You are just a reader standing in front of a bookshelf and letting it tell you what to read.
Luckily, there are answers—or at least we do. The last days of summer are the perfect time to watch a romantic comedy, whether on a (still) warm beach or in a cafe where you might experience your own meet-cute.
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We’ve compiled a list of novels that are either out now or coming soon – but we needed a little help, so we turned to (once again) to Leah Koch, co-founder and co-owner of The torn bodice, the romance bookstore in Culver City (and Brooklyn). Read on to discover a list of our and Leah’s recommendations for lighthearted romantic comedies to lose yourself in this summer (or, if you prefer, winter break).
We hope they complete you.
“The Bump”, Sidney Karger
Love goes on a road trip in this romantic comedy from Best Men writer Karger. In his latest film, TC commercial director Wyatt and his partner, actor and journalist Biz, decide to drive a 1992 Volkswagen from Brooklyn to California to pick up their baby, who is being delivered by a surrogate. It gets… well, bumpy.
“Cash Delgado is living his dream,” Tehlor Kay Mejia
“A heartwarming queer romance set in a tight-knit small-town community where longtime friends navigate the transition from friendship to lovers while trying to save their bar,” says Koch of one of her summer favorites.
“Our Design”, Sajni Patel
Bhanu is sunny. Despite his name, Sunny is not. The two tech colleagues have different temperaments and don’t get along at all – but thanks to Bhanu’s impulsive lie, they are forced to pretend to be lovers when the two meet in Hawaii. This is a story of enemies turned lovers, with a tropical twist.
“Everyone I’ve kissed since you became famous,” Mae Marvel
Leah Koch describes this novel as a queer love story about childhood friends, one of whom is now a famous actress. She says of the author: “Marvel’s great writing brings the irresistible chemistry between the characters to life, making this romantic comedy a must-read this season.”
“The Friendzone Experiment”, Zen Cho
Renee Goh seems to have it all – her own women’s clothing company in London and a pop star boyfriend. After she is abandoned, her father offers her the chance to run the family business in Singapore, but there is a complication – she reconnects with her college friend Ket Siong, which puts her future in doubt.
“Hot Summer”, Elle Everhart
The latest novel from “Wanderlust” author Everhart follows Cas, who becomes a contestant on a British reality dating show. She wants to win the show so she can get a promotion at work, but her plans go awry when she falls in love with Ada, a contestant who longs for a real relationship.
“Just a stupid love story”, Katelyn Doyle
The latest from LA author Doyle (who writes historical romances under the name Scarlett Peckham) is a meta-romantic comedy: it tells the story of Molly, a romantic comedy screenwriter who believes love is actually an illusion, but may have to change her mind after she reconnects with her high school boyfriend.
“Lavash at first sight”, Taleen Voskuni
The second novel by San Francisco author Voskuni is about Ellie and Vanya, two Armenian-American women from feuding families in the Bay Area who find themselves inevitably drawn to each other. Expect some delicious food in this.
“Let the games begin”, Rufaro Faith Mazarura
The games may be over, but you need your Olympic fever not yet. Mazarura’s debut is about two strangers who cross paths (literally) at the Summer Games: Olivia, an ambitious intern, and Zeke, a star runner for the Great Britain team. Talk about torch-bearing.
“The Lost History”, Meg Shaffer
“A fairy tale for adults!” Koch enthuses. “Inspired by CS Lewis’ ‘The Chronicles of Narnia,’ best friends Jeremy and Rafe, once lost in a magical realm, must confront their mysterious past to help veterinary technician Emilie find her missing sister, with Schaffer’s masterful storytelling weaving together magic and adventure.”
Miranda in Retrograde, Lauren Layne
The latest from Made in Manhattan author Layne focuses on the title character, a young physics professor who, after missing out on a promotion, decides to spend a year following her horoscope. She meets two fascinating men – but which one do the stars say she is destined to be with?
“Name Your Price”, Holly James
In Southern California author James’ latest novel, a public argument between actor Chuck and his Hollywood offspring Olivia leads to the couple’s separation – and lands them in a reality show in which they must live together for a month for a chance to win a million dollars each. Of course, there’s a catch: They’re not allowed to touch each other and the house only has one bed.
“The Royals Upstairs”, Karina Halle (published on September 10)
Prolific writer Halle, who lives in LA and Canada, returns with a romantic comedy about James, who takes a job as a protection officer for a Norwegian prince, only to discover that the nanny for the royal children is his ex-girlfriend. Sparks fly, even in icy Scandinavia.
“Sunshine and Spice”, Aurora Palit (released September 10th)
Palit’s debut novel is about brand consultant Naomi who agrees to a fake date with Dev, whose mother is desperate to get him married as soon as possible. It doesn’t take long for the fake couple to realise that they actually have feelings for each other.
“The Truth According to Ember”, Danica Nava
Southern California-based author Nava’s debut novel is about a Chickasaw woman who pretends to be white to get a job in accounting. She meets and falls in love with a Native American co-worker named Danuwoa, but her employer forbids dating in the office – which puts the two in a favorable position for a blackmailing colleague.
