Author: Emily

Thanks to TikTok, contemporary romance has gained a cult following within the past year. From the classic enemies to lovers trope to the fan favorite dark and broody love interest, getting new recommendations for books that fit your fancy is as easy as pie. When I read a contemporary romance there are a few key factors for what I find enjoyable about them: good characters, good plot, and good spice. These are some of my favorites that I have read recently.

Enemies to Lovers Trope

Cover of the Hating Game

The Hating Game by Sally Thorne

The Hating Game by Sally Thompson is a delightful mix of enemies to lovers and office romance. With their competative nature, the two main characters of this story, Lucy and Joshua, have a sizzling chemistry that will have you burning through this book in one sitting. Definitely a good first foray into the Contemporary Romance genre!

Reviews:

The Bookish Elf

Goodreads

Fake Relationship Trope

Cover of the Love Hypothesis

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood is the university romance you didn’t know you needed. Our main characters Olive and Adam get thrusted into a relationship after feeling the pressure from friends and colleagues to date. You’ll get hooked by the characters, but you’ll stay for the romance. Did I mention this started as a Kylo Ren/Rey fanfiction? If that won’t get you to read it, I dont know what will!

Reviews:

GoodReads

Hidden Lifestyle Trope

Cover of the Kiss Quotient

 

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang is a delightful mix of romance and representation. Our leading man, Michael, is a Vietnamese tailor by day and escort by night, who is just trying to take care of his mom’s medical bills. Our leading lady, Stella, is an econometrician with aspergers who wants to be good at sex and socialization. Who would be a better teacher for Stella than Michael? Endearing, hilarious, and steamy, this book is perfect for some fun romance!

Reviews:

Goodreads