Embrace Love: 10 Must-Read Romantic Books This Valentine's Day

This contemporary romance follows Olive Smith, a Ph.D. candidate who doesn't believe in lasting relationships until a fake romance with the aloof professor Adam Carlsen turns her perspective upside down. With witty banter and sizzling chemistry, Ali Hazelwood’s novel undergoes a hilarious examination of love, relationships, and personal growth. It’s praised for its snarky yet intelligent narrative, making it a must-read for anyone craving a delightful escape into the world of academia and romance. Learn more.

In this heartfelt tale by Emily Henry, best friends Poppy and Alex experience a decade of summer vacations together, but their friendship hits a snag two years prior. Poppy's desire to relive their best moments and mend their broken bond culminates in a trip filled with laughter, secrets, and perhaps a rekindling of their suppressed feelings. Known for its emotional depth and relatable characters, this novel is perfect for those who believe that love requires second chances. Check it out.

Casey McQuiston’s debut is a sparkling romantic comedy that imagines what happens when America’s First Son, Alex Claremont-Diaz, falls for the Prince of Wales, Henry. Their relationship starts off with a fake friendship for political gain but soon blossoms into a passionate romance filled with charming wit and significant stakes. With a plot that spans continents and a narrative that challenges expectations, this novel is not just about love; it’s about breaking barriers. Find out more.

Beach Read by Emily Henry features two authors - a romance writer and a literary novelist - living next to each other who decide to swap genres for a summer. As they challenge each other creatively, their interactions lead to unexpected revelations about love and life, showcasing the beauty of opposites attracting. It’s a witty tale filled with humor, creativity, and discovery. Explore the book.

Graeme Simsion’s The Rosie Project introduces Don Tillman, a genetics professor with a scientific approach to life and love, who decides to create a systematic plan to find his perfect wife. When his project collides with Rosie, a chaotic woman with no interest in his meticulously structured world, hilarity ensues. This delightful rom-com illustrates how love defies logic and finds its way in the most unexpected places. Learn more about it.

Casey McQuiston returns with another hit, One Last Stop, where cynically-minded August discovers magic and romance through her subway crush, Jane, who is stuck in time from the 1970s. Bound together by an extraordinary circumstance, their love story traverses time and reality, making readers reflect on the nature of chance and connection. It’s a poignant and charming narrative that promises to resonate long after you turn the final page. Check out this title.

In Talia Hibbert’s charming novel, Chloe Brown, a chronically ill computer geek, creates a list of goals to shake off her mundane life. Guided by her enigmatic neighbor, Redford Morgan, Chloe navigates through life’s adventures, finding not only what it means to live but also the joys of love. This whimsical tale is filled with humor, kindness, and heart, offering a fresh take on romance. Discover more.

Colleen Hoover's It Ends with Us presents a poignant reflection on love and resilience. The story follows Lily Bloom as she navigates a new relationship with a charismatic neurosurgeon, Ryle, which collides with memories of her first love, Atlas. This novel tackles heavy themes and portrays the complexities of love, from attraction to the struggles of unhealthy relationships, making it both impactful and necessary reading. Learn more about the book.

Helen Hoang’s acclaimed debut, The Kiss Quotient, tells the story of Stella Lane, who uses data to guide her life. To gain more confidence in dating, she devises a unique plan to hire an escort, Michael, to teach her the ropes of romance. As their professional relationship deepens into genuine affection, this novel captures the charm and humor of unexpected connections and the importance of embracing love in all its forms. Find out more.

Sally Rooney’s Normal People is a profound exploration of the complex dynamics of love and class through the relationship of Connell and Marianne. Their connection begins in high school, woven through intimacy, misunderstandings, and societal pressures as they transition into adulthood. This modern classic is poignant and deeply relatable, resonating with anyone who has experienced the intricacies of young love. Learn more about this captivating title.