Escape the Valentine’s Day frenzy with our curated list of nine romantic reads, each one a perfect companion for a lovelier February 14.
Whether you love it or loathe it, Valentine’s Day is inescapable. But that doesn’t mean you have to buy into the frenzy. If you’re flying solo this February 14, consider this your official permission slip to skip the prix fixe menus, ignore the heart-shaped everything and settle in with the best companion of all—a good book.
Unlike an awkward date, books never disappoint. They’re always there when you need them, they don’t judge your reading snacks, and they’re infinitely more affordable than a dozen overpriced roses. Whether you want a little romance, a lot of spice, or just the cozy companionship of a great story, we’ve got you covered.
Books have been a cornerstone of human knowledge and imagination for thousands of years.
From ancient clay tablets to modern e-readers, the physical format of books has undergone significant changes.
The invention of the printing press in the 15th century revolutionized book production, making it possible to mass-produce books and spread knowledge widely.
Today, over 1 million new titles are published annually worldwide, with an estimated 130 billion books in circulation.
The Perfect Boyfriend
Looking for someone to sweep you off your feet? Mr. Darcy in Jane Austen‘s Pride and Prejudice is the ultimate book boyfriend for anyone who loves old-fashioned romance. He’s brooding, haughty, and misunderstood—oh, and did we mention he’s rich?
Fitzwilliam Darcy is a central character in Jane Austen's novel 'Pride and Prejudice'.
He is the wealthy master of Pemberley estate, known for his pride and haughty reserve.
Initially, he appears dismissive of Elizabeth Bennet due to her family's inferior social status.
However, as the novel progresses, Darcy's true nature is revealed through his struggles with his own pride and prejudices, ultimately leading to a romantic relationship with Elizabeth.
According to various analyses, Darcy's character development has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of masculinity and class in 19th-century England.
The Best Mate
If you live for Galentine’s Day, this book might be the perfect read. Significant Others by Zoe Eisenberg features female friendship at its center. Ever wished you could rewind time and live with your college roommate again? This novel is all about that unshakable bond.
The Spicy Fling
Ever dreamed of dating your celebrity crush or crave an all-consuming romance with a built-in expiration date? The Idea of You by Robinne Lee is the one for you. Solène never expects much from a routine meet-and-greet—until she catches the eye of her daughter’s favorite pop star.
A celebrity crush is a strong attraction to a famous person, often an actor, musician, or athlete.
This phenomenon can be attributed to the media's portrayal of celebrities, making them seem more relatable and desirable.
According to a survey, 75% of women and 55% of men admit to having had a celebrity crush at some point in their lives.
Celebrities, such as actors, musicians, or athletes, can be the object of this attraction.
Celebrity crushes can be harmless but may also lead to unhealthy obsession or stalking behaviors.
The One Who Got Away
Ever had the nagging feeling that an ex might have been The One? Esther, perpetually unlucky in love, starts to wonder when she stumbles across an old article from the 2000s that eerily mirrors her own dating history. Could she have tossed her Mr. Right onto the reject pile instead of walking him down the aisle?
Forbidden Love
Imagine having a scorching one-night stand—only to realize the next morning that she’s your friend’s mom. Or heading to campus to visit your daughter, only to accidentally hook up with her best friend. Mistakes Were Made by Meryl Wilsner proves that for the unlucky in love, sparks can still fly in the most unexpected places.
‘It’s Complicated’
You know the story. Boy meets girl. Thunderbolt strikes. They feel like they’ve known each other forever. So far, so romantic. But when Holly falls for Mark, she quickly realizes that feeling like you know someone isn’t the same as actually knowing them. Secrets can be a real problem in relationships.
Cinematic Romance
The aptly named Aiden Valentine is the voice behind Baltimore’s favorite romance hotline, dishing out hot takes to lovelorn callers. But when a girl phones in asking for dating advice for her mom, everything changes. First Time Caller by B.K. Borison is perfect for fans of love stories with a little serendipity.
Second Chances
With so many rom-coms fixated on the thirty-something happy-ever-after, you’d be forgiven for thinking anyone over 40 is out of the running for romance. But if you’re in the mood for some second-time-around magic, It’s Getting Hot in Here by Jane Costello delivers.
The Anti-Romance
If you’re over the dating scene, this might be the perfect antidote—a romance-free thriller with a deliciously dark twist. When Kitty accidentally kills a persistent creep who won’t take no for an answer, she discovers an unexpected talent for murder… and a taste for revenge. How to Kill Men and Get Away With It by Katy Brent is a sharp, wickedly entertaining page-turner that will have wronged women everywhere cheering—well, most of the time.
- observer.com | The Perfect Date: Nine Books to Read This Valentine’s Day
