Romance Reads for Valentine’s Day
Staff Writer // Bethany Hanson
‘Tis the season of love. Whether you are single or in a relationship, romance books are for everyone. Grab your cup of tea or hot chocolate (with marshmallows, of course), and your favorite cozy blanket. This is a list of romance novels to get you through the month before midterms consume our lives. Whether you love a sports romance, romantasy, or good old-fashioned rivals to lovers, this list of book recommendations has something for everyone.
She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen
She Drives Me Crazy is a contemporary queer, young adult novel where high school nemeses Scottie and Irene are forced into conversation after a fender bender. Basketball player Scottie proposes the idea of fake dating to cheerleader Irene to get back at Scottie’s toxic ex. Soon enough, the feelings turn real in this slow-burning novel.
This book beautifully conveys the themes of self-discovery and healing. It’s a fast-paced story (I read it in one night), with incredible character development and dialogue. In other words, there is no frustrating miscommunication. Quindlen flawlessly balances the fun, lighthearted tone with more serious topics and struggles, making it the ideal book to get started for this Valentine’s Day.
Today Tonight Tomorrow by Rachel Lynn Solomon
Today Tonight Tomorrow is the perfect young adult romantic comedy, equipped to get anyone out of a reading slump. High school rivals Rowan Roth and Neil McNair have been competing to come out on top in every way. Who has the better test score? Higher GPA? Valedictorian? Well, Neil has that last one secured. Rowan’s last shot at coming out on top is the senior game, Howl.
This game takes players all over Seattle as a farewell to the city. Reluctantly, Rowan and Neil team up after finding out that other seniors were targeting them. During this time, they find out more about each other in one night that has them both questioning their feelings for each other. This book is fun and witty, and of course, I have to plug it since Rowan goes to Emerson College.
Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber
This list would not be complete without a fantasy novel. Once Upon a Broken Heart is a wonderful young adult fantasy read for the month of love. The main character, Evangeline Fox, is the ideal hopeless romantic, always believing in true love and happy endings. All hell breaks loose when she seeks the help of Jacks, a devious Fate, to stop Evangeline’s love from marrying another woman. But bargaining with a Fate is a dangerous endeavor. Jacks has big plans for Evangeline that could challenge everything Evangeline believes about love.
This novel is perfect for anyone who loves a whimsical fantasy novel. Garber’s world building is nothing short of magical, allowing readers to be easily transported into the fantastical setting. If you enjoy Once Upon a Broken Heart, you are in luck. It is the first book of the trilogy, and Garber has written another trilogy that is just as magical taking place in the same universe.
Red, White, & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Red, White & Royal Blue is a classic read for anyone who loves a good forbidden romance. When scandal breaks out between First Son, Alex Claremont-Diaz and Prince Henry they are forced to pretend to be friends in order to please their parents and society. This friendship forms into a secret relationship that could threaten to derail American and British relations. Alex and Henry struggle with their growing feelings and pleasing their parents as Alex’s mom’s re-election campaign is in full force.
This is a fun, fast-paced book that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. This wholesome read sheds light on real-world struggles and, more importantly, persevering through them. Red, White, & Royal Blue is a truly beautiful read with great representation.
This list is great for anyone looking to pick up a fun romance book for the month of love. These books are excellent to get you out of a tough reading slump and are captivating for a large audience. Due to the wide variety of tropes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.