10 Bestselling Spicy Romance Books You Can’t Put Down

Spicy romance novels have taken the literary world by storm, especially thanks to platforms like BookTok and Goodreads.

These books blend deep emotional connections with steamy, memorable moments, offering readers a perfect combination of passion and storyline.

Unlike erotica, which focuses primarily on physical interactions, spicy romance novels often emphasize the emotional experiences of the characters while adding just the right amount of heat.

This list includes some of the most popular spicy romance books that will have readers hooked from the very first page.

1. From Blood and Ash

From Blood and Ash is a fantasy romance novel that brings together a fascinating mix of action, suspense, and a forbidden love story.

The main character, Poppy, is a Maiden who has been sheltered her whole life, destined for greatness until she meets a mysterious and alluring guard named Hawke.

Their relationship develops against the backdrop of political intrigue and danger, leading to a passionate romance that fans can’t get enough of.

Why It’s Unputdownable: This novel beautifully blends elements of fantasy and romance, with its well-crafted world-building and the undeniable chemistry between Poppy and Hawke. Fans of Forbidden Love will find it hard to put this book down, as the tension between the characters keeps readers invested until the very end.

If you love a touch of mystery, Where the Crawdads Sing, and similar books, might be the way to go.

2. Ice Planet Barbarians

Ice Planet Barbarians takes readers to an icy, alien world where a group of abducted human women crash-land.

The novel centers on Georgie, a human, and Vektal, an alien with blue skin, who ends up becoming her protector and lover.

Their unlikely romance sparks a passionate relationship that mixes humor, sci-fi elements, and plenty of steam.

Why It’s Unputdownable: The quirky and fun premise of humans finding love with aliens makes this book a delightful escapist read. The spice is just right for readers seeking something different, with an intriguing plot, memorable characters, and steamy scenes set on an alien world.

3. Zodiac Academy

This dark, bully romance novel is set in a magical Fae academy where power struggles and survival dominate the characters’ lives.

Zodiac Academy follows twin sisters, Darcy and Tory Vega, as they navigate a dangerous school environment filled with cutthroat competition, betrayal, and unexpected romance.

Why It’s Unputdownable: Fans of darker, more intense romance will appreciate the morally gray characters, the high stakes, and the complex relationships. The blend of magic, danger, and romance makes Zodiac Academy a gripping read that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

4. The Love Hypothesis

The Love Hypothesis is a charming and slow-burn romance centered around Olive, a third-year Ph.D. student, and her fake dating relationship with Adam, a brooding professor.

The academic romance plays on the beloved fake dating trope, where Olive convinces Adam to pretend to be her boyfriend to help her with a personal dilemma. It is one of the spicy romance books that will leave you speachless.

Why It’s Unputdownable: The clever dialogue, academic setting, and slow-burn romance make this book a favorite. The chemistry between Olive and Adam grows steadily throughout the story, and the fake dating trope is expertly executed to keep readers emotionally invested until the very end.

5. Neon Gods

In Neon Gods, readers are treated to a dark and sensual retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth, set in a modern city full of intrigue and danger.

Persephone is thrust into the underworld and into the arms of Hades, who is more than willing to embrace the attraction between them.

The interesting thing about this novel is that it mixes Greek mythology with steamy, modern twists that keep readers hooked.

Why It’s Unputdownable: The mix of dark, forbidden romance and mythological themes makes Neon Gods an enticing read. With its modern retelling of a classic myth, the book delivers tension, heat, and an unforgettable romance.

6. Credence

Credence tells the story of Tiernan, a young woman who finds herself in a remote cabin with three men, two brothers and their father, after the death of her parents.

As she grows closer to the three men, she navigates complicated emotional and physical relationships that push the boundaries of love and desire.

Why It’s Unputdownable: Edgy, dark, and controversial, Credence delves into taboo topics while maintaining emotional depth. Its forbidden romance dynamics and complex character relationships make it a book that readers either love or hate, but can’t stop reading.

7. It Happened One Summer

This fun, small-town romance centers on Piper, a party girl who is forced to stay in a sleepy fishing town after a public scandal.

She meets a rugged sea captain, Brendan, and sparks fly between the unlikely duo. It Happened One Summer combines opposites-attract chemistry with humor and heartfelt moments.

Why It’s Unputdownable: The delightful mix of romantic comedy and sizzling chemistry between Piper and Brendan makes this a feel-good, spicy read. Their journey from dislike to love is filled with tension, humor, and charm that keeps readers turning pages.

8. The Spanish Love Deception

The eight entry on our list of spicy romance books, is “The Spanish Love Deceptoion.”

The story follows Catalina who needs a date for her sister’s wedding, and she reluctantly turns to her work nemesis, Aaron, to pose as her boyfriend.

The fake dating trope comes to life in this slow-burn romance that takes readers on a journey full of witty banter, tension, and eventual passion.

Why It’s Unputdownable: The witty dialogue, slow-building romance, and rich setting make The Spanish Love Deception a must-read. The tension between Catalina and Aaron is palpable, making the final payoff all the more satisfying for readers who enjoy enemies-to-lovers stories.

9. The Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata

This slow-burn romance focuses on Vanessa, a personal assistant to Aiden, a professional football player.

After quitting her job, Aiden asks her to return under unexpected circumstances, leading to a romance filled with emotional tension and gradual intimacy.

Why It’s Unputdownable: Known for its intense emotional buildup, The Wall of Winnipeg and Me is a masterclass in slow-burn romance. The depth of the characters and their gradual bond make every page worth the wait for the steamy moments.

10. Royally Endowed by Emma Chase

In Royally Endowed, Logan St. James is a royal bodyguard who falls for the one woman he’s sworn to protect.

A royal romance mixes the glitz and glamour of royal life with forbidden love, creating a tension-filled story that keeps readers hooked.

Why It’s Unputdownable: The forbidden romance between Logan and Ellie is filled with chemistry and longing. The backdrop of royal life adds an extra layer of allure, making it a captivating read for fans of both romance and royal intrigue.

Summary

Spicy romance books captivate readers, and these ten bestselling books represent the best of what the genre has to offer.

With their memorable characters and intense romantic tension, it’s no wonder these books have become fan favorites on platforms like BookTok and Goodreads.