Welcome to the October edition of Hot Stuff!

The romance genre has an almost mind-boggling diversity of options.

a major publisher and books available in print).

Romance-Column-October

Credit: Avon Books; SIMON & SCHUSTER; St. Martin’s Press

As with our other coverage, most of our selections will come from that world.

Lord Alaric Wilde is a celebrated English explorer, beloved for the books which record his adventures.

When he returns to England from his latest expedition, throngs of admirers wait to greet him.

Wilde in Love by Eloisa James CR: Avon Books

Avon Books

Naturally, opposites attract, and a fake proposal soon has them falling in love at a house party.

Merit finally sees a light at the end of the tunnel when she meets artistic, charming Sagan.

He kissed her thinking she was her twin sister.

Without MeritNovel by Colleen Hoover CR: SIMON & SCHUSTER

SIMON & SCHUSTER

Passages of intrigue are charged with palpable suspense and danger, while the steamier bits crackle and singe.

It was inevitable, then, for this world to provide a backdrop for a romance novel.

The story itself is a compelling one, but it falls flat in short story form.

Duke of DesireBook by Elizabeth Hoyt CR: Grand Central Publishing

Grand Central Publishing

Coles That Could be Enough is by far the strongest entry in the collection.

Take the Lead: A Dance Off NovelNovel by Alexis Daria CR: St. Martin’s Press

St. Martin’s Press

Hamiltons-Battalion

Courtney Milan