Summer is here, and it’s time to embrace the 2024 summer romance vibe here at Under the Covers! This year, we’re all about having a Hot Grandma Summer, inspired by Cheyenne over at ReadWithChey on Instagram. Low-tech hobbies like knitting, crocheting, quilting, and even ceramics, mixed with some of the most swoon-worthy romances you’ll read all season. And what’s summer without a killer playlist? We’ve got that covered too. Get ready to enjoy some old-school fun while diving into 15 must-read mostly romances that’ll keep you company through the long, summer days. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hiding from the heat indoors (like me), these books are perfect for making your 2024 summer reading unforgettable.
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Summer Romance Books 2024
Summer is the perfect time to dive into some romance tropes that just scream sunshine and relaxation. We’re talking about beachside flings that heat up faster than the sand, second chances that feel like a breath of fresh ocean air, and road trip romances where every mile is filled with swoon-worthy moments. How about some small-town love where everyone knows your name and your business? Or vacation romances that make you wish your trip would never end? Don’t forget those summer camp crushes that rekindle old flames. But before we get to the books, let’s set the vibe for a fun and relaxing summer.
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Enjoy a Hot Grandma Summer Vibe
Embrace the laid-back, nostalgic charm of a Hot Grandma Summer with us. It’s all about slowing down, enjoying the simple things, and rediscovering some classic, low-tech hobbies that are perfect for a relaxing summer.
First, put your phone down for a bit and then pick an activity that calls to you from this list of ideas:
Knitting and Crocheting: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, start with something simple like a scarf or dishcloth, and before you know it, you’ll be whipping up cozy blankets and adorable creatures. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to binge-watch your favorite shows or a great audiobook.
Quilting: Quilting might seem daunting at first, but it’s a fantastic way to unwind and create something beautiful and functional. Gather your fabric scraps, pick a pattern, and start stitching.
Sewing: Dust off that sewing machine and get creative. From making your own summer dresses to cute accessories, sewing is a rewarding hobby that lets you wear your creations. And hey, homemade gifts are always a hit!
Ceramics: Get your hands dirty with some clay and unleash your inner artist. Whether you’re throwing pots on a wheel or hand-building quirky sculptures, ceramics is a wonderfully tactile way to express yourself. Plus, you’ll have some unique home decor or handmade gifts at the end of it.
Gardening: Cultivate your green thumb and create your own little oasis. Gardening is not only therapeutic but also incredibly rewarding. Plant some colorful flowers, grow your own veggies, or set up a herb garden. There’s something magical about watching your plants thrive under your care.
Baking: Channel your inner pastry chef and whip up some delicious treats. Baking is a great way to spend time in the kitchen and create mouthwatering goodies to share with friends and family. Try new recipes or perfect your favorite classics—there’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house.
Reading Nook: Set up a cozy reading nook where you can unwind with your favorite hobbies and, of course, your summer romance reads.
Remember, Hot Grandma Summer is all about slowing down and savoring the simple pleasures. So take a break from the hustle and bustle, indulge in some creative activities, and enjoy every moment.
2024 Summer Playlist
Every good hobby session needs a great soundtrack. That is when you’re not taking the opportunity to listen to an audiobook, of course. Create a playlist of your favorite tunes—think a mix of classics and modern hits that keep the mood light and fun. And if you don’t have one, here’s a 2024 summer playlist recommendation.
2024 Summer Romance Book Recommendations
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, escaping the heat indoors, or taking a break between your newfound hobbies, these 15 romance reads are perfect companions.
HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Ne’er Duke Well by Alexandra Vasti
In this steamy Regency romp, Lady Selina sets out to find the Duke of Stanhope the perfect wife so he can get custody of his half-siblings. Peter Kent, freshly minted duke and notorious for stealing alcohol from the judge making a decision in the case, seeks Selina’s problem-solving and matchmaking prowess. Except Peter wants her! The catch? She runs a secret erotic library and has a scandalous chemistry with Peter that can’t be ignored. It’s a delightful mix of radical politics, scandal and sizzling tension that’ll keep you hooked.
CONTEMPORARY SPORTS ROMANCE
The Game Changer by Lana Ferguson
If you’re looking for a steamy hockey romance that perfectly pairs childhood friends to lovers and a relationship of convenience, look no further than Lana Ferguson’s The Game Changer. Ian and Delilah were simply perfect for each other. Ferguson did an excellent job at weaving Lila and Ian’s personal and professional lives together, all while giving plenty of spice and including meaningful family dynamics. This was yet another steamy, bingeable read from Ferguson, solidifying her place on my auto-buy list.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Game Changer by Lana Ferguson book review
CONTEMPORARY SAPPHIC ROMANCE
Seas and Greetings by Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone
A Christmas in July on a cruise ship? Yes, please! Bodyguard Krysta Morton takes on her final job protecting high-maintenance influencer Addison Hayes. Sparks fly, rules break, and a Twilight-inspired musical keeps things lively. As mysterious threats loom, Krysta and Addison’s chemistry heats up. With humor and heart, this steamy rom-com offers a festive, high-seas adventure you won’t forget.
FANTASY ROMANCE
A Rivalry of Hearts by Tessonja Odette
Rival writers, a fae bargain, and a month-long dueling book tour set the stage for this spicy fantasy romcom. Edwina Danforth, romance author with more imagination than experience, finds herself in a steamy competition with the annoyingly handsome William Haywood. The stakes? A coveted publishing contract. As they clash and sizzle, their rivalry turns into an unexpected romance that promises plenty of heat and heart.
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Finding Mr. Write by Kelley Armstrong
Daphne McFadden’s brilliant move to write under a male pseudonym turns into a hilarious disaster when she needs to prove “Zane Remington” exists. Enter Chris Stanton, the reluctant face of Zane, who must navigate a media frenzy in the Yukon wilderness while pretending to be an outdoorsy macho author. With femme fans swooning and a growing crush on Daphne, the charade is as entertaining as it is romantic.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Finding Mr. Write by Kelley Armstrong book review
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Romancing Miss Stone by M.C. Vaughan
It’s a read in one sitting romance where the adventure of Indiana Jones meets the humor and heart of a Hallmark movie, and I couldn’t put it down once I started reading. The fact that the female main character, Alex was the adventurous one and the male lead, Bo, was the straight-laced, ‘have a plan for everything’ type was just the icing on the cake.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Romancing Miss Stone by M.C. Vaughan book review
CONTEMPORARY QUEER ROMANCE
The Pairing by Casey McQuiston
What happens when two bisexual exes accidentally book the same European food and wine tour? Theo and Kit find out in this deliciously fun rom-com. Once childhood friends turned estranged lovers, they challenge each other to a hookup competition amidst the romantic cities of France, Spain, and Italy. With stunning views and luscious flavors, their rivalry heats up, but so do old feelings. Sometimes, the best dishes are those revisited, proving love might just be the ultimate pairing.
CONTEMPORARY (PARANORMAL) ROMANCE
Haunted Ever After by Jen DeLuca
In Haunted Ever After, Cassie and Nick make for a great story: two lost souls who have been left behind in life by family and coworkers, only to find themselves and find their way forward in a haunted Florida tourist town. This was a fun read that can easily be enjoyed by fans of both contemporary romance and paranormal romance. With Casper-friendly ghosts haunting every place from the beach to the bar, this romance was definitely unique and made Haunted Ever After hard to put down.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Haunted Ever After by Jen DeLuca book review
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Change of Heart by Kate Canterbary
Whitney Aldritch, a superstar surgeon, loves crashing weddings with her best friend—until she has a one-night stand with Henry Hazlette, the best man. Imagine her shock when Henry turns up as her new surgical resident. With her leading a hospital ethics initiative and Henry being completely off-limits, their professional facade is tested by stolen glances and accidental tarot readings. Balancing workplace rules and undeniable chemistry, they must decide if their summer fling can turn into something real.
COZY MYSTERY
The Dead Guy Next Door by Lucy Score
Riley Thorn’s life is a mess—divorced, broke, and living with elderly roommates. Oh, and those “hallucinations” her tarot card-dealing mom claims are psychic visions. Enter Nick Santiago, a private investigator with a rebellious streak, looking for Riley’s neighbor who turns up dead. With Riley as a suspect, Nick steps in, not just for the mystery but because sparks fly. They need to solve the case before the killer targets Riley, making this rom-com a thrilling summer read.
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Savor It by Tarah DeWitt
With a cast full of dynamic characters and a town with a personality all its own, Savor It was a cozy, small town romance that will keep you rooting for the happiness and love of each and every character. Sage and Fisher started as opposites, but brought out the best in each other. I loved their growth throughout the story, and loved the journey of so many of these characters. For a feel-good romance, Savor It.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Savor It by Tarah DeWitt book review
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Not Another Love Song by Julie Soto
In a scorchingly hot follow-up to Forget Me Not, Julie Soto does it again, this time with a broody rock star cellist and the young violinist who’s learning to truly feel the music. What may have started as Reylo fanfiction quickly becomes an unputdownable romance that sizzles from Gwen and Xander’s very first meeting and only turns up the heat from there.
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson
When a heckler becomes an accidental love interest, a baseball player’s game will never be the same. Daphne never meant to make the third baseman for the Carolina Battery cry. And she certainly didn’t mean to fall in love with both the player and the game. But Chris and Daphne’s relationship takes off, first in DMs and then in real life. When Daphne’s secret comes to light, it might be three strikes and she’s out, unless Chris is willing to give her another chance at a home run to his heart.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson book review
HISTORICAL MYSTERY
A Daughter of Fair Verona by Christina Dodd
Romeo and Juliet are alive, and their eldest, Rosaline, has her hands full in fair Verona. Picture Knives Out meets Bridgerton as Rosaline, a self-proclaimed spinster at 20, navigates family drama and matchmaking gone awry. When her latest suitor, Duke Stephano, is found dead, Rosaline must solve the murder mystery while discovering if love at first sight is more than a myth. Witty and delightful, this historical rom-com will keep you guessing and laughing.
THRILLER
The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean
Detective Chelsey Calhoun’s world changes when Ellie Black, missing for two years, is found in Washington’s woods. With her own sister’s disappearance haunting her for twenty years, Chelsey is determined to uncover Ellie’s secrets. Why won’t Ellie reveal where she’s been or who she’s protecting? This thrilling mystery blends a detective’s relentless search for truth with a story of survival and hope.
And there you have it—15 sizzling reads to make your 2024 summer unforgettable! From steamy regency romps to thrilling mysteries, there’s something for everyone in this list. Now, it’s your turn. Have you discovered a new favorite book this summer? We’d love to hear all about it! Drop your recommendations and must-reads in the comments below. Let’s keep the summer reading vibes going and help each other find even more amazing stories to get lost in.
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