Steamy romance? Super sweet stories? Or do you like your books extra erotic? No matter what you prefer, there is a .99 book for you.

So if you love Yoanna’s no-nonsense, sexy attitude and are curious about Gabby, given her role in Brandy’s life, then be sure to grab your copies during this sale!

And, if you like it extra spicy…check out Libido Lessons. Be warned. It’s NSFW, or for your flight back home. Trust us!

Let us know what you purchase and don’t forget to leave us reviews!

And, if you join the Facebook group, you’ll be eligible to win some paperback books from participating authors, including our own, Kayla Love.

Don’t forget to share your excitement for this event using #BRAE2025.

RELATED ROMANCE READ

We had so much fun talking with author, E.M. Wilson, about her debut novel, Situationship earlier this month! (If you haven’t watched, click here.) Since our interview mostly focused on E.M.’s journey and how that influenced her writing, we didn’t get as deep into the book and its themes.

Join us for our very first book chat where we dive into the characters and spicy romance of Situationship. We also get real about our own experiences navigating situationships, dating, and modern love.

Let us know what book you think we should discuss next in the comments!

Book Chat: Situationship by E. M. Wilson

“There’s not one singular path to success. Understanding yourself is the most important part because your writing is an art. It comes from you. When you get the most authenticity out of your own voice is when your story really stands out.” - E.M. Wilson, author of Situationship

Something new is popping up on Give Them Romance…author interviews! And it was a no brainer to kick off this new content with the incredible E.M. Wilson, author of Situationship, a contemporary romance book with lots of spice and a dynamic Black leading lady.

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The statement above is just one of many gems E.M. dropped in our feisty and fun conversation. We had the best time talking about her debut novel, the inspiration for the NSFW-should-only-be-reading-at-home-super-spicy story, and her journey as a BIPOC writer. We bet you will find her just as fun, relatable, and delightful as we did. Watch now below!

How the Situationship Book Came to Life: E.M. Wilson Shares All

0:00–3:43 — Introduction to co-hosts, Sujeiry and Krista, and author E.M. Wilson: astrological signs, where they’re from, and their favorite bevvy

3:44–6:11 —Inspiration behind Situationship book: What sparked this contemporary romance book, the characters, and all that spice

6:12–9:12 — E.M.’s writing process: How writing vibes and routine

9:13–9:12 — How E.M. Wilson landed a book deal: All the deets on how she became a traditionally published author

9:13–15:38 — E.M.’s writing process: How writing vibes and routine

15:39–17:58 — How being a woman of color impacts her work and her experience as an author: Feeling like the odd one out, and how she continues to be her authentic self as an author

17:59–20:30 — How to balance marketing with writing your bliss: being picky and learning from experience

20:31–22:29 — One thing E.M Wilson wants readers to feel about her book, Situationship: the spice factor and themes of growing up

22:30–26:18 — The inspiration behind Teagen and Heath: how she used her life to develop Situationship’s main characters

26:19–28:49 — Teagen and Heath’s signature song: all about the music behind her main characters

28:50–31:59 — Surprising character development twists: how she allowed her characters to speak to her

32:00–35:17 — About that late twist: why she kept us in suspense

35:18–39:23 — Her next project: dishing on her second book, Break Up for Two, debuting Spring/Summer 2026

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Situationship Book Playlist

And as promised, here is a link to the Situationship playlist!

You can keep up with E.M. on the interwebs on Instagram, TikTok, and her website.

Don’t forget to let us know what you loved from this conversation in the comments! (And what you think about this new type of content.) We want to continue to bring you more fun romance reader things!

xo,

Krista & Sujeiry

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‘Tis the season…for reading Black Holiday Romances! Our Black Holiday Romance Roundup was one of our most popular posts last year, so we are spinning the block with it again. This time with more juicy reads centering Black characters at Christmas. So whether you like your stories sweet, spicy, or supernatural, here’s my collection of thirteen Black holiday romance reads that will take you from your post-Turkey day downtime through the New Year! And, as a bonus, I’m including some personal touches that will make these books amazing stocking stuffers or gifts for your book loving friends. Enjoy!

Black Holiday Romance Books (plus gift pairing ideas) for the Season! 

Last Christmas Crush by Mia Heintzelman 

Third in the Fortermani series, Last Christmas Crush is the heartwarming holiday tale of a hopeless romantic and her ex’s best friend crossing paths when they return home for the holidays. Will they or won't they in this flirty forbidden love romance? 

Pair with a bottle of bubbly and Champagne flutes for an easy and fun gift! 

Holiday on Park by Racquel Henry 

This sweet novella brings Juliet back to Orlando where she comes face to face with Ivan, the man she left town to forget. Why did she leave? Will they get back together? If you love a Hallmark movie, you’ll love Holiday on Park! 

Given Juliet goes between the Sunshine State and sunny L.A., why not gift your bestie a pair of cute sunnies with the book. 

This Christmas by Monique Fisher 

We love a second chance romance! This Christmas reunites two former high school friends who have been estranged for almost a decade. What will happen when they are forced to work together to prepare some desserts for a holiday party? You’ll have to read to see but a HEA is definitely on the menu! 

Make a cheery basket with this apron and spatula set for the perfect present! 

READ: 6 Ways to Stay Sane During the Holidays While Single

To Parris with Love by Danielle Brooks 

A follow up to Flight to Parris, To Parris with Love, is a magical holiday romance that has R&B singer Tinsley McCoy traveling to the City of Lights alone during the holidays. What magic will happen when her long-time bodyguard and lover, Parris, surprises her there? Why not check out Flight to Parris so you can be ready for this release on December 17!  

Make this book even more giftable with a cute Eiffel Tower ornament or monogrammed travel bags! 

Being Merry by Meka James 

If you love a Grump/Sunshine trope, Being Merry is the book for you! When Grinchy Lennox Sutton is placed in close quarters with Christmas Cheery Noelle Cameron, will sparks fly or will their differences keep them apart? Book 3 of the Desert Rose Hook Ups series has all the answers! 

Cozy up with this book and this blanket for a low key night in! 

From Meltdown to Mistletoe by Jessica Terry 

In another tale of crossing paths again, From Meltdown to Mistletoe is the story of two folks down on their luck and lacking in holiday spirit brought together by some forgotten mistletoe. Will their kisses catapult them onto a new journey? Read and see. 

Make sure your BFF is also mistletoe ready by pairing this book with this amazing lip treatment for soft, kissable lips. 

Her Christmas Wish by Eliza Rose

After a heartbreak, Shaniece is looking for love, or at least a date to her cousin’s holiday party! Will a run in at the toy store lead to Her Christmas Wish or lasting love? Check it out after December 15 to find out! 

Create a cute Christmas-themed gift with these fun socks! 

Want more romance - for .99?

Whether you love small town, steamy, or sweet and clean, find a fantastic read for only .99 through this ah-mazing Black Friday sale! (Don’t forget to look out for our featured books including Candi, Brandy, and Libido Lessons!

Fiery Holidays by Rianne Burnett

Heat things up with Fiery Holidays, where Royale, a journalist challenged with interviewing a reclusive billionaire, learns that he is more than meets the eye. Will she just have some holiday fun or will she open her heart to the love of the dragon shifter? 

Pair this steamy read with something cool and creative like this skin care fridge for your friend’s favorite face masks - and more! 

Holiday Chance by Krystal A. Smith

While home for the holidays, Jamie Miller is helping out at the family bakery, which leads her to cross paths with her former high school bully. In Holiday Chance, what will unfold between the two women - sugar or spice or something else nice? Or will the past be too much to overcome?

Keep with the bakery theme by pairing this book with some cute cookie cutters for an adorable gift! 

Finding Kristmas by Bella Jay 

The first in the Jacobs Brothers series, Finding Kristmas, is the story of Kristmas and Jonathan, who both find themselves back in their hometown during the holidays. When the high school sweethearts cross paths again, will they pick up where they left off or return to their separate lives?

Hunker down with this captivating story in some comfy and festive pjs! 

Faking it for the Holidays by S. Cassadera

If you like a slow-burning, heartwarming, holiday read, check out Faking it for the Holidays! Follow Tatianna’s journey as she navigates unexpected challenges on her quest for a promotion. Does it also help her discover the true meaning of Christmas? Does it also lead her to love? 

Keep your hot cocoa slow burning while reading! Grab this practical mug warmer for you or your secret Santa. 

Christmas at Starbucks by Brittany Green 

After an initial spark at freshman orientation, Kami and Jordan cross paths again on Christmas Day. Read along as their sweet love story unfolds and their connection rekindles. If you love a Hallmark-esque story, Christmas at Starbucks is for you! 

While you’re enjoying, why not burn this sleek coffee-scented candle! 

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17 Romance Novels by Latinx Authors

Grab a glass of Merlot (or Pinot, if that's your poison) and stay in with a Latinx romance novel…

Nowadays, I’d rather hit the pages of an exciting romance novel than drop it like it’s hot at ‘da club. The only club I want VIP tickets to is Club Cama. Thanks to my buzz from the wine and Happily Ever Afters, I drift off to sleep loving love.

Do you know what else I love? Supporting indie, Latinx romance authors like myself. The publishing world isn’t for the faint of heart. I’d rather faint from exhaustion after writing an exhilarating sex scene than hustle to land a publishing deal. Especially since only 4.6% of books that are traditionally published are by Latinx authors, according to the 2023 Diversity Baseline Survey (DBS) by Lee & Low Books.

So, join me in reading romance by us and from us. Do more than just liking their posts or following them on Instagram (although that’s always nice). If you like what you read in their blurbs, buy their books! And now…here are 17 Romance Novels by Latinx Authors. 

In an Instant by Lorena Faundez Liberti | Genre: Contemporary Romance

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Sofia had always doubted the idea of finding a soulmate. Until she met Matteo. Convinced he was the one, she jumped into the relationship, but a tragic accident changed it all. Losing Matteo caused Sofia’s world to crumble. The only way to heal, she decided, was to leave it all behind.

Finding refuge in a far away place, she begins a new chapter. As time passes, she realizes the only way to get true closure is to go back to where it all happened. Determined, she returns home where she finds herself falling for someone unexpected. Having decided a long time ago that love was no longer in the cards for her, Sofia must decide whether to give herself another chance or let the past stop her from ever finding love again.

Veil of Blood Roses & Cracked Memories by Yailin Melecio | Genre: Fantasy Romance

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A prophecy speaking of Eftonime’s end—and a looming fear of the truth—throws Vesta’s world off its axis. With her awakening came something not seen for two hundred years in a world she doesn't recognize. Something that should’ve died alongside the Dark Joker. Will the prophecy come to fruition, or will Vesta be able to stop the gods’ resurrection and the sinking of Eftonime?

The Plan by Janiah Benitez | Genre: Contemporary Romance

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She had one rule: no boyfriends til she was 25. Vidia’s plan was simple, but after meeting the captain of the baseball team, Sire Griffin, she realizes it’s going to be harder than she thought to keep her no-boyfriend rule in place. When she finally gives in, all comes tumbling down. Hearts are broken. Backs are stabbed. The trust is gone.

Fast forward to the present, four years later, Sire gets injured before the season and his physical therapist is the woman he hates. They’re both holding grudges from the past. The mere presence of the other boils their blood. When they find out what really happened four years ago, will they be able to rekindle the old flame or will it all come crashing down again?

The Trail Often Crossed by Ambar Cordova | Genre: Contemporary Romance

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Roe has always been a trailblazer. From a very young age, she learned that life has its twists and turns, and the only way of making it out on the other side is on your own. When she starts motocross racing, she thinks her biggest challenge will be making it to nationals, until she meets her newest rival.

Santiago grew up as the caregiver, the glue to his family, especially after the loss that changed his life. He is everyone’s rock but has always felt like something is missing. When Roe unexpectedly barges into his life, she blurs all his carefully constructed lines.

Roe and Santiago might be rivals, but the undeniable spark between them is hard to ignore. Can they make it to the finish line with their hearts in one piece?

(UN)Bounded by Liss Montoya | Genre: Contemporary Romance, Billionaire, Brother’s Best Friend, Age Gap

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I can’t count the number of chips my parents left on my shoulder, but I’m finally free and thriving. Thanks to a trust fund and my brother’s best friend, Gabo Godoy, I have the chance to curate my own gallery while spending the summer in Italy. That’s all this summer was supposed to be: a fun fling in the sun, searching for art and loving every minute of it. I wasn’t expecting Gabo to be—to put it bluntly—a very hot, panty-melting, intriguing man, one who set his sights on me. He listens. He cares. He wants me for me, but he deserves someone willing to put their past behind them and fall head over heels in love with him.

That isn’t me. Or it wasn’t me. The lines begin to blur, and emotions I never expected to take root in my heart catch fire. When we finally find our footing and accept what could be, a man hellbent on revenge finds me. Will Gabo find me before it’s too late? Or will this be the end of our summer fling in the heart of Italy?

Yours, Finally by Leonor Soliz | Genre: Contemporary/RomCom

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My brother’s best friend kissed me two years ago and I can’t let it go. Even though we risk an HR scandal and hurting the family, I think he’s on the brink of giving in. Jake is a giant with the strength to handle my curves and the sweetness to write love songs. He likes it when I push him, wondering if he’ll pin me against the wall and break— again.

For years we resisted. He’s too loyal to my brother and my parents, who treat him like a son. To make matters worse, I’m his boss.

Soon we can’t keep our hands off each other. Being in his arms is everything I dreamed of. With my heart at stake, it’s finally time to bet on us and face the world… or the wreckage is all we’ll leave behind.

Hers to Rule by Coral Alejandra Moore | Genre: Monster Romance

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Nothing could keep them apart forever, not even the Demon King of Las Vegas. When Mariana’s gargoyle crush Cisco kills her father, he frees her from the cycle of abuse that held her captive. Cisco urges her to flee the city before anyone can stop her. But Mari knows two things for certain: if she leaves Cisco won’t survive, and she can’t live with that.

She decides to rule the criminal empire by Cisco’s side and heal the harm her father caused. His cruel legacy runs deep—right through the heart of Rio, a puma shifter who was the first to see the gentle soul beneath Cisco’s rocky exterior. The steamy moments of solace the three share don’t last long, because the city is crawling with her father’s allies, out seeking fortune and revenge. Mari must race to unlock the secrets of her sensual powers before everything they’ve strived for is ripped away.

Merry Little Mishap by Vivian Mae* | Genre: Spicy RomCom

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Nick Stafford isn't just my older, sexy neighbor, he's the charming handyman who has seen my panties stuck to my dress on more than one occasion.

Yup. Super embarrassing.

Nick is totally out of my league, so I wouldn't do anything to ruin our friendship, like admit my feelings for him, which works out because I'm great at keeping secrets (like how my very catholic family in Puerto Rico has no idea I write steamy articles for work).

Yeah… let's not tell them about that, especially Nick.

But now we have a problem…

We're both hopelessly stuck in an elevator after I drunkenly declare the one thing I swore I'd never admit to him.

Merry freaking Christmas…

*Recommended for readers who are 18 and over.

Heights of Love: Candi by Sujeiry Gonzalez* | Genre: Spicy Romance

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Candi is as messy as messy can get. The hopeful romantic is crushing on her co-worker, Jay, all while trying to keep her best friend's twin brother, Joel, at bay.

She sets her sights on Jay at a company party but comes face-to-face with an unknown adversary. Defeated, she calls on her best friend, Yo, to slap her back to reality. A Sunday of BBMs (bagels, bacon, and mimosas) with her bestie is just what she needs. There is just one hitch: Yo brings along her hot twin brother, Joel.

Teasing Candi has been Joel's favorite pastime since middle school. A marketing guru and hit with the ladies, he can’t seem to win Candi over. She tries to resist their chemistry to preserve her friendship with Yo, but it's getting harder and harder. Will Candi succumb to her urges and fall in love with Joel, or will she reignite her spark with Jay? Candi refuses to lose her best friend, but she may be unable to control herself around her bestie's twin brother. 

*Recommended for readers who are 18 and over.

Caution in Love by K. Rodriguez | Genre: Contemporary Romance

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When Izzy Peña’s world crumbles after her long-time boyfriend's cheating scandal, she’s left with no choice but to seek solace in her family home. It isn’t long before she finds herself evading her overbearing, dysfunctional family and being dragged to the gym to shake off her breakup blues.

Enter Chase- part-time trainer, full-time heartthrob. With his winning smile and charm to spare, he’s more than willing to help Izzy sweat out her frustrations. What starts as innocent workouts soon ignites into a sizzling romance.

With secrets lurking in Chase’s past and Izzy’s fears holding her back, will they leap into love or let their chance at happiness slip away?

Tied to Darkness by I. Vélez | Genre: Paranormal Romance

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Mina has one goal: the worldwide acceptance that angels and demons truly exist. But fate has something new for her, something bigger... which revolves around the forced marriage to a hot and dangerous man.

Vergil isn't what he appears, neither a billionaire businessman nor human, he lives to serve Lilith, the queen of Hell. However, an arranged marriage will change his life completely and leave him in charge of the most sought-after creature in the entire universe: the Chosen One.

Book of You & I by GSeverino | Genre: Contemporary Fiction

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"Book of You & I" is a new adult, contemporary fiction set in Ocean City, Maryland. It's a whirlwind love story about two souls, Olivia and Brandon, coinciding with each other, but is it fate? Follow their journey and find out what happens when two souls collide.

Raiders of the Lost Heart by Jo Segura | Genre: Contemporary/RomCom

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Rival archaeologists must team up on a secret Aztec expedition, or it could leave their careers—and hearts—in ruins.

White Wedding by Carla Luna | Genre: RomCom

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When Victoria Blackwood is tasked with planning her ex’s Christmas wedding, she doesn’t think her life could get any worse. Until she discovers the caterer, Rafael Sanchez, is the lover she ghosted five years ago after a steamy fling in Baja. To pull off the perfect wedding, they’ll need to keep things professional. But it won’t be easy when the fire between them burns hotter than Christmas in July. 

Chrysalis of Change by JL Sánchez | Genre: Romantic Fantasy

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Lena was a normal college student until the Halloween party. Nothing could’ve prepared her for what followed…her transformation into something different, a new world with her at the center of it and creatures of nightmares trying to kill her. 

Commander Carlos Cortez was undercover on assignment at the local university. With little hope, he agreed to study for a year searching for a way to save his people from extinction. What he found was more than he ever thought possible. 

Lena isn’t sure if she should trust anyone, but when powers manifest it leaves her with little choice. With Carlos’s help, will she learn to embrace her newfound abilities and heritage? Will it be in time to save her people and mankind? With billions of lives on the line, there isn’t a moment to lose. 

Reclaiming You by Tori Alvarez | Genre: Contemporary Romance

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Mateo and Natalia found each other at sixteen. Young and naive, they planned a future together with a love they thought would last a lifetime. A future that would never happen because one fateful night tore them apart.

Now a successful business owner, Mateo is moving through life trying to find the one who can spark his interest. Challenge him. But all women have come up lacking.

Natalia has numbed herself; her smile and happy, successful facade fooling those around her. She floats through life, never placing her heart in danger of breaking again.

Can a chance meeting eight years later rekindle the love they left behind?

Canvas of Our Souls by Fortuna Lux | Genre: Contemporary Romance

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In the steamy streets of Miami, two damaged hearts collide, igniting a firestorm of passion and pain. Can Kade and Leilani heal each other's wounds, or will their pasts tear them apart forever?

Here’s to celebrating these indie Latinx-romanced authors!

Devour them like I do a glass of Frose when at the vineyard. Leave a book review with as much love as they pour into their books. 

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Hey Romance Readers! Just because Valentine’s Day is over doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy passion in the pages of juicy reads written by BIPOC romance authors. Whether you like something super sweet or with a little more heat, treat yourself to one of these delectable reads! Take all your notes in this cute journal, too!

17 Books by BIPOC Romance Authors

What I love about this round up of books is not just that the authors are diverse, but the characters and styles are too! We’ve got representation from Black, Latinx, and Asian authors, including stories about Caribbean, Indian, and Hmong cultures. We’ve got a range of ages, identities, experiences, and locations. We’ve got traditional contemporary romance and even some romantasy! Grab a few and get to reading!

The Love Bet by G.L.Tomas 

The Love Bet (paid link) is giving all the Valentine’s Day vibes! Magazine journalist, and main character, Luz takes on the challenge of seeing if a few intense nights of passion will lead to love. She’s betting against it, but when an old flame is involved, will that change the odds? Expect lots of heat in this one!  

Sucker by Natalie Ashee 

There are lots of workplace romances, but Sucker (paid link) is the first I’ve seen in a military setting! This compelling colleagues-to-lovers read also has an age gap trope and includes some spicy office shenanigans! Oooh-ra! Sounds like a potential land mine. What I also love is the ADHD representation in the book. Check it out, soldier!

She’s a Keeper by Tember Sapphire

Want to score a great read? Kick it with She’s a Keeper (paid link), a friends-to-lovers sports romance that includes elements of Caribbean culture and language. This dual point of view, second chance romance is all feels and no fouls. 

Some Things Never Change by Cee Yang 

I love a teen drama, so this story of a teenage crush turning into an adult love interest is right up my adolescent-era loving alley! Some Things Never Change (paid link) is the sweet story of Julie and Andy, childhood besties who end up in very close proximity as roommates. The journey to happily ever after even includes lots of flirty banter and even Valentine’s Day as a part of the plot! I also love that the story weaves in elements of Hmong culture and customs. Note: There are some themes around grief and death that may not be for all readers. 

Candi by Sujeiry Gonzalez

Candi (paid link) sounds sweet, but is actually a spicy and comical romance novelette, set in New York City, featuring Dominican characters and a messy love triangle. Give Them Romance writer, Sujeiry, will have you laughing - and laugh crying - as you follow Candi’s messy adventures!

Me Too by Eli B

Me Too (paid link) is a unique romance read with subtle hints of a famous Greek myth, Hades and Persephone. Add jealous exes, BDSM, secret societies, and suspense, and you have a captivating and deeply emotional read - and ride! Note: There are some deeper and darker themes around trauma that may not be for all readers.

Waking Up in Vegas by Brittany Arreguin

If you love a messy premise, get into Waking Up in Vegas (paid link)! What are the odds that you show up to a work meeting and realize the new director is a man you recently kissed at a club?! Things get even more interesting when he’s nearly kidnapped and you are invited to investigate the situation. What will happen when the tension builds in Sin City? I bet something steamy! 

MUST READ: 7 Ways to Hit on a Guy

Take a Hike by Mimi Grace

The third in the Lovestruck Series, I was initially compelled by the backdrop of outdoor recreation in Take a Hike (paid link) - because Black folks love the outdoors, too, y’all! Will the path be bumpy on the road to love for the free spirited, Raven, and the focused on business, Silas, or will they blaze a new trail together? 

Brandy by Kayla Love

Brandy (paid link) is a fun and flirty short summer romance by Give the Romance writer, Kayla Love. You’ll root for Brandy as she navigates the ramifications of catching real feelings for her fake boo. When summer fades to fall, will she find the real love she’s been searching for, or endure autumn alone?

Almost Maybes by Anna P. 

They weren’t looking for love, but 36-year-old Oleander and 26-year-old Jackson, opened up to find something special with each other. That is until a painful incident brings their relationship crashing down. Will it be too much to overcome? Find out in Almost Maybes (paid link) by Anna P., a love story, which also weaves in powerful themes of racism, homophobia, and more. Note: There are some deeper and darker themes around trauma that may not be for all readers.

Fake it Till You Bake It by Jamie Wesley

Fake it Till You Bake It (paid link) has two of my favorite things in a romance read - a cute bakery backdrop and a fake relationship trope! What adventures will be in the mix when a reality TV star and former football player turned cupcake baker pretend to be a couple? You knead to read to find out! (See what I did there!) 

Luv Shuv In New York by N.M. Patel 

Having spent many years in New York City, I love a story set there! Especially one including diverse characters reflecting the rich cultures represented there. In Luv Shuv (paid link), Akira, an Indian immigrant who has promised her family she’ll only get involved with a desi guy, meets her white, American classmate who catches her eye. She doesn’t want to fall for him, but when he really sees her, it is hard to resist. Will their forbidden love flourish or will family drama keep them from staying together? 

ALSO READ: 7 Must-Read Black Holiday Romance Books

Between the Vines by Grace Elena

Get entangled Between the Vines (paid link) in this small-town romance where two unlikely singles cross paths. When happy and hardworking city girl Camilla moves to small town Tennessee to tend to a vineyard, she meets Bennett, a brooding guy who is happy living on his farm without the distractions or disruptions of neighbors. How will these two find their way to each other? Get ready for a slow burn!

Love Bites by Katrina N. Lewis 

If you love vampire vibes paired with passion and politics, Love Bites (paid link) might be your jam! In this steamy, supernatural world, the headstrong, half-vampire, Dawn, must join forces with the antagonizing, but attractive, Jett, to save the city. Nibble on this juicy opposites attract tale in this imaginative romantasy. 

A Saga of Shields and Shadows (The Aegis Saga) by A.J. Shirley

If you love to follow characters in fictional fantasy worlds, get lost in A Saga of Shields and Shadows (paid link). In the kingdom of Kōsaten, main character, Marcella, meets Aithan of Auburndale, an Aegis, a group who is known for being “emotionless brutes.” As she spends more time with him, something switches within her, and it is not just stories in her mind. How will the love story unfold as Marcella faces an uncertain and perilous world? Read to find out.  

At Your Service by Ricci Moore

Who doesn’t love the tension of an opposites attract trope? At Your Service (paid link) is the story of a conservative, repressed woman who finds herself intrigued by a cold, passionate, wealthy man after her relationship is shattered by a cheating ex. Now that her beliefs have been turned upside down, will she find her dalliance leads to love or more loss? 

Falling for the Mark by Dominique Davis 

The backstory of Falling for the Mark (paid link) is unique for a romance read. Maya, the daughter of a mother-daughter con artist duo, meets her match when she catches feelings for Kennedy, the daughter of the pair’s latest target. How can she be part of the scheme when her role in the plot would be compromised by her feelings for Kennedy? Find out when you read this tale of forbidden love. 

I hope you enjoy these steamy romance reads. Let me know in the comments which you are placing in your cart! And while you’re there, why not pick up this reading log! (paid link)

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Some Too Hot to Handle Romance Books

From falling in love with a billionaire to a night with an ex-con, these too-hot-to-handle romance novels will keep you on your toes! Check out these books by a variety of authors, including Candi, from Give Them Romance co-founder and BIPOC author, Sujeiry Gonzalez.

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Sis. We are almost at the end of the year! And if you’re like me, you can’t wait to put up the out-of-office message, slam that laptop shut, and not have a thing to do until the New Year — but catch up on your reading!

I read a range of books, but when there’s a chill in the air, the halls are decked, and it is peak Hallmark holiday movie season, I want to curl up with some hot cocoa (preferably spiked) and dive into the carefree world of holiday romance reads, especially ones centering Black characters at Christmas.

Black Holiday Romance Books (and bevvy pairings!) for the Season!

Here’s my collection of seven Black holiday romance reads for the season! Not only will these help you escape from any family shenanigans, but they also are great gifts for your book-loving girlfriends or make a memorable gift for any gift exchanges! Why not throw in this cute journal for all of your reads, too!

Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory

Royal Holiday (paid link) is the fourth in its series. What I especially love about this story is that the main character is of a certain age, okay! Vivian Forest finds herself on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to England. While her daughter works for a member of the royal family, Vivian is thrilled for the opportunity to explore and experience the magic of the season in Britain. What she doesn’t plan on is finding herself attracted to a senior member of the royal family’s staff! Will a short, steamy fling turn into more? You’ll have to read to find out.

Pair with a mug of hot, steamy earl grey tea! And, if you are feeling extra spicy, turn up the heat and make it a hot toddy. Cheerio! 

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Olive & Pear’s Christmas Detour by Mia Heintzelman and Eve Kasey

We are big fans of Mia Heintzelman’s work over here and are excited to add Olive & Pear (paid link) to our TBR list! Mia partnered with Eve Kasey to create this two-for-one holiday love story about two best friends, Olive and Pear. Adventure is in store for one friend when a missed flight leads to a run-in with a childhood crush and for the other when she’s stuck on a tropical island with the man who just fired her! Will there be a second chance at love? Will an enemy turn into a lover? Juicy! (Oh and don’t forget to also pick up Mia’s newest Christmas read, Clued in Christmas! (paid link))

MUST READ: I Left a Thanksgiving Fiesta for a Booty Call

Curl up with a Cabernet for the Seattle scenes or enjoy a Coconut Kiss for the magic happening in the Maldives.  

White Out by Dhonielle Clayton, Tiffany D. Jackson, Nic Stone, Angie Thomas, Ashley Woodfolk, and Nicola Yoon

I haven’t been able to resist seeing White Out (paid link) all over Instagram and I am intrigued! First of all, I love young love. Give me a teen drama and I’m hooked! So naturally, I can’t wait to dive into this delightful read brought to us by a set of incredible writers. Set in Atlanta during a Christmas storm, twelve teens have intertwined stories, including helping a friend pull off an epic apology. About what? I’m curious. But I anticipate plenty of sweet, innocent, magical moments of first love.

Grab your favorite hot cocoa. The sweeter the better! 

Merry Kiss Me: A Kiawah Island Christmas Romance by Louise Lennox 

Merry Kiss Me: A Kiawah Island Christmas Romance (paid link) caught my eye because of the setting. Having lived a few years in North Carolina, Kiawah Island, South Carolina is a popular destination. While I typically end up reading stories about city life, there is something appealing about a small-town romance. In this book, we have a family restaurant for sale and ex-lovers crossing paths.

I’d pair this with an old fashioned, which balances the heat, the sweet, and the bitter. 

Brown Sugar This Christmas (Sag Harbor Black Romances) by Lula White 

The Hamptons! If you are from the Northeast, you know the Hamptons are known for being exclusive, upper-echelon communities where the wealthy go to escape. And Sag Harbor is the haven for the Black Community. So imagine that as the backdrop for Brown Sugar This Christmas (paid link), an enemies-to-lovers holiday romance complete with money and mystique.

ALSO READ: 6 Ways to Stay Sane During the Holidays While Single

Pick your poison. Pour yourself a Manhattan or a martini and get to reading! 

Wrapped Up in You by Talia Hibbert

If you love a friends-to-lovers read, Wrapped Up in You might be the one for you. A blizzard backdrop is the perfect setting for a blockbuster actor to make a move on his lifelong best friend. Word on the street is this is big on the feelings and deep on the emotions, so have your tissues ready.

Why not also have a frosty cranberry cocktail (like this white Christmas margarita) to keep you company while you dab your eyes!

The Holly Dates by Brittainy Cherry 

Who doesn’t love a hopeless romantic? In The Holly Dates (paid link), even after some struggles, Holly still has hope for love. She ends up becoming a regular at a restaurant where she brings her various first dates. This bothers the owner, who then channels that annoyance into helping Holly find someone new. Well, imagine what happens when his helping leads to him catching feelings.

Enjoy with your favorite sparkling wine - this is one of my personal faves!

Let me know which of these you decide to read and what you love most. Next year I’ll add my own to the list!

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