If you're a secret romantic, you'll be pleased to hear that the list of this year's most lovey-dovey books is out.

The shortlist for the Romantic Novel of the Year Award has been announced, so fans of an amorous tale or two will no doubt be keen to get their teeth stuck into these tomes before the winner is chosen next month.

Writers who made it into the list include Catrin Collier for One Last Summer, Catherine King for Silk and Steel and Maureen Lee with The Leaving of Liverpool.

Other romantic oeuvres include Silver Bay by Jojo Moyes, Pillow Talk by Freya North and Young Wives' Tales by Adele Parks.

The deciding panel will be chaired by comedian, actress and author Helen Lederer, who is joined by books editor for Good Housekeeping Kerry Fowler and Chris Rushby, buying director for Bertram Books.

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