As we brace ourselves to social distance for an uncertain length of time, couldn’t we all use something positive to look forward to in the nearer term? And what could be more uplifting than a good romance? BookTrib has invited romance novelist Adriana Herrera to give us her picks of the veritable bouquet of spring romances headed our way. Need something this instant? You won’t have to wait for the latest installment to Herrera’s “Dreamers” series, American Sweethearts (Carina Press), just released! —∞—
This spring will be an unprecedented one. Instead of getting out as much as possible to enjoy the warmer weather and see the flowers bloom, we are having to stay home so that we can stay healthy and help others do the same. So all I want is to read a romance that’s joyful and fun … and maybe a little sexy. I’ve picked a few of the books that I’m most looking forward to reading this season.
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
May 5, 2020
I mean, just the title is adorable! This is an M/M about a bookseller who falls for a grumpy member of the romance book club he’s trying (not very successfully) to get off the ground. Jack is one of my favorite queer romance authors and I can’t wait for this one.
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras
June 9, 2020
How many “Likes” does it take to find love? That blurb and the cover sell themselves. The premise is DELICIOUS … Samiah becomes friends with two other women who, while commiserating online, figure out they were cheated on by the same guy. They all make a pact to put dating on hold, which becomes a real issue when our heroine meets the perfect guy.
A Duke, the Lady, and a Baby by Vanessa Riley
Inked With a Kiss by Jennie Davids
May 26, 2020
I have shouted on the rooftops about my love for King Maker and Rebel King, the duet that Kennedy blessed us with last fall. Queen Move is the story of Kima, one of the best friends and business partners of King Maker’s heroine, Lennix. I LOVED Kima in those books, and I know this second-chance romance will be EVERYTHING. Also, that cover is pure fire.
Burn Zone by Annabeth Albert
April 28, 2020
I’ll read anything that Priscilla writes. I love her stories and how grounded they are in Latinx culture and family. And this new series, which was pitched as Blue Bloods but make it Key West, sounds amazing. And honestly all I want to read right now is Latinx people living their best lives on a beach.
June 30, 2020
Amazon – B&N – IndieBound – Bookshop
I love a historical, and Vanessa Riley writes them full of people of color living and loving in all their glory. This one is set in Regency England and has a West Indies widow working as a nanny to her own son. … So you know we’re gonna get some drama. Can’t wait to read it!
April 13, 2020 ebook /June 30, 2020 print
I LOVED the first book in this F/F series. Jennie’s books are quiet and lovely. And super sexy. Also, there’s a social worker (my day job!), so you got me right there. I also love a tattoo artist story. This one is highly anticipated for me.
April 27, 2020 ebook /June 30, 2020 print
A new M/M series by Annabeth Albert with smoke jumpers; need I say more? Annabeth always delivers with her burly cinnamon rolls. She can also really bring it with the incredible sexy in books. She’s a very reliable read for me when I need something sweet, low angst and very hot. Basically everything I’m craving right now.