There are some excitingromance novels being released in October, with many of the authors being established BookTok sensations. TikTok has undeniably transformed the book landscape in the romance genre. The algorithm has made it easier than ever for people to connect with like-minded readers and discover hidden gems. Many bookworms also love the coziness of autumn and settling down with a good book with well-developed characters, making it the best time of the year for a book haul. AlthoughSeptember saw some autumnal book releases, October has more. Some of the titles are well-suitedbooks forFourth Wingfans.
October brings a range ofTikTok romance books, from heartwarming holiday tales to paranormal adventures. Fans of magical realism will be drawn toLightning In Her Hands, the sequel toWitch of Wild Things, which delves deeper into the enchanting world of Sage Flores and her family. For those seeking a cozy autumnal romance,Best Hex Everoffers a delightful blend of magic and humor. For readers craving a second-chance love story,Nothing Like The Moviesdelivers a heartwarming tale of redemption and forgiveness. Witha variety of themes to choose from, October’s romance releases offer something for every reader.
10Lightning In Her Hands By Raquel Vasquez Gilliland
Lightning In Her Handsis the second book in Raquel Vasquez Gilliland’sWild Magicseries. The first book,Witch of Wild Things,introduced readers to Sage Flores and her magical realist world. Since the death of her younger sibling, Flores has been fleeing from her family and her“gifts”. Returning to her old job returns her to her high school one that got away, stirring up old feelings. She has other things on her plate – not leasther other sister, who can produce lightning– but the first book establishes her romance in this cozy, witchy read.
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The sequelLightning In Her Handsis looking to ramp things up with a focus on lightning-wielder Teal. The advance reviews onGoodReadsare promising – one reader remarked that the magical realism“adds a breathtaking aspect to the book,”while another praised Teal’s character development, pointing out the sequel“gave more insight into Teal’s childhood, strained family relationships, and her complicated past which made me sympathize with her.”
The dynamic of the sisters and theshift in focus to another sibling’s storyline is sure to be an engaging read, especially for fans ofACOTAR,making it a potentialA Court of Thorns and Rosesreplacement. Meanwhile, Teal’s lightning abilities could make for a cozybook forFourth Wingfansimpatient forOnyx Storm.
9Best Hex Ever By Nadia El-Fassi
Best Hex Ever: A Novelcomes from Nadia El-Fassi, a London-based romance author who writescozy fantasy reads. October is all about cozy autumnal reads, and this romance, which takes place in both London and the countryside, is sure to deliver on this front. It is El-Fassi’s debut novel and has already attracted glowing advance reviews onGoodReads,with“gingerbread”and“whimsical, fun, and magical”being key phrases for the vibe. Its release isa wonderful way to begin the Halloween season.
Dina’s pastries are the talk of London, but her love life is a different story…
A London kitchen witch finds her match in a charming curator, leading to a sweet and spicy debut romance filled with magic and mayhem. Dina’s pastries are the talk of London, but her love life is a different story. She is haunted by a mysterious hex and has always kept her distance. But whena chance encounter with Scott sparks an undeniable connection, she must decide if risking her heart is worth the cosmic consequences. She knows the secret ingredient to a perfect pastry, but finding a love that doesn’t crumble under a curse is a whole different recipe.
8Nothing Like The Movies By Lynn Painter
Nothing Like The Moviesis a sequel to Lynn Painter’sBetter Than The Movies,which was aNew York Timesbestseller. Wes and Liz’s second chance romance takes center stage in this highly anticipated sequel. As they navigate the challenges of college life, Wes must grapple with the consequences of his past mistakes and prove his sincerity to Liz. Meanwhile, Liz grapples with the lingering pain and uncertainty, questioning whether she can truly trust Wes again. Sometimessequels don’t live up to their previous books, butPainter has thoughtfully depicted what happens nextfor the couple.
This heartwarming sequel toBetter than the Moviesoffers a fresh perspective on second chances. Wes, determined to prove his love for Liz, returns to college with a renewed sense of purpose. However, Liz, now a successful and independent woman, is hesitant to rekindle their relationship. Through a series of comedic mishaps and heartfelt moments, Wes must navigate the challenges of their past and convince Liz that their love is worth fighting for. Their breakup has been divisive among advance reviewers, but it isa great setup for their individual character developmentand reunion.
7Slap Shot Surprise By Melanie Harlow
Slap Shot Surpriseis the fifth book in Melanie Harlow’sCherry Tree Harborseries. Harlow has said about her new release,“It’s so fun and hot and sweet, I cannot wait for you to gobble up this story!”(GoodReads)This sports romance is about a bookworm whohas a“no strings attached”night with a renowned hockey player,which unexpectedly turns into more. Their meet-cute on an aeroplane that brings this unlikely pair together is a great example of the cozy yet spicy romance writing that has made Harlow aUSA Todaybestselling author.
Mabel, a nervous flyer, finds herself seated next to Joe Lupo, a renowned hockey player from the infamous Lupo family. As she babbles about her fears, Joe is both amused and intrigued by her candid confessions. Despite her initial embarrassment, Mabel can’t shake the feeling of connection she shares with Joe. After a whirlwind encounter at a wedding, they have a passionate one-night stand. However,the unexpected consequences of their impulsive decision leave them both reelingand forced to navigate the complexities of their unplanned situation.
6The Wedding Witch By Erin Sterling
Renowned author Rachel Hawkins adds another string to her bow with her paranormal romance pen name, Erin Sterling. Her debut,The Ex Hex, quickly became a bestseller, captivating readers with its blend of magic and romance.The Wedding Witchis the third book in this series. OneGoodReadsreviewer commented,“Witches. Time travel adventures. Sassy MMC. Ghosts. What more could you need from this lighthearted holiday read?”Indeed, the blend of the paranormal and the December setting makes forthe perfect balance of autumnal and festive themesfor the coming season.
This whimsical adventure follows Bowen, a grumpy wizard who prefers the solitude of his mountaintop retreat, and Tamsyn, a mischievous witch with a penchant for mischief. When a magical spell transports them back in time to a haunted Welsh estate,they must work together to find their way back to the present. As they navigate the challenges of the past and their growing attraction, Bowen and Tamsyn must also deal with the meddling ghosts and suspicious witches who haunt the estate, all while trying to save the day and find love along the way.
5The Striker By Ana Huang
Ana Huang, the author behind the acclaimedTwistedandKings of Sinseries, returns with a scorching new sports romance. Huang is a multi-award-winning, #1 bestselling author across multiple platforms includingNew York TimesandWall Street Journal.The Strikeris the first novel of herGods of the Gameseries. The soccer romance has been added to numerous readers’ To Be Read piles – andthe romantic interest looks promising, with a manuscript reader onGoodReadscalling him“the greenest flag ever.”
Asher Donovan, a celebrated football superstar, finds himself embroiled in controversy after his reckless antics and a heated rivalry with his teammate. When their feud costs them a championship, they are forced to participate in off-season cross-training. During this time, Asher meets their new trainer, Scarlett Dubois, a former prima ballerina haunted by the ghosts of her past. Despite his initial reservations,Asher finds himself irresistibly drawn to Scarlett, but their forbidden connection threatens to complicate their lives.
4The Christmas Tree Farm By Laurie Gilmore
If as soon as October comes around you are already getting excited for the festive season,The Christmas Tree Farmby Laurie Gilmore is sure to get you in the spirit. The author of TikTok viral hitsThe Pumpkin Spice CaféandThe Cinnamon Bun Book Storebrings you a spicy Christmas romance. This new addition is the third in Gilmore’sDream Harborseries.Publishers Weeklyhas called it a“charming break from reality.”The grumpy sunshine trope is something Laurie Gilmore is very good atwriting, and this new release is no exception. In addition, her world-building will have readers wishing they could visit Dream Harbor.
Kira must confront her own cynicism and the possibility of falling in love.
This delightful Christmas romance follows Kira, a grumpy Christmas tree farm owner who is determined to keep everyone at a distance. However, the arrival of Bennett, a charming stranger with a knack for turning things around, threatens to disrupt her carefully constructed world. As they work together to prepare for the holiday season, Kira must confront her own cynicism and the possibility of falling in love. This heartwarming taleexplores the transformative power of the holiday season. The small-town setting is sure to resonate with readers, and issomething to read if you likeGilmore Girls.
3Window Shopping By Tessa Bailey
Window Shoppingis another release sure to get readers into the holiday season spirit. Penned by Tessa Bailey, aNew York Timesbestselling author, the book is set only two weeks before Christmas. Keen romance readers may recognize this book – it was originally released in 2021, but originally, Bailey self-published it. This October,the TikTok sensation is being traditionally publishedwith a new cover. It may also be reworked and edited. With the festive season around the corner, it’s perfect timing for this much-loved novel to have another wave of popularity.
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This delightful Christmas romance follows Sarah, a cynical window dresser who finds herself working for the charming and charismatic Aiden. As they collaborate on the perfect holiday display, Sarah and Aidendevelop a strong connection, leading to a whirlwind romance. However, their growing attraction is complicated by Sarah’s past and her determination to succeed on her own. The book explores Sarah and Aiden overcoming their challenges and finding love in the holiday season – and this steamy standalone makes it easy to see why Bailey has been named the“Michelangelo of dirty talk”byEntertainment Weekly.
2Make The Season Bright By Ashley Herring Blake
Make The Season Brightis an exciting seasonal release from Ashley Herring Blake, USA Today bestselling author ofIris Kelly Doesn’t Date.The book is anLGBTQ+, second-chance romance. The plot uses the forced proximity trope to encourage two former flames to work through their past and rekindle their romance. The cozyhallmark Christmas romance bookis sure to resonate with readers who love sapphic representation and a childhood friends-to-lovers dynamic.
Charlotte Donovan, a musician who has moved on from her painful breakup, is reluctantly persuaded by her friend Sloane to spend Christmas with her family in Colorado. Sloane’s sister Adele has also brought along a familiar face: her ex-fiancé, Brighton. Asthey navigate the awkwardness of their reunion, Charlotte and Brighton are forced to confront the lingering feelings between them. Despite their attempts to avoid each other, their paths keep crossing, and they soon find themselves caught up in a series of holiday activities together. The pair must decide whether they can truly move on from their past.
1Holding The Reins By Paisley Hope
Not everybody necessarily gets into the spooky spirit of Halloween or the cozy festivities of Christmas, and by no means are these the only exciting romance book releases in October.Holding The Reinsby Paisley Hope is the perfect example of a completely different vibe. Asteamy cowboy romance ignitesbetween a woman and her brother’s best friend, as they navigate the complexities of their relationship and the secrets of their past. Paisley Hope is a self-professed“southern belle”and specializes in writing about small-town male love interests.
This heartwarming tale explores thecomplexities of healing from a toxic relationshipand finding love in unexpected places. CeCe, a woman seeking a fresh start, must confront the challenges of her past and the lingering pain of her previous relationship. Nash, a man who has always been the life of the party, must confront his own insecurities and the fear of vulnerability. Together, they must navigate the challenges of their forbidden love and discover the transformative power of human connection.
