August stands for the celebration of National Romance Awareness Month, and at Epic Reads, we are embracing the spirit. Though February is all about with romance due to Valentine’s Day, August is mid-year reminder to talk about the realm of heartwarming tales.
Consider this: August presents a perfect chance to explore the plethora of enchanting narratives that have emerged since early 2019. For those who have been eagerly waiting to dive into a charming love story or a romantic comedy, seize the day, avid readers.
The year 2019, starting from January, has graced us with an array of captivating love stories. Whether you’re into contemporary settings, fantastical worlds, or anything that falls in between, there’s a literary match for every reader.
We have seen beloved romantic themes, like the classic love triangle and the exciting enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Now we are going to talk about books to read during romance awareness month:
Books to Read During Romance Awareness Month
A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer
“A Curse So Dark and Lonely” is the first book in the Cursebreakers series by Brigid Kemmerer. It is a contemporary fantasy retelling of the classic tale “Beauty and the Beast,” and it has been well-received, with a Goodreads Choice Award nomination for Best Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction in 2019.
The story revolves around Prince Rhen, who is cursed to repeat the autumn of his eighteenth year until a girl falls for him, and Harper, a girl from Washington, DC, who gets pulled into Rhen’s world and discovers what is at stake for the kingdom of Emberfall.
The Love & Lies of Rukhsana Ali by Sabina Khan
“The Love & Lies of Rukhsana Ali” is a poignant young adult novel by Sabina Khan that delves into the complexities of identity, culture, family, and love. The story follows seventeen-year-old Rukhsana Ali as she navigates the challenges of meeting her conservative Muslim parents’ expectations while secretly embracing her own identity.
Her life takes an unexpected turn when her parents discover her kissing her girlfriend, leading to a journey of self-discovery and courage in Bangladesh. Through her grandmother’s diary, Rukhsana gains perspective and the strength to fight for the life she wants, even if it means risking losing her family.
Field Notes on Love by Jennifer E. Smith
“Field Notes on Love” is a charming young adult novel by Jennifer E. Smith, which tells the story of Hugo and Mae, two teenagers who embark on an unexpected journey across the United States by train. After Hugo’s girlfriend breaks up with him, he finds himself with an extra ticket that’s booked under her name.
Mae, an aspiring filmmaker dealing with her own disappointments, sees Hugo’s ad for a travel companion and decides to take a chance. As they travel together, they discover more about each other and themselves, exploring themes of love, opportunity, and following one’s instincts.
Hot Dog Girl by Jennifer Dugan
“Hot Dog Girl” is a young adult novel by Jennifer Dugan that captures the essence of an unforgettable summer with a touch of humour and romance. The protagonist, Elouise (Lou) Parker, is on a mission to have the best summer ever despite the challenges she faces, like her job as a giant dancing hot dog at Magic Castle Playland.
Lou’s crush, Nick, is already taken, and her best friend, Seeley, is not supportive of her plans. With the park’s future hanging in the balance, Lou must navigate love and friendships in this coming-of-age queer romance.
Only a Breath Apart by Katie McGarry
“Only a Breath Apart” is a touching novel by Katie McGarry that explores themes of destiny, love, and breaking free from the past. The story centers on Jesse Lachlin, who is bound by his grandmother’s will to win the approval of his childhood best friend, Scarlett, in order to inherit his family farm.
Scarlett, dealing with her own struggles, including a controlling father and dark family secrets, finds herself at a crossroads. Their midnight meetings lead them to confront their secrets and feelings, and as their love blossoms, they must face the curse that threatens their future.
The Music of What Happens by Bill Konigsberg
“The Music of What Happens” is a heartfelt young adult novel by Bill Konigsberg that explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and love. The story unfolds over a summer in Mesa, Arizona, and centers on two boys, Max and Jordan, who are complete opposites.
Max is laid-back, into sports and video games, and openly gay, while Jordan is more intense, passionate about poetry, and struggling with his mother’s spiraling mental health.
Together, they run a food truck called Coq Au Vinny, facing the sweltering heat and their own personal challenges. As they spend the summer together, they confront their deepest fears and secrets, learning about what they are willing to risk for the things they want the most.
Dark of the West by Joanna Hathaway
“Dark of the West” is the first instalment in Joanna Hathaway’s Glass Alliance series. It is a young adult fantasy novel that intertwines elements of romance and historical fiction.
The story is set against the backdrop of a war and follows two main characters from contrasting worlds: Aurelia Isendare, a princess from a small northern kingdom, and Athan Dakar, the youngest son of a notorious general from the south.
Their lives intersect when Athan goes undercover in Etania to gather intelligence, but things get complicated as he falls for Aurelia, the girl he is supposed to spy on. The novel explores themes of loyalty, war, and the gray areas in between right and wrong.
Fame, Fate, and the First Kiss by Kasie West
“Fame, Fate, and the First Kiss” is a young adult novel by Kasie West that weaves a tale of ambition, romance, and the unpredictable nature of life in the limelight. The protagonist, Lacey Barnes, dreams of stardom and lands a role alongside a top Hollywood actor.
However, she soon discovers the challenges of the acting world, including on-set sabotage and the complexities of new relationships. As she navigates her way through these trials, Lacey learns that sometimes the best stories unfold when you stray from the script.
We Set the Dark on Fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia
“We Set the Dark on Fire” is a riveting young adult novel by Tehlor Kay Mejia, set in a society sharply divided by class. The protagonist, Daniela Vargas, attends the Medio School for Girls, where she is trained to fulfil one of two roles in her polarized society. However, Daniela harbours a secret that could destroy her future; her social status is built on forged papers.
As her arranged marriage to an influential politician’s son looms, she is drawn into the dangerous world of espionage and resistance. The novel explores themes of social inequality, rebellion, and forbidden love, offering a powerful narrative that resonates with contemporary issues.
Stolen Time by Danielle Rollins
“Stolen Time” is the first book in the Dark Stars series by Danielle Rollins. It is a young adult science fiction fantasy that combines time travel with romance and action. The story alternates between two main characters, Dorothy from Seattle in 1913 and Ash from New Seattle in 2077.
Dorothy, a con artist, seeks to escape an arranged marriage while Ash is on a mission to rescue his mentor and fix their devastated city. Their paths cross when Dorothy stows away on Ash’s aircraft, leading to a series of events that could change the past and Ash’s future.
Some Questions
What is Romance Awareness Month?
Romance Awareness Month is celebrated in August to appreciate and explore the genre of romance in literature. It is a time to discover new love stories and revisit favorite romantic tales.
Why is Romance Awareness Month in August?
While February is well-known for Valentine’s Day and romance, August offers a mid-year opportunity to focus on romantic narratives and celebrate love stories released since the start of the year.
What types of books can I read during Romance Awareness Month?
There is a wide range of books to enjoy, from contemporary romances and romantic comedies to fantasy love stories. Whether you prefer love triangles or enemies-to-lovers tropes, there is something for everyone.
Are there any recommended books for Romance Awareness Month?
Yes, there are many recommended books such as “A Curse So Dark and Lonely” by Brigid Kemmerer, “The Love & Lies of Rukhsana Ali” by Sabina Khan, and “Field Notes on Love” by Jennifer E. Smith, among others.
