Romances to Swoon Over in the Second Half of 2022

A collage of the covers included in this article

Summer may be in full swing, but we just can’t help looking into the future. We’ve rounded up 25 must-read romance novels hitting shelves in the second half of 2022. Like the autumn leaves, we predict you’ll soon be falling for these romances. From a vampire queen to workplace rivals on the set of a reality TV show, these novels are filled with unforgettable meet-cutes, heartstopping flirtation, and endings sure to satisfy. Many of them are even available to request on NetGalley!

Partners in Crime by Alisha Rai

Mira’s plans for a quiet boring future go up in smoke after a trip to settle her aunt’s affairs finds her escaping from kidnappers with Naveen, the man whose heart she broke.

The Hellion and the Hero by Emily Sullivan

Eight years ago, Lady Georgiana broke Captain Henry Harris’ heart by marrying another. Now a widow, Georgiana needs his help and, as they work together, Henry feels old feelings reigniting.

Astrid Parker Doesn’t Fail by Ashley Herring Blake

Also one of our must-read queer books of 2022, this romance kicks off with a meet-disaster before Astrid and Jordan realize they’re working together on a renovation reality tv show.

Bend Toward the Sun by Jen Devon

Rowan McKinnon doesn’t have time for love, especially as she works to restore an abandoned vineyard. But meeting Harrison Brady makes her question everything she thought she wanted.

Court of the Vampire Queen by Katee Robert

Katee Robert and vampires—need we say more? This paranormal romance features a poly relationship between Mina (half vampire and half human) and three intoxicating vampires.

On the Hustle by Adriana Herrera

Alba arrives in Dallas ready to take chances and put herself first, so when her former boss shows up with the offer to be part of a home improvement reality TV show, she finds she can’t refuse.

The Gunslinger’s Guide to Avoiding Matrimony by Michelle McLean

Gunslinger Adam Brady is looking to lay low in the town of Desolation, but when the price of sanctuary is marriage, he wonders if he should take his chances with the bounty hunter on his tail.

Kiss Me, Catalina by Priscilla Oliveras

Priscilla Oliveras gives the enemies-to-lovers trope a musical twist in this tale of a San Antonio singer joining a 7-week tour with a mariachi icon who challenges her to reach new heights.

In the Event of Love by Courtney Kae

Event planner Morgan Ross retreats to the small town of Fern Falls just in time to help her childhood crush, Rachel Reed, save her family’s Christmas tree farm from being destroyed.

Just Like Magic by Sarah Hogle

Bettie accidentally summons Hall, the human embodiment of the Holiday Spirit, just in time to save her from going home alone for the holidays. But what happens when she falls for a man destined to disappear?

Duke Most Wicked by Lenora Bell

After gambling away his fortune, Brandan Delamar, Duke of Westbury, must marry well or find matches for his sisters. The only thing standing in his way is their music instructor Viola Beaton.

Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan

Kennedy Ryan gives divorced couple Yasmen and Josiah a second chance as they navigate co-parenting their two children and find themselves drawn to each other all over again.

A Duke at the Door by Susanna Allen

Allen’s latest romance, in which a lion shifter duke learns to live again with the help of an apothecary heroine, is perfect for historical fans wanting a bit of paranormal in their next read.

The Holiday Trap by Roan Parrish

Roan Parrish draws inspiration from the cinematic masterpiece The Holiday in this romance following Greta and Truman, who swap houses for the holiday season and find love along the way.

The Stand-Up Groomsman by Jackie Lau

Vivian will do anything to make sure her friend’s wedding goes smoothly, even play nice with groomsman Mel. But as they spend time together, she realizes she may have misjudged him.

The Second First Chance by Mona Shroff

A deadly house fire changed Riya and Dhillon’s lives forever and tore them apart. Years later, they’re thrown back together and Dhillon is shocked to learn Riya became a firefighter.

Witchful Thinking by Celestine Martin

Craving a bit of magic? Celestine Martin has you covered. When a wishing spell goes wrong Lucinda has to say “yes” to every opportunity—including helping her old high school crush.

The Gentleman’s Book of Vices by Jess Everlee

In this Victorian romance, the reluctantly engaged Charlie Price sets out to meet Miles Montague, his favorite erotica author, only to promptly fall head-over-heels in love with him.

Ship Wrecked by Olivia Dade

On their last night on set, co-stars Maria and Peter give in to the desire they’ve denied. But can they build a future living an ocean apart? Dade never disappoints—making this a can’t-miss release!

Better Than Fiction by Alexa Martin

Armed with a book bucket list and a love of reading, bestselling author Jasper Williams is determined to show Drew Young, a non-reader who inherited a bookshop, what she’s missing.

Mistakes Were Made by Meryl Wilsner

What happens when a college senior accidentally hooks up with her best friend’s mom? Find out this fall in Meryl Wilsner’s latest, and in the meantime check out our interview here!

Angelika Frankenstein Makes Her Match by Sally Thorne

Sally Thorne puts a spin on a classic and introduces readers to Angelika Frankenstein, who takes a leaf out of her brother’s book and attempts to use science to create the perfect man.

The Decoy Girlfriend by Lillie Vale

After using their shared likeness for perks, Freya owes her celebrity doppelgänger Mandi a favor in the form of pretending to be her for a month—which means dating her PR stunt boyfriend.

Would You Rather by Allison Ashley

Best friends Noah and Mia agree to a marriage of convenience so that Mia can quit her job to go back to school and retain health insurance, only to realize they may be perfect for each other.

Bet on It by Jodie Slaughter

Need a romance you can pick up right now? Jodie Slaughter’s latest is newly on shelves and features a bingo-based sex pact between Aja and Walker, the grandson of her bingo buddy.

Which of these books is at the top of your TBR?

Kelly Gallucci

Kelly Gallucci is the Executive Editor of We Are Bookish, where she oversees the editorial content, offers book recommendations, and interviews authors and NetGalley members. When she's not working, Kelly can be found color coordinating her bookshelves, eating Chipotle, and watching way too many baking shows.

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