May felt like the real start of summer reading season — the kind where I start gravitating toward anything light, bingeable, and a little bit escapist. I leaned heavily into beachy settings, summer vibes, and comfort reads, while also sneaking in a few thrillers and romance favorites that totally delivered. If you missed anything this … Continue reading May Recap
Tag: Contemporary Romance
The Cherry Blossom Boathouse by Laura Bloom
Goodreads Release date: May 26, 2026 Publisher: Dell Genre: Contemporary Romance Synopsis: A bookshop, a boathouse, and a budding new romance…When Sophie Bennet gets fired from her high-profile marketing job and dumped by her boyfriend for being "too boring," she decides to take a risk–fueled by wine–and launches a crowdfunding campaign called "Help a Boring … Continue reading The Cherry Blossom Boathouse by Laura Bloom
The Worst Wedding Date by Pippa Grant
Goodreads Release date: May 19, 2026 (reissue) Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca Genre: Contemporary Romance Synopsis: He’s a tattooed shirtless bad boy. My best friend’s brother. And the jerk on the other side of my bed.I didn’t know bridesmaid was code for babysitter for the bride’s brother , but if that’s what my best friend needs of … Continue reading The Worst Wedding Date by Pippa Grant
The Shippers by Katherine Center
Goodreads Release date: May 19, 2026 Publisher: St. Martins Press Genre: Contemporary Romance Narrator: Patti Murin Synopsis: After a whole lifetime of being bad at love, JoJo Burton decides to solve her intimacy issues once and for all at her sister’s destination wedding on a cruise ship. With the help of a little pop psychology, … Continue reading The Shippers by Katherine Center
Out of Her League by Ava Rani
Goodreads Release date: May 12, 2026 Publisher: Avon Genre: Contemporary Romance Synopsis: To make her ex jealous, an ambitious young surgeon recruits a charming star soccer player to be her date to a lavish Parisian wedding—but love might have a game plan of its own, in this stand-alone romance from the USA Today bestselling author of the … Continue reading Out of Her League by Ava Rani
First and Forever by Lynn Painter
Goodreads Release date: May 12, 2026 Publisher: Berkley Romance Genre: Contemporary Romance Synopsis: A football star and a diehard fan entangled in a PR stunt—that only one side knows is fake—might be the right play in this new romantic comedy by #1 New York Times bestselling author Lynn Painter. Duffy Distefano loves three things: her dad, the … Continue reading First and Forever by Lynn Painter
April Recap
This April reading recap features a mix of contemporary fiction, thrillers, and romance, highlighting standout books by Sarah Morgan, Sally Hepworth, and Alex Finlay. With a strong focus on early summer reading vibes, this wrap-up includes bingeable thrillers, character-driven fiction, and feel-good, escapist reads perfect for beach season. Also included are April book recommendations, a spring reading list, quarter one favorites, and current reads ranging from fast-paced suspense to light, summery romance. Ideal for readers looking for April reading wrap-ups, summer book recommendations, and seasonal TBR inspiration
Safe Keeping by Kristen Proby
Goodreads Release date: April 28, 2026 Publisher: Brillance Audio Genre: Contemporary Romance Synopsis: New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kristen Proby returns to Triple Creek Ranch with a sizzling romance between a brooding ex–Secret Service agent and the president’s daughter he’s sworn to protect. Five years ago, Secret Service Agent Gideon James took a bullet to … Continue reading Safe Keeping by Kristen Proby
Quarter 1 Favorites
Quarter 1 of 2026 has already delivered some incredible reads! From soapy thrillers to swoony romances, cozy mysteries, and contemporary fiction that tugs at the heart, these are the books I couldn’t put down. Whether you love scandal, suspense, swoon, or heartfelt stories, there’s something here for every mood. All the Little Houses – May … Continue reading Quarter 1 Favorites
Stranger Things Have Happened by Kasie West
Kasie West's 'Stranger Things Have Happened' is a delightful romcom that embraces a slightly over-the-top premise. Through Sutton's journey of fake dating and couples therapy, the story delves into the complexities of love, family, and friendship. With witty banter and engaging chemistry, this light-hearted read is sure to captivate readers.