Best Romantasy Books That Will Ruin You (In the Best Way)—because one emotionally devastating love story is never enough.
8. Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood
This is only my second Ali Hazelwood book, and after reading Bride? Yeah… she’s got me in a chokehold. I wasn’t expecting to love that one as much as I did, but her characters? So sharp, witty, and emotionally real. Now I’m fully in my Hazelwood era, and Love, Theoretically is next up.
This one’s giving enemies to lovers meets academic chaos—with a physicist heroine who’s brilliant, awkward, and absolutely not here for the nonsense (until the nonsense is six feet tall and kind of hot). Her world is competitive and cold… until this infuriatingly attractive man comes along and throws her logic and her heart into disarray.
Ali Hazelwood does what she does best: geeky humor, snarky banter, and slow-burn tension that sneaks up on you until you’re fully invested and blushing behind your book. I’m a plot-and-character girly through and through, and she gives both—plus fake dating, STEM rivalries, and all the emotionally intimate moments that make it more than just a rom-com.
I already know this is about to be my little academic romance escape for the summer. Give me the equations, the drama, and a man who doesn’t know what hit him.
9. The Strawberry Patch Pancake House by Laurie Gilmore
I saw this series everywhere on BookTok last fall—especially the cozy autumn titles—but I’ve had my eye on this one for a minute. The Strawberry Patch Pancake House is part of Laurie Gilmore’s spring/summer lineup, and it fits the exact vibe I’m craving right now: soft, warm, and full of heart.
Set in a charming small town, this story centers around a local breakfast spot that serves way more than just pancakes—it serves comfort, community, and second chances. You can practically smell the coffee and feel the warmth from the handwritten chalkboard menus.
It’s the kind of book where the setting feels like a character—seasonal specials, regulars who know each other’s orders, and quiet moments that feel like home.
The romance is gentle and grounded, unfolding through small gestures, shared routines, and that slow-burn sweetness that sneaks up on you. And honestly? I’m such a sucker for small-town love stories with a food-centric setting. There’s just something about the mix of connection, comfort food, and soft romance that hits every time.
This book is giving “reading on a screened-in porch with a glass of sweet tea” energy. I already know I’m going to finish it with a full heart—and maybe a sudden need to make pancakes.
10. Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
At this point, I truly believe Abby Jimenez owns the summer romance genre. Her books are everywhere—BookTok, Bookstagram, summer reading lists galore—and everyone swears they’re the perfect blend of swoon, humor, and healing. And somehow… I still haven’t read one. That changes now.
Just For the Summer follows two people who’ve both sworn off love and make a pact to keep things casual—but of course, fate does what it does. What starts as light and breezy slowly unfolds into something deeper, more vulnerable, and way more complicated than either of them expected.
This is everything I want in a beach bag read: witty banter, tender emotional beats, and that slow unraveling of walls that makes the romance feel earned.
Abby Jimenez has a way of writing characters that are deeply human—flawed, funny, scared, hopeful—and watching them fall for each other feels like witnessing something quietly transformative.
I already know I’m going to walk away from this book with a full heart and a goofy little smile on my face. It’s giving sun-warmed afternoons, healing, and love that finds you exactly when you’re ready for it—even if you didn’t think you were.
I’m officially hopping on the Abby Jimenez train—better late than never.
11. The Bridge Kingdom Series by Danielle L. Jensen
Be both weapon and spy. That’s the mission. Lara is sent to infiltrate an enemy kingdom under the guise of marriage—trained to manipulate, betray, and bring it to its knees from the inside. But what she doesn’t expect? To fall for the very man she was meant to destroy.
What starts as strategy quickly spirals into a web of tangled loyalties, emotional stakes, and a romance that hurts so good. This series is packed with political intrigue, layered characters, and world-building that feels vivid without ever dragging. The pacing is tight, the tension is relentless, and the slow burn? Absolutely agonizing in the best way.
And when I say I am obsessed—I mean it. The plot? Immaculate. The character development? Chef’s kiss. And the dialogue?? There’s one scene—if you know, you know—where a character says, “You let that man put his fingers inside you and work you like a puppet,” and I swear I gasped. Kindle dropped. Mouth open. No notes.
This series has everything I love: betrayal, morally gray choices, yearning that physically aches, and characters who grow into their power one impossible decision at a time. It’s not your typical romantasy (there’s not much magic), but the political drama and tension-filled plot more than make up for it.
Easily one of my top 10 reads of 2024 and 2025. If you haven’t started this series yet, this is your official invitation to enter your obsessed era.
12. The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory
When Nikole’s boyfriend proposes at a Dodgers game—and she very publicly says no? Yeah. Her face ends up all over the internet. Enter Carlos: the handsome, charming doctor who steps in to save her from the viral awkwardness and, unexpectedly, becomes something more.
What starts as a rescue mission quickly turns into a flirty rebound, full of witty banter and slow-burn chemistry that neither of them saw coming. The Proposal is warm, smart, and deeply satisfying. Jasmine Guillory gives us more than just a rom-com—she gives us grown-up dating, boundary setting, emotional honesty, and characters who feel like real people you’d actually want to brunch with.
And listen—Guillory never misses when it comes to writing Black women with careers, confidence, and complex inner worlds. I’ve had this one on my list for a while, and it just feels right for summer. It’s giving “iced tea on the patio,” with just the right amount of steam to keep things interesting.
Plus, I’m a sucker for a story that starts with a little chaos and ends in comfort. This book is the literary equivalent of a cozy rom-com movie night—feel-good, romantic, and full of heart. I already know I’m going to fall for Carlos right along with Nik.
Final Thoughts
So that’s the list—your official summer romance reading list if you’re a sucker for slow burns, emotional depth, small-town charm, and just enough magic to keep things spicy. If you’re in the mood to switch things up, I also put together a list of 8 nonfiction books for personal growth that pair perfectly with a reflective summer afternoon.
And hey—if you ever need a break from books, I highly recommend diving into these 7 underrated sports anime series. Emotional arcs, found family vibes, and growth that’ll have you in your feelings? Yes please.
Let’s romanticize our reading lives this summer, shall we?
Stay nerdy and bold,
Brianna 💕📚
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