5 Romance Books To Get On Your Valentine's Day Reading List!

There’s nothing more enjoyable than sitting down to read a well-written romance novel, one that has you voraciously page-turning to reach the part where the main characters finally get together. However, trying to find romances on BookTok can feel like an inundation of the same recommendations on repeat. And with off-the-beaten path romances, you never know whether or not they will deliver the well-executed plot and satisfying writing that you desire. I’m here to provide you with some relatively lesser known rom-com novels that will give you a great reading experience and have you kicking your feet and blushing with each page!

1. The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon

This novel follows two work rivals at a radio station who pretend to be exes for a podcast and, of course, end up falling in love. The Ex Talk has everything you want in a romance book -- an interesting premise, great chemistry between the main characters, and actually realistic third act drama. Though it’s not very talked about or hyped up, this romance is well-written and swoon-worthy, one you should definitely pick up next time you’re at the book store. 

2. If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane

After her boyfriend of over ten years leaves her and suddenly has a pregnant girlfriend, Laurie pretends to date the office playboy to give people something else to talk about besides the unfortunate situation with her ex. Both main characters are certain they will never find love… that is, until they end up falling for each other. If I Never Met You does the fake-dating trope right, while also delivering truly emotional beats. Though it doesn’t contain any actual spice, the relationship between the two main characters is very steamy and romantic and will make you want to melt. 

3. Love On The Brain by Ali Hazelwood

If you know anything about popular romance novels, you probably know The Love Hypothesis, Love Theoretically, or Bride, all by Ali Hazelwood. Much less hyped than the rest of the novels in her bibliography is this book, Love on The Brain, which chronicles a scientist forced to work on a neuro-engineering project with a man who inexplicably hated her in grad school… or did he? If you enjoyed any other of Hazelwood’s books, or if you love romances set in the world of STEM and academia, this novel is perfect for you. 

4. Once More With Feeling by Elissa Sussman

Elissa Sussman specializes in narratives about the love lives of famous people, appealing to anyone who wonders what juicy drama happens behind the scenes with boy band members and female pop stars. This novel splits into two timelines -- one back when the two main characters were famous, and one in the present where they have to work together to put on a musical despite a falling out and the implosion of their careers. Perfect for theater kids and people who like seeing a more nuanced view on the complicated topic of life and relationships. It feels very real and raw and will leave you entertained and hopeful. 

5. The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun

This novel is a gay romance between the producer and the star of a "The Bachelor"-like reality television series. The story is sweet and messy and will make you believe in the power of love to conquer all. If you’re a fan of mental health representation in books, you will love the way this novel deals with OCD and depression. It’s a cute and enticing premise that definitely delivers exactly what you want it to. 

Happy reading!