Romance books for non-readers

I was recently on holidays, and I developed a sudden urge to have a cheeky look at everyone’s book of choice beside the pool. One thing I noticed was that at least three quarters were reading some sort of romance and from that 75%, almost every book was what we would coin a ‘booktok’ book. This just means that the book gained significant notoriety on the app.

My takeaway from this observation was that people who may not be year-round, prolific readers will probably gravitate towards the ‘trendiest’ book when choosing a summer read. Its easier to trust a book that has hundreds of videos and comments raving about it, which is why wanted to make a list specifically geared towards those ‘non-readers’ that want a trustworthy, swoon-worthy romance – but don’t know where to start. I’ve tried my best to incorporate a variety of tropes and themes to satisfy everyone -  so lets go!

1.    Runaway Ranch Series – Ava Hunter

This seemingly cosy set of four interconnected standalones set on a ranch in Montana carries some dark undertones when both our male and female characters find themselves in mortal danger – possibly even more than once! With the same feeling as a ‘typical’ cowboy romance, these books have a slightly more nuanced approach because of the weight of the stakes in each story. From runaway wives, popstars and someone escaping her cocoon because of her health problems, these books have just enough swoon-worthy romance to melt your heart whilst also packing an emotional punch when our characters find themselves in danger! I struggled to rate these four books anything less than 4/5 stars – the perfect quick, dramatic, and romantic read for everyone!

2.    Butcher and Blackbird – Brynne Weaver

The first in a trilogy, Butcher and Blackbird is a lot darker than a typical romantic comedy – but boy did this book have me giggling it out loud (in public too)! Out two main characters are also serial killers – both only focus on wiping out all the bad people in society. But they both also have a flair for the dramatics and upon first meeting they agree to a yearly competition where they both hunt for the same target. Fastest killer wins! But of course, despite the darker themes this book has both hilarious dialogue and witty commentary that will keep you wanting more! Again, this is book one in a trilogy but can be thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone.

N.B This book does have darker themes than a typical romcom so please do check the trigger warnings and always put your own mental health above anything else x

3.    Holland Brothers Series – Rebecca Jenshak

Another amazing set of four interconnected standalones based on four brothers as they each navigate their personal and romantic lives. You could class these books as sports romances – however they don’t all share the same sport. Book 1 is a grumpy motocross racer that finds himself in need of assistance from an Olympic gymnast, books 2 and 3 focus on the two brothers that play American Football and the final book centres around the youngest brother who plays baseball as he takes on quite a large role in a special single moms’ life. The variety in these four books meant they never felt overly predictable or repetitive; despite knowing I was reading a cute romance with a likely happily ever after. Easy to finish in one sitting, these books are the perfect poolside companion this Summer!

I could yap for hours about different romance books everyone should read – but I suppose this is a start! Hope this list helps you find something to keep you company this summer!

Love Emma x