April books on my radar
09:00
Series: The Notorious Virtues #1
Author: Alwyn Hamilton
April 1st 2025 by Faber & Faber
A glamorous media darling, a surprise heiress, and the magical competition of a lifetime.
At sixteen, Honora “Nora” Holtzfall is the daughter of the most powerful heiress in all of Walstad. Her family controls all the money–and all the magic–in the entire country. But despite being the center of attention, Nora has always felt like an outsider. When her mother is found dead in an alley, the family throne and fortune are suddenly up for grabs, and Nora will be pitted against her cousins in the Veritaz, the ultimate magical competition for power that determines the one family heir.
But there’s a surprise contestant this time: Lotte, the illegitimate daughter of Nora’s aunt. When Lotte’s absent mother retrieves her from the rural convent she’d abandoned her to, Lotte goes from being an orphan to surrounded by family. Unfortunately, most of them want her dead.
And soon, Nora discovers that her mother’s death wasn’t random–it was murder. And the only person she can trust to uncover the truth of what happened is a rakish young reporter who despises everything Nora and her family stand for.
With everyone against her, Lotte’s last hope is hunting for the identity of her father. But the dangerous competition–and her feelings for Theo, one of the Holtzfalls’ sworn protectors–turns her world upside down.
Incredible tests, impossible choices and deadly odds await both girls. But there can only be one winner.
Goodreads
Series: Little Thieves #3
Author: Margaret Owen
April 1st 2025 by Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)
It's been nearly two years since Vanja brought down the cult she started, and she’s still paying the price. As the Pfennigeist, she bucks the law in order to help the desperate and haunt the corrupt all across the empire—and no matter what, she works alone.
But an impossible killer is tearing through royalty, and leaving Vanja’s signature red penny on every victim. Suddenly the Pfennigeist is no longer a folk hero but a nightmare. When even the Blessed Empress falls, the empire’s seven royal families must gather to elect her successor within a matter of weeks, or risk the collapse of reality itself… even though it puts every house in the killer’s sights.
Vanja tells herself she’s wading into the royalty’s vicious games only to save the name she made, and the loved ones also in jeopardy. But the Order of Prefects has also put their sharpest official on the case, the one who swore he’d always find Vanja—until she broke his heart. Journeyman Prefect Emeric Conrad may no longer be the boy Vanja knew, but they’ll have to work together one last time to have any chance of surviving the deadly catastrophe coming for them all.
With bloody conspiracy, sinister magic, and old adverseries closing in, it will take everything Vanja has to save not just the people she loves, but the future she’s fought for.
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Annie McQuaid
April 1st 2025 by Avon
A funny and heartwarming debut romance about two exes forced to reunite when a plane crash leaves them stranded on a deserted island.
Piper Adams is totally, one hundred percent, completely over Wyatt, the former love of her life. After he broke her heart, she stopped taking risks and focused instead on building a perfect—and perfectly safe—life. Bumping into him at the airport on the way to her best friend’s destination wedding wasn’t part of the plan. Neither was a canceled flight nor Wyatt’s offer of a ride on the tiny plane he’s flying to attend the same wedding. Desperate to make it on time she accepts his offer, but things go from awkward to full-blown nightmare when their plane crashes in the Caribbean, stranding Piper on a deserted island with the last person she ever wanted to see again.
At first, rule-following Piper clashes with adventure-driven Wyatt, but as the days tick by, she begrudgingly admits that the boy she once knew has grown into a man. A man who makes her laugh, knows his way around a fire, and is annoyingly hot shirtless. As the chemistry still simmering between them boils over, Piper begins wishing Wyatt could be more than just a survival partner. But for their love to survive a second chance, she’ll have to not only trust Wyatt again, but also learn to trust herself and find the courage to let go of her carefully curated life for the chance at something far greater—if they survive the island long enough for rescue.
Goodreads
Series: Princes of London #1
Author: Christy Carlyle
April 1st 2025 by Avon
In the swoon-worthy opener of her Princes of London series, Christy Carlyle takes readers on a breathless chase through Victorian London as a wild bluestocking from a family of treasure hunters and a handsome, serious gentleman from the Scotland Yard butt heads while attempting to thwart a plot to steal the Crown Jewels, inspired by National Treasure.
Alexandra Prince is clever, outspoken, and, yes, perhaps a bit impulsive. Yet she’s always been overshadowed by her siblings. While they are off on adventurous expeditions, she’s the one left to keep the family’s antique shop going while she works on a book about lady pirates—and longs for an adventure of her own. When she overhears a group of suspicious customers whispering about a plan to steal the Crown Jewels, she knows it’s her opportunity to shine. But she needs a little help.
Detective Inspector Benedict Drake takes his duties at Scotland Yard seriously. In fact, he takes almost everything seriously. Except for the breathless beauty who crashes into his office to tell him about a ludicrous scheme to steal the Crown Jewels. Despite his turning her away, she keeps popping up wherever he goes, and he’s not sure whether she’s determined to cause a scandal or is trying to drive him to distraction. Just when he thinks he’s rid of her, an event compels him to believe her account, and he begrudgingly enlists her aid to thwart the theft of the century.
But while thieves seek the Crown Jewels, the troublesome bluestocking he can’t seem to keep away from might just steal his heart…
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Victoria Lavine
April 1st 2025 by Atria Books
A bestselling romance author flees to Alaska to reinvent herself and write her first murder mystery, but the rugged resort proprietor soon has her fearing she’s living in a rom-com plot instead in this earnestly spectacular debut by a stunning new voice.
Beloved romance author Margot Bradley has a dark she doesn’t believe in Happily Ever Afters. Not for herself, not for her readers, and not even for her characters, for whom she secretly writes alternate endings that swap weddings and babies for divorce papers and the occasional slashed tire. When her Happily Never After document is hacked and released to the public, she finds herself canceled by her readers and dropped by her publisher.
Desperate to find a way to continue supporting her chronically ill sister, Savannah, Margot decides to trade meet-cutes for murder. The fictional kind. Probably. But when Savannah books Margot a six-week stay in a remote Alaskan resort to pen her first murder mystery, Margot finds herself running from a moose and leaping into the arms of the handsome proprietor, making her fear she’s just landed in a romance novel instead.
The last thing Dr. Forrest Wakefield ever expected was to leave his dream job as a cancer researcher to become a glorified bellhop. What he’s really doing at his family’s resort is caring for his stubborn, ailing father, and his puzzle-loving mind is slowly freezing over—until Margot shows up. But Forrest doesn’t have any room in his life for another person he could lose, especially one with a checkout date.
As long snowy nights and one unlikely trope after another draw Margot and Forrest together, they’ll each have to learn to overcome their fears and set their aside assumptions before Margot leaves—or risk becoming a Happily Never After story themselves.
Goodreads
Series: The Diamonds #2
Author: Amalie Howard
April 1st 2025 by Joy Revolution
The daughter of a duke defies the rules of London high society with the help of the resident rake—who just so happens to be her brother’s best friend—in this fun teen historical romance from the USA Today bestselling author of Queen Bee.
Lady Zenobia “Zia” Osborn, a duke’s daughter, is frustrated that her entire life has been predetermined. What good is skill or intelligence if one is forced to suffocate it because of one’s sex? She’d much rather make her mark on the world than bat her eyelashes for the ton.
Zia only comes alive in the Lady Knights, a clandestine social club for rebellious girls. In it, she is free to compose music, fence, read controversial literature, and save orphans from destitution by any means necessary. Aside from her closest confidantes, no one knows about Zia’s indecorous other life. . . .
Until Mr. Rafi Nasser, a rogue with secrets of his own, finds out. Shocked yet intrigued by his best friend’s younger sister, he agrees to keep Zia’s secret—if only to help her avoid utter scandal.
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Renee Daniel Flagler
April 1st 2025 by Afterglow Books by Harlequin
A small-town woman’s journey of self-discovery takes an unexpected detour when she inherits a Brooklyn brownstone—complete with one hot next-door neighbor—in this sexy, emotional contemporary romance.
When you least expect it, love comes knocking…
Holland Davenport is ready to go beyond her small-town existence. Her plan involves moving into an apartment in Charleston—not inheriting a run-down brownstone in Brooklyn from a relative she never knew. Yet in a burst of daring, Holland meets the challenge head-on, moving to New York to learn more about her family and renovate the place. Add to that a gorgeous next-door neighbor who turns out to be a board member at her new job, and she’s definitely out of her depth.
Noble Washington is the successful CEO of a company he spent a decade building. But his carefully ordered life begins to unravel the second he meets fiery social worker Holland—and spends one unforgettable night with a woman who should be off-limits.
There’s a wall and a world of differences lying between them. But the sheltered Southerner and the ambitious native New Yorker feel a pull that just won’t be denied…
Goodreads
Series: Say I Do #3
Author: Amelia Grey
April 1st 2025 by St. Martin's Paperbacks
When the Duke of Hurstbourne receives a letter from his childhood friend asking him to marry his sister Ophelia, Hurst declines. He’s not adverse to taking a bride, but he believes in love at first sight that stirs his desire―not marriage sight-unseen.
Adhering to society’s strict propriety for ladies, Ophelia Stowe has no choice but to present herself as a man to seek the Duke of Hurstbourne’s favor. If not for the dire situation she finds herself in, she wouldn’t have asked for help from the handsome man who had rebuffed her. When the alluring duke’s response is a plan of his own, Ophelia never dreams it would be a proposal of a marriage of convenience.
But the stakes are high, and the good name of the Stowe family will be damaged if a missing antiquity isn’t found. When she accepts his offer, she quickly finds she isn’t immune to the passion building between her and her new husband―or how real the marriage begins to feel.
Goodreads
Series: Wed Within a Year #1
Author: Bronwyn Scott
April 1st 2025 by Harlequin Historical
Sparks fly when the wallflower…waltzes with the rake! A Wed Within a Year story. When the Crown awards spy Caine Parkhurst the title of Marquess, it’s with the outrageous stipulation that he marries within the year! Caine’s catapulted into London’s ballrooms in search of a bride, but the last thing this rakish bachelor is looking for is love…
Once a diamond, Lady Mary is now in danger of becoming a wallflower—or, worse, being married off to a man of her father’s choosing! To escape the relentless matchmaking she agrees to a fake courtship with the new Marquess. Yet his touch leaves her longing to court this rake…for real!
Goodreads
Series: Romancing the Dukes #2
Author: Sara Bennett
April 1st 2025 by Forever
A lady who must follow all the rules tangles with a duke who loves to break them.
Most ladies would be thrilled to receive a proposal from a handsome duke only weeks into their first season, but Olivia is not most ladies, and the circumstances are less than ideal. After a family scandal left their coffers empty and their reputation on the rocks, Olivia must marry someone rich with an impeccable pedigree. A man with shaky finances and a taste for risky adventures is exactly wrong for her, no matter how charming his smile.
Ivo Fitzsimmons, Duke of Northam, did not expect to find a wife. He planned to spend the season shoring up his smuggling enterprise and looking for new ways to keep his estate afloat. If meeting a lady like Olivia surprised him, that was nothing compared to refusing his proposal. She has feelings for him, he’s sure of it. Now he’ll spend the season proving he’s the only man for her—if only he doesn’t get arrested first.
Goodreads
Series: Seduced in Scotland #2
Author: Matilda Madison
April 5th 2025 by Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.
An affair of art and passion.
Faith Sharpe is furious. After receiving a letter from her former friend, the artist Donovan, she learns that he has sold a painting he promised never to sell. A nude of Faith. Convincing herself that it was likely sold to someone who lives far away from her current home in the Highlands, Faith tries to put it out of her mind.
And what better way to do so than to spar with the most aggravating Scotsman alive?
Logan Harris does not like English women, thus he has always been infuriatingly rude to Faith. Since returning home from the horrors of war, Logan has found comfort in collecting art. When he procures a painting from a stellar new artist, he’s intrigued because the provocative piece looks very familiar...
When Logan discovers that the subject of his new painting is Faith, he believes her sardonic temperament is due to being jilted by her former lover. With a growing attraction forming between them, Logan soon does the unthinkable. He offers himself as a replacement.
Both aroused and horrified at his proposal, Faith rejects him. But the thought of Logan possessing the piece of art infuriates her. Eventually, she agrees, but only with the intention of ruining the painting. Then, she’ll flee Scotland forever.
Now Logan must convince Faith of something he never believed in. But when a deadly ghost from his past turns up, will Logan and Faith’s journey end before it even begins?
Goodreads
Series: Love's Academic #2
Author: India Holton
April 8th 2025 by Berkley
Geography professors in a failed marriage of convenience inconveniently reconnect for an emergency mission in this swoony historical-fantasy rom-com.
Professor Elodie Tarrant is an expert in magic disasters. Nothing fazes her--except her own personal disaster, that is: Professor Gabriel Tarrant, the grumpy, unfriendly man she married for convenience a year ago, whom she secretly loves.
Gabriel is also an expert in magic disasters. And nothing fazes him either--except the walking, talking tornado that is his wife. They've been estranged since shortly after their wedding day, but that hasn't stopped him from stoically pining for her.
When magic erupts in a small Welsh village, threatening catastrophe for the rest of England, Elodie and Gabriel are accidentally both assigned to the case. With the fate of the country in their hands, they must come together as a team in the face of perilous conditions like explosions, domesticated goats, and only one bed. But this is easier said than done. After all, there's no navigational guide for the geography of the heart.
Goodreads
Series: Moonville #2
Author: Sarah Hogle
April 8th 2025 by G.P. Putnam's Sons
From the acclaimed author of Old Flames and New Fortunes comes a steamy enemies-to-lovers romantasy about a paranormal skeptic who is roped into a ghost hunting romp by the charming boy next door . . . who might just show her what real fantasies are made of.
Paranormal skeptic Zelda Tempest is hoping for a much-needed creativity boost for a new paranormal mystery novel. But despite the alleged magic of her hometown, Moonville, Ohio, she’s as stuck as ever.
With two witch sisters, not believing in magic is strange for a Tempest, but no one is more disappointed than Morgan Angelopoulos, the charming man next door. So, to cure her of her writer's block and her disbelief in magic, Morgan ropes her into a ghost-hunting romp, only for Zelda to discover something else bizarre, never-before-seen creatures that appear as ordinary pets to everyone else.
Curious about what else might be lurking in Moonville's woods, Zelda and Morgan embark on a quest to uncover the true magic that lies in their midsts . . . and perhaps, just maybe, they will find that the magic they're searching for has been with them all along.
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Pepper Basham
April 8th 2025 by Thomas Nelson
An American travel writer who has never found a place to belong and a reclusive Scot with a surprising secret find a shocking connection when she enters a Highlands manor house that has been turned into a three-week long Edwardian experience.
Katie Campbell has traveled her entire life. As the daughter of an army chaplain, changing homes--or even countries--was commonplace, so when her wild childhood storytelling turned into a lucrative career as a travel writer, she thought she'd found her perfect match. But as she's nearly thirty with no real place to settle down, she's starting to wonder where "home" actually is. Her own family hadn't felt like home since her sister's death left them all limping through life.
When a lengthy project in Scotland promises to not only give her travel fodder for months but also a shot at a coveted editing position, she accepts and is sent to spend three weeks in the newly created Craighill House, a Scottish home redesigned to offer guests an Edwardian experience. But her entrance to Craighill introduces her to a quirky group of characters and a surly Scot who is helping refurbish the magnificent woodwork of the estate house.
As Katie attempts to live "Edwardian," she learns that all that glitters does not a comfortable lifestyle make . . . and surly Scots may turn out to be dashing and creative uncles raising their orphaned nephews. When a few escapades from the Downton era lead Katie on hunts for mermaids and dragons or to a fireside chat with a family who has grown stronger through tragedy, Katie begins to wonder if "home" looks a whole lot like rolling green hills, magnificent braighs, and a few extra "ayes" thrown in for good measure. But can her world-traveling lifestyle fit in with a Scot whose heart is double-knotted to home?
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Molly Harper
April 8th 2025 by Berkley
A fast-paced, witty, and delightful new mystery about a marriage proposal planner whose biggest job yet is threatened by a dead body (or two).
Jessamine Bricker loves a plan. Contingency plans and pros-and-cons lists are her love language, and because of that, her proposal planning business is thriving. But with rent costs rising at her office building, Jess jumps at the chance to plan a proposal between her snobby high school classmate, Diana, and her very wealthy boyfriend, Trenton Tillard…the Fourth.
Roped into joining Diana’s ”pre-bridal” retreat at the exclusive Golden Ash resort, Jess hopes to fade into the background, get some work done, and maybe find some time to unwind. Their first day is anything but relaxing: Diana is furious about the mountain spa’s lack of cell phone reception, the couple next door argues constantly, and Jess swears she just saw a drug deal go down. To top it all off, she’s warned to stay out of the woods by the gruff and sexy chef, Dean Osbourne. Is this a retreat or a horror movie?
As Jess tries to do her job while placating the bride-to-be and her increasingly over-the-top demands, she spends more and more time with the resort owners, finding herself much more in tune with the laid-back Osbourne family than her social climbing “boss.” Between a meditation garden-related drowning and Jess’s discovery of a body in a sauna, it's clear that deadly secrets abound at the Golden Ash. Now it’s up to Jess to unravel the mysteries here in the mountains—before all her plans are cancelled…permanently.
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Felicity George
April 10th 2025 by Orion
Two sworn enemies. One inconvenient truce. What could possibly go wrong?
When the beloved Duke of Severn passes away under suspicious circumstances, rumours are alight that it was because of his young, rebellious, and outspoken wife, Henrietta. Especially once she goes on the run...
But she's not alone.
Theodore Hawke, a ruthless journalist and her sworn enemy, shortly follows behind - determined to be the first to get the scoop.
With no other option, Henrietta proposes a deal. If he helps her uncover the true identity of her late husband's killer, he can publish whatever he likes.
But when their inconvenient truce begins to cause inconvenient feelings, it's not just Henrietta's reputation at stake - but her heart too...
Goodreads
Series: The Marleigh Sisters #3
Author: Amita Murray
April 10th 2025 by HarperCollins
Mira Marleigh is a writer of salacious society gossip and one of the extraordinary Marleigh sisters—the beautiful Anglo-Indian socialites who have scandalised the court of King George III and his queen Charlotte. Hiding behind her pen name of Aurelius, her world is turned upside down when a scandalous circular she writes sends Regency buck Finnegan Underwood on the run for murder.
Mira heads to Devonshire in a search of the real culprit. But not only must she defend herself from Devon’s most ungentlemanly ruffians, she must also keep the secret of her authorship from Finnegan. Now turned smuggler, he is proving to be one lawbreaker who is very hard to resist.
Goodreads
Series: Captivating Kisses #2
Author: Alexa Aston
April 11th 2025 by Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.
A hardened marquess who feels he has no soul. A naive young lady making her come-out. An impulsive kiss which leads to a marriage of convenience . . .
Judson Jarvis, Marquess of Huntsberry, was raised by his uncle, who brutally punished Judson in order to toughen the orphaned weakling. As he grew in size, Judson retaliated against all the boys at school who had bullied him, until everyone became frightened of him. Now, Judson is angry, bored, and entirely friendless.
Lady Lucilla Alington is thoughtful and nurturing. She is making her come-out this Season, but her family worries that the wrong men will be attracted to her innocent charm and large dowry. When two rakehells decide to ruin the naïve young lady, Judson rashly intervenes, chasing away the men who would have ruined her reputation, and capturing her delicate lips with a fervent kiss. His impulsive action, meant to save her from ruination, sets off a chain reaction of unforeseen consequences.
Now bound together in a marriage of convenience, Judson and Lucy must navigate their way through the marriage forced upon them.
Can Judson and Lucy's impulsive choice become the foundation for a love that lasts a lifetime, or will the trials they face prove insurmountable?
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Laura Carter
April 14th 2025 by Boldwood Books
It’s never too late…
Lyra Clarkson has built a career capturing other people’s perfect moments. She loves her work as a wedding photographer – despite her family’s disapproval – but she’s never quite found her own path.
Guy Walker, former rock star turned wedding singer, has hit a new low. Desperately needing cash, he’s agreed to take any gig his manager can get him, even if this new form of entertainment isn’t just singing.
As Lyra and Guy’s paths cross – in the most bizarre way possible – an unexpected kiss will change everything. But was it simply a chance encounter or is fate bringing them back together?
Now forced into each other’s lives for the entire wedding season, the unlikely pair may just figure out together how to realise both their dreams…
Goodreads
Series: Debutantes of London #2
Author: Lydia Drake
April 14th 2025 by Entangled: Amara
Desperate times call for drastic measures…and Miss Caroline Devereux is most certainly desperate. Her spendthrift father’s been gambling away every spare shilling, racking up debts, selling off their family’s coveted objets d’art, and bringing them to the edge of ruin. Up until now, she’s been able to stave off the creditors—and afford luxuries like tea—by penning sensational Gothic tales. But they’re out of time, and Caroline must play the one card she has left.
The Earl of Rockford cannot believe that any young lady would dare to blackmail him. Not only has she threatened to expose the darkest secrets of his family and destroy their name, but she’s done it all in an attempt to…marry him? And damned if he isn’t secretly delighted by her spirit. But first, Miss Caroline has a lesson to learn about who she’s dealing with…
No one warned Caroline that the handsome, wealthy earl she intends to marry isn’t remotely the gentleman she expected. Because the “Rogue of Whitechapel” isn’t about to go down without a fight…and the first to fall in love will be the first one to lose.
Goodreads
Series: Rebel Blue Ranch #4
Author: Lyla Sage
April 15th 2025 by Quercus
She’s the one that got away. He’s the one that never let her go.
From the bestselling author of Done and Dusted and Swift and Saddled, the next book in the Rebel Blue Ranch series, a small town romance in which past lovers get a second chance to rediscover what they lost.
Camille Ashwood had always loved a plan. Her latest was her best yet. She was going to get married so she could secure her daughter’s future, get her overbearing parents off her back, and finally start building her own life in small town Meadowlark, Wyoming. Easy, right?
But when her groom doesn’t show up to the wedding, Cam’s life is turned upside down—she doesn’t even have a place to live. That is, until she finds out the house she’s loved since high school is available to rent. There’s only one problem: the neighbor.
Dusty Tucker has spent nearly all of his adult life running. Running from what, though? More like who: Cam Ashwood. But ever since he returned home last year, the girl who was his first, well, everything has become a woman seemingly determined to keep him at arm’s length. And he was okay with that—at least, that’s what he kept telling himself. She was getting married, after all. But now she’s single and living next door. Dusty wants to show her that they can be friends, and that he can stay put.
Despite her best attempts to stay far away from Dusty Tucker, Cam realizes that being close to him is like slipping on her favorite jeans. Easy. Comfortable. That is until past wounds start to open and feelings—both old and new—wreak havoc. Nearly ten years after they first met, Dusty and Cam begin to wonder if their first love can also be their last. And this time, will it be forever?
Goodreads
Series: Bridesmaid for Hire #3
Author: Meghan Quinn
April 15th 2025 by Bloom Books
Hudson Hopper is in some trouble. After doing his business partner, Jude, a favor by hiring his younger sister, Sloane, Hudson very quickly finds out that she is a massive distraction―especially since she's now his assistant.
But when they are confronted with a situation where Sloane is told to fill in as a bridesmaid for one of Hudson's business partners, she comes up with an equal trade. She'll be a part of the regency wedding--corset and all--if Hudson marries her. Sloane knows the value of the trade, he needs her, and she needs his wedding ring to get her into a high-society club that will further her career.
It's an instant no from Hudson at first, but when she convinces him that no one will find out, including her brother, and he will benefit from the marriage too . . . well, Hudson finds himself saying "I do."
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Nicole Knight
April 15th 2025 by W by Wattpad Books
In this steamy mafia romance from newcomer Nicole Knight, Ava Moretti has the night of her life after a chance encounter with a handsome stranger. But when he turns out to be her mafia family’s sworn enemy and her father insists they marry for the good of the business, Ava has a decision to make that will change her life forever.
From strangers to lovers, from enemies to family, from mafia princess to . . . mafia wife?
Ava Moretti is a mafia princess with a fiery personality and an aversion to doing what she's told. Nick Caponelli is next-in-line to lead the Caponelli mafia—he’s used to getting exactly what he wants. When they meet by chance one night, neither has any idea they are from rival crime families. After a night of passion, they are supposed to part ways and never see each other again. But fate has bigger plans, and soon Ava must make a decision that will change her life forever. What comes first: love or family?
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Becca Kinzer
April 15th 2025 by Tyndale Fiction
She’s a romance writer burned out on love. He’s her famous baseball star ex-husband. The last man she wants to be forced to work with is the one who broke her heart.
Rom-com writer Gracie Parker hasn’t written a bestseller since she and her husband, a major league baseball star, divorced five years ago. On thin ice with her publisher—and with a looming deadline—Gracie couldn’t have picked a worse time for a painful injury that has her flat on her back. At this point, she’d accept help from anybody . . . except her first love and ex-husband, Noah Parker.
The baseball season has just ended in massive disappointment for Noah. He’s facing the stark reality that he gave up everything for a career that’s let him down and that it might be too late to get back the one person he should’ve held on to. So when Gracie’s nephew calls, saying Gracie’s looking for a tenant for her next-door rental, it feels like it’s meant to be.
All Gracie cares about is turning in her manuscript on time, which is directly at odds with Noah’s attempts to win her back, even if she is slightly charmed by his kindness. But can people ever really change? Then Noah throws a curveball that could give Gracie the extension she needs, but it will mean working directly with Noah, something she’s not sure she can face. With no other choice, and everything on the line, Gracie must decide if it is too late for a second draft of their own love story.
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Jenny Ireland
April 17th 2025 by Penguin
When Lexie sees Shane for the first time, she’s blown away. Not only by the way he plays football (although that is great), but by his looks, and how he’s not like the other boys. Best of all, he feels the same way about her. Electricity at first sight.
But there's a problem.
New in town, Shane has taken the position in Westing FC's starting 11 that Lexie’s brother, Niall, had set his sights on. Now, they must be each other's biggest secret. Shane's family situation is complicated, so there isn't much space for a girlfriend... or is there?
At first, the sneaking around is after practice, meeting on the beach, hiding from Niall. But things are about to get complicated...
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Noel Stark
April 22nd 2025 by Alcove Press
A scrappy TV director lands her big break only to go head-to-head with the surly yet sexy director of photography, in this page-turning romance perfect for fans of Ava Wilder and Tessa Bailey.
Up-and-coming TV director Cali Daniels knows sex. Well, okay, she knows how to shoot sex scenes, and she’s been hired to direct a highly anticipated steamy episode of the popular series The Demon. This job is her chance at a big-time career in the film and television industry—all she has to do is deliver an unparalleled show using her hard-knocks know-how and ample creativity.
If only the director of photography—effortlessly sexy Jory Blair—would stop shutting her ideas down at every turn. Jory has spent years cultivating his career as an A-list director of photography, but a recent health scare has him rethinking his life and craving the director spot. Now this creative newbie, who he can’t get out of his mind, wants to change the look of his show. Even worse, the friction between them is sparking into blistering chemistry.
As collaborating takes on a whole new meaning, and the show’s producer not-so-subtly suggests that Jory sabotage Cali in order to achieve his own goals, they’ll have to decide if chasing their dream jobs is worth losing the dream of a future together.
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Marina Adair
April 22nd 2025 by Zando – 8th Note Press
A modern twist on You’ve Got Mail starring an indie bookstore owner looking for true love and a cynical CEO who may ruin everything, from New York Times bestselling author Marina Adair.
Summer Russo believes in the power of destiny and true love . . . which might be why she sank her entire life savings into reviving a nearly-bankrupt independent bookstore that specializes in romance novels and beach reads. But just as she starts to get the hang of the new business, a big-box bookstore moves in next door, run by the grumpy and arrogant Kingston, who seems determined to ruin her day (and her livelihood).
Wes Kingston is a cut-throat CEO who doesn’t believe in love — or failure. He runs his business the way he runs his alone. And he isn’t going to let a fiery femme fatale take him down. Especially when she is dead set on stopping the opening of his new bookstore.
At least Summer has her family's annual vacation in Mystic, CT to look forward to as a break from the standoff. But when she arrives at the beachside cabin, she realizes that her usual summer respite may not be so carefree after all. Her sister has brought along not only her boyfriend but his brother, who just happens to be the very same surly-but-infuriatingly-sexy bookstore mogul Summer thought she was getting away from.
The bookstore war is still on, and neither Summer nor Kingston will go down without a fight. But when one thing leads to another and fighting turns to foreplay, both find themselves stuck in a battle for the bookstore — and for their hearts.
Goodreads
Series: A Wallflower’s Guide #1
Author: Manda Collins
April 22nd 2025 by Forever
A sunshine spinster and a grumpy viscount use their fake engagement to solve a murder mystery in the first book of a new series from Manda Collins.
A wallflower by choice, wealthy Lucy Penhallow would rather sit out the dancing all season than listen to false flattery from the fortune hunters who pursue her. But when she and her best friend’s brother witness a crime in progress, they’ll need to put every skill Lucy’s learned from reading detective stories to the test in their hunt for a missing woman. And if Viscount Gilford happens to be handsome as sin and clever to boot? Well, that's no hardship for her.
Viscount Gilford needs a wife to save him from financial ruin, and there’s only one heiress who’s off limits. So when he and Lucy find themselves inextricably linked in the tabloids, it’s a disaster. As their investigation progresses, their once unwelcome alliance becomes something more—a love match neither will give up. But there’s a killer watching their romance from the wings who’s only too happy to keep these meddlesome sleuths together . . . in the afterlife.
Goodreads
Series: Blood & Bone Legacy #1
Author: Paula Dombrowiak & Natalie Parker
April 22nd 2025 by Dark Angel Publishing LLC
It was supposed to be simple: Film the tour. Build my portfolio. And for Heavens sake, keep it in my pants.
Then I met Felix Krasinski.
The captivating and infuriatingly cocky frontman of Velvet Drift commands attention everywhere he goes—including mine. Am I proud of it? No. I’m supposed to be filming their performance, not fantasizing about his perfect abs. I’m determined to be taken seriously, and hooking up with the ridiculously hot rockstar is the fastest way to tank my credibility.
Felix is always in control, and I am an impulsive rule-breaker. We don’t make sense. But we can’t seem to stay away from each other.
Because, between his uptight habits and annoyingly perfect jawline, there's more to Felix than his stage presence and legendary last name. He’s protective, vulnerable, and gets me in a way no one else does.
But my career depends on keeping things professional, and his future hinges on staying laser-focused on his band's success.
Every heated argument, every stolen kiss, makes me want to throw caution—and professionalism—to the wind.
One thing’s certain—this summer tour is about to get a lot more complicated than I bargained for.
Goodreads
Series: The Boys of Castleview Cove #2
Author: V.H. Nicolson
April 23rd 2025 by Boldwood Books
Once upon a time… You know the story… prince meets princess. Evil thwarts their love, and the prince must fight for her heart. Good always wins and there is a stunning wedding at the castle on the hill. I used to dream of having a fairy tale love story of my own, but I don’t think the author of mine got the memo because right now, I’m shackled to a bed, scared for my life.
My story started with an ambivalent prince whose parents reminded me constantly that I simply wasn’t good enough for him.
When I broke free, a new hero stepped forward.
My boss, and my ex's best friend. Jacob.
Broad, toned, and dripping in ink that he tried to hide from me.
Turns out, I’ve been looking for my happy ever after in all the wrong places and he’s been here, waiting for me since I was sixteen.
Except, he made a teenage pact. An unbreakable bro-code with my ex. Never touch each other’s past girlfriends. Ever.
So we resist.
Although it’s amazing how much naughtiness you can get up to without touching.
But this is more than just lust, this is love and real love always gets a happy ending, right? If we explain, my ex has to understand… especially since he’s already engaged to someone else.
But, even I have to admit, this doesn’t look good. I can’t see how I will get out of this mess.
I wanted my fairy tale, but right now I'd settle for a chance to at least kiss my prince.
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Chloe Ford
April 24th 2025 by Aria
They say you should keep your enemies closer…
For Fliss, the prospect of a team building work trip fills her with dread. Mostly because she cannot stand her pushy colleague James, who often attempts to derail her brilliant plans. But when the two arrive in the Scottish Highlands, they find themselves facing a unique their boss has abandoned them in the middle of nowhere with only one tent, two sleeping bags and a few protein bars.
Cut off from the outside world, the pair are forced to put aside their differences to weather the unpredictable elements of the Highlands and get home. As they set out on a journey across miles of rugged wilderness - pushing each other to survive and testing their physical and emotional limits - they remain fully aware of their boss's manipulative plan to orchestrate a hook up between them.
But even with only each other for company, Fliss and James stand firm in their they won't give in to any romantic notions. Or will they?
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Elle Cook
April 24th 2025 by Penguin
This year’s wedding season is coming to an end for flatmates Lexie and Sarah.
Sarah sets Lexie one last challenge as part of their summer-long wedding bingo – to kiss the best man, Josh.
But while Lexie is looking for Josh, she meets Chris. Their connection is instant, and they can’t stop talking.
As she runs inside to grab them Champagne, she finally finds Josh at the bar and connects with him too.
Returning to Chris, he tells her in a matter of moments he’s leaving the UK to go home to New York. They’re reluctant to leave things where they are. The laughter, fun and conversation feels so real, so meant to be.
So Chris makes a split-second decision and invites Lexie to go with him to New York, just for the weekend, just for a few days, just to see.
With two men, and one moment to make a life-changing decision, what will Lexie decide?
And what if fate has other ideas?
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Stefany Nunes
April 28th 2025 by The Book Guild
19th-century England. Benjamin Gerard Waldorf, the Duke of Waldorf, has resigned himself to a life of duty and responsibility. But when an antique cameo unexpectedly transports him 200 years into the future, his world is turned upside down.Isabella Souza Kato, a struggling writer in London, is grappling with creative block after a painful breakup. Just as she’s ready to give up on love, a chance encounter with a man claiming to be from the 1800s alters her life completely.
As they navigate the complexities of time, culture, and their own hearts, Benjamin and Isabella must confront their fears and insecurities if they want to find a future together.
Will Benjamin find a way back to his rightful place, or will he choose to forge a new path with Isabella?
Goodreads
Series: The Karma Club #1
Author: Amy Andrews
April 26th 2025 by Boldwood Books
Introducing The Payback Plan, the first installment in this gorgeously spicy series The Karma Club…where just desserts are best served shared! Karma's here to stay!
When fate strands Paige Parker at O’Hare airport during a snow storm little does she know her misfortune is the beginning of a wild and life-changing adventure. Because when she meets three complete strangers, they quickly bond over shared tales of betrayal and heartbreak. And just for fun, they concoct a scheme to exact sweet revenge on their exes!
Except when the plan becomes a reality, Paige finds herself in Cornwall with Olly Prendergast. Son of a movie star, grumpy recluse and responsible for jilting his fiancé on their wedding day with a text message. The payback plan has begun! Step one: move into his spare room and disrupt his peace and quiet. Step two: bring a pet hamster, adopt a dog and let chaos run loose. Step Three: unapologetically make a mess in his pristine house at every opportunity. Step 4: Show Mr Grumpy what fun looks like!
But Paige is unprepared when the plan begins to backfire and she starts to see the man behind the reputation. And when she can’t ignore their undeniable chemistry anymore Paige has to battle with the secret she’s been keeping from Olly and loyalty to her friend and The Karma Club…
Goodreads
Series: Accidental Brides #2
Author: Eloisa James
April 29th 2025 by Avon
New York Times bestselling author Eloisa James returns to the Accidental Brides series with a romance about a forced marriage between a feisty heroine and a Scottish laird... neither of whom have plans to marry, let alone fall in love.
Desperate after her Season comes to a spectacularly disastrous end, the Honorable Miss Clara Vetry jumps into a carriage hired to take a housekeeper to Scotland.
The laird of Castle CaerLaven has no interest in a wife, especially a love match—but when Caelan sees his new housekeeper, he changes his mind. Marriage to a delectable bookworm strikes him as a perfect arrangement.
To his surprise, Clara refuses his proposal once…and again…yet again.
When her true identity is revealed, and they’re forced to marry, Caelan realizes he has a far more crucial challenge.
He finally has Clara’s hand—but how will he ever win her heart?
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: Lindz McLeod
April 29th 2025 by Atom
Jane Austen meets Bridgerton in this slow-burn sapphic romance between Charlotte Lucas and Mary Bennet, taking place four years after the end of Pride and Prejudice.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that love always blooms in the unlikeliest of places.
When Mr. Collins dies after just four years of marriage, Charlotte is lost. While not exactly heartbroken, she will soon have to quit the parsonage that has become her home. In desperate need of support, she writes to her best friend, Lizzie. Unable to leave Pemberley, Lizzie sends her sister, Mary Bennet, to offer support in her stead.
To Charlotte's surprise, Mary Bennet is nothing like she remembers. Mary's discovery of academia and her interest in botany (as well as getting out from under her mother's thumb) have caused her to flourish. Before long, Charlotte is enraptured - with Mary, and with the possibilities that lie beyond their societal confines. With each stolen glance and whispered secret, their friendship quickly blossoms into something achingly real.
But when her time at the parsonage begins to dwindle and potential suitors appear, Charlotte must make a choice - the safety and security of another husband, or a passionate life with Mary outside the confines of the ton's expectations.
Goodreads
Series: Lords of Hazard #1
Author: Sabrina Jeffries
April 29th 2025 by Kensington
For readers of Regency romance by Julia Quinn, Lisa Kleypas, and Madeline Hunter, New York Times bestselling author Sabrina Jeffries debuts a brand new series in trade paperback in which a lord, detained in France during the Napoleonic war, returns home to find he’s inherited a dukedom and vows to make a match for his deceased mentor’s daughter.
Intriguing twists and sparkling wit entwine in this stunning new historical romance from the New York Times bestselling Sabrina Jeffries, as a once-exiled patriot returns home to a changed world . . .
Napoleon’s war has ended, and English captives detained for years in a French fortress are finally released. Returning to a London he no longer recognizes, and facing astonishing changes in his own family, Lord Jonathan Leighton learns he has inherited a dukedom. But the new nobleman carries the guilt of having wronged his late mentor. Now, he vows to fulfill his promise to find a suitable match for the man’s daughter, Victoria—even if it takes offering a nonexistent dowry to spark her interest in matrimony . . .
Sharp-witted Victoria would just as soon sculpt the Greek god who has come to take charge of her future. In fact, she has her sights set on founding a school for women artists. As Jonathan matches wits with the talented beauty, revelations from his past—and their connection to her father’s demise—threaten to unveil both of their closely held secrets and thrust them into a danger they can only escape together.
Goodreads
Series: None
Author: E.M. Wilson
April 29th 2025 by Frayed Pages x Wattpad Books
Heath and Teagan have one thing in common: they don't want to be in a relationship.
Teagan, who is busy finishing her law degree, needs a break from the stress of living up to her parents' expectations. Heath is following his passion and starting his career as a physical therapist, but his family's drama is tearing his life apart behind the scenes.
As members of the same friend group, Heath and Teagan will be around each other plenty during wedding season, whether they like it or not. With no time or desire to date, the two come to an agreement: pre-scheduled hookups through the summer or until something real comes along. A situational relationship, otherwise known as a situationship.
Their arrangement seems perfect. If their past doesn't come back to bite them.
Goodreads
Series: Love in Laandia #5
Author: Holly Kerr
April 29th 2025 by Three Birds Press
There’s always been a connection between Spencer and Princess Lyra. Everyone expects Spencer Laz to eventually win the heart of Princess Lyra, the only daughter of the king of Laandia.
Spencer is best friends with the four princes. His father is the right-hand man to the king. He’s been a part of the family his whole life, patiently waiting for his HEA with Lyra.
Only now, a new love has him confused if Lyra is really the one he’s meant to be with.
When Lyra discovers Spencer has found someone else, she overreacts and signs up to be the next Suitorette on a reality dating show, ready and eager to pick one of twenty-five men to be her Prince Charming.
Hope may be lost for Spencer and Lyra unless Spencer finally decides it’s time to make a bold move to win the heart of the royal rebel.
Goodreads
Series: The Dukes of Darkness #4
Author: Anna Harrington
April 29th 2025 by Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.
An Unexpected Twist of Fate…
Miss Tessa Albright has to find a husband—fast--even though there’s no chance she’ll marry for love. After all, there’s only been one man for her…and he married her cousin. But as she prepares to enter a loveless marriage, the man she loves—now a widower--returns from his self-imposed exile, and she isn’t prepared for the man he’s become.
Brings a Second Chance at Love
Chase Maddox, Duke of Greysmere, had his world implode when his wife and toddler son died. So he left England and tried desperately to overcome his grief. Now, three years later, he’s come home…for a while. But his plans to sell the estate, then leave England for good don’t go smoothly. He isn’t prepared for the ghosts that still haunt him. Nor does he realize how much he needs the help of an old friend, one who has grown into a much too beautiful woman in his absence.
Before long, Tessa and Chase find themselves in a rapidly changing situation—one that draws them closer, despite an uncertain future. Chase is more determined than ever to leave, but Tessa isn’t daunted. After all, the world might see Chase as the devil’s own duke, but she knows he’s always been hers…if she can only find a way to make him realize that.
Goodreads
Series: Kings of Sin #5
Author: Ana Huang
April 29th 2025 by Bloom Books
He had everything he could’ve wanted…except her.
Dangerous. Powerful. Reclusive.
Vuk Markovic is notorious for shunning human interactions. The scarred billionaire rarely talks, and he has no interest in relationships outside his small but trusted circle.
His only exception? Her . The beauty to his beast, the object of his obsession.
He saw her first. He wanted her first. But now, she’s engaged to his oldest friend—and the closer the wedding looms, the more he’s torn between loyalty and desire.
She should be his…and he might just risk it all to have her.
***
Beautiful. Successful. Glamorous.
To the world, supermodel Ayana Kidane leads the perfect life. Her career has skyrocketed, and she’s engaged to one of New York’s most eligible bachelors.
What people don't know is that the engagement is only a business arrangement. He gets his inheritance when they marry; she gets the money she needs to leave her abusive agency.
Pretending to be in love should be easy—until she finds herself increasingly drawn to her fiancé’s enigmatic best man.
Vuk thrills and terrifies her in equal measure. She knows she should stay away, but when her wedding is thrown into chaos, he’s the only person she finds comfort in…
Until his past catches up with them and threatens everything they love.
Goodreads
What has caught your eye for April? Have you read any of these? Let me know :)
