Best romance novels of 2020

Washington Post said Pick this up for Selenka, the pack alpha who finds an instant mating bond with Ethan. Stay for the emotional beauty of their intimacy, plus a mystery plot that does not slow down.

Washington Post said Their slowest-of-burns romance is gentle, balanced by poignant moments and guffawingly funny dialogue.

Washington Post said Surprised by the depth of their friendship and their attraction, Penelope and Agatha begin to carefully build their connection, echoing the deliberate precision of bees constructing a hive, including the sweetness at the end.

Washington Post said Milan’s specialty is writing complex, layered stories that blend family, food and history, featuring lovely, nuanced characters. This historical romance is a warm friends-to-lovers comfort read you’ll savor repeatedly.

Washington Post said Warrior Maddek captures Yvenne, physically weak but intellectually ruthless, and their resulting political marriage allows both of them the most bloodthirsty revenge.

Washington Post said If you savor ferocious romance and fantasy, A Heart of Blood and Ashes and this sequel will keep you happy for many pages.

Washington Post said The latest book in the intricate Lotus Palace Mystery series features wildly intelligent Lady Bai, accustomed to being overlooked and undervalued, who sneaks out to assist her brother’s inquiries into a murder and conspiracy.

Washington Post said If you thought your year was interminable, meet the hopeful, haunting Addie LaRue. She prayed to the old gods to escape an arranged marriage and became immortal. . .but everyone she meets forgets her immediately. Addie navigates the world alone for 300 years, until 2014, when a bookstore employee named Henry remembers her.

Washington Post said Inverting historical tropes and archetypes, the story offers comedy and catharsis, and ends with a happily-ever-after so perfect it will make you return immediately to page one.

Washington Post said Cue fake dating for Instagram likes and adorable caretaking between a grumpy former athlete and a PhD student. Take two, and give one to a friend.

Washington Post said If you like snarky, clever stories, Azere’s narration is *chef’s kiss.*

Washington Post said Catnip alert! A disastrous first date between an icy actuary and a sunny astrologer turns into a temporary alliance to endure family holiday gatherings. Neither woman thinks their incendiary chemistry would last through a Real Relationship, but the more they build their fake one, the more their temporary arrangement seems destined for permanence.