Hot Romance Books to Further Heat Up Your Summer
If you’re searching for some early summer, heart-fluttering romance, today we’ve rounded up a collection that includes a variety of hot romance books that have been popular and well-liked by Hidden Gems ARC readers.
Devilish Ink by Sienna Blake
With over 500 reviews, Devilish Ink is for you if you like “touch her and die” vibes and morally grey book boyfriends. One lie leads to another in this hot romance book, evolving from stalking to possession. Now, he’ll stop at nothing to keep her, even if it means fathering a child with her, risking his bond with his brother.
“It was a page turner and very well written book,” wrote Anonymous in their 5-star review. “It is a dark romance and would highly recommend reading the TW before buying or reading this book. Ry (FMC) was a broken character who has a past, that made you feel for ( I definitely cried for her at times). Liam is a dark and broken character that is relatable. I was definitely cheering for this couple even through the tough times in the book. I can’t wait to read more from this author. I would highly recommend reading this book if you love dark romances.”
“Liam and Ryleigh are the kind of couple we love in dark romance. She has a dark past and is guarding her heart, he has a secret and wants to share his everything with her. Liam has a place on my book bf list for sure. He is broody, possessive, and over the top. Total Touch her and die vibes,” wrote Kimberly R. in their 5-star review. “Devilish Ink was a wild ride from start to finish. The writing was great, the pacing was fast without overlooking details, and I would definitely read another book by this author!”
Cruel Vows by K.J. Devoir
With over 25 reviews on Amazon, Cruel Vows is a dark romance Frankenstein retelling. Majesty International is not just a top-tier matchmaking service; it’s a lifestyle club for global elites, demanding secrecy and lifelong loyalty. Some vows are unbreakable, and escape seems impossible.
“This book was well written and interesting. I read it in one evening. The plot is full of danger, secrets, blackmail, betrayal, and a mob connection so strong it affects many families even stretching to other continents. Derek and Eliza fall in love but getting out of their situation alive is nearly impossible,” wrote Anonymous in their 5-star review. “I enjoyed this book and am happy to recommend it.”
“The story was dark but it was so well done. The author brought the reader to the darkness but brought us to the light occasionally. The author walked a tight line to keep it from going totally dark,” wrote Lisa in their 5-star review. “I fell in love with Derek and truly wanted him happy.”
The Dominant by Sienna Snow
With over 190 ratings on Amazon, The Dominant is a private club romance that explores the limits of dominance and submission, of pain and pleasure and of danger and love, according to the publisher’s description. Architect Damon Pierce desires only one night—no strings attached, especially not with his friend’s sister. Haunted by his past, control is his solace, but it’s a fragile peace.
“I really enjoyed this extremely well written series and have searched out several others under The Midnight Dynasty auspices,” wrote Anonymous in their 5-star review. “Snow’s characters are vivid, as are everyone’s particular environments. While Sophia is a strong and feisty female, I really enjoyed Damon despite and because of all his demons, as well as his fascination with Sophia. I’ve already read a few standalones and Leo’s series so I was already drawn to the characters. I especially wanted Lucian’s story, as I found him utterly intriguing but I loved all of the Morelli siblings and several of Sophia’s acquaintances were riveting.”
“Damon and Sophia have a beautiful love story, but it’s also messed up.,” wrote Anonymous in their 5-star review “He wants her as a sub but doesn’t want to hurt her. She wants him but doesn’t just want the little he gives. They work through their issues and are stronger for it.”
Charles, With Love by Sydney Winward
WIth a dozen reviews on Amazon, Charles, With Love is a Snow White fairytale retelling. Charles Lockwood’s simple task of escorting the princess to a neighboring kingdom unravels when their party is ambushed, forcing him to impulsively rescue her. But she’s not a princess—she’s a stand-in.
“This is book four in the Letters to Love series. It’s a sweet, enemies-to-lovers, some faking, gender swap snow white retelling,” wrote Jennifer in their 5-star review. “Great fun characters and interesting story line.”
“He has been sent to take the princess to her wedding but they are attacked on the way. He will learn she is not the princess he was expecting. Now his mission has changed and he will need to protect her,” wrote Tanya in their 5-star review. “A great Snow White retelling tale.”
Loving Smoke by Barbara Nolan
With over 75 reviews and a 4.5 average star rating, Loving Smoke is an enemies to lovers, age gap dark MC romance between Smoke and Marisol. In the novel, Marisol asks herself how she can love the man that murdered her mother.
“I loved Smoke and Marisol. Their chemistry was palpable from the start and the tension was on point,” wrote Allison D. in their 5-star review. “There was the perfect amount of steam, drama and suspense with this one.”
“I think Smoke is one of my favorite characters in Barbara Nolan’s world. He has 0% restraint when it comes to the ladies,” wrote Wendy I. in their 5-star review. “I think my most favorite part was when Marisol’s father locked her in the office with his two goons and she kicked butt to get out and save Smoke. Absolutely fantastic world building. I believe they saved each other. Looking forward to more from this series!”
Hidden Gems readers got to read these books for free, so if you want more romances, sign up today! Subscribers to Hidden Gems receive invitations to read books like these – plus other titles from any of up to 15 other genres – for free. Authors send these out in the hopes that the readers will write an honest review once they’re done.