In this episode of Ink Plots, we explore three unforgettable stories that redefine romance in all its forms — from the fiery, forbidden, and deeply emotional to the mysterious and the dangerously thrilling.

✨ Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood — a sun-soaked love story that challenges what’s right, wrong, and worth the risk. 🌙 Layla by Colleen Hoover — a haunting, supernatural romance that proves even love can become a ghost. 🎬 Once Upon a Crime by Brynn Kelly — a smart, pulse-racing romantic suspense set against the glittering danger of Hollywood.

Each book takes us deeper into the truth about love — that it’s not always gentle, not always safe, but always worth the page it’s written on.

• The gray areas of love: power, pain, and redemption.

• The strength of women in romance storytelling.

• How indie and contemporary authors are reshaping the genre.

• Why love stories that break rules often stay with us the longest.

1. Problematic Summer Romance – Ali Hazelwood A sizzling, age-gap love story that turns a week in Sicily into a study of desire, honesty, and growth.

2. Layla – Colleen Hoover A haunting paranormal romance that blurs reality, obsession, and what it means to truly know someone.

3. Once Upon a Crime – Brynn Kelly Hollywood glam meets danger in this romantic suspense filled with wit, chemistry, and high-stakes emotion.

• Dark romance and emotional suspense

• Tropes like brother’s best friend, haunted lovers, and famous actor meets everyday heroine

• Beautiful writing that isn’t afraid to get messy

• Stories that linger after “The End”

“The best love stories are the ones that dare to go too far.”

Follow for weekly episodes featuring indie and bestselling romance authors, story deep dives, and the books that remind us why love stories will never die.

📸 Instagram: @inkplots 💌 Newsletter: theinkplots.substack.com 🌐 Website: www.inkplots.com 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever stories find their voice.