I have lots of bookshelves on Goodreads. If a friend wants a recommendation for a certain genre or trope, I like knowing exactly where to find the right book. To keep things more entertaining for myself, I try to come up with creative names for my shelves. Me, My Shelf and I is a new feature where I’ll highlight some favorites from each shelf. On today’s menu is Not Just a Keg Party—also known as College Romance.
College Romance
Elements of Chemistry. Penny Reid is at the top of her game here. Take a popular college boy and have him fall for a geeky brainiac heroine—on an exotic island. This New Adult novel has it all: heart, steam, and humor, wrapped in an addictive plot.
Isn’t She Lovely by Lauren Layne. This delightful opposites attract romance is a cross between “My Fair Lady” and “Pretty Woman” set on the campus of NYU. A goth girl and a preppy boy are paired together for a screenplay writing assignment. He needs her to pretend to be his trophy girlfriend to impress his parents. What could possibly go wrong?
Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino. I have this one filed under several different bookshelves because it’s a New Adult friends-to-lovers story, but also a Contemporary second chance romance. Two co-eds fall in love while living in the same dorm, only to be separated by time and distance. It’s the only romance I’ve read where a Missed Connections ad is key to the plot, and it hit me with all the feels.
The Score by Elle Kennedy. Okay, I’m cheating a little here because this is also one of my favorite sports romances. The hero is a star college hockey player and manwhore. He’s used to getting anything—and anyone—he wants, and what he wants is the one girl who tells him, “no.” If you like banter, this book’s for you. It’s all kinds of sexy and hilarious, with one of the most likable heroes you’ll meet.
Ninja at First Sight by Penny Reid. This novella is a prequel to Happily Ever Ninja, and although it’s short, it’s well worth the read. Oh, and it’s free! I love quirky introverted heroines. Pair one with a dreamy book boyfriend (with a British accent, no less) and dorm shenanigans, and you have a winner. It’s a smart romance, with lots of quick-witted humor and enjoyable characters. My only complaint is that it’s not long enough.
There you have it. What about you? Do you categorize the books on your bookshelf? What are some of your favorite college romances? To see my reviews of these books and more, check out my Goodreads Not Just a Keg Party Shelf.
Any thoughts? (Comments may be held for moderation.)