Summer Love

Summer reading season is officially here, and if you're anything like us, your TBR is already dangerously out of control. From second-chance romances and friends-to-lovers stories to spicy beach reads and emotional love stories that will have you crying into your iced coffee, Summer 2026 is bringing the romance. (Under the Covers Book Blog)

Whether you're heading to the beach, lounging by the pool, or hiding from the Texas heat with the AC blasting, these new romance releases deserve a spot in your beach bag.

1. Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune

Carley Fortune returns with what may be the romance event of the summer. When former best friends reunite in paradise, they're forced to confront old wounds, unresolved feelings, and the possibility that the greatest love story of their lives may not be over. (PenguinRandomhouse.com)

Why You'll Love It: Friends-to-lovers, second chances, tropical setting, and all the emotional depth Fortune is known for.

2. Rules for the Summer by Meghan Quinn

The queen of romantic comedy is back with a forced-proximity summer romance featuring neighboring vacation homes, undeniable chemistry, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. (Us Weekly)

Perfect For: Readers who love banter, spice, and golden-retriever heroes.

3. Reasons to Be Loved by You by Hannah Brown

Former Bachelorette Hannah Brown continues her romance-writing success with a heartfelt story about finding love while learning to embrace your authentic self. (Us Weekly)

Perfect For: Fans of small-town romance, emotional growth, and lovable characters.

4. The Summer Girlfriend by Kristina Forest

One of the most talked-about summer releases among romance readers, this contemporary romance delivers sunshine, chemistry, and plenty of heart. Romance readers have been buzzing about this one since its release. (Reddit)

Perfect For: Beach reading and anyone craving a feel-good summer love story.

5. Yes, Chef by Grace Reilly

Imagine The Bear meets romance. This sizzling summer release combines cooking, tension, and undeniable attraction into a recipe that's impossible to resist. Early reader excitement has been strong throughout the romance community. (Reddit)

Perfect For: Foodies, workplace romance fans, and readers who love a competent hero.

6. Score by Kennedy Ryan

Kennedy Ryan's newest romance is one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Known for emotionally rich storytelling and unforgettable characters, Ryan delivers another powerful love story that promises to stay with readers long after the final page. (Bookshop.org)

Perfect For: Readers who want depth, emotion, and a love story that hits hard.

7. The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez

Abby Jimenez continues her streak of emotionally resonant romances with a story that blends humor, heartbreak, and hope. If her previous novels have taught us anything, it's to keep tissues nearby. (Bookshop.org)

Perfect For: Fans of emotional contemporary romance and unforgettable book boyfriends.

8. My Forever Girl by Laura Pavlov

Already generating major excitement among romance readers, this contemporary romance delivers swoon-worthy moments, emotional tension, and all the small-town charm readers love. (Goodreads)

Perfect For: Readers who adore protective heroes and heartfelt romance.

Romance Trends We're Loving This Summer

Summer 2026 is giving us:

• Friends-to-lovers romance

• Second-chance love stories

• Vacation and beach romances

• Sports romance

• Food and chef romances

• Emotional contemporary romance

• Small-town love stories

• Slow-burn chemistry with lots of tension

In other words: we're thriving. (Under the Covers Book Blog)

Book Spark Club's Most Anticipated Summer Romance

If we had to pick just one?

Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune is shaping up to be the romance book everyone will be talking about this summer. Between the tropical setting, emotional reunion, and Carley Fortune's signature storytelling, it has all the ingredients for the perfect beach read. (PenguinRandomhouse.com)

What's on Your Summer Romance TBR?

Are you reaching for second-chance romance, a spicy rom-com, or a tearjerker that will leave you staring at the wall when it's over? Tell us which new release you're most excited to read this summer—and don't blame us when your TBR doubles in size.

This version is optimized for a book blog, includes current 2026 releases, and naturally fits the Book Spark Club audience.