Sometimes the perfect escape novel is a good romance. With a romance, you’re almost always guaranteed a happy ending, usually neatly wrapped up in a bow. And in these anxiety ridden times, a romance novel just might be what you are searching for.
Plus, if you’re looking to diversify your Valentine’s Day reading list, check out these romance novels written by black authors. Happy Reading!
1. “Party of Two” by Jasmine Guillory
In this funny, upbeat own voices romance, a chance meeting with a handsome stranger in a hotel bar turns into a whirlwind affair that gets everyone talking.
Olivia Monroe has newly moved to LA to start her own law firm, so dating is the last thing on mind. But then she meets a gorgeous man at a hotel bar and they spend the entire night flirting.
Going against her better judgement, Olivia and Max Powell, a hotshot junior senator, secretly start dating until their romance is made public and her life falls under intense media scrutiny, jeopardizing everything.
Also available on OverDrive
2. “Forbidden” by Beverly Jenkins
In this steamy and well developed read, NYT bestselling author Beverly Jenkins, returns with a new series set in 19th century Nevada.
The son of a slave, Rhine Fontaine has built the successful life he’s always dreamed of—one that depends upon him passing for White.
But for the first time in years, he wishes he could step out from behind the façade. The reason, Eddy Carmichael, the young woman he rescued in the desert. Outspoken, defiant, and beautiful, Eddy tempts Rhine in ways that could cost him everything.
Also available on hoopla.
3. “Intercepted” by Alexa Martin
In this fast paced, steamy read, Marlee Harper, the perfect girlfriend discovers her NFL player boyfriend has been tackling other women on the sly, so she vows to never date an athlete again. There’s just one problem, Gavin Pope, the new hotshot quarterback and a fling from the past, has Marlee in his sights.
As Gavin fights to show Marlee he’s nothing like her ex, the team’s wives, who never led the welcome wagon, are not happy with Marlee’s return. Between their own fumbles and the wicked wives, it will take a Hail Mary for Marlee and Gavin’s relationship to survive the season.
This engaging, funny, and refreshingly realistic take on what it’s like to date a professional athlete is a reflection of Martin’s real-life experience as an NFL wife.
4. “Ties that Tether” by Jane Igharo
In this engaging debut, Igharo reveals the pressures of finding love and family obligation amongst immigrant communities.
At twelve years old, Azere promised her dying father she would marry a Nigerian man and preserve her culture even after emigrating to Canada. Unexpectedly falling in love with a white man after her mother’s latest disastrous matchmaking effort was not in her plan.
Azere can’t help wondering if loving Rafael makes her any less of a Nigerian. Can she be with him without compromising her identity?
5. “How to Catch a Queen” by Alyssa Cole
Bestselling author, Alyssa Cole, returns with her new series, Runaways Royals.
In this amusing and steamy tale an arranged marriage leads to unexpected desire.
After marrying the newly crowned King Sanyu of Njaza, Shanti Mohapi soon discovers that royal life is not what she expected and goes on the run when turmoil erupts in their kingdom and marriage.
King Sanyu must learn whether he has what it takes both to lead his people and to catch his queen.
6. “Take a Hint Dani Brown” by Talia Hibbert
Talia Hibbert returns with another charming romantic comedy in her “The Brown Sisters” series.
When brooding security guard Zafir Ansari rescues Dani Brown, a brainy career woman, from a workplace fire drill gone wrong, it’s an obvious sign: PhD student Dani and ex-rugby player Zaf are destined to sleep together.
But before she can explain that fact, a video of the heroic rescue goes viral. Now half the internet is shipping #DrRugbae—and Zaf is begging Dani to play along. Turns out, his sports charity for kids could really use the publicity. Lying to help children? Who on earth would refuse? And what could go wrong?
The charming cast of characters featuring diversity at all levels (ability, culture, LGBTQ+, and religious) is sure to appeal to readers. This banter filled tale is refreshingly heartwarming and will leave you smiling.
7. “Hope Blooms” by Jamie Pope
In one shattering instant, schoolteacher Cassandra Miller lost everything that mattered to her. Stricken with guilt and sorrow, she has no reason to care about tomorrow. The last person she wants help from is the man she wants to forget.
An ex-Marine, Wylie has always loved Cass, though their backgrounds were as different as could be. Years ago, he walked away believing he could never be good enough for her. But he s never stopped regretting his decision.
Now, helping her heal is the only way he can make amends, and hopefully make up for lost time. But their rekindled passion will be tested by pain he’s never resolved and mistakes for which forgiveness may not be enough. Can he and Cass find one last way to move forward, and risk rebuilding their lives together?
This heartwarming, well written, steamy romance runs the emotional gamut, and is sure to appeal to readers looking for a poignant, uplifting story.
Also available on hoopla.
