Black Romance to Read this Fall
If you know me, you know that I am a devoted fan of romance novels. Books written ten to fifteen years ago are ones I continue to enjoy. I learned to appreciate Black love with many of these authors.
The shift was subtle at first, long before Black love stories became the cultural force they are today. I could’ve never imagined that this evolution would transform the literary world into such a vibrant, thriving community.
Now, Black romance novels and their authors have cultivated a passionate, almost cult-like following… and I proudly count myself among the devoted. Here is a list of some of my favorite classic Black romance novels that will keep you cozy this Fall…
Fire and Desire (Madaris Family Saga Book 5) by Brenda Jackson (Originally published in 1999, it was republished in 2018)
In this story, Corinthian Avery had her eyes set on catching the man of her dreams by seducing him into submitting to her desires. The problem? The room she stole her way into did not belong to Dex Madaris. She thought Dex was trapped in her crosshairs; instead, she had enticed Trevor Grant. Now granted, Trevor was no slouch.
He was a formidable businessman and worthy of the challenge. The story can be described as an enemy-to-lover trope. Sistah Girls, I urge you to take this journey of a lifetime; you will discover that a classic romantic story never gets old.
Always In My Heart (Donovan Friends Novella by A.C. Arthur (Published Feb. 2016)
Can you imagine falling in love with a stripper? Rico Bennett was the CFO of his business empire and the unlikely candidate to fall for Eva Romaine (the stripper). Rico is a close friend of the Donovan family.
The story will take readers on a stroll down several emotional lanes. Rico and Eva were compatible even when their relationship had great struggles and was angst-driven. The cameo visits by the Donovans added to the theme.
Strong Heat (Strong Family Book 6) by Niobia Bryant (Published December 2013)
Bryant was my go-to author when I needed a steamy romance and then some. The cover and the storyline will have you fanning and panting for more.
Book six is about Kael Strong and Lisha Rockmon making a connection. Lisha was ready to settle down with a good man. Kael was hesitant to take that path. His fear and relationship woes prevented him from experiencing anything that resembled attraction.
It took Lisha a great deal of time and patience to break down the wall Kael erected to keep his heart safe. This is the final book in the Strong Brothers Series, and you will get the chance to have a steamy and raucously enjoyable time with this couple.
A Guilty Affair (The Affair Series Book 2) by Maureen Smith (Published May 2007)
Every time I read a book about legal or medical matters, the story is going to be therapeutic and cathartic for me. The second story in The Affair Series kept the same energy that the first installment instilled.
Book two featured Journalist, Riley Kane, who continued to suspect her fiancé’s death was not an accident. She eventually turned to his best friend to help her solve the problem.
Along the way, Noah and Riley start to have deep feelings for one another. The pacing in the story was breakneck, and the characters kept calling me to stay attuned to the story. The story is spicy, sensual, and any other words you may choose to explain the chemistry between Noah and Riley. The fact that Noah kept his feelings for Riley concealed while his friend Trevor was alive, even though he was attracted to her, was amazing.
And with their level of chemistry, it was apparent that their feelings were mutual. The suspenseful plot was done in true Smith fashion with steamy scenes, secrets, unexpected plot twists, and a whole lot more.
Maybe Never (The Commitment Series Book 3) by Nia Forrester (Published February 2013)
The third book is the follow-up story for Unsuitable Men and an extension of Tracy and Brendan’s story. I was not sure I wanted to see them unravel again after all they endured in the previous book.
My hook and the eye roll took place quickly with Tracy’s announcement. I knew the drama was about to turn the tables. What I did not expect was Brendan’s reaction to the news.
The story is intense, and I was hopeful things would work out. Nia Forrester did her thing as she wrapped the drama with a tight bow and gave readers a chance to breathe.
The vulnerable side Brendan showed initially matched the man we met in the previous book. I was relieved that Forrester chose this direction with his character. Tracy and Brendan grew collectively and individually in their relationship.
For The Love of You: A Black Romance Novel (The Lawsons of Louisiana Book 6) by Donna Hill (Published July 2016)
Donna Hill and The Lawsons’ stories will always be my favorite pairing. The characters are vibrant, with a crisp storyline, and the writing is always an unexpected pleasure.
Craig Lawson was a highly sought-after filmmaker in Hollywood. When he returned to Louisiana to produce his next featured film, his ex, Jewel Fontaine, was not willing to return to the spotlight with the man she held a secret that might cause a greater chasm between them.
Several years prior, Jewel left behind the bright lights for a quieter lifestyle. Because Craig Lawson had a well-known family name, he drew an abundance of interest associated with his name and his star power—all the things Jewel disliked. The story unfolds at a mild pace, yet the ending is worth the wait.
Sistah Girls, the authors of today, can thank the ones who came before them and paved the way for them to thrive. A great Black romance is a precious jewel we can enjoy over and over.
Until the next time… Happy reading!
