While I am eagerly anticipating the upcoming fall season – with the crisp cold air, cozy sweaters, and line up of spooky reads – I still find myself clinging to the last moments of summer. There is something irresistible about beach days, barbeques, and of course, the special summer books you’ve been meaning to read. We have just a few more months before the holidays consume our time, so why not divulge in our favorite books? These stories feel so comfortable and transportive, and they truly feel like you’re drifted away to another world.
A world of smutty books, of course. The spicier the rating, the better the book. Right? It got me pondering about what my favorite “forbidden” end of summer romance tropes could be. Something perhaps a little too risky, a tiny bit too intense, or lip-bitingly good.
Top Five
Best friend’s sister/brother. I really couldn’t help for this to be my top “forbidden” trope. But how could anyone resist the glances, the build up to keeping their love a secret, to the consequences should one find out?
The man/woman you definitely shouldn’t want, but do. A favorite trope of mine to write. The tension is always there, with the shaky doubt, and the excitement of the big “What if?” question. It could be your boss, or even your older neighbor.
Rivals at a summer event. Maybe it’s through work. Perhaps they meet through beer league sports. Who cares? Any excuse to get everyone into bathing suits to cool off.
Strangers at a cabin. I couldn’t resist putting this trope in, since it so coincidentally happens that I am writing this trope at this moment for the spooky season. Because what could go wrong during the ritual during All Hallow’s Eve?
The ex you swore you’d never see again. Never. But there she is, in that dress.
Confession Time
This year has produced more drama than the spiciest rival mafia romances, and I certainly have not been exempt from this year’s horrors. But with all of the twists and turns of 2025, there always is room for the a little bit of silver lining.
My silver lining has been writing. A lot, as it turns out, and one thing really stood out to me: there is always room to love. It’s the perfect way to escape to other worlds and situations, and I can’t wait to share everything as quickly as I can with you.
It saves. It empowers. It becomes contagious. And with just enough drama to make it risky makes it addicting and enticing. And we all know there’s the happily ever after for our loveable characters at the end, making the risk much more rewarding and safe.
What’s next?
For those who have signed up for my newsletter, you may already know some of the upcoming plans! One of the fast approaching releases will be the sequel to Shared By My Artists, a beloved novella featuring the blossoming curiosity of Quinn after moving to a new town.
But it doesn’t stop there. Summer goes on for just a little bit longer between two rival women competing for the next county fair’s blue ribbon, and extends further with a pair of friends working the last few slow days of a local Renaissance Fair, and how they might relieve their boredom from the thinning crowds.
But that’s enough teasing for now. If you can’t get enough of the forbidden tropes, feel free to take a peek at my books. Or if you desire more, please take a moment and sign up for the newsletter, which will include more lists like this one, exclusive content, teasers, book updates and release information before anyone else, and more. In fact, there may be a certain cover reveal for the next book coming soon!
Until then…
What’s your favorite kind of forbidden end of summer trope and why? Coming up with this list certainly wasn’t easy, since different tropes cover different moods, feelings, and even seasons. Regardless, they are all equally enjoyable to read on a poolside chair with a favorite beverage.
Summer is not yet over, and I still have more stories to unveil before it comes to a close. Before the leaves turn and the air shifts, I’m still holding on to the last of the golden rays left in the year.
Odette Hall 