This Foolproof Hair Color Kit Lets You DIY Balayage at Home

Valis Vicenty
Aug 07, 2018

We simply can’t get enough balayage! After all, the French freehanded highlights give us a way to score natural-looking, sun-kissed strands… as long we’re willing to pony up the time and money to book an appointment with a colorist. But let’s be real: Sometimes we don’t have much of either.

Up until recently, the technique has been restricted to salons only. Though, as with all hair coloring techniques, that doesn’t mean some of us haven’t tried taking the highlighting power into our own hands. “Even if your hair is in good condition, don’t go to the beauty supply store and try to choose a bleach and an appropriate activator,” says David Stanko, VP of Technical Design/Education for Madison Reed. Instead, he recommends snatching up a DIY balayage kit to get the job done from the comfort of your own home.

Skip the beauty supply shop & Cop a Hair Color Kit

Unless you’ve had the appropriate professional training, it can be quite difficult to select the right levels and mix the proper proportions of developer and bleach to bring your look to life. And when those two components go haywire, you could be left with not only a color catastrophe but also a severely damaged head of hair and, in extreme circumstances, scalp burns.

Since that’s definitely not something that’s on your to-do list, take Stanko’s advice and purchase a coloring kit. For balayage beginners, he suggests Madison Reed’s recently released Light Works Balayage Highlighting Kit ($45). The kit comes pre-formulated to help eliminate guesswork and the potential for regret. It features a two-step process, starting with a lightening cream that has the consistency of clay, followed by a toner and glaze for a seamless, shiny finish.

Consider Your Coif’s Condition

There are many variables that can affect how your at-home hair hue turns out, even when you’re relying on a kit to get the job done. That’s why salon colorists spend so much time consulting with their clients to ensure that the shade not only flatters their faces but also fits in with their hair’s health and lifestyle. If your strands have already been exposed to bleach or other chemical processes (like a perm, straightener, relaxer, or henna), Stanko says it’s best to leave your locks in the hands of professionals to avoid any mane mishaps.

In addition to the processes your hair has been subject to, it’s a good idea to look at your ends too. If they’re split, it’s best to get a trim prior to coloring. Last but not least, Stanko advises those with curly or textured tresses to straighten their strands for an easier color application process. He points out that straightening from root to tip will help the color better adhere to the hair, as the shape of your curls could keep the color to the outside of each spiral, preventing the shade from penetrating all the way through.

Start With a Strand Test & Follow The Instructions

Let’s admit it, many of us tend to toss away the instructions included in hair color kits without so much as looking at them. “As a result, [DIYers] are flying blind, guessing at the processing time and failing to follow a roadmap,” Stanko explains. “This leads to poor lightening and spotty results.” To avoid unwanted results, he insists on taking the time to carefully comb over the instructions before popping any bottles.

He also suggests performing a strand test. To do so, apply a bit of the mixed lightener to a small section of hair, preferably in a place that can easily be hidden, like near the nape of the neck. It will help you assess how the balayage color will look post-dye without the risk of messing up your entire head of hair. “Processing times vary, based on your natural hair color, whether or not your hair is already colored, your hair’s condition, and your ability to apply the lightener quickly and accurately,” says Stanko. By doing a strand test, you’ll get a good idea of how long your specific hair type needs to process.

If you’re satisfied with the results, give the instructions one more quick read before proceeding with the rest of your hair. The Madison Reed kit includes a wishbone-shaped applicator that’s designed to mimic a professional colorist’s technique, making for a quick and easy process — no caps, combs, or foils required. And once your locks are lightened, you can follow up with toner to perfect the look of your color; just be sure to peek at the toning instructions before you start.

Touch Up Your Tresses On Your Time

The great thing about balayage, besides the customized look of your color, is the fact that the color is concentrated near your ends, not your scalp. This means that you won’t need to return to the salon as frequently for touch-ups as you would with traditional foil highlights.

“Once you have highlights, maintenance can be as infrequent as every two months,” he says. “It depends on how ‘lived-in’ you want your highlights to look.” Plus, the Madison Reed kit includes enough toner to use monthly to keep highlights non-brassy, well-conditioned and shiny, extending the length of your look between coloring seshes.

And with that, happy coloring!

Would you try this hair color technique at home? Let us know @BritandCo.

(Photo via Getty/Madison Reed)

8 "Outdated" Hairstyles That Aren’t Doing You Any Favors In 2025

Hair trends come and go, but some of them should remain frozen in time forever. It's not that we think you'll be making a major faux pas, but we want to see you look your best! There are so many cute hairstyles that will suit your face much better than a mullet would, but that's not the only trend you should bury in the sands of time! Here are the outdated hairstyles what you should avoid at home, at the salon, and really anywhere right now.

Scroll to see the 8 outdated hairstyles it's officially time to retire for good!

Brit + Co

1. Deep Side Parts

Coming in at #1 on our "outdated" list are deep side parts. They used to something we admired on everyone from Amy Winehouse to Katy Perry, but now they remind us of the questionable choices we made in our early 20s.

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2. Space Buns

Princess Leia may look great wearing her space buns in the Star Wars franchise, but we think you shouldn't bring them into 2025. The last time someone on our team wore them was between 2018 or 2019, so that should say a lot.

We don't say this often, but let's wear hairstyles that don't revert us back to our grade school days.

Brit + Co

3. Side Braid

Unless you're trying to relive your childhood days or want to mimic Blake Lively's character in It Ends With Us, this outdated hairstyle shouldn't be on your list of favorite looks to wear. There's other braided styles you can wear that are way more stylish anyway!

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4. Super Visible Highlights

Whether you're getting microlinks or a sew-in, wearing super visible highlights in 2025 is truly outdated. It's one thing to switch up your style, but it's another to let the world know how much you love a good contrast by letting your hair scream it from the mountaintops.

Keep your color of choice seamless this year if you decide to get a color service.

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5. '60s Up-Do

There's a time and place for everything, including updos that resemble what was popular during the '60s. If you must wear this style, go for a more modern take that doesn't feel as stiff. You might want to update your bangs too.

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6. Wand Curls

When's the last time you heard someone mention this once popular style? Chances are you haven't because it's a reminder of how long it took to achieve overly done curls. Depending on the size you wanted, you could spend anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour on this style. Oh, and it was mandatory to wear the accompanying glove that came with the 'wand' or else you risked burning your fingers!

No thank you!

Brit + Co

7. Barbie Bleach

Remember when it was a cardinal sin to show up to the beach without "effortlessly wavy" hair? It seems more people are moving away from that and embracing 'messy' buns and the beauty of textured hair. It's one thing if you hair naturally looks like this, but it's another if you try to make your hair conform to this style just because it's "on trend."

Newsflash: you don't have to force your hair to do something it doesn't want to! (And not everyone has to look like Serena van der Woodsen!)

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8. Millennial Pouf

Oof, how can we forget the millennial pouf? This was one of our go-to hairstyles that we swore we'd always wear. Little did we know how much we'd avoid it once we graduated from college.

It's not the most annoying style, but we're throwing this one in the "outdated" bag so we can't even pretend we're going to start wearing it again.

Want to know what else is "outdated?" Revisit the nail trends you shouldn't be wearing in 2025!

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Dakota Johnson Must Choose Between Chris Evans & Pedro Pascal In New ‘Materialists’ Trailer

Summer rom-coms are so back! A24 confirmed on March 4 that Celine Song's Materialists, starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, is coming to theaters this June and I cannot contain my excitement. The new movie follows a matchmaker (Dakota) who finds herself torn between two romantic prospects. If that's too dramatic for you, girl, I'd be happy to take your place.

Here's the latest update on Materialists starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal.

Watch the 'Materialists' trailer now.

I watched the Materialists trailer four times before writing this because I just couldn't stop soaking it in — and I didn't want to miss a single detail. Of course, we get the story of Lucy (Dakota Johnson) a matchmaker, who finds herself torn between the perfect man (Pedro Pascal) and her ex (Chris Evans), who's still dreaming of "wrinkles and children that look like you," a line that will be playing in my head on REPEAT because OH MY GOSH.

But just like director Celine Song's acclaimed Past Lives, every single detail of the movie translates the emotion in the story. Dakota Johnson has an effervescent grace and masters the screen every time we see her, while Pedro and Chris don't even have to open their mouths to break my heart; their eyes say it all. The color grade and film quality are soft and romantic, which totally matches the delicate situation this trio finds themselves in; both men fall for Lucy and it looks like our matchmaker has to figure out how to avoid breaking anyone's heart — including her own. "Delicate" by Taylor Swift, anyone?

But overall, the movie teases that sometimes, there are no bad decisions, just really hard ones. And if I got all that from the Materialists trailer, I can't wait to see the full movie...even if it's going to be totally devastating. And I have a feeling I'm going to be seeing it more than once.

Is Materialists out yet?

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Materialists will premiere in theaters June 13, 2025. After Past Lives became THE summer movie in 2023 (and absolutely wrecked my roommates), I know Materialists is going to be the perfect June watch.

What is the plot of Materialists?

The movie follows Dakota Johnson's character, a matchmaker in New York City who falls for the perfect man, but can't seem to let go of her ex. Given the fact the first poster for the movie includes "save the date" and looks like a wedding cake, I'm wondering if we'll see all three characters cross paths at a wedding...

Who's in the Materialists cast?

The Materialists cast has some incredible names leading the movie, and when I asked Dakota Johnson about working with Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans, she teased how much she enjoyed working with them. "They're both big idiots and I love them," she told Brit + Co exclusively at her Daddio premiere. Here's a breakdown of their roles:

  • Dakota Johnson as Lucy: a perpetually single matchmaker who finds herself torn between the perfect man and her ex.
  • Chris Evans as John: Lucy's ex who hasn't been able to let her go.
  • Pedro Pascal as Randy: a handsome stranger who changes Lucy's life forever.

Where was Materialists filmed?

Materialists was announced in February of 2024, and filming began around New York City by April. Filming wrapped in June.

I love spring and summer shoots because the movie's going to have so much life and energy in every single shot. Plus Dakota's sundresses are totally giving Brooklyn gal — and I'm dreaming of prancing around the city in a dress as soon as the weather warms up!

Are you as excited for Materialists as I am? Let us know your favorite rom-coms in the comments and check out the latest news on Madelyn Cline's new romance movie for more!

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9 Easy Holiday Hairstyles You Can Effortlessly Recreate At Home

Fretting over which hairstyles to choose from now that you know you're going to a holiday party? Please don't because we've got 9 ideas that are super easy to recreate at home. We know you want to look your best, but it's not worth stressing over. All you have to do is figure out if you're looking to wear a ponytail or a bob. Once you've figured that out, the styling part is super easy.

Keep scrolling for the easiest holiday hairstyles that'll make heads turn at any party you RSVP to

1. Top Knot Bun

Kaboompics.com

Top knot buns look good on anyone regardless of age. We first admired them on ballerinas and later found out how easy they are to achieve. To create this sleek look, you'll need a hair wax stick, a boar bristle brush, elastic hair ties, and a holding spray to keep everything together!

2. A Cute Scarf Ponytail

AlINA RUDZYNSKA

After the top knot bun, this hairstyle is another easy one to pull off and doesn't really require a curling iron. All you need to do is gather your hair into a low ponytail before securing it with a hair tie. Once you've done that, wrap a festive red scarf around the hair tie for a look that shows you're ready for Christmas!

3. Layered Straight Hair

Kaboompics.com

Depending on your preference, you may refer to this style as straightened hair or a silk press. All that matters is making sure you have the best blowout products and tools to help you achieve it! If you have naturally curly hair, we recommend using The Doux's Press Play Thermal Set. It includes:

  • PRESS REWIND Curl Retention Shampoo
  • FAST FORWARD Heat Prep Conditioner
  • JUST GLAZE Silkening Fluid
  • SILENT TREATMENT 30-day Humidity Shield
  • O.P.P. Heat Protectant Spray
  • DOUX DROPS Bonding Polish
  • GANGSTER WRAP Foaming Wrap Lotion

You'll also want to use a blow dryer that has a concentrator nozzle along with a round brush to help smooth your hair. After that, all you'll have to do is flat iron your hair and that's it!

4. Barrel Curls

Людмила Сычева

We love barrel curls because they can look however you want them. If you want to go for a bombshell look, we recommend pin curling your hair after using the curling attachments of the T3 Aire 360 Blowout System. You'll want to section your hair so you're able to wrap individual strands around the base of the curler, preferably at an angle to achieve a spiral style like the one above!

5. Half Side Hairstyle

Polina Tankilevitch

We love an impressive half-side hairstyle that reminds us of Aunt Zelda fromThe Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. However, you won't have to curl your hair as much with this look. All you'll need to do is french braid both sides of your hair at night and simply unravel them once you're ready to make your party debut.

6. Wavy Bob

RDNE Stock project

Bobs aren't going anywhere, not that we want them to! They're incredibly flattering and have the perfect amount of body that we fangirl over. This hairstyle is super easy because you only need to lightly curl the ends of your hair to achieve an effortless look. Honestly, you can use a curling or flat iron without a problem.

7. Coiffed Bob

Anastasia Shuraeva

Don't feel like putting in that much work to look dolled up? We hear you loud and clear so we're sharing another bob option. You won't have to watch your curling iron heat up because this is strictly a job for your flat iron.

Put it on a low setting (under 400 degrees) and lightly curl the ends of your hair under. If you want to create the perfect side bang, you can add one or two curlers to it so it's held in place until the perfect time.

8. Volumized Bob

Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Another bob? Yes, please! This hairstyle is for anyone who wants VOLUME without having to spend all morning curling their hair. All you need to do is invest in a good roller setthat'll form the perfect curls overnight; kudos if they're thermal! Just make sure to part your hair the way you want prior to and you'll be looking like a glamorous queen the next day or night.

9. Pixie Cut

Vlada Karpovich

Although they can be high maintenance because of the salon upkeep, pixie cuts are fairly easy to style. You can using foaming lotion to create finger waves or created a slicked look that turns head. If you want to add a few curls to your hair, you'll need a small flat iron that can gently grabs each strand.

Which of these holiday hairstyles will you be rocking to your upcoming Christmas party?!

Looking for more hair inspo? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Your "Transformative" Weekly Tarot Reading For March 17-23 Is In!

Alright, let's get grounded, loves! ✨ This week's tarot reading kicks off by tuning us back into Mother Earth, especially with those seasonal vibes in full swing. Think of it: as the world around us shifts, so are we, darlings! It's all about recognizing that deep-rooted connection – we're part of this planet, after all, and underestimating that link is a no-go. The big takeaway? Change is coming, whether you're waving hello or hiding under the covers. But trust us, leaning into it is where the magic happens and things flow so much easier. We're talking subtle "micro tweaks" in your everyday, prompting a little soul-searching about what this new season means for you. What are you ready to switch up? What's staying? Just remember, it's a gradual glow-up, not an overnight makeover. Tapping into that holistic connection with the Earth? That's your secret sauce for ease, purpose, and all-around good vibes. It's all about feeling connected, finding your purpose, soaking up the joy, and bringing it all together. You've got this — so let's get into your tarot reading!

Scroll to see your weekly tarot reading for March 17-23!

Page of Cups:

Okay, first up in our cosmic download is the dreamy Page of Cups! This card is all about tapping into your inner confidence and those sweet, sweet feelings. Think of it as your permission slip to chase what your heart desires – as long as you're not stepping on anyone's toes (including your own!), and honestly, who cares what anyone else thinks? The adorable fish in the cup? That's the universe dropping unexpected opportunities right in your lap when you're just being your authentic self and following your joy. Yes, effort and intention are still part of the equation, but aligning with what lights you up can seriously unlock some magical joy, abundance, freedom, and peace vibes. This week, let's make it a mission to pump up that passion and confidence within ourselves so we're living a life that truly feels like us.

The Moon:

The next card is the mystical Moon! This one's all about those shifting phases, telling us that the change we've been craving? It's practically here this week! But heads up, babes, it's gonna require a healthy dose of self-trust and building up that inner confidence to actually create and welcome it. The Moon also shines a light on that little flutter of fear that can pop up with the unknown – totally normal! But the cosmos is reminding us that change is already happening all around, just like the moon's cycles and the Earth's seasons. To really ride this wave, we gotta get cozy with being uncomfortable. Remember that power mantra: "nothing changes if nothing changes"? It's your reminder that you've got the power to shape your own path, and that means embracing the new. The reading also nudges us to get super clear on who we are and what we truly want, because floating around without direction? Not the vibe. Implementing changes, whether they're big leaps or tiny tweaks, that align with our most confident and brave selves – guided by those amazing feelings, that spark of excitement, pure joy, and that inner soul voice? That's the secret sauce for unlocking some serious ease.

The Hanged Man:

Okay, last but definitely not least in our reading is the intriguing Hanged Man! Now, this card is all about that "in-between" space – you know, that transitional period where you might feel a little paused or even stuck, even though things are moving behind the scenes. But don't fret, darling! This card is actually encouraging you to embrace that pause, like a cosmic red light giving you a chance to check your internal GPS before hitting the gas again. Think of it as a moment for contentment, practicing patience, and even a chance to tweak your direction if needed. The Hanged Man is your gentle reminder that big changes take time, so don't stress if you're not seeing instant results. This phase is all about trusting the universe's timing and understanding that you're in a transition, moving from point A to point B. So, even if it feels a little slow, know that momentum is building! Use this time to your advantage – optimize, check in with your soul self, and follow those little breadcrumbs of joy, excitement, and curiosity. You're exactly where you need to be right now!

Watch Your Full Weekly Tarot Reading Here!

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Come back next week for another reading! Until next time! ✨

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The Dreamiest New Romance Books We're Excited To Read In 2025

The best romance books know how to transport us to worlds where unexpected love and second chances exist. They also find a way to make "cheesy" meet-cutes and dialogue feel like the adult version of our favorite Disney stories. Think Cinderella meets Bridget Jones' Diary.

We already know it's a given that BookTok creators are always looking for their next fix in this genre, so we've got 15 new reads they'll be ready to devour. The plus side of this is that you get first dibs on the picks you think your bookshelf's eager to make space for!

Scroll for the best new romance books that are poised to become instant favorites!

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Wild and Wrangled by Lyla Sage (April 15, 2025)

Camille Ashwood's a planner who thought getting married would solve the problems she's faced in Meadowlark, Wyoming. But she faces heartbreak on the day of her wedding and it leaves her stranded. Desperate to find somewhere to stay, the only prospect she finds is an idyllic home that comes with the last person she wants to see.
The neighbor she'll be living next to is none other than Dusty Tucker, a former flame she's rather not cross paths with. All she can think about is how he broke her heart, but Dusty's determined to prove he's changed.
Somewhere along the lines, familiar feelings begin to show which leaves these two lovebirds with two choices: confront their pasts or walk away from each other for good.

Amazon

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (April 22, 2025)

The only thing Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson have in common are being handpicked by the elusive Margaret Ives for a special project. The ultimate prize is securing the right to pen a biography that's sure to be on everyone's lips. Alice can't ignore how unsteady Hayden's gaze makes her, but she's convinced she has more to lose than he does. Also, Margaret isn't telling her story in order so it leaves both writers confused about how to best proceed with their work.
By the end of it, someone will have possible fallen in love or lost out on an opportunity of a lifetime.

Amazon

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

Despite Ofosua Addo and Cole Drake's spicy meet-cute, they're romance is all but forbidden for two reasons. One, Ofosua's an heiress whose burdened by tradition and she's supposed to be getting married to someone else. But all of this changes when the lavish wedding meant for her becomes an absolute nightmare.
Between her broken heart and soul-searching, Ofosua and Cole collide once again. Only this time, things are different which may or may not come with a lack of support that could threaten to destroy everything they feel.

Amazon

The Last Sunrise by Anna Todd (May 6, 2025)

Oria Pera's world is shaken in the best way when she and her mom have to temporarily relocate to Majorca for the summer. For her, it's the start of something promising even as she dealings with the health that's kept her under her mother's watchful eyes.

Against her mother's wishes, she ventures to the beach and becomes acquainted with one of the sexiest men she's ever met. Julián has a way of reminding Ry of everything she doesn't know, but that doesn't stop her for falling for him.

Somewhere along the lines, Ry will discover what it means to truly live for the first time in life.

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Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan (May 13, 2025)

Hendrix Barry is the "rich auntie" Gen Z talks about online. She's a successful entrepreneur who has the love of her friends and family. Plus, she's enjoying a kid-free existence. But she still has problems that involve being a caretaker for one of her parents. This leaves no room for frivolous love as far as she's concerned.

But tech mogul Maverick Bell's making her second-guess her rules because he's sexy and has "do not pass go" written all over him. He's precisely the man that makes Hendrix swoon and it's every reason she feels she should stay away from him...except he doesn't want to leave her alone.

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What Will People Think by Sara Hamdan (May 20, 2025)

Mia Almas splits her time between working in the media and telling jokes at clubs in NYC. She's afraid to live life on her terms, but she knows how she feels when she's on stage. When she and her boss' love affair heats up, so does Mia's jokes that shine a glaring spotlight on what she's been doing.
Afraid of what her Palestinian-American family will think, Mia works overtime to "fix" things. However, this opens the door to a hidden truth her family's been trying to keep buried.

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It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan (May 27, 2025)

Jane Jackson's gone from the awkward teen on everyone's most-watched TV series to setting her sights on becoming one of Hollywood's well-respected executives. With her faux bravado intact, her potential idea catches the attention of the right people. But the catch is she'll have to talk to Jack Quinlan after making a huge promise about securing him for her movie. Never mind the fact she's lost contact with him.

Between cinematograper Dan Finnegan's taunting and the impending doom she's feeling about reaching out to Jack, Jane may find love for someone unexpected is housed under her nerves.

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Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady (June 3, 2025)

Josie Klein and Ryan Lawson both manage bookstores, but they've never had a reason to have a conversation. This suddenly changes when a new owner acquires both locations and decides on a merger deal that brings their opposing book worlds together. The catch is that only one of them will be allowed to stay based on their performance.
Josie and Ryan immediately clash on everything except the burning passion simmering between them. Turning to a chat room, they find comfort in anonymous people and it's hilarious they're unaware they're confiding in each other.
In the midst of a clear divide offline, Josie and Ryan will find love "in a hopeless place."

Amazon

Writing Mr. Rightby Alina Khawaja (June 10, 2025)

Ziya Khan knows she doesn't want to be a secretary for the rest of her life, so she burns the midnight oil to create the universes she dreams about. Unfortunately, one too many passive-aggressive letters passing on her writing causes her to give up.

The result of this is a sexy man named Aashiq who seeks to help her take control of her life and pick up her pen again. It's all fun and games until Ziya starts falling in love while realizing Aashiq's fading into obscurity the more things start going her way.

Can she somehow keep both her creative streak and the man who's seemingly materialized out of thin air?

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Love, Coffee & Revolution by Stefanie Leder (June 10, 2025)

Dee Blum's a senior in college, but she doesn't feel enthusiastic about her future. All she wants to do is leave her current path behind and is surprised when she secures a role putting together eco-tours in Costa Rica. Promptly abandoning her studies, she eagerly starts her activist journey.
But she begins to experience fear when she realizes she's never experienced life like this or held the attention of two sexy men. Adrián provides a dash of adventure, but doesn't align with her politically. On the other hand, Matías has travelled the world and is able to hold her interests in more ways than one.
Then there's the work Dee is doing. In a heartbreaking reveal, she learns exploitation is taking place and puts her life on the line to uncover how far-reaching it is. Between this and romance, she's being pulled in different directions that will have lasting effects no matter what happens.

Amazon

Work Nights by Erica Peplin (June 17, 2025)

Jane Grabowski works a typical 9-5 that leaves her feeling uninspired. She may live in the city "where dreams are made of," but she feels like another drone save for the sexy intern that makes her days brighter. There's one issue: Madeline's apprehensive about getting close to Jane.
With a little but of perseverance, Jane finds ways to help Madeline let down her guard. However, Jane's roommate is sure there's someone better for her which is how Jane meets the ready and willing Addy.
Though she knows being involved with Addy won't involve a game of chase, Jane's still drawn to Madeline and begins making decisions that will end with someone's heart being broken.

Amazon

Total Dreamboat by Katelyn Doyle (June 24, 2025)

Hope Lanover's life has turned into a hot mess, but that's nothing a trip planned by her best friend can't solve. Too bad Hope could care less for the cruise they're going on. Ironically, chef Felix Segrave is also thrown for a loop when his parents believe he and his sister deserve a vacation too.
Initially feeling tortured, Hope and Felix are smitten as soon as they spot each other. They know there's chemistry between them, but old hangups explode in their face and leave them left with no choice but to form an alliance that'll save them.
Who knows, they may even fall in love.

Amazon

How Freaking Romantic by Emily Harding (July 1, 2025)

Beatrice Nilsson's reasons to be eternally pissed off have piled up, but she finds ways to channel her frustrations. Everyone in her life can count of her to be a great source of support, but it's obvious she doesn't shower herself with the same attention. Nevertheless, going to task as her best friend experiences a terrible divorce pushes that thought aside.
This is precisely how she finds herself in Nathan Asher's office. Though he's clearly the enemy by being the lawyer of her bestie's ex-husband, Beatrice can't find the willpower to dislike him forever. Every time she tries, she finds herself daydreaming about what falling in love would feel like. But that's also the problem. Is she going to put herself first this time or remain the side character while everyone else gets the life they want?

Amazon

How to Sell a Romanceby Alexa Martin (July 15, 2025)

Kindergarten teacher Emerson Pierce is so desparate for a boost of income that she turns to selling beauty via Petunia Lemon. It sounds like a pyramid scheme disaster waiting to happen, but she'll do anything to survive. Sadly for her, investigative reporter Lucas Miller is on a mission to bring the company down. His mission's personal because it led to his abrupt divorce, but a chance meeting with Emerson clouds his judgement.
In a strange twist, the two discover Lucas' daughter is one of Emerson's students which brings any passion they felt to a halt. But Petunia Lemon's sneaky and it's up to them to uncover its harmful practices...if they can stay focused and out of love.

Amazon

Moderation by Elaine Castillo (August 5, 2025)

Girlie Delmundo moderates content for a living and her precision's helped land her a promotion. Next up is the world of virtual reality where she has the potential to drive forward a new way people communicate. She may alone more often than not, but she's finally experiencing financial stability.

The only thing she doesn't have control over is William Cheung's past and the way her heart beats for him. He may be a Chief Produce Officer, but she's about to find out how one's title doesn't indicate where their future will take them.

While you wait for your pre-order books to arrive, revisit the dark romance novels we can't stop reading!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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