Spicy Reads Starter Pack: a guide to romance with just the right heat
There’s nothing like a romance novel that sets your heart racing and keeps you hooked with sizzling chemistry and slow-burning tension. Whether you're a seasoned romance reader or just dipping your toes into the world of spicy books, this guide will help you find the perfect read based on your preferred level of heat. From BookTok favorites to hidden gems, here’s your ultimate starter pack for romance that delivers just the right amount of steam.
⚠️ Content Warning: Books contain mature themes and explicit content. Recommended for readers 18+.
🔥 Mild Spice: Just a Hint of Heat
Perfect for readers who enjoy romance with tension, flirtation, and a bit of steam but without explicit scenes.
📖 The Love Hypothesis – Ali Hazelwood
A fake-dating trope with a nerdy STEM twist, this book has adorable banter and just the right touch of spice.
📖 Before We Were Strangers – Renée Carlino
A second-chance romance that’s full of emotion, longing, and a few heated moments.
📖 Seven Days in June – Tia Williams
A beautifully written, slow-burn romance with depth, character growth, and a sprinkle of spice.
🔥🔥 Medium Spice: Tension and Passion
For those who love a balance of plot, emotional depth, and steamy scenes.
📖 Ice Breaker – Hannah Grace
A college hockey romance with forced proximity, witty banter, and steamy moments that will keep you hooked.
📖 It Ends With Us – Colleen Hoover
Emotional and intense, this book delivers deep storytelling with some seriously passionate moments.
📖 King of Wrath – Ana Huang
A billionaire romance with enemies-to-lovers tension and undeniable chemistry.
🔥🔥🔥 High Spice: Full-On Swoon-Worthy Steam
If you love romance books that bring the heat, these are for you.
📖 Credence – Penelope Douglas
Dark, taboo, and incredibly steamy—this one is not for the faint of heart!
📖 The Ritual – Shantel Tessier
A dark and twisted romance featuring a secret society, power dynamics, and an intense, steamy connection.
📖 Haunting Adeline – H.D. Carlton
A dark, suspenseful romance with a cat-and-mouse dynamic and serious spice.
📖 Praise – Sara Cate
A forbidden romance with a unique twist, featuring a compelling mix of tension and steam.
Romance comes in all levels of heat, and there’s a perfect spicy read out there for everyone. Whether you prefer just a hint of tension or full-on passionate romance, this list has something for you.