Are you a fan of romance and excitement? Discover our guide with the best authors like Alexa Riley to add to your reading list!
Alexa Riley has become synonymous with steamy, quick-read romance that delivers instant gratification and swoon-worthy alpha males. If you’re drawn to their signature style of insta-love, possessive heroes, and happily-ever-afters that leave you breathless, you’re in excellent company.
In 2025, the romance landscape continues to flourish with authors who share Riley’s gift for creating addictive, binge-worthy stories. These writers understand that sometimes you want pure escapism—stories that sweep you away from reality into worlds where passion ignites instantly and love conquers all.
Every author on our list writes hot romance novels and novellas perfectly pitched to offer easy escapism and add some sexy excitement to your reading routine. Whether you’re looking for contemporary romance, paranormal passion, or sci-fi steam, these recommendations will keep your Kindle fired up.
For more recommendations, you might also enjoy exploring authors like Harlan Coben, authors like Gillian Flynn, [best detective novel series](/posts/ best-detective-novel-series-for-fans-of-crime-books/).
Must Read Authors Like Alexa Riley
1. Ella Goode
Ella Goode stands out as a powerhouse in suspense and romance, having published an impressive 87 romance novels. Her writing blends sensual erotica with suspenseful plotlines, creating a unique reading experience that keeps pages turning. Popular titles include Secret Baby and Captured, both showcasing her talent for combining heat with heart-pounding tension.
Goode collaborates with other romance heavyweights including Alexa Riley, Ruby Dixon, and Kati Wilde in a popular book group. Readers can join their Facebook community or subscribe to their newsletter for exclusive content and early releases.
“MJ would never admit it but she loved gossip. As long as it has nothing to do with her.” — Ella Goode, Captured
2. Madison Faye
Behind the Madison Faye pen name is a wholesome American mom who writes extra spicy, raunchy romance featuring dominant alpha males. This contrast between her everyday life and steamy fiction adds an intriguing dimension to her work. Her most popular series include Blackthorn Men, First Time, and Possessing Beauty.
Faye’s stories dive deep into the psychology of possession and desire, creating characters who are both relatable and larger-than-life. Her ability to balance everyday relatability with fantasy fulfillment makes her a perfect match for Alexa Riley fans.
“It was like being friends with two Ken dolls sometimes.” — Madison Faye, Beasting Beauty
3. Fiona Davenport
USA Today bestselling author Fiona Davenport is actually the collaborative pen name of writing duo Elle Christensen and Rochelle Page. Together, they specialize in sexy insta-love stories that deliver everything Alexa Riley fans crave. Her Alpha exemplifies their skill at creating the perfect quick, dirty read.
For newcomers to their work, Owned by the Officer serves as an excellent introduction to their style. The duo’s partnership allows them to craft stories with dual perspectives on romance and desire, creating richer character dynamics.
“We’re two for two so far, so maybe we’ll luck out and Calliope will turn out to be the fated mate of one of my pack members, too.” — Fiona Davenport, Her Alpha
4. Lauren Dane
New York Times bestselling author Lauren Dane brings both prolific output and consistent quality to contemporary romance. With over seventy novels and novellas including Reckless, Inside Out, and Undercover, she’s proven her staying power in the genre.
Dane’s strength lies in creating contemporary romance that feels both fantastical and grounded. Her characters face real-world challenges while experiencing the kind of passionate love that defines the best romance fiction. Based in the Pacific Northwest, she draws inspiration from both urban and natural settings.
“Facing the fear helped. Most days. But the thing about fear was that it ate away at your reason, made you smaller.” — Lauren Dane, Inside Out
5. Jessa Kane
Jessa Kane delivers exactly what Alexa Riley fans seek: love stories with generous doses of erotica. Her books, including The Loner’s Lady and More to Love, feature the insta-love and alpha male dynamics that define the genre.
Kane’s famous Lights, Camera, and Insta-Love series has garnered a devoted following for its perfect blend of romance tropes and steamy encounters. Her writing captures the intensity and immediacy that makes romance so addictive.
“My best friend’s father is at least six foot eight and every inch of him is rock-hard and rippling. Barefoot.” — Jessa Kane, The Loner’s Lady
6. Maya Banks
Bestselling author Maya Banks demonstrates remarkable versatility, writing across contemporary romance, erotica, and Scottish historical romance. Her consistent element across all subgenres is the guaranteed heart-warming happy ending that romance readers demand.
The Breathless trilogy serves as an ideal entry point for new readers, showcasing Banks’ ability to create complex emotional landscapes within steamy narratives. Her longevity in the genre speaks to her understanding of what makes romance compelling.
“Falling in love is the easy part. It’s everything else that happens afterward that’s hard and takes work.” — Maya Banks, Burn
7. Ruby Dixon
Ruby Dixon brings steamy romance to the science fiction realm with series like Fireblood Dragon and Ice Planet Barbarians. The latter follows human women stranded on an alien planet who discover they’re far from alone—and that alien companionship can be quite appealing.
Dixon proves that steam and sci-fi make an irresistible combination. Her world-building skills create immersive settings that enhance rather than distract from the romantic elements, making her essential reading for fans seeking something beyond contemporary settings.
“My dragon has me. He has me, and he’ll keep me safe.” — Ruby Dixon, Fire in His Blood
8. Kym Grosso
Kym Grosso excels in paranormal romance with her bestselling series The Immortals, while also crafting erotic suspense novels like Wicked Rush. Her latest work continues to blend supernatural elements with intense romantic tension.
Beyond romance writing, Grosso advocates for autism awareness, bringing real-world passion to her creative endeavors. This combination of literary talent and social consciousness adds depth to her author profile and connects with readers on multiple levels.
“Dark memories would be washed over by love-filled days and sensual nights.” — Kym Grosso, Logan’s Acadian Wolves
9. Jenika Snow
Since 2009, Jenika Snow has written and published hundreds of erotic romance books, including The Outlaw’s Obsession. Her latest release, Cold Hearted Bastards, explores gritty, sexy mafia romance territory.
Snow’s focus on alpha males makes her particularly appealing to fans of Alexa Riley’s Stay Close. Her prolific output ensures readers always have new content to discover, while her consistent quality maintains reader loyalty.
“I’ll keep you safe, because the moment I saw you I knew you’d be mine.” — Jenika Snow, The Outlaw’s Obsession
10. Cameron Hart
Cameron Hart specializes in erotic romance with guaranteed happily-ever-after endings. Her novels like Made for the Mafia Boss, Blame it on the Tequila, and Still a Warrior offer the perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
When she’s not writing, Hart practices yoga, reads, and crochets—activities that likely contribute to the centered, satisfied feeling her romances provide. Her commitment to happy endings makes her a safe choice for readers seeking emotional satisfaction.
“Matteo is right next to me, and as much as I want to finish up my book, I want to look at him more.” — Cameron Hart, Made for the Mafia Boss
11. Kristen Ashley
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kristen Ashley has published over 75 books in 14 languages. Some of her work has been adapted for film, including The Will, demonstrating her crossover appeal beyond traditional romance readership.
The Dream Man collection could fulfill any romance reader’s fantasies. Starting with Mystery Man, the series introduces gorgeous, mysterious Hawk Delgado—but readers must discover for themselves whether he’s everything he appears to be.
“We’ve hit the hot guy motherlode.” — Kristen Ashley, Motorcycle Man
12. Chloe Liese
Chloe Liese brings heart, heat, and humor to contemporary romance while regularly featuring neurodivergent characters, reflecting her own experiences and advocacy. This representation adds authenticity and inclusivity to her storytelling.
The Bergman Brothers series exemplifies Liese’s approach to romance—stories that entertain while also representing diverse experiences. Her commitment to authentic representation alongside steamy romance makes her work both satisfying and meaningful.
“Reading a book is just like opening your heart to someone. You won’t know if you’ll connect until you try.” — Chloe Liese, With You Forever
13. Kendall Duke
Writing under the Kendall Duke pseudonym, this bestselling author balances motherhood with creating steamy romance that emphasizes plot alongside erotica. Her approach interweaves steamy themes with thoughtful characterization and careful storytelling.
Hot romance titles like Her First Ride and The Virgin and the Hero are available on Kindle for portable reading pleasure. Duke’s focus on plot development distinguishes her work in a genre that sometimes prioritizes heat over story.
“The drive up from Ohio was just one long trip into the blue edge of the world, watching the rim of the sky recede.” — Kendall Duke, Her First Ride
14. Hannah Shield
Hannah Shield delivers heat and pulse-racing action in military romance settings. Hold Tight demonstrates her skill at fast-paced military romance that appeals directly to Alexa Riley fans.
Although part of the Bennett Security series, Hold Tight works perfectly as a standalone story, making it accessible to new readers. Shield’s ability to create complete, satisfying narratives within series frameworks shows her understanding of reader preferences.
“Aurora Bennett stood on the balcony, staring down at the partygoers below. The champagne was flowing, the music was loud, and people danced with abandon in their sparkling evening wear.” — Hannah Shield, Hands Off
15. Kati Wilde
Kati Wilde creates romance novellas that are short, sweet, and packed with heat. Her series Hellfire Riders and The Dead Lands function as standalone stories, perfect for readers seeking quick, satisfying reads.
Living in Oregon with her family (including two cats), Wilde brings Pacific Northwest sensibilities to her writing. Her focus on novellas recognizes that sometimes readers want complete satisfaction in bite-sized packages.
“After only a short time in his arms, she was wealthy beyond measure.” — Kati Wilde, The Stoneheart Bride
16. Frankie Love
Frankie Love promises “filthy sweet happily ever afters” across series including Cherry Falls Romance, Coming Home to the Mountain, and The Dirty Kings of Vegas. She specializes in bad boys and mountain men while believing wholeheartedly in love at first sight.
Love’s commitment to instant attraction and guaranteed happy endings makes her writing pure wish fulfillment. Her mountain men and Vegas kings offer different flavors of alpha male appeal, ensuring variety within her consistent brand.
“You don’t need to know how to do everything, just one thing well.” — Frankie Love, Bucked
17. Olivia T. Turner
Olivia T. Turner specializes in over-the-top alpha males and age-gap insta-love, elements abundant in Vampire Bait. Turner clearly enjoys writing about rough, possessive men, and her enthusiasm translates to reader engagement.
Her new release Desire in the Mountains comes with a zero-cheating, happy-ending guarantee—promises that matter to romance readers seeking emotional security alongside their steam.
“There’s something so romantic and beautiful about living for centuries in an old stone castle like this one.” — Olivia T. Turner, Vampire Bait
18. Flora Ferrari
Amazon bestselling writer Flora Ferrari created the famous A Man Who Knows What He Wants series—perfect for fans seeking possessive alpha male romance. Ferrari releases new short, steamy content every Sunday, ensuring regular reader satisfaction.
All of Ferrari’s books are available through Kindle Unlimited, making her extensive catalog accessible to budget-conscious readers. Her weekly release schedule demonstrates remarkable productivity and commitment to her audience.
“Women are the new men. They’re tougher, more resilient, and don’t complain.” — Flora Ferrari, Veterans’ Day Daddy
19. Aurora Rose Reynolds
New York Times bestselling author Aurora Rose Reynolds writes the Until series, including Until Jax, Until May, and Until Willow. She also writes the Alpha Law series under the pen name C.A. Rose.
Reynolds humorously notes that she started writing to get the fantasy alpha guys in her head to leave her alone—a creative process that blossomed into a successful career. Her origin story resonates with readers who understand the power of fictional characters.
“Love isn’t always what we want, but it’s always what we need.” — Aurora Rose Reynolds, Until Jax
20. Wendy Snow
Wendy Snow specializes in sexy holiday romances like Snowed In with the Grumpy Boss. Her Christmas-themed series includes Snowed In with the Billionaire and Snowed In with the Lumberjack, offering seasonal variety.
Many of Snow’s books are available through Kindle Unlimited, making them accessible for binge-reading sessions. Her focus on holiday settings adds cozy elements to steamy romance, creating perfect winter reading material.
“I have to work on Christmas Eve! You’d think I would be more upset about it. But I can’t say no to one-on-one time with my hot, grouchy boss.” — Wendy Snow, Snowed in with the Grumpy Boss
21. Neve Wilder
Want Me launches Neve Wilder’s popular Extra-Curricular Activities series—six steamy stories available as standalone tales or in one complete bundle. Wilder lives in the southern United States, where the summers match the heat level of her novels.
The Extra-Curricular Activities series title suggests academic settings with decidedly non-academic activities, a combination that appeals to readers who enjoy forbidden romance scenarios.
“To the edge of my own goddamn sanity, I want you.” — Neve Wilder, Want Me
22. Rilzy Adams
Balancing law practice with romance writing, Rilzy Adams creates books including Go Deep, Surrender, and Treble. Adams believes love makes the world go round, and her novels tell stories of people falling in love in beautiful ways.
This seamless blend of romance and erotica creates work that satisfies multiple reader desires. Adams’ legal background may contribute to her structured approach to storytelling and character development.
“You’ve said a whole damn mouthful for somebody who’s supposed to be speechless’” — Rilzy Adams, Go Deep
23. Stella Lang
Stella Lang represents the collaborative pen name of husband and wife writing team Rusty and Danielle Norman. Together, they create books featuring alpha males, strong women, hot encounters, and guaranteed happy endings.
Holiday reading recommendations On Comet and Going Deep showcase their range within romance subgenres. The husband-wife writing partnership brings authentic relationship dynamics to their fictional romances.
“My boss thinks the playboy quarterback is dirty and wants me to get close to him.” — Stella Lang, Going Deep
24. Adriana Locke
Adriana Locke writes about ordinary people finding extraordinary love, filling her books with passion, romance, and heat. Married to her high school sweetheart for twenty years and living with her husband and four sons in a Midwestern town, she brings authentic relationship experience to her fiction.
Written in the Scars serves as an excellent introduction to Locke’s writing style and themes. Her small-town background influences her storytelling, creating authentic community feelings within romantic scenarios.
“Life isn’t easy. Love isn’t for the faint of heart. You have to just put your fears aside and go for it.” — Adriana Locke, Written in the Scars
25. Katy Winters
Katy Winters writes wholesome, clean women’s fiction perfect for romance lovers who prefer less explicit content. Her vivid descriptions and sweet storytelling create ideal wind-down novels that remain engaging without overwhelming steam.
Her novellas, including Instalove at Christmas and Alpha Security Romance, are sweet, steamy, and safe. Winters promises zero cliffhangers, ensuring each title functions as a complete, standalone story.
“It’s stupid to think that such a hot professor would ever look at a girl like me. As much as I want him, I should forget it. He’s my professor, and I need this semester to graduate.” — Katy Winters, Instalove at Christmas
26. Abbi Glines
International bestselling author Abbi Glines perfectly suits Alexa Riley fans with her standalone novels and series including The Vincent Brothers and the Black Souls trilogy. Her books are plot-driven while remaining packed with heart and steam.
Glines’ international success demonstrates the universal appeal of well-crafted romance. Her ability to balance plot development with emotional satisfaction makes her work appealing to both casual and serious romance readers.
“I know this because I understand now what love really feels like. The kind that consumes you.” — Abbi Glines, The Vincent Brothers
27. Celia Aaron
Former attorney Celia Aaron has written over sixty titles enjoyed by readers worldwide. Her stories range from dark to light, reality to fantasy, but all offer sensual reading escapes. Popular titles include The Bad Guy, Counsellor, and The Maiden.
Aaron’s legal background adds authenticity to her romantic suspense work, while her range across subgenres ensures something for every romance preference. Her transition from law to writing demonstrates the power of following creative passion.
“He was tall, and like so many dangerous things, effortlessly beautiful.” — Celia Aaron, Counsellor
