If there’s one thing I can count on, it’s a good romance book pulling me out of a reading slump. Whether it’s small-town charm, whirlwind passion, or a story that lingers long after the last page, I love getting lost in the emotions of a well-written love story. And this year, a few books completely stole my heart.

From a journey of self-discovery in the mountains to a forbidden love that’s impossible to put down, here are my favorite romance reads of 2024—starting with three that left a lasting impression.

My top Romance Books of 2024

All Rhodes Lead Here – A Small-Town Romance Favorite

This book feels like a deep breath of fresh mountain air. It’s about Aurora, who moves to a small Colorado town after a rough breakup, hoping to reconnect with her past. She ends up renting an apartment attached to a grumpy single dad’s house—and let’s just say, the tension is immaculate.

The slow-burn romance, the cozy town, the journey of healing and finding home again—everything about this book just works.

If you love grumpy x sunshine, found family, and books that feel like a warm hug, you need to read this one.

Book: All Rhodes Lead Here
Author: Mariana Zapata
Photo: Kayana-illustrations

The Idea of You – An Emotional Celebrity Romance

Okay, this one. This one. I went into it expecting a fun celebrity romance, and what I got was so much more. It follows Solène, a 39-year-old woman who falls for a 20-something international pop star (yes, major Harry Styles vibes).

But instead of being a simple fantasy, this book is raw, emotional, and painfully real. It’s about love, desire, sacrifice, and the choices women are expected to make. It wrecked me in the best way. If you want something that’ll stick with you long after you finish, this is it.

And yes... the book is way better than the movie, in my humble opinion.

Book: The idea of you
Author: Robinne Lee
Photo: Kayana-illustrations

It Happened One Summer – A Steamy Rom-Com You Can’t Miss

If Schitt’s Creek and a spicy romance novel had a baby, this would be it. Piper is an L.A. socialite who gets exiled to a tiny fishing town to prove she can survive without daddy’s money. There, she meets Brendan—a grumpy, no-nonsense fisherman who does not have time for her spoiled princess energy. But of course, sparks fly, banter ensues, and suddenly Piper is questioning everything about her life.

It’s funny, steamy, and full of heart, and I couldn’t get enough. Perfect if you want a feel-good, opposites-attract rom-com.

 

Book: It happened one summer
Author: Tessa Bailey
Photo: Kayana-illustrations

Honorable Mentions – More Romance Books to Love

There were so many great romance books this year, and I couldn’t leave these out! If you’re looking for even more amazing reads, check these out:

📖 The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons – A historical romance with incredibly hard themes, yet still so beautifully written.
📖 The Hating Game by Sally Thorne– A fun, addictive enemies-to-lovers romance that’s always a good time.
📖 Wait For It by Mariana Zapata – Slow-burn perfection! And honestly, any book by Mariana Zapata is worth reading.
📖 Meet Me Halfway by Lilian T. James – A heartfelt, emotional read that hits all the right notes.

Best Romance Books to Read in 2025 – Your Recommendations?

These books gave me everything I love about romance—compelling characters, tension that keeps you hooked, and stories that make you feel. If you’re looking for your next romance read, I can’t recommend these enough!

Now, I need your help! I’m always on the hunt for my next great romance book, so tell me—what’s your all-time favorite romance novel? Drop your recommendations in the comments, and let’s add to our never-ending TBR lists together!

Coming Soon: My Romantasy Recommendations

If you love fantasy romance (romantasy), stay tuned! I’ve been reading a lot in this genre, and there are so many incredible books I can’t wait to share!