Romance

Swoon-worthy, smart, and gloriously escapist. Meet STEM-flirty heroines (Ali Hazelwood’s “Check & Mate,” “Love, Theoretically”), beach-reads with heart (Emily Henry’s “Funny Story” and 3-book set), and slow-burn or high-angst page-turners from Rebecca Yarros (“Variation,” “Rebel”) and Ana Huang (“King of Pride,” “If We Were Perfect”). Cozy bookstore vibes (Laurie Gilmore’s “The Cinnamon Bun Book Store”), western heat (Elsie Silver’s “Flawless,” “Wild Love”), and YA-crossover charm sit side by side. Expect chemistry, crackling dialogue and the emotional payoff we read romance for — perfect for rainy Sundays and sun-drenched holidays alike.