10-03-2025
Hot romance novel recs from Houston's newest romance bookstore owner
Looking to read a romance book? Whether you want heartwarming happiness, deep empathy, or a guaranteed happily ever after, here are some romance reads to add to your list.
Between the lines: Romance has long been judged and dismissed, but crafting a story that follows a classic trope, promises a happily ever after, and still keeps readers hooked is a skill.
There's something for everyone — whether it's a complex contemporary tale, historical drama, fantasy, sports romance, or even birding. And, of course, the spicy reads are still there.
Here are Mossrose Bookshop owner Andrea Sifuentes' recommendations:
😊 New to romance?" Lovelight Farms" by B.K. Borison is the start of the rom-com small-town series featuring a data analyst and an optimistic Christmas tree farm owner.
If you prefer to start with a less-spicy series, " When in Rome" by Sarah Adams offers a sweet romance between a stranded pop star and a small-town baker.
📜 Historical fiction? " Ana María and the Fox" by Liana De la Rosa delivers a Latina Regency-era love story between a Mexican heiress and a shrewd British politician.
🏳️🌈 Looking for a queer read? " Ander & Santi Were Here" by Jonny Garza Villa follows a nonbinary Mexican American teen falling for the shy new waiter at their family's taqueria.
🏀 Sports and spicy? Check out " The Windy City" series by Liz Tomforde for a sports romance fix, from hockey to basketball.
