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For Readers

Steamy Romance Novels to Keep Your Summer Scorching

By: Hidden Gems on July 30, 2024

Hidden Gems Books ARC service.

By: Hidden Gems on July 30, 2024

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Romance is our most popular genre, and steamy romance novels are the absolute favorite amongst our ARC readers. Although there are so many great romance books to choose from, no two are alike, which makes selecting the next one to read a daunting task. But fear not, we’ve put this list together to help with just that! From mafia romance to light hearted rom coms, if you are looking for a new read to make your summer sizzle, just pick from one of these great selections below.


When Kings Rise

When Kings Rise by Vi Carter

With a 4.3 star average on Amazon, When Kings Rise is the first installment of The O’Sullivan Brides series, a dark Irish mafia romance. The blurb notes that this book is dark, and includes a cult presence, mature themes, and mature steam.

“They live in a world of treachery, betrayal, fear, and power! Diarmuid has suffered for years and now it’s time for him to choose a bride. Selene, Niamh, and Amira were born to serve, they know the rules, and what’s expected of them. There’s danger, suspense, and cruelty with every encounter. Vi Carter’s story is a masterpiece of intrigue, depravity, and of an assassin with a conscience. The brides have their own scars and Amira’s life is filled with conflict. Trust, whether it’s familial or related to the Kings, is fleeting or a mirage. I love the intensity between Diarmuid and his brides: each encounter brings out their individuality. He’s not quite as detached as it seemed, he’s much more protective.

There’s triggers that should be considered. The cliffhanger is disturbing: mental health is a serious issue. I can’t wait to read the next book…” Merilu K. explains in her five-star Amazon review.

Bonnie M. concurs in her five-star Amazon review, “What a truly sensational read from the extremely talented Vi Carter. She takes us into the world of the O’Sullivan’s. A Mafia world, full of darkness and danger, as well as a hidden cult. Vi’s writing is incredible. Her characters are memorable and well-defined. This storyline is a true work of art and I can’t wait to read more in this series.”

Apparently, I'm Torture

Apparently, I’m Torture by Demi Blaze

With a 4.5 star average, Apparently, I’m Torture is an enemies-to-lovers, spicy romantic comedy, and is part of The Double Shot duet. In this tale, former co-workers/current rivals are forced together to work on a fundraiser – will they survive?

“…This was a humorous read with just the right amount of romance. So much is going on in this book that it keeps you turning the pages. Well-developed story line and characters. It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention. The world building is detailed and imaginative. This book has strong, well-developed characters and an interesting story line that keeps you turning the pages…” Jennifer raves in her five-star Amazon review.

Danielle concurs in her five star Amazon review, “This book had me turning the pages so fast, I think I have carpel-tunnel. I was HOOKED! The romance was an angsty slow burn, and earned, just as it was promised. And the writing! This was so well-done, easily up there with Emily Henry’s books. This book deserves more hype, for sure.”

The Frostbound Queen

The Frostbound Queen by Amy Pennza

Boasting a 4.6 star average, The Frostbound Queen is the first book in the Realms of the Covenant series. This fantasy romance is the story of Liria, the heir to the Winter Court, as she is torn between her father’s appointed ally, and a dark-eyed rebel prince.

Adrianna writes in her five-star Amazon review “…Omg! I loved this book so much. It’s a very sexy poly relationship with elves and magic and royalty…The characters were the highlight of the book, and the story and world building took a minor backseat in terms of importance. Regardless it was so freaking good, and I loved every minute of it. 5 out of 5 stars…”

“I loved this fantasy book so much…it was fantastic and super hot with the three of them!! Yum!!! Loved the ending and can’t wait to see what happens next!!” Heather M. explains in her five-star Amazon review.

Cool Girl Summer

Cool Girl Summer by Amber Eve

With a 4.4 star average, Cool Girl Summer is a perfect beach read. This has it all: love triangle, holiday romance, enemies to lovers, and forced proximity. Summer Brookes spontaneously books a ticket to Spain – where sparks fly with her grumpy seat mate.

“This is the perfect beach read. Summer Brookes is going to take risks and change her life. This is a fun enemies-to-lovers, grumpy/sunshine, summer Rom Com. So much is going on in this book that it keeps you turning the pages. Well-developed storyline and characters. It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention. The world building is detailed and imaginative. This book has strong, well-developed characters and an interesting story line that keeps you turning the pages. This story is well written and will draw you into the characters’ emotions. You feel all their angst and love…” Jennifer explains in her five-star Amazon review.

KAW164 raves in their five-star Amazon review, “This was a fun, beachy read! The story is good and has a charming quality to it. The setting is summery and beach themed. The characters are fantastic and the author really brings them to life. The main female character is relatable, funny, and realistic. The main male character is lovable and charming. The other supporting characters are vibrant and add fun and personality to the story. Great beach read book for a funny story with a bit of romance with a summer setting…”

Terrier Trouble

Terrier Trouble by Nala Henkel-Aislinn

With a 4.5 star average, Terrier Trouble is a small town, opposites-attract, Christian romance, and is part of the Maple Cove Dog Lovers’ Society. In this installment, Pastor Pete and Tessa work together to put on a fundraiser for the church’s building, and in the process, sparks fly.

“This was a sweet, wholesome opposites attract romance. It’s lighthearted, hopeful and an inspirational romance. I loved the religious element and darling dogs. The characters are really lovely and the growth they go through as they learn how to be together is heartwarming. A wonderfully entertaining read.” Jacqueline C. writes in her five star Amazon review.

Kristen L. explains in her five-star review, “Awe! This was just so incredibly sweet. I loved how the relationship between Pete and Tessa was focused on developing their friendship first. Especially since they both had a lot of other things on their plates to deal with, and Tessa had some prejudicial upbringing she needed to resolve before she could commit to anything more with the pastor. And I deeply adored how strongly this book encouraged never giving up on your dreams. I love this series so much and I already can’t wait to see what the author will give us next…”


Hidden Gems readers got to read these steamy romance novels first, so if you want more hot happily ever afters to read poolside, 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.

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