There’s a certain magic captured in the pages of a great summer romance. It’s the feeling of warm sand, the excitement of a first crush, and the bittersweet knowledge that, like the season itself, the story must eventually end. This curated list is your guide to experiencing that magic, offering a passport to sun-drenched settings, whirlwind courtships, and unforgettable characters. We've gathered some of the absolute best summer romance books that perfectly bottle the essence of the season, from charming beach towns to bustling city adventures.
Whether you're lounging by the pool, road-tripping with family, or enjoying a quiet afternoon in the shade, the right book is the perfect companion. This guide is designed to help you find your next favorite read quickly and easily. We'll explore standout titles that define the genre, highlighting what makes each one a must-read. You'll discover stories filled with witty banter, heartfelt connections, and the kind of swoon-worthy moments that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. Prepare to dive into a collection of romances that are as bright, warm, and hopeful as a perfect summer day. Let’s find the book that will define your season.
1. Beach Read by Emily Henry
Beach Read by Emily Henry has become a modern classic and a staple of summer reading lists for a reason. This novel introduces readers to January Andrews, a bestselling romance author experiencing a severe case of writer's block, and Augustus "Gus" Everett, her former college rival who writes acclaimed literary fiction. Thrown together as neighbors in a small Michigan beach town for the summer, they strike a deal to overcome their creative and personal ruts.
The premise is a delightful challenge: January will attempt to write a serious literary novel, while Gus must try his hand at a story with a happy ending. To do this, they trade research trips. He takes her to interview people who have survived a death cult, and she takes him on a series of rom-com-worthy dates. What unfolds is a witty, sharp, and deeply emotional story that explores grief, hope, and the preconceptions we hold about others and ourselves.
Why It's a Top Summer Romance
What makes Beach Read one of the best summer romance books is its perfect blend of smart, banter-filled dialogue and genuine emotional depth. It’s more than just a lighthearted beach read; it tackles serious themes with nuance and care, making the central romance feel earned and profoundly moving.
- Perfect for Writers and Readers: If you love books about books, the meta-narrative of two authors navigating their craft will be especially satisfying.
- Witty and Emotional: The dialogue sparkles with wit, but the story also provides a thoughtful exploration of family trauma and personal healing.
- Atmospheric Setting: The lakeside town in summer provides a vivid and immersive backdrop that enhances the story's romantic and contemplative moods.
The novel’s immense popularity, driven by the Goodreads romance community and BookTok creators, cemented its status as an instant bestseller. It’s an ideal entry point into Emily Henry's beloved catalog of contemporary romances. For a different but equally compelling summer setting, explore these unforgettable books about summer camp.
2. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han is the quintessential YA summer story that captures the magical, transformative feeling of adolescence. The novel introduces readers to Isabel "Belly" Conklin, who has spent every summer of her life at a beach house in Cousins Beach with her mother, her mother's best friend, and her two sons, Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher. But the summer she turns sixteen, everything changes.
No longer seen as just a little kid, Belly finds herself navigating the confusing, exciting, and often heartbreaking territory of first love and first heartbreak. Caught between the moody, enigmatic Conrad, her lifelong crush, and the sweet, dependable Jeremiah, Belly is at the center of a classic love triangle. The story is a heartfelt exploration of growing up, friendship, family bonds, and the bittersweet nostalgia of summers past.
Why It's a Top Summer Romance
This book has earned its spot as one of the best summer romance books by perfectly bottling the essence of a youthful summer. It's a story brimming with yearning, sun-drenched days, and the powerful emotions that define our teenage years. Its recent adaptation into a hugely successful Amazon Prime Video series has introduced it to a new generation, solidifying its place in pop culture.
- Ultimate Summer Nostalgia: The Cousins Beach setting feels like a character itself, evoking a powerful sense of place and the magic of summer vacation.
- Classic Love Triangle: The compelling dynamic between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah creates an engaging and emotional storyline that keeps readers invested.
- Coming-of-Age Story: Beyond the romance, it’s a touching narrative about self-discovery, family traditions, and the painful beauty of growing up.
The novel’s massive popularity, amplified by TikTok and its dedicated fan communities, has made it a must-read for anyone seeking a perfect summer escape. If you're a fan of YA stories with heart, explore more of the best young adult romance books to find your next favorite. For the complete emotional journey, reading the entire trilogy is highly recommended.
3. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne is a cornerstone of the modern enemies-to-lovers trope and a powerhouse in the contemporary romance genre. The story introduces Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman, executive assistants to the co-CEOs of a newly merged publishing company. Forced to share an office, they engage in a daily series of petty, passive-aggressive games, from staring contests to HR complaints. Their rivalry escalates when a major promotion becomes available, pitting them directly against each other.
As they compete for the new role, the line between their intense hatred and undeniable attraction begins to blur. What starts as a high-stakes professional battle evolves into a sizzling and surprisingly tender romance. The novel is celebrated for its sharp dialogue, hilarious internal monologues from Lucy, and the slow-burn tension that builds between the two protagonists. It perfectly captures the exhilarating thrill of realizing your nemesis might just be your soulmate.
Why It's a Top Summer Romance
This novel earns its spot among the best summer romance books because it delivers an addictive and perfectly paced story that is both funny and heart-flutteringly romantic. Its workplace setting makes it a fantastic escape, whether you're on vacation or just on your lunch break. The book’s immense popularity, boosted by rave reviews from romance bloggers and a 2021 film adaptation, has made it a gateway novel for countless readers discovering the genre.
- Ultimate Enemies-to-Lovers: If you adore the tension of a good workplace rivalry, this book is the gold standard for the trope.
- Witty and Charming: The banter is top-tier, providing laugh-out-loud moments that perfectly complement the romantic development.
- A Perfect Introduction: For those new to contemporary romance, The Hating Game serves as an ideal entry point with its accessible plot and compelling characters.
4. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry is a heartfelt and hilarious take on the classic friends-to-lovers trope, perfectly structured for summer escapism. The story follows Poppy, a wild and adventurous travel writer, and Alex, her quiet, homebody best friend. For a decade, they have taken one glorious week-long summer vacation together, until two years ago when something happened that ruined everything. Now, Poppy convinces Alex to take one last trip to fix what they broke.
The narrative cleverly alternates between their disastrous present-day trip to Palm Springs and the vibrant, joyful vacations of the past. This dual timeline builds incredible tension and emotional depth, allowing readers to piece together their history and fall in love with their friendship right alongside the characters. As they try to navigate their awkward reunion, unspoken feelings and years of history come bubbling to the surface.
Why It's a Top Summer Romance
This book cemented its place as one of the best summer romance books thanks to its irresistible blend of wanderlust, witty banter, and slow-burn romance. As a New York Times bestseller and a Reese's Book Club pick, it captures the magic of travel and the intimacy of long-term friendship with pitch-perfect charm.
- Perfect for Travel Lovers: The story whisks you away to a new destination in every chapter, from Vancouver to New Orleans, making it the ideal vacation read.
- A Masterclass in Pining: The slow-burn romance and decade of unspoken feelings create a deeply satisfying and emotional payoff for fans of the friends-to-lovers trope.
- Witty and Heartfelt: Emily Henry’s signature humor shines through, but it's balanced with a touching exploration of what it means to find your home in a person.
The novel’s immense success, amplified by Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club and BookTok enthusiasts, helped establish Emily Henry as a dominant force in contemporary romance. It’s a story about finding your way back to your favorite person, making it an unforgettable summer experience.
5. The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang
Helen Hoang’s debut novel, The Kiss Quotient, offers a fresh, heartfelt, and steamy contemporary romance that has rightfully earned its place as a modern favorite. The story centers on Stella Lane, a successful econometrician with Asperger's who decides she needs practice in the romance department. To get it, she hires a professional escort, Michael Phan, to teach her everything she needs to know about intimacy and relationships.
Their business arrangement starts with a detailed lesson plan, but as Stella and Michael spend more time together, their professional connection blossoms into something deeply personal and real. The novel masterfully navigates their developing feelings as both characters are forced to confront their insecurities, past traumas, and what it truly means to be vulnerable with another person. It’s a story that is as tender and emotional as it is passionate.
Why It's a Top Summer Romance
The Kiss Quotient is one of the best summer romance books because it provides a powerful and authentic story about love, acceptance, and intimacy from a neurodivergent perspective. The novel sparked important conversations about representation in the romance genre and was widely praised by autism advocates and Bookstagram influencers for its sensitive and nuanced portrayal.
- Groundbreaking Representation: The book is celebrated for featuring a neurodivergent heroine in a way that is central to her identity and the romance, inspiring other authors to follow suit.
- Steamy and Sweet: It expertly balances high-heat scenes with incredibly tender and emotionally resonant moments, making the relationship feel genuine.
- A Conversation Starter: This novel is a fantastic pick for book clubs or readers interested in discussing how media represents diversity and personal experiences.
For those who appreciate stories that blend passion with profound emotional journeys, Hoang delivers a must-read. If you're looking for more great titles that explore the complexities of human connection, you can find other books about love and relationships to add to your list.
6. It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey offers a delightful and spicy take on the "opposites attract" trope, making it a runaway hit and a must-read for contemporary romance fans. The story follows Piper Bellinger, a wealthy, fashionable L.A. influencer who is publicly cut off by her stepfather after one party too many. She and her sister are sent to Westport, Washington, the small fishing town their late father hailed from, to run his old dive bar for the summer.
There, the quintessential city girl immediately clashes with Brendan Taggart, a gruff, bearded sea captain who thinks she won’t last a week. As Piper tries to prove him and the entire town wrong, their initial friction sparks into an undeniable and steamy connection. This fish-out-of-water story is a heartwarming and hilarious journey of self-discovery, family, and finding love where you least expect it.
Why It's a Top Summer Romance
What solidifies It Happened One Summer as one of the best summer romance books is its irresistible blend of humor, steam, and heartfelt emotion, all set against a charming small-town backdrop. The grumpy-sunshine dynamic between Brendan and Piper is executed perfectly, creating chemistry that is both electric and believable.
- Perfect for Small-Town Romance Fans: The cozy, close-knit fishing community of Westport becomes a character in itself, providing a rich and atmospheric setting for the romance to bloom.
- A TikTok Sensation: Propelled to viral fame by BookTok, this novel is celebrated for its swoon-worthy hero and satisfying character development, making it a proven crowd-pleaser.
- Great for Newcomers: If you're looking for an entry point into contemporary romance that delivers on all the beloved tropes with a fresh, modern voice, this is an excellent choice.
The book’s massive popularity, driven by countless glowing reviews from romance bloggers and BookTok creators, has made it a modern staple. It’s the perfect vacation read for anyone who loves a story with a lot of heart, a good dose of spice, and a truly memorable couple.
7. Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston is a cultural phenomenon that redefined the contemporary romance landscape. The story follows Alex Claremont-Diaz, the charismatic First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry, the polished, reserved heir to the British throne. After a public altercation at a royal wedding threatens to become an international incident, the two are forced into a PR-staged friendship.
What begins as a reluctant truce for the cameras quickly blossoms into a genuine connection. Through secret emails and clandestine meetings, their fake friendship evolves into a deep, passionate romance. The novel masterfully balances the high stakes of their public lives with the tender, private moments of their relationship, creating a story that is both incredibly fun and deeply heartfelt.
Why It's a Top Summer Romance
This novel is one of the best summer romance books because it delivers pure, escapist joy with remarkable substance. It’s a smart, funny, and optimistic story that feels both aspirational and incredibly real. The central relationship is built on sharp wit, emotional vulnerability, and an undeniable chemistry that will have readers rooting for them from the very first chapter.
- Powerful LGBTQ+ Representation: The book has become a touchstone for LGBTQ+ romance, offering a hopeful and empowering love story that has resonated with millions.
- High-Stakes Romance: The blend of political intrigue and a secret royal relationship creates a compelling, can't-put-it-down narrative.
- Witty and Heartwarming: Casey McQuiston's writing is filled with hilarious banter and genuinely touching moments, making the characters feel alive and relatable.
Its massive success, including winning the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance and its blockbuster 2023 film adaptation on Amazon Prime Video, has cemented its place as a modern classic. It’s a perfect read for anyone craving a romance that is as intelligent as it is swoon-worthy.
Top 7 Summer Romance Books Comparison
| Title | 🔄 Implementation Complexity | ⚡ Resource Requirements | 📊 Expected Outcomes | 💡 Ideal Use Cases | ⭐ Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Read by Emily Henry | Moderate - dual POV with emotional themes | Moderate - character-driven narrative | High engagement among romance readers | Summer reading, book clubs, fans of meta-romance | Witty dialogue, emotional depth, relatable setting |
| The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han | Low - straightforward first-person narrative | Low - YA targeted romantic plot | Popular with YA/NA audiences, nostalgic appeal | YA summer romance fans, trilogy readers | Nostalgic tone, strong atmosphere, multi-generational family dynamics |
| The Hating Game by Sally Thorne | Moderate - single POV slow burn with workplace setting | Moderate - focused dialogue and tension | High impact in contemporary romance | Office romance fans, newcomers to the genre | Exceptional tension, witty banter, relatable workplace dynamics |
| People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry | Moderate-Complex - dual timeline and multiple settings | Moderate - travel-heavy plot | High emotional resonance & character growth | Vacation reading, second-chance romance enthusiasts | Balanced humor/depth, travel vividness, strong friendship portrayal |
| The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang | High - dual POV with neurodivergent representation | High - requires sensitive character handling | Thought-provoking impact, diverse representation | Readers seeking diverse & steamy romance | Authentic neurodiversity, breaks stereotypes, emotional intimacy |
| It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey | Moderate - fish-out-of-water trope, strong character arcs | Moderate - small-town immersive setting | High popularity in contemporary romance | Fans of Hallmark vibes, small-town romance newcomers | Vivid setting, strong character growth, steamy content |
| Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston | Moderate - dual POV with political and royal themes | Moderate - requires handling of political satire | High cultural impact, LGBTQ+ representation | LGBTQ+ romance readers, political romance fans | Authentic LGBTQ+ portrayal, humor, well-rounded characters |
Keep That Summer Feeling Going
As the last page turns on that perfect summer read, the feeling doesn't have to end. The sun-drenched settings, the heart-pounding first meetings, and the emotional rollercoasters found in the best summer romance books are designed to stick with you long after the season fades. Whether you were swept away by the witty banter in Emily Henry's Beach Read or the poignant royal romance in Casey McQuiston's Red, White & Royal Blue, each story offers a unique escape and a powerful emotional journey.
Our curated list celebrated a variety of love stories, from the classic friends-to-lovers arc in The Summer I Turned Pretty to the hilarious and steamy enemies-to-lovers dynamic of The Hating Game. We explored stories that challenge conventions, like the brilliant neurodivergent representation in The Kiss Quotient, and ones that deliver pure, feel-good escapism, such as the grumpy-sunshine magic of It Happened One Summer. These books are more than just fleeting entertainment; they are masterclasses in character development, witty dialogue, and emotional depth. As you finish these delightful reads, you might find yourself wondering about the literary elements that make these stories so engaging, deepening your appreciation for the art of storytelling.
Your Next Chapter in Romance
So, where do you go from here? The end of one book is simply the beginning of your next literary adventure. Here’s how you can keep the magic of these stories alive and discover even more tales to fall in love with:
- Revisit Your Favorites: Don't be afraid to reread a book that moved you. You'll often discover new details, appreciate foreshadowing you missed, and fall in love with the characters all over again.
- Explore Author Catalogs: Did you adore Emily Henry's writing style? Dive into her other works. Authors often have a signature blend of humor, heart, and heat that you'll find across their books.
- Create a "To Be Read" (TBR) List: Use this list as a starting point. Keep a dedicated notebook or use a digital app like Goodreads to track books you hear about. Note what drew you to a particular title, whether it was the "fake dating" trope, a beach setting, or a compelling character description.
- Join a Book Club or Online Community: Sharing your thoughts with fellow readers is one of the best ways to enhance the experience. Discussing plot twists, character motivations, and favorite scenes can give you a fresh perspective and introduce you to your next favorite book.
Ultimately, the best summer romance books do more than just entertain; they remind us of the power of connection, the joy of discovery, and the thrill of a new beginning. They offer a hopeful and heartwarming lens through which to see the world, a feeling worth carrying with you through every season.
Are you an author inspired to write the next great summer romance? Number 6 Publishing is dedicated to championing new voices and bringing heartfelt, inclusive stories to young readers. Visit Number 6 Publishing to learn about our submission guidelines and join a community that celebrates the magic of storytelling.