Some people call reading their superpower. For me, it’s a joy I prefer not to live without. This year has been a super-busy season, but I’ve still tried to carve out time to read. Instead of long, immersive stretches, I’ve indulged in shorter bursts here and there. Yes, I’ve read less and probably won’t hit my Goodreads goal (haha), but I’ve still managed to sneak in a handful of stories.
Here are four romances I’ve enjoyed this year. There’s a bit of everything here, from redemption arcs to cowboys, cosy mystery, and second-chance sparks.
Love Undercover by Mandi Blake is a satisfying conclusion to the Love in Blackwater small-town Christian romance series. I’d been looking forward to Lauren and Zach’s story since their unforgettable first encounter in an earlier book (“memorable” is one way to describe it!). I wasn’t sure how their romance would come together, but Mandi Blake handled it beautifully.
Zach is the type of character I’m drawn to—broken, written off by others, and in desperate need of redemption. His journey highlights the powerful truth that there’s no limit to God’s grace, and His love reaches far beyond what people might expect or accept. Lauren’s persistence through her challenges, especially her daily walk with God, added depth to the faith thread. I could see God’s plan unfolding in Zach’s life because of the choices she made, even when she didn’t realise the impact she was having. God is the master of weaving lives together and revealing His love in unexpected ways.
Spurs and Sparks by Jody Hedlund is a sweet contemporary romance between the single dad managing his family’s luxury ranch resort and the nurse tasked with caring for his father. While I’ve read many of Jody Hedlund’s historical romances, I also enjoy her contemporary stories. Bonus for those who’ve read her McQuaid family historical series, as there are some lovely family connections here.
Tyler McQuaid is the eldest (read: responsible) son and a classic brooding hero, so watching him stumble through foot-in-mouth syndrome around Kinsey kept me amused. It’s rather endearing when a tough, capable man suddenly doesn’t know what to do with himself… though perhaps less so when he keeps questioning Kinsey’s ability to do her job. Not cool, Tyler!
Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson is her first foray into blending romantic comedy with a murder mystery. While the story leans into cosy mystery, it still carries Melissa Ferguson’s signature style of quirky characters, humour, and plenty of heart.
We follow a rather stressed Pip, personal assistant to a hotshot author, who makes quite the entrance in the opening chapter. Once the wider cast is introduced, it becomes clear this story is as much about the people as it is about the mystery itself. The Magnificent Seven—seven bestselling authors Pip works with—took a moment to keep track of, but once I settled in, I enjoyed their dynamic and individual quirks. As for Nash, our “man’s man” hero, he most certainly ticks all the “book boyfriend” boxes: strong, competent, protective, but also thoughtful underneath it all.
Can’t Help Falling by Courtney Walsh is a warm and delightful best friend’s brother romantic comedy that I wished lasted longer… though perhaps I simply read it too quickly, as it drew me in from page one!
Owen and Emmy’s story is built on a rich emotional foundation, from years of quiet admiration, childhood memories, and long-buried feelings. Their past connection helps guide them back to each other, even with all the complications they faced, and their relationship blossomed with authenticity. It’s a lovely reminder that imperfect people can still be perfectly suited for one another.
Have you read any of these novels? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Until next time,
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