5 Must-read romance novels by women of color
Written by Vindhya Burugupalli
Romance stories have tugged on our heartstrings since the beginning of time. From tragic tales of star-crossed lovers to steamy rom-coms, it is a genre that never goes out of style. But like most popular media, romance novels lack diverse representation. So, if you have ever felt underrepresented or couldn’t relate to the popular tropes, this one’s for you. Here are some giddy romance novels to indulge in:
“Seven Days in June” by Tia Williams
Two writers unexpectedly reunite 15 years after a fervent and life-changing week they spent falling madly in love. Although they pretend not to know each other now, their repressed trauma and undeniable chemistry resurface, raising suspicion of the Black literati. The sparks between them are still flying, but is it enough to sustain an adult relationship? Get lost in an electrifying, sexy and arousing romance that will keep you on your toes.
“The Brown Sisters” trilogy by Talia Hibbert
Three sisters navigate love, life and kinship in “The Brown Sisters” trilogy with each book focusing on one sister. Two out of the three books feature the much loved enemies-to-lovers trope and the other is a friends-to-lovers, fake dating story. The romance has a glorius buildup, and the steamy sex scenes are written in tasteful and vivid details. If you’re not already sold, this series is a refreshing take on how bisexual, autistic and bigger bodies are potrayed in the media.
“The Stars and the Blackness Between Them” by Junauda Petrus
Two black teenage girls from starkly different backgrounds meet and immediately fall head over heels for each other. Mabel is trying to help Audre adjust to the USAmerican high school lifestyle, but their dynamic takes a turn when she’s sick. As Mabel faces an uncertain future, Audre steps up to take care of her. Immerse yourself in a deeply passionate and tear-jerking tale of two teenagers tugging with themes of sexuality, identity, love and death.
“You Had Me at Hola” by Alexis Daria
Co-stars Jasmine Lin Rodriguez and Ashton Suaréz can’t keep their hands off each other. Their sultry on-screen romance in a bilingual soap opera often heats up between them off-screen as well. But word travels fast in Hollywood, and they can’t afford another tabloid scandal, or worse, risk exposing a deep-seated secret. If you’re looking for a story bubbling with forbidden romance, sex, betryal and family drama, look no further.
“The Heart Principle” by Helen Hoang
After going viral, Anna Sun, a violinist, achieves unexpected career heights causing her to burn out. Meanwhile, her boyfriend insists on having an open relationship which drives her into a string of one-night stands. But things take a turn when a no-strings-attached relationship turns into an intimate situationship. On top of everything, Anna’s family is struck with a tragedy. Explore modern love and sex, self-discovery, grief and acceptance in this beautifully woven story.
Hot girl summer may have come to an end, but your steamy fantasies don’t have to.
Cover photo via Splash
