Romance continues to dominate bestseller lists in 2026, with readers falling in love with everything from slow-burn contemporary stories to magical romantasy worlds and unforgettable enemies-to-lovers romances. Whether you're looking for a light-hearted beach read or an emotional story that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, this year's romance releases have something for everyone.
We've rounded up some of the very best romance books of 2026 that deserve a place on your TBR.
Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune
Publication Date: 7 May 2026
Carley Fortune returns with another heartfelt summer romance that blends friendship, second chances, and unforgettable chemistry. If you love emotional contemporary romance with beautiful settings and plenty of tension, this is one to add to your basket.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Friends-to-Lovers
- Holiday Romance
- Emotional Reads
Don't Fall in Love with Me by Paige Toon
Publication Date: 23 April 2026
Paige Toon once again delivers an emotional love story filled with longing, complicated relationships and unforgettable characters. Fans of slow-burn romance won't want to miss this one.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Slow Burn
- Love Triangles
- Contemporary Romance
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Publication Date: 7 May 2026
Now available in paperback, Emily Henry's latest bestseller remains one of the year's most talked-about romances. Combining witty dialogue, heartfelt emotion and irresistible chemistry, it's an easy recommendation for both long-time fans and readers discovering Emily Henry for the first time.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Romantic Comedy
- Character-Driven Romance
The Project by Annie Lord
Publication Date: 16 July 2026
Set against London's modern dating scene, this witty debut follows three friends as an experiment in matchmaking leads to unexpected feelings. It's funny, relatable and packed with charm.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Friends-to-lovers
- Rom-com fans
Rites of the Starling
Publication Date: 7 April 2026
Romantasy continues to thrive in 2026, and this highly anticipated sequel offers high stakes, powerful emotions and a romance that keeps readers turning the pages.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Fantasy Romance
- Found Family
- Adventure
Broken Dove
Publication Date: 12 May 2026
If you enjoy dystopian romance with plenty of action alongside the love story, Broken Dove delivers betrayal, political tension and impossible choices.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Dystopian Romance
- Love Triangles
The Gravewood by Kelly Andrew
Publication Date: 23 April
One of the standout paranormal romances of 2026, The Gravewood mixes vampires, gothic atmosphere and dangerous romance into an addictive read that has already generated plenty of buzz.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Vampire romance
- Gothic fantasy
Weavingshaw by Heba Al-Wasity
Publication Date: 26 February 2026
This beautifully written romantasy offers a fresh take on familiar fantasy tropes with atmospheric world-building, yearning romance and unforgettable characters.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Slow-burn
- Romantasy
- Gothic Fantasy
Which Romance Book Should You Read Next?
If you want a feel-good summer romance, pick Our Perfect Storm.
If you're looking for witty banter and laughs, choose The Project.
Love vampires and gothic romance? The Gravewood should be at the top of your list.
If fantasy worlds and epic romance are more your style, Rites of the Starling and Weavingshaw are must-reads.