40 Most Anticipated New Romance Books to Read in 2024

Ready to dive into the most anticipated new romance books of 2024? I sure am, and I’ve got the top forty new romance books to read in 2024 that you’re absolutely going to want to add to your must-read list!

If you’re a romance book connoisseur like me, you want to start the year off right, anticipating which new romance books will be vying for a place on the bestseller lists, and for their shot at the title of best romance book of the year.

This year there are already so many new releases announced for 2024 that it was hard to narrow my list to just forty, but I’m confident that the most anticipated new romance books on this list are the best books to read in 2024.

No matter what type of romance book you enjoy or what romance book trope is your favorite, I guarantee there’s something for everyone below.

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The Most Anticipated Books to Read in 2024
Coming in January:

House of Flame and Shadow
by Sarah J. Maas

Fantasy Romance
Releasing January 30, 2024

This is Maas’ third installment in her Crescent City series where Bryce Quinlan just wants to get back to Midgard. Stranded in a strange new world, she’s going to need all her wits about her to get home again. Meanwhile, Hunt Athalar is in the Asteri’s dungeons again, stripped of his freedom and without a clue as to Bryce’s fate. He’s desperate to help her, but until he can escape the Asteri’s leash, his hands are quite literally tied.

Why It’s a Must Read: Romantasy books are at the height of their popularity, but Sarah J. Maas’ books have always captivated fans and I have no doubt this one will as well. I have a feeling this will be a bestseller in 2024 as we learn how Bryce and Hunt attempt to save their world from the brink of collapse.

Related: Crescent City Books in Order

New Romance Books to Read in February

Bride
by Ali Hazelwood

Paranormal Romance
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience
Releasing February 6, 2024

Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman, has been called upon to uphold a historic peacekeeping alliance between the Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres, and she sees little choice but to surrender herself in the exchange—again. She may be putting herself in danger, agreeing to marry the Were Alpha, Lowe Moreland, but she has reasons for doing so that have nothing to do with politics or alliances.

Why It’s a Must Read: Just when I think Ali Hazelwood can’t give me yet another amazing book, she dives into paranormal romance and gives me THIS! If you love romance books with the best characters that carry a story with suspense and the sweetest of slow burn romances, then you have to pick this up. It’s a 5-star read to kick off 2024!

Check out my book review of Bride.

Related: Best Werewolf Romance Books, Best Vampire Romance Books

A Love Song for Ricki Wilde
by Tia Williams

Contemporary Romance
Releasing February 6, 2024

Ricki Wilde has never fit in with her socialite family so she jumps at the chance for a new beginning in Harlem and the realization of her dream to open a flower shop. Then one evening in February, Ricki encounters a handsome, deeply mysterious stranger who knocks her world off balance in the most unexpected way.  

Why It’s a Must Read: Williams blew me away with Seven Days in June so I’m anxiously awaiting this new release that is set against the backdrop of modern Harlem Renaissance where two passionate artists are drawn to the opportunity of New York and its romance.

Fangirl Down
by Tessa Bailey

Sports Romance
Tropes: Grumpy Sunshine, Boss Romance
Releasing February 13, 2024

Wells Whitaker was once golf’s hottest rising star, but his career has taken a nosedive leaving him with only one fan who’s always believed in him. Yet when Wells quits in a blaze of glory, his fangirl finally goes home leaving him with nothing. Determined to make things right, Wells shows up at Josephine’s door with a wild proposal: be his new caddy, help him turn his game around, and split the prize money.

Why It’s a Must Read: Tessa Bailey is my go-to author whenever I’m in the mood for a fun and spicy romcom, and I am already loving this sports romance featuring a golfer! I admit this will be my first golf romance (yay!) but I’m most excited to see how Josephine weaves her way under the skin of the gruff player.

Check out my book review of Fangirl Down.

Related: Best Grumpy Sunshine Romance Books

Simply the Best
by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Sports Romance
Tropes: Opposites Attract
Releasing February 13, 2024

Brett Rivers is the hottest sports agent in the business and he never should have met Rory Garrett, the failed chocolatier and sister to his most important client, her football brother. And they both absolutely, positively should never have had to deal with the consequences of one stupid, drunken night, one disastrous lie, one career in jeopardy, one missing football player, and a very deceased body.

Why It’s a Must Read:  I was so completely surprised and of course super excited that Susan Elizabeth Phillips is returning to her beloved Chicago Stars series and giving us book 10 which seems to mix in a bit of mystery this time! I adore her writing and witty dialogue and cannot wait to see what she has in store for these two opposites.

Not Your Crush’s Cauldron
by April Asher

Witch Romance
Tropes: Friends to Lovers, Forbidden Romance
Releasing February 13, 2024

Olive Maxwell much prefers teaching about the Supernatural world to taking part in it and leaves the magical shenanigans to her two sisters. After assigning her college students a project to nudge them outside their comfort zones, Olive realizes she’s never once stepped out of her own and her first step is to move in with her longtime crush and friend, Baxter.

Bax Donovan, Guardian Angel not-so-extraordinaire, has been given one last chance to keep his Guardian wings—protect Olive as she checks things off her Dare I Docket list, but doing so puts him at risk of shattering the only Guardian Angel code of conduct rule he’s yet to break: Don’t fall in love with your Assignment.

Why It’s a Must Read: I think it’s high time that I check out an Asher book in 2024 because I love witch romance books and Olive is already someone I’m so in love with given her desire to shake things up a bit in her life. I’m also hoping this book has the sweetest slow burn that builds to a fire between these two friends.

Heartless Hunter
by Kristen Ciccarelli

Fantasy Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers
Releasing February 20, 2024

In the aftermath of a devastating revolution, witches have been diminished from powerful rulers to outcasts ruthlessly hunted due to their waning magic, and Rune must hide what she is. Now she spends her days pretending to be a vapid socialite and her nights as the Crimson Moth, a witch vigilante who rescues her kind from being purged.

When a rescue goes wrong, she decides to throw the witch hunters off her scent and gain the intel she desperately needs by courting the handsome Gideon Sharpe – a notorious and unforgiving witch hunter loyal to the revolution – who she can’t help but find herself falling for.

Why It’s a Must Read: I’m already on the hunt for the next big fantasy romance that’s going to be the star of the show in 2024 and I’m wondering if Ciccarelli’s witch hunter romance will be it?! Enemies to lovers is my favorite romance trope so I’m looking forward to the sparks that will fly between Gideon and Rune, especially when the truth of what she is comes out!

Check out my book review of Heartless Hunter.

Related: Best Enemies to Lovers Fantasy Romance Books

A Fate Inked in Blood
by Danielle L. Jensen

Fantasy Romance
Tropes: Forbidden Romance
Releasing February 27, 2024

Bound in an unwanted marriage, Freya’s life is upended when her husband betrays her to the region’s jarl, landing her in a fight against his son, Bjorn. To survive, Freya must reveal her deepest secret: she is a shield maiden with magic capable of repelling any attack.

Believing he’s destined to rule Skaland as king, the fanatical jarl binds Freya with a blood oath and orders Bjorn to protect her from their enemies. Desperate to prove her strength, Freya must train to fight and learn to control her magic, but her greatest test may be resisting her forbidden attraction to Bjorn.

Why It’s a Must Read: This is definitely one of the most anticipated romance books of 2024 for fans of Jensen’s earlier work, The Bridge Kingdom series, who are ready to dive into a new series from the fantasy writer. I love that this is a Norse-inspired fantasy romance with a strong heroine, a fiery hero and a forbidden attraction. Bring it!

Related: Danielle L. Jensen Books in Order

Most Anticipated New Romance Book Releases:
Coming in March

This Could Be Us
by Kennedy Ryan

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Love After Cheated On, Forbidden Romance, Single Parent
Releasing March 5, 2024

Soledad Barnes is a domestic goddess who’s always had her life all planned out. But none of her varied talents can save her when her life implodes from the ultimate betrayal. Picking up the pieces and caring for her daughters, Soledad rediscovers herself. But then an unlikely man enters the picture—the forbidden one, the one she shouldn’t want but can’t seem to resist only she’s not sure that she can risk her heart and trust in love again. 

Why It’s a Must Read: I already fell in love with Soledad after reading Ryan’s 2022 release, Before I Let Go, and cannot wait to get her story this year about finding trust and love again after her cheating husband upends her life. I also especially love the sisterhood between Soledad and her girlfriends that permeate the entire Skyland series!

Check out my book review of This Could Be Us.

Expiration Dates
by Rebecca Serle

Contemporary Romance
Releasing March 5, 2024

Serle is delivering a romance with a hint of magic for 2024 about Daphne Bell who upon meeting a new man, she receives a slip of paper with his name and a number on it—the exact amount of time they will be together. Finally, the night of a blind date there’s only a name: Jake and no expiration.

But as Jake and Daphne’s story unfolds, Daphne finds herself doubting the paper’s prediction, and wrestling with what it means to be both committed and truthful. Because Daphne knows things Jake doesn’t, information that—if he found out—would break his heart.

Why It’s a Must Read: I am absolutely obsessed with the setup of this book and the concept of knowing the expiration date of a relationship from the start. I love how this novel explores what it means to be single, what it means to find love, and ultimately how we define each of them for ourselves. Here’s to it becoming a big hit for 2024.

The Prisoner’s Throne
by Holly Black

Fantasy Romance
Releasing March 5, 2024
 
Black is bringing readers back to Elfhame in 2024 with this final book in the Stolen Heir duology. Prince Oak is paying for his betrayal. Imprisoned in the icy north and bound to the will of a monstrous new queen, he must rely on charm and calculation to survive.

With High King Cardan and High Queen Jude willing to use any means necessary to retrieve their stolen heir, Oak will have to decide whether to attempt regaining the trust of the girl he’s always loved or to remain loyal to Elfhame and hand over the means to end her reign—even if it means ending Wren, too.

Why It’s a Must Read: If you’ve become obsessed with Holly Black and her fantasy world ever since reading The Cruel Prince, then you’re in luck with this anticipated romance releasing in 2024 that will ultimately determine the future of Elfhame. Will the right decisions be made and who will ultimately win out? These are the questions finally answered this year!

Related: Young Adult Fantasy Romance Books

Happily Never After
by Lynn Painter

Contemporary Romance
Releasing March 12, 2024
 
When Sophie Steinbeck finds out just before her nuptials that her fiancé has cheated yet again, she desperately wants to call it off. But because her future father-in-law is her dad’s cutthroat boss, she enlists the help of a professional objector, whose purpose is to show up at weddings and proclaim “I object!”

After learning more about his job, Sophie teams up with Max and the two love cynics start going from wedding to wedding, while trying to ignore their off-the-charts chemistry. But when a groom-to-be hires Sophie to object at a wedding that involves the woman who broke Max’s heart, she realizes that she may have fallen hard for her partner in crime.

Why It’s a Must Read: Lynn Painter became a must-read author for me in 2023 after reading The Love Wager. I just adored her writing, the story pacing and the chemistry of her characters. This is one of my most anticipated new romance books because the story set-up sounds super fun. I won’t object to this landing on my list of best romance novels for 2024 this year.

Check out my book review of Happily Never After.

The Trail of Lost Hearts
by Tracey Garvis Graves

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Forced Proximity
Releasing March 26, 2024

When the world delivers two life-altering blows, Wren Waters just wants to put the whole heartbreaking mess behind her and starts disappearing into the world of geocaching.

She decides that a weeklong solo quest geocaching in Oregon is exactly what she needs to take back control of her life but then she runs into fellow hiker, Marshall Hendricks, struggling with a life-altering blow of his own. When Wren and Marshall partner up to look for additional caches, their platonic road trip gradually blossoms into something deeper.

Why It’s a Must Read: Graves has this way of really delivering the drama in her romance books and creating some amazing characters so I’m looking forward to reading this romance this year. I’m also excited to see this romance bloom around the hobby of geocaching which is super unique angle to this story.

Related: Best Forced Proximity Romance Books

New Romance Books to Read in April 2024

Here We Go Again
by Alison Cochrun

Sapphic Romance
Tropes: Friends to Lovers, Forced Proximity
Releasing April 2, 2024

Logan Maletis and Rosemary Hale used to be friends but after an altercation in high school, they’ve gone ten years without speaking. Now in their thirties, still in their small town and working as teachers at their alma mater, they’re both stuck in old patterns. But when their beloved former English teacher tells them he has only a few months to live, they’re forced together once and for all to fulfill his last wish: a cross-country road trip.

Why It’s a Must Read: I cannot wait for this release from the woman who dazzled me with her debut novel, The Charm Offensive! Cochrun is back in 2024 with a lesbian romance that is sure to inspire my next vacation plans with their cross-country road trip!

Check out my book review of Here We Go Again.

Related: Romance Books That Inspire Travel

Just for the Summer
by Abby Jimenez

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Fake Relationship, Guardian Ward Romance
Releasing April 2, 2024

Justin has a curse.  Every woman he dates goes on to find their soul mate the second they break up. When a woman slides into his DMs with the same problem, they come up with a plan: They’ll date each other and break up. Their curses will cancel each other’s out, and they’ll both go on to find the love of their lives.

It’s supposed to be a quick fling, just for the summer. But when Emma’s toxic mother shows up and Justin has to assume guardianship of his three siblings, they’re suddenly navigating a lot more than they expected–including catching real feelings for each other.

Why It’s a Must Read: Abby Jimenez books are super popular for a reason because her writing is phenomenal and the stories she comes up with are just gems. I love how these two characters plan to date “for real” and yet have an ulterior motive and end date already planned from the start. I’m looking forward to seeing how life gets in the way and has other plans. Definitely one of my most anticipated romance books of 2024 since I love guardian ward romances too! 

Check out my book review of Just for the Summer.

Related: Best Fake Relationship Romance Books

The Rule Book
by Sarah Adams

Sports Romance
Tropes: Second Chance Romance, Oops Wedding, Office Romance
Releasing April 2, 2024

Nora Mackenzie’s entire career lies in the hands of famous NFL tight end Derek Pender, who also happens to be her extremely hot college ex-boyfriend. Nora didn’t end things as gracefully as she could have back then, and now it has come back to haunt her. Derek is her first client as an official full-time sports agent and he’s set on revenge, by making Nora’s life miserable. But then a wild night in Vegas leads to Nora and Derek in bed the next morning married. 

Why It’s a Must Read: Adams is another romance author that delivers each and every time. This is a most anticipated romance release for 2024 for those who are only interested in closed-door romances which seem to be Adams’ specialty.

Check out my book review of The Rule Book.

Related: Best Second Chance Romance Books

Teach Me
by Neve Wilder

MM Romance
Tropes: Teacher Student Romance, Forbidden Romance, College Romance
Releasing May 2, 2024 (updated)

Why It’s a Must Read: I added this to my most anticipated romance book list without even seeing the book summary – that’s how badly I want to read it 😊. Now we know that this is Cameron’s story, a new adult, college romance since it’s part of her Extracurricular Activities series. It’s a MM romance between a Cam and his professor so buckle up. I have devoured each of the books in this series ever since Want Me landed on my best romance books of all time list so you better believe I’m counting down until May gets here.

Related: Best Teacher Student Romance Books

Only and Forever
by Chloe Liese

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Roommates to Lovers, Opposites Attract
Releasing April 9, 2024

Viggo Bergman, a hopeless romantic, is thoroughly weary of waiting for his happily ever after but his chaotic life has made finding his forever love seem improbable. That’s why he teams up with Tallulah Clarke the author with writer’s block.

They agree to swap skills and cohabitate for convenience—his romance expertise to revive her book, her organizational prowess to salvage his store.  As they share a home and life, Tallulah and Viggo discover a connection that challenges everything they believe about love, and reveals the plot twist they never saw coming: happily ever after is here already, right under their roof.

Why It’s a Must Read: How can we already be at the final book in the Bergman Brothers series, but alas we are and that’s why it’s a must-read romance for 2024. Liese’s characters are all so unique and I love how Viggo just loves romance so I’m ready for him to finally find his happily-ever-after this year.

Wild Love
by Elsie Silver

Small Town Romance
Tropes: Brother’s Best Friend, Single Dad, Office Romance
Releasing April 9, 2024

Rosie Belmont has been driving Ford wild for years. The kind of wild that has him wanting his best friend’s little sister when she should be hands-off and not being hired as his new employee. All Ford wants is to get his recording studio off the ground, but then a 12-year-old lands on his doorstep, claiming she’s his daughter and now Ford is a juggling single dad, trying to keep his hands off the woman he can’t have.

Why It’s a Must Read: This is one of my most anticipated romance books of 2024 because I’m not ready to say goodbye to Chestnut Springs! I’m so ready for an all-new small town romance series set in the same beloved universe as Chestnut Springs beginning with the hottie billionaire, Ford!

Related: Elsie Silver Books in Order

Funny Story
by Emily Henry

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Roommates to Lovers, Opposites Attract
Releasing April 23, 2024

When Daphne’s fiance realizes he’s actually in love with his childhood best friend Petra, she’s left stranded and proposing to be roommates with the only person who could possibly understand her predicament: Petra’s ex, Miles Nowak. The roommates mainly avoid one another, until one day, while drowning their sorrows, they form a tenuous friendship and a plan.

If said plan also involves posting deliberately misleading photos of their summer adventures together, well, who could blame them? But it’s all just for show, of course, because there’s no way Daphne would actually start her new chapter by falling in love with her ex-fiancé’s new fiancée’s ex…right?

Why It’s a Must Read: Was there any doubt that Emily Henry’s new release for 2024 would be on this list? No, I didn’t think so! While her romance books can also have a thread of melancholy in them, they are so well written and easy to devour. I’m already loving this new storyline of exes falling for their exes’ exes. Did I say that right?! 😊 I cannot wait for this one.

Check out my book review of Funny Story.

Related: Emily Henry Books in Order, 10 Books Like Funny Story to Read Next

Falling for Gage
by Mia Sheridan

Small Town Romance
Releasing April 27, 2024

How is it possible that perfect Gage Buchanan is still single after all these years?Gage thought he left his days of one-night stands behind him, however something about the gorgeous cocktail waitress in a town three hours away is far too intriguing.

But when she shows up weeks later in his hometown pretending to be an art appraiser, Gage is completely blindsided—not to mention still very attracted to the (apparent) little liar. What he doesn’t know is that Aurora “Rory” Casteel moved to Calliope to find the father she never knew and is using a friend’s art gallery as cover while she sleuths around town.

He can’t figure her out and she suspects he isn’t everything he seems either, but neither can resist the persistent pull between them.

Why It’s a Must Read: I’m a bit obsessed with any book that will keep me in the world of Archer and Travis. Gage was a great side character in Travis who gave Travis a small run for his money so I’m excited that he will get his own happy ending now that’s he’s ready to settle down and find the one.

May’s Most Anticipated New Romance Books to Read

This Summer Will Be Different
by Carley Fortune

Contemporary Romance
Releasing May 7, 2024

Lucy is the tourist vacationing at a beach house on Prince Edward Island. Felix is the local who shows her a very good time. The only problem: Lucy doesn’t know he’s her best friend’s younger brother, so they vow to never repeat that electric night again. But each year when Lucy escapes to PEI with her best friend, Bridget, she somehow forgets that promise until the summer she realizes her heart may not be safe with the one man she’s never been able to resist.

Why It’s a Must Read: This book had me at Prince Edward Island. I STILL remember the report I did on PEI in elementary school and I’ve always wanted to go there. I guess I’ll just have to settle for a staycation by traveling there with this book and hoping that this is Carley Fortune’s best yet.

Check out my book review of This Summer Will Be Different.

Related: Carley Fortune Books in Order

Born of Blood and Ash
by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Fantasy Romance
Releasing August 13, 2024 (UPDATED)

While Sera is finally free of Kolis and back with those she loves, not everything is calm. More than ever, Sera and Ash have everything under the realms to fight for, and Nyktos has no doubt Sera is fit to be the Queen of the Gods. But she must find that faith within herself if they hope to convince the other Courts to support them against Kolis and make Iliseeum and the mortal realm better, safer places for all.

But as Sera begins to piece together the importance of her bloodline and the true meaning behind the foreboding prophecy, it becomes clear that everything that has happened and is yet to come is much bigger than Kolis and his dark obsessions.

With a family of the heart willing to battle by their side, can Sera and Nyktos stop Kolis before he destroys the realms, or will it all disappear in a fiery inferno of blood and ash?

Why It’s a Must Read: It’s impossible to create a list of most anticipated romance books of the year without including the thrilling conclusion to Armentrout’s Flesh and Fire series! It was genius to create an entirely new prequel series that relates to her From Blood and Ash series because it makes those books so much richer. Since this is coming out in August, I’m not sure that I can hope that The Primal of Blood and Bone will release later this year but one can hope!

Related: Best Fantasy Romance Books

The Paradise Problem
by Christina Lauren

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience, Fake Relationship, Opposites Attract
Releasing May 14, 2024

Anna Green thought she was marrying Liam Weston for access to subsidized family housing while at UCLA. She also thought she’d signed divorce papers when the graduation caps were tossed, and they both went on their merry ways. Three years later, Liam re-enters her life with some interesting news. They are actually still married and they need to stay married for a total of five years for him to earn his one-hundred-million-dollar inheritance.

Why It’s a Must Read: When the author duo Christina Lauren delivers a fun and engaging romcom each and every year, you better believe that their newest release is going to be on my TBR list. In this year’s romance they take on the one-percenters and the world of toxic wealth. I never expected them to write about an heir of a grocery chain but I love marriage of convenience love stories and fake relationship romances and cannot wait to see what they have in store with this one for 2024.

Check out my book review of The Paradise Problem.

Lies and Weddings
by Kevin Kwan

Contemporary Romance
Releasing May 21, 2024
 
Rufus Leung Gresham, future Earl of Greshambury and son of a former Hong Kong supermodel has a problem: the legendary Gresham Trust has been depleted by decades of profligate spending, leaving behind a mountain of debt. The only solution it appears is for Rufus to attend his sister’s wedding at a luxury eco-resort and seduce a woman with money. He should marry an heiress but his heart wants the girl next door, the daughter of a doctor, Eden Tong.

When a volcanic eruption burns through the nuptials and a hot mic exposes a secret tryst, the Gresham family plans—and their reputation—go up in flames. Can the once-great dukedom rise from the ashes? Or will a secret tragedy, hidden for two decades, reveal a shocking twist?

Why It’s a Must Read: While we wait and wait and wait for the movies that are slated to be made to follow up Crazy Rich Asians, I’m also anxiously waiting to read Kwan’s newest romance release in four years that tackles a forbidden affair. And volcanoes! I’m absolutely reading it for the volcanic eruption and the craziness that is going to ensue.

Savor It
by Tarah Dewitt

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Fake Dating
Releasing May 21, 2024

When Sage Byrd’s 5-year relationship ends and her ex, town-golden-boy Ian, suddenly gets engaged, Sage needs a win. Fisher Lange a once hotshot chef in New York City and now guardian to his teenage niece Indy needs to revive his love of cooking and earn back his Michelin star.

But when Fisher clashes with the townspeople where he’s hoping to redeem himself and a kiss with his new neighbor Sage leads to dating rumors, a strategic alliance might just be the best way to turn things around for both of them.

Why It’s a Must Read: There is so much to unpack about this new romance release that I have a feeling I won’t be able to put it down. From a cute, small town competition, to two wounded characters recovering from loss, I’m excited to jump into my first Dewitt romance this year and see what this author has to offer!

Check out my book review of Savor It.

Related: Best Fake Dating Romance Books

Most Anticipated Books to Read in June 2024

Just Some Stupid Love Story
by Katelyn Doyle

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Second Chance Romance
Releasing June 4, 2024

Molly Marks’ one and only time she was naive enough to fall in love was with her high school boyfriend, Seth—who she ghosted on the eve of graduation and hasn’t seen in fifteen years. Seth Rubinstein believes in love despite his job as one of Chicago’s most successful divorce attorneys.

When Molly’s friends drag her to Florida for their fifteenth high school reunion, it is poetic justice that she’s forced to sit with Seth. Too many martinis and a drunken hookup later, they decide to make a bet: whoever can predict the fate of five couples before the next reunion must declare that the other is right about true love. The catch? The fifth couple is the two of them.

Why It’s a Must Read: In case you didn’t know it, Katelyn Doyle is also the writer of some of my favorite historical romances that she’s penned under the name Scarlett Peckham, but this is her first contemporary romcom and I’m so looking forward to seeing what she brings to this category of romance.

Check out my book review of Just Some Stupid Love Story.

Past Present Future
by Rachel Lynn Soloman

Young Adult Romance
Releasing June 4, 2024

When longtime rivals Rowan Roth and Neil McNair confessed their feelings on the last day of senior year, they knew they’d only have a couple months together before they left for college. Now summer is over, and they’re determined to make their relationship work as they begin school in different places.

Over a year of late-night phone calls, weekend visits, and East Coast adventures, Rowan and Neil fall for each other again and again as they grapple with the uncertainty of their new lives. They’ve spent so many years at odds with each other—now that they’re finally on the same team, what does the future hold for them?

Why It’s a Must Read: I always love romance books that focus on couples after they fall in love and attempt to live happily ever after. Rachel Lynn Soloman has a special style of writing that I adore and I know that this sequel to her hit, Today Tonight Tomorrow is going to be one of the best young adult romances of the year.

Not in Love
by Ali Hazelwood

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Secret Relationship
Releasing June 11, 2024

Rue Siebert thought she had a stable career as a biotech engineer at Kline, one of the most promising start-ups in the field of food science until a hostile takeover and its offensively attractive front man threatens to bring it all crumbling down.

Eli Killgore and his business partners want Kline, and he’s a man who gets what he wants with the exception of the one woman he can’t stop thinking about.  Torn between loyalty and an undeniable attraction, Rue and Eli throw caution out the and start a secret, no-strings-attached affair with a built-in deadline: the day one of their companies will prevail.

Why It’s a Must Read: Ali Hazelwood dazzled me with both of her romance book releases of 2023, Love, Theoretically and Check & Mate to which I gave 5 stars and I’ve already devoured Bride (another 5 star read) so here’s hoping her latest adult, enemies to lovers romance (for which she’s known for) is another huge hit. Plus, the cover art is devine! I am already anticipating this book landing on my list of best romance novels of 2024!

Read my book review of Not in Love.

Related: Ali Hazelwood Books in Order

Play Along
by Liz Tomforde

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Vegas Wedding, Office Romance, Forbidden Romance
Releasing July 11, 2024 (UPDATED)

Kennedy Kay is the only woman on staff for the Windy City Warriors, and she’s desperate to land her dream job with a new team next year. But a Las Vegas run-in with the team’s shortstop, Isaiah Rhodes, threatens it all, since they wake up married the next morning with no recollection of how that happened.

Now they’re left to pretend they are a real couple to save Kennedy’s job but Isaiah isn’t settling with just pretending. He’s ready to prove he is husband material and just needs to convince his new wife to play along for the long haul.

Why It’s a Must Read: It had been a while since I binge-read an entire romance series, but that’s exactly what I did last year with Tomforde’s Windy City series so of course the next release is one of my most anticipated romance books of 2024.

Isaiah is the cutest (I loved him in Caught Up) so I’m psyched for his love story with Kennedy which is an oops we got married in Vegas book! Kennedy needs a real win after her awful ex-fiance!

Check out my book review of Play Along.

Related: Liz Tomforde Books in Order

Business Casual
by B.K. Borison

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Opposites Attract, One Night Stand
Releasing July 16, 2024 (updated)

Nova Porter isn’t looking for love, and she certainly has no explanation for her attraction to buttoned-up, three-piece-suit-wearing investment banker Charlie Milford. In an effort to get Charlie out of her system once and for all, Nova offers a proposition. One night. No strings. But their hot night together scatters their expectations and now Nova can’t avoid Charlie in their small town while he’s hoping he can convince Nova he’s worth her time and possibly more.

Why It’s a Must Read: Is it really true that this is the final book in the Lovelight Farms series? Say it isn’t so! Alas, I’m super psyched for Charlie’s story in this fourth and final romance novel from Borrison that will bring out the best in small town romance and opposites attract romance between the suit and the tattoo artist.

Check out my book review of Business Casual.

Tangled Up in You
by Christina Lauren

New Adult Romance
Releasing June 25, 2024

Ren was raised on a homestead and has lived most of her life off the grid and now at twenty-two years-old she has no idea how to live in the real world. So when she finally achieves her lifelong dream of attending Corona College, it feels like her life is finally beginning.

Fitz has the rest of his life mapped out: Graduate from Corona at the top of his class, get his criminal record wiped clean, and pass himself off as the rich, handsome player everyone thinks he is. But a simple assignment in their immunology seminar changes the course of both their lives, and suddenly they’re thrown out of the frying pan and into the fire on a road trip that will lead them in the most unexpected directions.

Why It’s a Must Read: I love Disney’s Meant to Be books of adult romances that are modern reimaginings of their princess classics. Leave it to Christina Lauren to take on Tangled which I am sure is going to be a fun and witty ride. It’s been some time since they dabbled in young adult/new adult romance so I’m excited to see what’s in store.

A Thousand Broken Pieces
by Tillie Cole

Young Adult Romance
Releasing June 25, 2024

After losing her beloved sister three years ago, Savannah Litchfield has been living half a life. Now seventeen―the age Poppy left her ―the pain of losing her is worse than ever. When Savannah’s therapist suggests a trip around the world to help teens stricken by loss, she reluctantly agrees to it, clutching the unread journal Poppy left her as she goes.

On the trip she meets Cael Woods, a once promising hockey player who’s grieving the loss of his older brother. As Cael and Savannah embark on a journey of healing, they learn to find solace together, and the harder they fall, the more they heal the fractured fragments of their hearts, piece by broken piece.

Why It’s a Must Read: OMG Cole is giving us a follow-up to A Thousand Boy Kisses?! She nearly ripped my heart out with that book that made me full-on ugly cry, so there is no question this is one of my most anticipated romance books of 2024. Expectations are high and the tissue boxes are ready.

Related: Books That Will Make You Ugly Cry

July’s Most Anticipated New Romance Book Releases

The Love of My Afterlife
by Kristy Greenwood

Contemporary Romance
Releasing July 2, 2024

Delphie can’t believe that she’s found herself in the afterlife after choking on a microwaveable burger, standing in a nightie in front of the hottest man she’s ever seen. They start to chat until someone comes running out of a door, yelling something about a huge mistake, and sends the dreamy stranger back down to earth.

When Delphie is offered a deal in which she can return to earth and reconnect with the mysterious man, she jumps at the opportunity to find her possible soulmate and a fresh start. But in a city of millions, Delphie is going to have to listen to her heart, learn to ask for help, and perhaps even see the magic in the life she’s leaving behind.

Why It’s a Must Read: This is one of those new releases that just jumped out at me with its original storyline and instantly snagged a spot on my TBR list. I’ve never read Greenwood before but I’m already loving her story about finding love in the afterlife and keeping my fingers crossed that Delphie can find her hottie before her ten days are up!

Check out my book review of The Love of My Afterlife.

Dishonestly Yours
by Kristy and Becca Ritchie

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Best Friend’s Brother
Releasing July 2, 2024

The Graves and her best friend Hailey’s family have been on the run their whole lives, but after a high-stakes con job goes south, Phoebe Graves and Hailey decide to run away and start over. Only Hailey’s frustratingly handsome brother, Rocky, insists on coming with them. Phoebe worries that Rocky will tempt them back into their old ways, when all she really wants is to have a good reputation and a normal life with the man she loves.

Why It’s a Must Read: The Ritchies are well-known for their Addicted series so I know all their fans cannot wait to read this new release launching a new series in 2024. I want to see how easily lying is for Rocky in this best friend’s brother romance and if he can easily lie about his feelings for Phoebe.

The Game Changer
by Lana Ferguson

Sports Romance
Tropes: Reality TV, Fake Relationship, Brother’s Best Friend
Releasing July 9, 2024

With his career and the team’s image in jeopardy, hockey star Ian Chase is surprised to find a solution through none other than Delilah Baker, his best friend and teammate’s little sister. Delilah’s numbers are down on her local cable baking show so she offers to collaborate with her brother’s team to entice the hockey fans of Boston to tune in to her show and boosts Ian’s image.

When viewers loving the two of them together, Ian and Delilah play up their relationship but when the line between what’s real and what’s for show begins to blur, one thing’s for certain: This PR stunt will either be a total game changer—or leave them both totally pucked.

Why It’s a Must Read: I never tire of romance books where a professional athlete has to improve his image. I hope Ferguson continues to bring the heat in her 2024 release like she did last year with A Fake Mate, with lots of steam between this hockey player and baker.

Related: Brother’s Best Friend Romance Books

All Folked Up
by Penny Reid

Small Town Romance
Releasing October 28, 2024 (updated)

Rumor has it that gruff, brooding, and solitary man-of-mystery Isaac Sylvester is back in town, and the only thing folks in Green Valley know for certain is that this prodigal son’s motives are as elusive as he is. Hannah Townsen is no stranger to local gossip but ten years after being dubbed as a hometown-stripper-with-a-heart-of-gold, Hannah has seemingly—and finally—fallen off the gossip mill’s radar. That is, until the enigmatic Isaac Sylvester shows up at Hannah’s retirement party wanting so much more than a private dance.

Why It’s a Must Read: Finally, we are getting Isaac’s story! I’ve already fallen for this mysterious man from his cameos in Reid’s Winston Brothers series and I cannot wait to peel back his layers and understand his motivation in All Folked Up!

Five Brothers
by Penelope Douglas

Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Opposites Attract
Releasing July 30, 2024

On the other side of town, there are five Jaeger brothers: Macon is the oldest and ex-Marine, Army the single dad, Iron who will probably be in prison soon, Dallas, the cruel one I hate, and Trace who was mine for about two seconds. I should go back to my side of the tracks, but I crash on their couch that night instead when everyone’s asleep except for one. He sees me crying and comes at me from behind, but I don’t think it is Trace.

Why It’s a Must Read: Penelope Douglas is that go-to author for romance books that push the line and make you enjoy the taboo with a sly smile on your face. This new release for 2024 sounds so intriguing. I cannot wait to meet ALL the brothers!

Check out my book review of Five Brothers.

August’s Most Anticipated New Romance Book Releases

Dark Restraint
by Katee Robert

Contemporary Greek Retelling
Tropes: Arranged Marriage
Releasing August 6, 2024

Ariadne Vitalis is in trouble. She’s betrayed her father—and his benefactor—and now she’s left to rely on the questionable mercy of Olympus to keep her safe which means a marriage to Dionysus. She has no choice but to agree, even if there’s only one man she’s ever wanted.

The Minotaur was promised to be given Ariadne as a reward but now he’s walking her down the aisle to a different man. Ariadne can never forgive him for what he’s done, and he can never change. But when his hands are on her body and his wicked words are whispered in her ear, she might just be willing to let all of Olympus burn.

Why It’s a Must Read: The Neon Gods series is one that hooked me from the start with its intriguing plot line and amazing characters steeped in Greek mythology who get down and dirty with one another all the while plotting and scheming. I’ve been waiting for Ariadne’s story!

The Pairing
by Casey McQuiston

Queer Romance
Releasing August 6, 2024

After a brutal breakup on the way to their dream European food and wine tour, Theo and Kit exit each other’s lives once and for all. Time apart has done them good and now four years later, they both separately decide to finally take that trip, only now they’re trapped with each other for eighteen days.

They think they can handle the close quarters but when Theo suggests a friendly wager to see who can sleep with their hot Italian tour guide first, Kit is totally game. And why stop there? Why not a full-on European hookup competition? But sometimes a taste of everything only makes you crave what you can’t have.

Why It’s a Must Read: Casey McQuiston didn’t release a new romance book in 2023 so August can’t come fast enough for me to get my hands on her new queer romance. Her debut novel, Red White & Royal Blue, is one of my all-time favorite romance books so I’m hoping this one earns its place on that list along with it.

Check out my book review of The Pairing.

Related: Best Gay Romance Novels

BONUS: Who’s Excited For This One?!

Onyx Storm
by Rebecca Yarros

Fantasy Romance
Releasing: Hopefully sometime in 2024, but now not until January 2025!

Why It’s a Must Read: I was hopeful at the end of 2023 that the third book in the Fourth Wing series would release at the end of 2024 but Rebecca Yarros announced in April that it’s releasing in January 2025 (so you can bet it will be on my most anticipated romance books of 2025 list!). While we wait for it, Yarros has a new contemporary romance book releasing in October 2024 (Variation) so stay tuned for that!

Related: Books like Fourth Wing

Keep Track of 2024’s New Romance Book Releases

With already 40 new romance books to read in 2024, I want to make sure that you don’t forget a single one which is why I highly recommend you snag The Romance Book Reading Journal.

The Romance Book Reading Journal is the perfect place for you to keep track of all of the must-read romance books you hope to devour this year. This journal includes To Read lists and several pages to track and review your favorites. Grab your copy today then be sure to share which new romance book release YOU are most excited to read in 2024 in the comments below.

Related Lists:

• Most Anticipated New Romance Books of 2025
• Most Anticipated Romance Books of 2023
• New Romantasy Books of 2024 All Fans Must Read

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