Annabel Monaghan knows how to tell a love story; her latest novel Summer Romance was an instant hit shooting up the USA Today bestseller list last week! Go Annabel! Since she’s my author friend and because she knows about all things sweet and spicy (and funny!), I asked Annabel to share her favorite romance novels for every mood.
First, a quick rundown of Summer Romance. Called a “bingeable five star read” by romance queen Abby Jimenez, the book is about a professional organizer whose life is a total mess…and then she meets Ethan. “The last thing newly single mom Ali needs is to make her life messier, but there’s no harm in a little summer romance. Is there?” That’s from the jacket copy! Sounds so good. I’m going to listen to this one after I finish Real Americans by Rachel Kuong — something to look forward to on those long road trips.
Without further ado, here are Annabel’s romance picks for every mood…
The Moment You Realize You’re Thinking About Your Ex Too Much:
Love, Me by Jessica Saunders
Says Annabel: “What if your first love grew up to be super famous and all of your love letters were leaked to the press? You’d probably have to get in touch, right? You’ll love it.”
On a day you wish you traveled more…
The Heirloom by Jessie Rosen
Says Annabel: “Follow Jessie Rosen to the ends of the earth as she tracks down all the love stories associated with her vintage engagement ring. It’s the trip of a lifetime and one of the most satisfying endings I’ve ever read.”
When you realize you need a big change…
Morbidly Yours by Ivy Fairbanks
Says Annabel “And now for something totally different - an absolutely unputdownable romance about a demisexual Irish mortician and the most lovable woman in all of Texas.”
You’re in the mood for The Notebook again…
A Happier Life by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Says Annabel: “Sigh. This is a love story wrapped in a mystery about the circumstances around the disappearance of the heroine’s grandparents decades prior. It’s achingly romantic, and I couldn’t put it down.” (We’ll be running an interview with Kristy this Friday!)
You’re ready to reinvent yourself…
Seven Summer Weekends by Jane Rosen
From Annabel: “Self reinvention is easy, if your aunt leaves you a beach house. Plus, you may just fall for the guy next door and figure out the secret to a happy life. I loved this one!”
You’re getting over a bad breakup…
Funny Story by Emily Henry
Says Annabel: “This one - the ultimate heartbreak story turned into the ultimate love story. It’s starting to get on my nerves how Emily Henry gets it right every single time.”
You’re in a relationship rut…
Rules for Second Chances by Maggie North
Says Annabel: “I’ll just say it - this is the best book I’ve read in ages. It’s a deep look into marriage and taking risks and it’s just so wonderfully different. Just read it.”