Fairhope native Gracie Roth recently graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, double-majoring in English and Theatre. Ever since she was a child, she told people she wanted to work surrounded by books. Where better for her to work than at the library? She is passionate about sharing stories–be it on stage or on a page. Here, Gracie recommends her top five swoonworthy reads romantics will enjoy just in time for summer.
Eligible
Curtis Sittenfeld | Romance
Another “Pride and Prejudice” retelling? Yes, please! “New York Times” bestselling author Curtis Sittenfeld (“Prep” and “American Wife”) pays homage to Jane Austen’s classic storytelling of the frenemies to lovers trope. This book puts a modern twist on the classic tale, as readers experience this clever reimagining. Liz is a magazine writer, Bingley is a reality TV star and Mr. Darcy, well, he is as grumpy and as misunderstood as ever. Check this book out for a fun, romantic read.
The Unhoneymooners
Christina Lauren | Romance
Enemies to lovers, forced proximity and fake marriage. “The Unhoneymooners” by Christina Lauren covers the best romance tropes. Ami’s twin sister, Olive, is the luckiest person in the world. Her fiance is someone out of a dream, she financed her entire wedding by winning internet contests and she seems to have everything go her way. For better or worse, Olive is stuck spending time with the best man, Ethan, her playful nemesis. After food poisoning ruins an all-expenses-paid honeymoon for the bride and groom, two sworn enemies embark on a Hawaiian vacation. Will they stay enemies, or will this vacation reveal deeper feelings?
Dial A for Aunties
Jessie Q. Sutanto | Romance/Mystery
In this story, a family wedding business gets its biggest job yet: Getting rid of a body! When the main character, Meddy, accidentally kills her blind date, her mom and aunties know they have to protect Meddy. This hilarious book provides mystery, family drama and second-chance romance. Hopefully, the guy who re-enters Meddy’s life has a better fate. Readers will roll on the floor laughing after reading the first few pages in this comedic murder mystery.
Funny Story
Emily Henry | Romance
The queen of romance, Emily Henry, does it again in her newest book, “Funny Story.” What happens when your fiance leaves you for his childhood friend? Naturally, you move in with the childhood friend’s ex-boyfriend! Surely the two new roommates won’t fall in love. The title of this book rings true as this is Emily’s funniest story yet.
Forget Me Not
Julie Soto | Romance
When wedding planner, Ama, gets her dream job, she doesn’t think anything can bring her down until she is forced to work with her ex. Not only did she break his heart, but this is also the most important event of her career. For florist, Elliot, nothing has gone right in his life since Ama broke up with him. Now, Ama and Elliot must work together on their biggest wedding yet. What could go wrong? Maybe something will finally go right.
