Hey wormy,

If you're anything like us, you’ve probably found yourself glued to the screen, watching 20-something (and occasionally 30-something) singles navigate the wild world of romance on reality dating shows like Love Island.

There's just something so entertaining about watching strangers crack on (IYKYK) and get their heads turned in casa amor, amirite?

But navigating dating and love in front of the world isn’t just for your TV viewing pleasure. Our community came through to get you that same thrill from the pages of a book too.

So everyone gather around the firepit because here are 7 book recs straight from our community that are perfect for your next book binge. (Shoutout to @concretekerosine for sparking the convo in the Bookworm Reads app!)

7 books that give Love Island vibes

1. If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy

Recommended by: @mollstehe Cindy is a plus-size fashionista who finds herself on a reality dating show, vying for love in the most unexpected way. It's like Cinderella meets Love Island, and it’s every bit as fabulous as it sounds.

2. Loveboat, Taipei by Abigail Hing Wen

Recommended by: @sendmerecs Imagine a summer camp in Taipei where the kids are supposed to learn about their heritage but instead find themselves wrapped up in love triangles and secret parties. It's steamy, fun, and oh-so-addictive.

3. The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren

Recommended by: @the_naina Two journalists with completely opposite personalities have to pose as a couple for a social experiment. Sparks fly, and not just the romantic kind. This one’s perfect for fans of forced proximity and enemies-to-lovers tropes.

4. The Villain Edit by Lauren Devore

Recommended by: @the_naina Dive into the behind-the-scenes drama of a reality dating show. This book explores the chaos and manipulation that happens off-camera, giving you all the juicy details you crave.

5. The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun

Recommended by: @meelworm When a reality dating show contestant falls for his producer instead of any of the female contestants, you know you’re in for a unique and heartwarming romance. This book tackles mental health and self-acceptance with a lot of charm (pun intended).

6. One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London

Recommended by: @meelworm Bea is a plus-size fashion blogger who becomes the star of a reality dating show. She’s determined to prove that beauty comes in all sizes while navigating the ups and downs of televised romance.

7. The Selection by Kiera Cass

Recommended by: @meelworm Think The Bachelor meets dystopian royalty. Thirty-five girls compete for the prince’s heart in a competition that’s filled with drama, romance, and a bit of intrigue. It’s a classic and a must-read for reality TV lovers.

Keep those recommendations coming! We love hearing what you’re reading and what’s got you hooked.

Here’s to all the fanny flutters,

Team Worm

P.S. If you haven’t gone ProWorm yet, now’s the perfect time to upgrade! Get access to reading stats and support our independent, women-run app to ensure our bookish community continues to stay alive and thrive.