‘Be prepared to cry’: My favourite new romance book is longlisted for Women’s Prize for Fiction

The longlisted books explore themes such as climate change, friendship, family and disability 'Heart The Lover' by Lily King, published Canongate BooksReleased in summer 2025, Lily King’s Heart the Lover has enjoyed slow-burning success – particularly on TikTok. Testament to the writing and characters, it’s a romance that can be enjoyed by every type of reader, from literary fiction fans to “chicklit” devotees. The title is technically a sequel to the American writer’s 2020 novel Writers & Lover’s, but the new book easily stands on its own. It begins with our unnamed narrator at college, where she experiences first love, heartbreak, passion and intimate friendship in the orbit of fellow students Sam and Yash. But this isn’t your average campus story. Decades later, the protagonist is married with two young children, having achieved her dream of being a successful author. But when an old lover comes calling, she’s sent spiralling back into the past. Saying anything else would ruin the pure delight of reading the novel – but be prepared to cry. A meditation on the passing of time, coming-of-age and mortality, the literary references throughout give it extra appeal for book lovers. I’ve since read Writers & Lover’s which is just as gorgeous. £14 from Amazon.co.ukPrices may vary