Book Review: 'Love Unwritten' by Lauren Asher

C/W: mentions self-harm, abuse, eating disorder.

When people first ask me why I read romance novels, I tend to answer with Why not? For so long, romance novels have been given the reputation of not being “real books.” But even as a young queer teen, I always asked Why not? It has everything a “real book” has - words, pages, a cover. So why is a romance novel not a “real book?” It wasn’t until I became an adult that I realized that the general public tends to see romance as a genre that only women read. And we all know how the general public tends to treat things that women only allegedly enjoy. 

With the rise of TikTok though since the pandemic, the number of romance readers has increased, along with the number of men who enjoy them. Having been an open romance reader since the Fifty Shades craze, romance is the section that I always walk first to whenever I visit Barnes & Noble. And one of the authors who has become someone who I can trust to give me a good love story is Lauren Asher. Asher, famous for her Dreamland Billionaires series, has given us one of the best beach reads of the Summer in Love Unwritten, a romance with a few of my favorite tropes. Forced proximity, grumpy male main character, just to name a few, and plus a beach trip to Hawaii; perfect for the Summer. 

Ellie Sinclair is a hopeless romantic songwriter who wrote the Album of the Year, according to the Grammys. If only the public knew that. Now coming back to her hometown of Lake Wisteria after her best friend’s betrayal, she becomes the nanny and music teacher to the son of the man who she thought she would be over – Rafael Lopez. But things have changed since high school. Rafael is now a billionaire with a company to run, an ex-wife to deal with, and his son Nico who he wants to make memories with. He has to, before Nico goes blind. A romance with Ellie is not what he needs. But a lot can change in fourteen days, and sometimes a vacation romance doesn’t stay in vacation. 

The thing that I love about Asher’s books is that before I even know it, a few hours have passed and I’m 150 pages in. That is how good she is at capturing a reader’s attention and keeping it. Although part of a series, it’s an interconnected standalone. Readers of Asher will love seeing character cameos from her other books, but new readers don’t need to read her previous books to enjoy them. Finally, what Asher does so well is being able to capture these two characters and make you sympathize with their struggles. The struggles of depression and self-harm are ones that I can personally relate to, and it helps break the stigma of these topics, especially in a romance novel. It shows that people who don’t see themselves as “perfect” can accept the help of others, people who they didn’t expect it from, and find the acceptance within themselves and that love for each other. 

In Love Unwritten, Lauren Asher goes back to Lake Wisteria to tell the story of these two characters who saw themselves as broken. In a story of healing from physical and mental scars, they found the acceptance they didn’t know they wanted and were able to find the love they didn’t think they would get to have. If you want that summer read that’ll take you on vacation without having the funds, read Love Unwritten and get ready to be hooked to Lauren Asher. 

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Joseph De La Cruz (He/Him) is an Oakland native and graduate of San Francisco State University with a major in Creative Writing. A lover of Pop music (Britney over Christina, anyday), Disney, pepperoni pizza, and iced coffee, you can find him at the romance section of any bookstore, waiting for his very own meetcute to happen. You can find him on Instagram @princetonboy915 (Yes, it is a reference to that movie!) 

Book Review: Raiders of the Lost Heart By Jo Segura

If something sounds too good to be true, it's probably because it is—at least that’s what Dr. Socorro “Corrie” Mejía has always heard from her abuela. Still, when she is suddenly presented with the opportunity of a lifetime—the opportunity she has been working for her entire career— Corrie can’t help but get her hopes up. To find the remains of the great Aztec warrior, Chimalli, and his tecpatl sacrificial knife, would prove what Corrie has always known: that despite her reputation (though she really is a total badass), she is in fact a respectable and knowledgeable archeologist, and that Chimalli is her ancestor. Though the offer comes shrouded in mystery, Corrie takes a leap of faith and heads to the Mexican jungle, prepared to lead the expedition that will change her life.

Upon arriving Corrie realizes her intuition was correct and she has made a horrible mistake. Not only is she not leading the expedition, which started months before she even received an invitation, but the lead is her dangerously handsome and totally hateful long-time nemesis, Dr. Ford Matthews. Adding this to the list of things Ford has mercilessly taken from her, Corrie is ready to take the next flight back home, but after some convincing, Corrie agrees to join the team.

“Raiders of the Lost Heart is a perfect romcom; the conversation between these enemies-turned-lovers is adorable and heartfelt and the subplots are just as exciting. I was especially surprised by the thoughtful, and even playful, approach Segura takes on some deep and serious topics. ”

For Ford, having Corrie around isn't much better, he knows just how much he’s hurt her in the past, and how much more hurt she’d be if she found out just how easily he stole this project from her. But with his mother in the hospital, he has little choice but to lean on Corrie to make the dig work. After a rocky start, they begin to open up and learn to trust each other. From there, it isn't long before they give in to the mutual attraction that has always driven the hate and constant competition between the two. As if hiding a budding relationship is not enough pressure—not that either of them is sure this could be called a relationship—they soon realize artifacts are missing, and now they must find the thief and keep their discoveries safe.

Raiders of the Lost Heart is a perfect romcom; the conversation between these enemies-turned-lovers is adorable and heartfelt and the subplots are just as exciting. I was especially surprised by the thoughtful, and even playful, approach Segura takes on some deep and serious topics. Throughout the novel, Corrie and Ford have some meaningful conversations on the loss of a parent, the patriarchal practices of a male-dominated field, and the effects of embracing one’s sexuality. 

This novel is definitely a must-read. Personally, I hope to see more of the Adventures of Badass Mejía and Weak Sauce Matthews, as Corrie would call it.

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Photo: © Sean Hoyt

USA Today bestselling author Jo Segura lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and doggo, who vies for her attention with his sweet puppy dog eyes whenever she’s trying to write (her dog, that is… though sometimes her husband, too). Her stories feature strong, passionate heroines and draw upon aspects of her life, such as her love of good food, her Mexican heritage, and her fascination with archaeology. When she’s not writing you can find her practicing law, shaking up a mean cocktail, or sitting out on the patio doing Buzzfeed quizzes (though she doesn’t care what the chicken nugget quiz said–her favorite fruit is not banana).

Alejandra Cid is a proud Angeleno, a product of Southeast LA. She is a graduate of the University of Southern California from which she earned a B.A. in Narrative Studies and a M.A. in Literary Editing and Publishing. Alejandra loves all things fiction, but is especially drawn to romance, women's fiction, and short stories. She is interested in storytelling, the (positive) power of social media, and creating accessible, inclusive, and engaging spaces.. 

Latinx Romance Titles

Valentine’s Day is here and it’s the perfect time to read romances, especially written by Latinx authors! While there are so many great romances, we have gathered 5 romance books that we think you will enjoy.

Kiss the Girl by Zoraida Córdova

Ariel del Mar is one of the most famous singers in the world. She and her sisters--together, known as the band Siren Seven--have been a pop culture phenomenon since they were kids.

But lately, she wants more. Siren Seven is wrapping up their farewell tour, and Ariel can't wait to spend the summer just living a normal life--part of a world she's only ever seen from the outside. But her father, the head of Atlantica Records, has other plans: begin her breakout solo career immediately, starting with a splashy announcement on a morning talk show. 

The night before, Ariel and her sisters sneak out of their Manhattan penthouse for a night of incognito fun at a rock concert in Brooklyn. It's there that Ariel crosses paths with Eric Reyes, dreamy lead singer of an up-and-coming band. Unaware of her true identity, Eric spontaneously invites her on the road for the summer. And for the first time in her life, Ariel disobeys her father--and goes with him. 

Caught between the world she longs for and the one she's left behind, can Ariel follow her dreams, fall in love, and, somehow, find her own voice?

Learn to Love You by Jade Hernández

Damián "Junior" Águila-Gutierrez shouldn't think about his sister's mysterious best friend. She's off limits, unattainable, and more importantly, uninterested in him. Besides, he has other things to worry about. Like taking over his papá's rancho, Los Corazones. Inheriting his familia's empire is all that's expected of him, but Junior has other plans and desires, and he knows if they ever discovered the truth, it would hurt the people he cares about the most...

Mayda Jiménez has lived on the outskirts of the Águila-Gutierrez family for as long as she can remember. She's been loved by them but has never quite been one of them. She's always kept herself at arm's length, knowing if this perfect family ever found out about her mother's addictions, they'd want nothing to do with her lot. It won't stop her from pining after her best friend's brother, though. The one person in the world she knows she can never have...

Give a Witch a Chance by Colette Rivera

Psychic Witch, Aria Belmonte is determined to avoid her past. Even if it means failing to make it work in the Mortal world.

When her building is condemned, and her mediocre magic skills can't save her, Aria turns to the kindness of strangers. Except her new roommate is no stranger. He's the one she must avoid at all costs. Her most complicated ex.

Owen Sanchez has a dream. To successfully run the Coffee Cat Cafe despite the bizarre events trying to thwart him. He'd say it's haunted, but he's never believed in the paranormal.

That is, until Aria walks back into his life.

A Proposal They Can’t Refuse by Natalie Caña

Kamilah Vega is desperate to convince her family to update their Puerto Rican restaurant and enter it into the Fall Foodie Tour. With the gentrification of their Chicago neighborhood, it's the only way to save the place. The fly in her mofongo--her blackmailing abuelo says if she wants to change anything in his restaurant, she'll have to marry the one man she can't stand: his best friend's grandson. 

Liam Kane spent a decade working to turn his family's distillery into a contender. But just as he and his grandfather are on the verge of winning a national competition, Granda hits him with a one-two punch: he has cancer and has his heart set on seeing Liam married before it's too late. And Granda knows just the girl...Kamilah Vega. 

If they refuse, their grandfathers will sell the building that houses both their businesses. 

With their futures on the line, Kamilah and Liam plan to outfox the devious duo, faking an engagement until they both get what they want. But soon, they find themselves tangled up in more than either of them bargained for.

The Wedding Crasher by Mia Sosa

Just weeks away from ditching DC for greener pastures, Solange Pereira is roped into helping her wedding planner cousin on a random couple's big day. It's an easy gig... until Solange stumbles upon a situation that convinces her the pair isn't meant to be. What's a true-blue romantic to do? Crash the wedding, of course. And ensure the unsuspecting groom doesn't make the biggest mistake of his life.

Dean Chapman had his future all mapped out. He was about to check off "start a family" and on track to "make partner" when his modern day marriage of convenience went up in smoke. Then he learns he might not land an assignment that could be his ticket to a promotion unless he has a significant other and, in a moment of panic, Dean claims to be in love with the woman who crashed his wedding. Oops.

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Mariana Felix-Kim (she/her/ella) is a biologist and a bookstagrammer (@mariana.reads.books). As a Mexican and Korean reader, Mariana centers her bookstagram around amplifying diverse voices. She currently lives in Washington, D.C. with her cat, Leo. Mariana is proud to have five library cards and loves to use them to read non-fiction, literary fiction, romance, YA, and thrillers.

Book Review: Kiss Me, Mi Amor by Alana Quintana Albertson

Alana Quintana Albertson is known for having many talents. When she’s not rescuing dogs from high-kill shelters, through a rescue she founded, and being an alumna of prestigious universities, she’s writing romance and mystery books. On July 4, 2023, she graced her readers with a second book in the Love & Tacos series, Kiss Me, Mi Amor, published by Berkley Romance.

Kiss Me, Mi Amor follows the middle Montez brother, Enrique, as he attempts to partner with Carolina Flores, a female farm owner who refuses to give the heir of the Taco King empire the time of day. However, when the holidays arrive, she lies to her overbearing family that he is her boyfriend. On these pretend dates, Carolina begins to figure out that she doesn’t have to be the traditional daughter and woman that her parents, especially her father, want her to be. The feelings between Enrique and Carolina grow more intense and they begin to wonder what their fake dates look like for the future as the holidays, and maybe their growing romance, start coming to an end.

Carolina Flores is the owner of the Flores Family Farm and the daughter of farm workers. Although she’s the owner on paper, her father is the one who calls the shots in business and in family. In their traditional Mexican home, her father has rules about women that he implements onto his ten daughters—and Carolina is sick of it. She refuses to marry to avoid moving from one male-dominated household to the next. Carolina loves her independence and wishes to keep it that way. However, when she meets Enrique, she begins to push back against her father’s rules and her outlook on love. When her dad falls ill, she lies about Enrique being her boyfriend and begins to rebel. While enjoying her time with Enrique and opening up to new experiences, it causes major arguments with her parents. She does some soul-searching and finds solace in reconnecting with an aunt who was shunned for defying her father’s rules as well. Carolina has to make major decisions that will better suit her, her family, and Enrique.

Enrique Montez is the middle child of the Taco King empire. He wants to reassess the chain’s agricultural relationships and partner with ethical farms, and Carolina is exactly who he’s looking for. When he drives up to Santa Maria to meet her, he finds out that her sister set up the meeting without Carolina’s knowledge. She refuses to partner with the chain but this doesn’t deter him from finding her captivating in brains and beauty. He offers to play Joseph in the upcoming Las Posadas and this sets their fake dating in motion as Carolina lies about him being her new beau. Enrique has strong, opposing opinions about Señor Flores’ outlook on women and family, so he plays along with her lie if it means she can break free. At first, he never pictured himself settling down but after spending time with her, he begins to reconsider. Things come to a head when Carolina decides that she needs to figure out who she is outside of him and her father. Months go by with no contact until they reunite once more.

“Alana Quintana Albertson shows her flawless ease in “Kiss Me, Mi Amor” of creating a fake-dating, holiday romance . . . while highlighting important conversations such as agriculture, farm worker’s rights, and the patriarchal culture within a traditional Mexican family. ”

While Enrique and Carolina come from different backgrounds, they open each other up to new experiences. He showers her with a shopping spree, which includes new Louboutins, while she tells him what celebrating Nochebuena entails. Neither are afraid to have hard-hitting conversations with the other. Carolina has him work her field and he realizes that it’s going to take more than just words to evoke change with the unethical farms that the chain partners with. Enrique helps her realize that she’s allowed to have fun and let loose with their mini trip to Disneyland and a day trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea. The pair help the other see what their life can hold if they push against the odds and open their minds to change. Through these experiences, their growing feelings for each other blur the line between fake dating and real dating. As Alana effortlessly puts it, “But they shared one language that needed no translating. Amor.”

Alana Quintana Albertson shows her flawless ease in Kiss Me, Mi Amor of creating a fake-dating, holiday romance (where they have to share one bed!) while highlighting important conversations such as agriculture, farm worker’s rights, and the patriarchal culture within a traditional Mexican family. While the Love & Tacos series celebrates many aspects of Mexican culture, she doesn’t shy away from speaking on prominent issues that the community faces.

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Alana Quintana Albertson has written thirty romance novels, rescued five hundred death-row shelter dogs, and danced one thousand rumbas. She lives in sunny San Diego with her husband, two sons, and too many pets. Most days, she can be found writing her next heart book in a beachfront café while sipping an oat-milk Mexican mocha or gardening with her children in their backyard orchard and snacking on a juicy blood orange.

Melissa Gonzalez (she/her) is a UCLA graduate with a major in American Literature & Culture and a minor in Chicana/o & Central American Studies. She loves boba, horror movies, and reading. You can spot her in the fiction, horror/mystery/thriller, and young adult sections of bookstores. Though she is short, she feels as tall as her TBR pile. You can find Melissa on her book Instagram: @floralchapters

Book Review: You Don’t Have A Shot by Racquel Marie

You Don’t Have A Shot by Racquel Marie follows a high school girl, Vale, and her passion for soccer. Vale goes to her childhood soccer camp but is upset when her nemesis, Leticia, is co-captaining her team. The stakes are high as college scouts will be attending the game, which could determine Vale’s future as a soccer player. Vale is forced to rely on Leticia to join forces to coach a successful soccer team but it ends up blossoming to something more than a shared love of soccer.

“This book has it all. . . There are so many reasons to read Marie’s books. Consider this your sign to pick one up next!”

Racquel Marie has become an auto-buy author for me because she captures such important perspectives in her novels. Her books are alway five stars reads! I absolutely loved Ophelia After All and thought it was going to be a tough book to beat. However, I loved You Don’t have a Shot just as much, but for different reasons. This book not only represents such an important component of latinx culture, fútbol, but also blends the perspective of being a latinx daughter with high hopes for college, while exploring their sexuality.

Vale is a flawed character but I love that Marie depicted her in this way. As insufferable as she was in the beginning, Marie uses this as a foundation to create a compelling character development arc. Vale makes mistakes by selfishly focusing on her future but Leticia perfectly compliments her and encourages her to zoom out her perspective to help others succeed. It was heartwarming seeing Vale and Leticia come together to empower a group of women to work together to win soccer games.

In addition, I also highly respected and sympathized with Marie’s inclusion of losing a mother, based on her own experiences. This was delivered in such a personal and vulnerable way that made it extremely touching to experience.

This book has it all: enemies to lovers trope, latinx representation, LGBTQIA+ representation, character development, underdog trope, and so much more! There are so many reasons to read Marie’s books. Consider this your sign to pick one up next!

Content warnings: off-page maternal death by breast cancer, maternal grief, mentions of underage drinking, depictions of paternal emotional abuse, depictions of anxiety/panic attacks, discussions and depictions of sports-related injuries (primarily a sprained wrist), condemned homophobia, condemned xenophobia, off-page teenage cancer patient, and condemned mention of exclusionary transphobia in sports

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Racquel Marie grew up in Southern California, where her passion for storytelling of all kinds was encouraged by her friends and big family. She received a BA in English with an emphasis in creative writing and a minor in gender and sexuality studies from the University of California, Irvine. She is the author of Ophelia After All, You Don't Have a Shot, and many unfinished first drafts.

Mariana Felix-Kim (she/her) lives in Washington, D.C. with her lovely cat, Leo. When she is not working in the environmental science field, Mariana is constantly reading. Her favorite genres include non-fiction, thrillers, and contemporary romances. Mariana is half Mexican and half Korean. You can find her on Instagram: @mariana.reads.books

Book Review: Ramon and Julieta by Alana Quintana Albertson

Ramón and Julieta: Love & Tacos is about Julieta Campos and Ramón Montez, two star-crossed lovers who meet on the Day of the Dead and find out that they are from rival, family-owned taquerias, with an even deeper strained history. This romance novel brings forth conversations that deal with gentrification (and gentefication), family, love, and wealth within the Mexican American identity, history, and community.

“Alana Quintana Albertson created a beautiful, romantic story that successfully magnifies topics within the Mexican American identity. ”

Julieta Campos is a celebrity chef and a workaholic. She and her mother have a taqueria in Barrio Logan, San Diego, where this barrio is an integral part of the community. However, the trajectory of her life would soon be changed at the Día de Los Muertos party where she has a mysterious run-in with a handsome mariachi. Upon figuring out his identity, she realizes she was enraptured by the enemy. But, of course, nothing seems to make sense when love is in the equation. I loved seeing Julieta having to grapple with the situation. On one hand, there is a possibility that could catapult her career as a chef with a new love in her life but that would mean sacrificing her loyalty to her family and community. On the other, she could stay loyal to those close to her but that would mean sacrificing a huge career move and a new love. It’s the ever-so common expectation of BIPOC women, being told what to choose and who to be, for the benefit of others, over what they may possibly want. I found myself thinking about what I would do if I were in her shoes and I realized that no one can make a decision for her (albeit, she is fictional but this scenario is very much a real experience for some people).

Ramón Montez is the CEO of his father’s taco chain and is a driven businessman who gets what he wants. He and his father have plans to place their chain in the historic Barrio Logan, much to the protest of all of the locals who already view the Montez family as “not one of them.” When Ramón discovers the identity of the mysterious señorita at the Día de Los Muertos party, the plans for the block become more complicated. One of the stark differences between Julieta and Ramón is their relationship with their parents. Though her father is deceased, Julieta seems to have fond memories of him and is pretty tight-knit with her mom. Ramón is quite the opposite. While he interacts mainly with his father, it is a pretty rocky relationship. His father, Arturo, has never encouraged his son’s aspirations outside of the family business, is quick to dismiss his son’s ideas for Barrio Logan, and doesn’t consider his son’s happiness. His mother, like all Mexican mothers, sees Ramón as God’s gift to Earth. However, it’s a shame that she never bothered to form an actual relationship with him. His mother cares more about country clubs and galas over getting to know her children. Ramón has money to buy whatever he wants, except for a better relationship with his parents.

Ramón and Julieta’s forbidden love also presents the stark differences in the realities that they live. Wealth is a prevalent one. While Julieta does what she can to get by, Ramón has more resources than the entirety of Barrio Logan combined. Readers see how money is managed when someone doesn’t have much of it and when someone has more than enough of it. I enjoyed this aspect of the book because it gives an insight into the financial reality that some people live in and how it can affect one’s social life. Also, the book had a couple of spicy scenes and I was NOT expecting that. But you won’t find me complaining.

Alana Quintana Albertson created a beautiful, romantic story that successfully magnifies topics within the Mexican American identity. She celebrates the culture while having readers think critically about bringing forth the intricacies of the identity, history, and community.  

Book content warnings: NSFW, deceased parent

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Alana Quintana Albertson is a Latina author with bestselling novels in romance and mystery. She holds a bachelor’s from Stanford University, a master’s from Harvard, and is the former president of Romance Writers of America for various chapters. You can also find her recovering from her professional ballroom dancing career and saving 500 dogs from high-kill shelters. Needless to say, Alana Quintana Albertson is extremely multi-talented.

Melissa Gonzalez (she/her) is a UCLA graduate with a major in American Literature & Culture and a minor in Chicana/o & Central American Studies. She loves boba, horror movies, and reading. You can spot her in the fiction, horror/mystery/thriller, and young adult sections of bookstores. Though she is short, she feels as tall as her TBR pile. You can find Melissa on her book Instagram: @floralchapters

6 Latinx Romances to Read this Bookstore Romance Day

Celebrating Bookstore Romance Day, August 20th!

Created in 2019, Bookstore Romance Day is a day designed to give independent bookstores an opportunity to celebrate Romance fiction—its books, readers, and writers—and to strengthen the relationships between bookstores and the Romance community. The literary holiday is held annually on the third Saturday of August.

Scroll on for six books penned by Latine authors you should read to celebrate!

The Wrong Mr. Darcy by Evelyn Lozada and Holly Lorincz

In Evelyn Lozada and Holly Lorincz's lightly inspired Pride and Prejudice romantic comedy, two unlikely people discover the error of judging by first impressions and the beauty of family, friendship and love. This book will entice you through the last page.

Hara Isari has big ambitions and they won't be sidetracked by her mother's insisting that she settle down soon. She dreams of leaving her small-town newspaper behind, as well as her felon father, and building a career as a sports writer, so when she is chosen to exclusively interview a basketball superstar, she jumps at the chance. It's time to show the bigwigs what she's truly made of.

At the same time, she meets a rookie on the rise, Derek Darcy. Darcy is incredibly handsome, obnoxiously proud, and has a major chip on his shoulder. Hara can't think of a man more arrogant and infuriating. However, fate keeps bringing them together--from locker rooms to elegant parties, to the storm of the century--and what begins as a clash might just be more complicated than Hara anticipated. When she begins to see Darcy in a new light, Hara is not quite sure if she should drop the ball or play the love game.

The Wedding Crasher by Mia Sosa

Just weeks away from ditching DC for greener pastures, Solange Pereira is roped into helping her wedding planner cousin on a random couple's big day. It's an easy gig... until Solange stumbles upon a situation that convinces her the pair isn't meant to be. What's a true-blue romantic to do? Crash the wedding, of course. And ensure the unsuspecting groom doesn't make the biggest mistake of his life.

Dean Chapman had his future all mapped out. He was about to check off "start a family" and on track to "make partner" when his modern day marriage of convenience went up in smoke. Then he learns he might not land an assignment that could be his ticket to a promotion unless he has a significant other and, in a moment of panic, Dean claims to be in love with the woman who crashed his wedding. Oops.

Now Dean has a whole new item on his to-do list: beg Solange to be his pretend girlfriend. Solange feels a tiny bit bad about ruining Dean's wedding, so she agrees to play along. Yet as they fake-date their way around town, what started as a performance for Dean's colleagues turns into a connection that neither he nor Solange can deny. Their entire romance is a sham... there's no way these polar opposites could fall in love for real, right?

American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera

No one ever said big dreams come easy.

For Nesto Vasquez, moving his Afro-Caribbean food truck from New York City to the wilds of Upstate New York is a huge gamble. If it works? He'll be a big fish in a little pond. If it doesn't? He'll have to give up the hustle and return to the day job he hates. He's got six months to make it happen--the last thing he needs is a distraction.

Jude Fuller is proud of the life he's built on the banks of Cayuga Lake. He has a job he loves and good friends. It's safe. It's quiet. And it's damn lonely. Until he tries Ithaca's most-talked-about new lunch spot and works up the courage to flirt with the handsome owner. Soon he can't get enough--of Nesto's food or of Nesto. For the first time in his life, Jude can finally taste the kind of happiness that's always been just out of reach.

An opportunity too good to pass up could mean a way to stay together and an incredible future for them both...if Nesto can remember happiness isn't always measured by business success. And if Jude can overcome his past and trust his man will never let him down.

Furia by Yamile Saied Méndez

In Rosario, Argentina, Camila Hassan lives a double life.

At home, she is a careful daughter, living within her mother's narrow expectations, in her rising-soccer-star brother's shadow, and under the abusive rule of her short-tempered father.

On the field, she is La Furia, a powerhouse of skill and talent. When her team qualifies for the South American tournament, Camila gets the chance to see just how far those talents can take her. In her wildest dreams, she'd get an athletic scholarship to a North American university.

But the path ahead isn't easy. Her parents don't know about her passion. They wouldn't allow a girl to play fútbol--and she needs their permission to go any farther. And the boy she once loved is back in town. Since he left, Diego has become an international star, playing in Italy for the renowned team Juventus. Camila doesn't have time to be distracted by her feelings for him. Things aren't the same as when he left: she has her own passions and ambitions now, and La Furia cannot be denied. As her life becomes more complicated, Camila is forced to face her secrets and make her way in a world with no place for the dreams and ambition of a girl like her.

Filled with authentic details and the textures of day-to-day life in Argentina, heart-soaring romance, and breathless action on the pitch, Furia is the story of a girl's journey to make her life her own.

A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow by Laura Taylor Namey

For Lila Reyes, a summer in England was never part of the plan. The plan was 1) take over her abuela's role as head baker at their panadería, 2) move in with her best friend after graduation, and 3) live happily ever after with her boyfriend. But then the Trifecta happened, and everything--including Lila herself--fell apart.

Worried about Lila's mental health, her parents make a new plan for her: Spend three months with family friends in Winchester, England, to relax and reset. But with the lack of sun, a grumpy inn cook, and a small town lacking Miami flavor (both in food and otherwise), what would be a dream trip for some feels more like a nightmare to Lila...until she meets Orion Maxwell.

A teashop clerk with troubles of his own, Orion is determined to help Lila out of her funk, and appoints himself as her personal tour guide. From Winchester's drama-filled music scene to the sweeping English countryside, it isn't long before Lila is not only charmed by Orion, but England itself. Soon a new future is beginning to form in Lila's mind--one that would mean leaving everything she ever planned behind.

Cantoras by Carolina de Robertis

In defiance of the brutal military government that took power in Uruguay in the 1970s, and under which homosexuality is a dangerous transgression, five women miraculously find one another--and, together, an isolated cape that they claim as their own.

Over the next thirty-five years, they travel back and forth from this secret sanctuary, sometimes together, sometimes in pairs, with lovers in tow or alone. Throughout it all, they will be tested repeatedly--by their families, lovers, society, and one another--as they fight to live authentic lives.

A groundbreaking, genre-defining work, Cantoras is a breathtaking portrait of queer love, community, forgotten history, and the strength of the human spirit.

What romantic read will you pick up this bookstore romance day?

To learn more about Bookstore Romance Day, visit https://bookstoreromanceday.org/

2022 Latinx Romance & Women’s Fiction to Add to Your TBR

It’s February, which means amor is in the air. For me, love and romance is an intricate part of Latinidad. We are romantic people. It’s in our music, telenovelas, epic novels. Here are some adult romance & women’s fiction novels to look forward to this year.  Happy reading and make sure to support Latinx Romance!

THE WEDDING CRASHER by Mia Sosa (Avon - April 5, 2022)

Mia Sosa’s follow up to The Worst Best Man has been highly anticipated by fans (it me). The Wedding Crasher follows two strangers who get trapped in a lie and have to fake date their way out of it. Solange Pereira is a romantic at heart, and gets roped into helping her wedding planner cousin on a stranger’s big day. Dean Chapman’s big day, to be exact. Dean’s life is about to be perfect–make partner, start a family, and all that. But when the wedding goes up in smoke, thanks to Solange, the pair end up entangled in a fake-dating lie. But what started off as self-preservation is becoming so much more. Mia Sosa writes with the perfect mix of humor, and won’t disappoint the rom-com lovers.

A PROPOSAL THEY CAN'T REFUSE by Natalie Caña (Mira - May 24 , 2022)

This is a debut I’ve been looking forward to since it was announced. This rom-com follows a Puerto Rican chef and an Irish American whiskey distiller forced into a fake engagement by their scheming octogenarian grandfathers. In order to uphold their family businesses, and legacies, Kamilah and Liam agree to an engagement. One that will end once they outwit their families. But the more time they spend together, and work toward winning big at the Fall Foodie Tour in Chicago, they start to realize maybe they’ve bought into their own bargain.

WEST SIDE LOVE STORY by Priscilla Oliveras (Montlake - June 1, 2022)

USA Today bestselling author Priscilla Oliveras brings us a tale of two families, rival mariachi bands, and swoony romance. Mariana Capuleta and her sisters are determined to win the Battle of the Mariachi Bands. Unfortunately, that means competing against the Monteros, her father’s arch-nemesis. The families, both alike in dignity and all that good stuff, have had an escalating decades-old feud that sees no end. Angelo Montero and Mariana Capuleta know that nothing can happen between them, but love isn’t rational and their attraction is undeniable. As their secret affair intensifies, so does the mariachi competition. Can their romance heal old wounds and make beautiful music together?

RUNNING FROM THE BLAZE by Ofelia Martinez (Reading Cactus Press, January 11, 2022)

If you’re looking for a super steamy romance with unapologetically Mexican-American women at the forefront, then Ofelia Martinez is your girl. Book one in the series follows a bar owner and a rock-star. In Running From the Blaze, the companion novel, we keep getting to know the members of the band, Industrial November. Here we meet Lola, a young woman who cleans mansions for a living. That’s how she meets Karl Sommer, a notorious heavy metal guitarist who is trying to prove he’s more than a party boy. Falling for the lead singer's sister-in-law was not on the plan, but they strike an indecent proposal that shakes up both their lives and views of love. *All the chili pepper emojis*

TWICE A QUINCEAÑERA by Yamile Saied Méndez (Kensington - July 26, 2022)

I’m so excited for Yamile Saied Méndez’s adult debut. If you’ve followed her kidlit career, then you know to expect fierce heroines and big family dynamics. In Twice a Quinceañera, a jilted bride decides to throw herself a quinceañera (times two) for her 30th birthday. When Nadia Palacio’s dream wedding is called off, no thanks to her cheating ex, instead of losing the deposit on her venue she decides to throw the biggest bash imaginable to celebrate herself. After all, her family is already flying over from Argentina. Everything is scheduled to go according to plan until she discovers that the man in charge of the venue is none other than a college fling who might just be her second chance at first love.

OUR LAST DAYS IN BARCELONA by Chanel Cleeton (May 24, 2022)

I got to read an early copy of this book and it was a beautiful journey. Chanel Cleeton has been writing about the women of the Perez family since her smash hit and Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick Next Year In Havana, which was inspired by her Cuban roots. In Our Last Days in Barcelona, straight-laced Isabel Perez travels to Barcelona to save her rebellious and independent sister Beatriz from political dangers. Alternating between 1964 and 1936, we see the aftermath of the Cuban revolution, and toggle back to the rising fascist threat in Spain. The more Isabel digs, she discovers a shocking family secret that sheds light to her elusive mother. There's mystery, romance, and political intrigue. It is a perfect read.

THE REBEL'S RETURN by Nadine Gonzalez (Harlequin Desire - February 22, 2022)

I know sometimes it’s hard to make the time to read. But these bite sized novels by Nadine Gonzales are like delicious little bon bons. In this installment of the Texas Cattleman’s Club, a hotshot hotelier returns home to discover whether or not love at first sight really is for suckers. This world is luxe, lavish, and sexy. Eve Martin’s one night stand with Rafael Wentworth turns into something more as they’re unable to deny their chemistry. But is Eva an asset to his business or a danger to his heart?

RAMÓN AND JULIETA by Alana Quintana Albertson (Berkley Books - February 1, 2022)

Alana Quintana Albertson is no stranger to romance. She’s penned over thirty spicy novels as Alana Albertson. In Ramón and Julieta she loosely retells Romeo and Juliet with the Day of the Dead and rival food empires as the backdrop. When fate and tacos bring them together, the titular star-crossed pair must make a choice: accept the bitter food rivalry that drives them apart or surrender to a love that consumes them.

A CARIBBEAN HEIRESS IN PARIS by Adriana Herrera (Hqn - May 31, 2022)

This is the historical romance I’ve always wanted to read, and Adriana Herrera constantly delivers what I want. There’s a sexy Scottish Duke, fierce rum heiress, La Belle Époque in Paris, and a marriage of convenience. The novel follows Luz Alana, who hails from the Dominican Republic. She’s on her way to find partnerships to expand Caña Brava, the rum business her family built over three generations. Her father’s untimely death has made this expansion top priority, since she discovers she can’t access her trust fund until she marries. But when she lands in France, she finds that the buyers and shippers dismiss her, and won’t do business with a woman, let alone an Afro-Latina from the Caribbean. Enter James Evanston Sinclair, Earl of Darnick, an infuriatingly handsome Scot with secrets of his own, who makes her an offer she can’t refuse. Luz Alana went in search of new beginnings, but she might have found love along the way.

BIG CHICAS DON’T CRY by Annette Chavez Macias (Montlake - August 9, 2022)

You might already know her contemporary romance as Sabrina Sol, but with Big Chicas Don’t Cry Annette Chavez Macias pens a family saga that pulls at the heartstrings. Four cousins, Mari, Erica, Selena, and Gracie, navigate love, loss, and family bonds. As kids they were inseparable. But when Mari’s parents divorced, she got shipped away to another part of the country. Fifteen years later, their lives intersect once again when tragedy strikes and they have to deal with the heartbreaking loss of a loved one. Can they pick up where things left off, or has time pulled them too far to bring back together? I can’t wait to read this and become part of this beautiful family.

AFTER HOURS ON MILAGRO STREET by Angelina M. Lopez (Carina Trade - July 12, 2022)

Professor Jeremiah Post loves the quirky town of Freedom, Kansas that has been his home for five years. But for Alex Torres, returning to the place where her sprawling Mexican-American family has lived for generations isn’t quite the homecoming she imagined. She’s got plans to revamp her grandmother’s bar and actually save the business, but the hot brainiac who rents the room next door is getting in the way. When an old enemy threatens the town, Alex and Jeremiah must combine forces. It will take her might and his mind to save the home they both desperately need.

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Zoraida Córdova is the acclaimed author of more than two dozen novels and short stories, including the Brooklyn Brujas series, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: A Crash of Fate, and The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina.  In addition to writing novels, she's the co-editor of the bestselling anthology Vampires Never Get Old, as well as the cohost of the writing podcast, Deadline City. She writes romance novels as Zoey Castile. Zoraida was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, and calls New York City home. When she’s not working, she’s roaming the world in search of magical stories. For more information, visit her at zoraidacordova.com.