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Originally posted February 10, 2023 | Last updated January 31, 2025
15 Swoon-Worthy Valentine’s Day Books to Fall in Love With in 2025
Valentine’s Day is around the corner, which means romance books take center stage. But let’s be honest—I cringe a little every time I see these lists pop up, mostly because they’re often packed with women’s fiction and non-romance stories masquerading as love stories.
Since you can find romance book recommendations on our site year-round, I thought this would be the perfect time to have a real chat about Valentine’s Day books—specifically, romance novels that actually embrace and feature the holiday. Yes, there are books that are themed around Valentine’s Day, and if you’re in the mood for heartwarming love stories, swoony moments, and grand gestures, this list has you covered.
The Origins of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is all about love, but have you ever wondered where it all started? The holiday traces back to ancient Rome, with multiple Saint Valentines rumored to be the inspiration. One legend tells of a priest who secretly performed marriages against an emperor’s orders. Another says Valentine was imprisoned for helping persecuted Christians and sent a love letter signed “from your Valentine.”
No matter the origin, one thing’s for sure—February 14th is now a day to celebrate love in all its forms. And what better way to do that than with a romance novel?
Who Was Saint Valentine?
Saint Valentine remains a bit of a mystery, with multiple historical figures sharing the name. But the version most people associate with the holiday was supposedly a Roman priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage for soldiers. He continued performing secret weddings until he was caught and executed on February 14th. Over time, the date became linked with love, thanks to medieval poets like Geoffrey Chaucer.
Whether or not Valentine actually played matchmaker, we can thank history for giving us a reason to indulge in love stories.
Top 15 Valentine’s Day Books
These books are packed with swoon-worthy romance, heartfelt moments, and the perfect touch of Valentine’s Day magic.
Falling Madly by Enni Amanda
One magical night, one broken dream, and years of avoiding the Scottish charmer who ruined it all—until he whisks her away to her hometown after a humiliating Valentine’s Day betrayal. Stuck in Cozy Creek with small-town antics and a man who’s clearly still smitten, she might just be falling madly… if she can let go of the past.
The Improbable Meet Cute Short Story Collection
What makes love stick? Is it the irresistible spark when you lock eyes across a piazza in Rome? Is it feeling the earth move under your feet? (Wait—that was an actual earthquake.) In these six serendipitous short stories, bestselling authors turn improbable first encounters into hopelessly romantic happy ever afters. The perfect collection of Valentine’s Day Books!
Grab this collection on Amazon
The Kiss Lottery by Ilsa Madden-Mills
A Valentine’s tradition, a second chance, and one very public grudge. Everly returns to her hometown for content, not closure, but when she’s paired with her ex in the town’s Kiss Lottery, old feelings and unspoken truths make her rethink the heartbreak that sent her running.
The Valentine’s Hate by Sidney Halston
The childhood nemesis who ruined Valentine’s Day forever is now her fake date for a wedding. Banter, bickering, and enemies-to-lovers sparks fly in this grumpy-sunshine romcom, proving that sometimes the best revenge is falling hard.
A Vineyard Valentine by Nina Bocci
Anti-VDay queen hosts a singles event…then a literal romance novel hero crashes her hate-party. Opposites attract + forced proximity in a vineyard. Watch Eloisa’s “love is cringe” idea crumble over wine and banter. Profit > passion? Not anymore.
A Big Surprise for Valentine’s Day by Jackie Lau
A casual hookup with an old family friend? No problem. Amber and Sebastian agree to keep things strictly physical—until their meddling families, unexpected feelings, and a certain romantic holiday threaten to derail their no-strings plan. A flirty, feel-good romcom with just the right amount of steam.
Cupid Can Suck It by Teagan Hart
She needs a wedding date. He hates Valentine’s Day. A fake relationship leads to holiday chaos, pranks gone wrong, and undeniable tension in this small-town, friends-to-lovers romcom with plenty of heat—and danger.
Cupid Has a Heart-On by Tara Sivec
Cupid’s arrows are seriously misfiring as a whirlwind holiday romance turns into pure chaos. Stray strippers, accidental narcotics, and one very unfortunate wardrobe malfunction make this sequel to The Stocking Was Hung a wild Valentine’s ride.
A Royal Valentine by Jenn McKinlay
A one-night romance with a charming British professor turns into heartbreak—until she finds out he’s actually an earl. Now, he has to prove he’s worth the fairytale ending in this bookish, Austen-inspired love story.
Can’t Fix Cupid by Raven Kennedy
Cupid with broken arrows vs. billionaire allergic to love. Grumpy sunshine with “I can fix him” vibes. Magic mishaps, steamy bets, and a HEA that’ll make you side-eye every bird with a bow. PSA: Billionaires do melt for adorkable disaster cupids.
Related post: Paranormal and fantasy romance books about cupid
My Phony Valentine by Courtney Walsh
One fake boyfriend, one reputation makeover, and one bad-boy hockey player who isn’t nearly as bad as the media says. Poppy didn’t mean to drag Dallas into her mess, but with chemistry like this, real feelings were inevitable.
Cookies for my Orc Neighbor by Michele Mills
A grumpy, shirtless orc, a lonely Valentine’s Day, and a plate of sugar cookies that might just seal her fate. Cozy, sweet, and steamy, this monster romance is about finding love in unexpected places.
The Do-Over by Lynn Painter
Stuck reliving her worst V-Day (cheating ex, ugh), Emilie rage-quits inertia. Enter Nick—sarcastic chaos in human form. Time-loop shenanigans meet enemies-to-lovers as she finally chooses herself. YA Groundhog Day with a side of “toxic ex who?” energy.
A Very Friendly Valentine’s Day by Kayley Loring
A cross-country train ride, a shared bedroom, and two best friends who definitely aren’t falling for each other—until they are. Low angst, high swoon, and all the warm fuzzy feelings.
Puck Shy by Kayla Grosse
A Valentine’s masquerade party leads to a mystery hookup between a hockey star and the woman who’s been right under his nose. When he figures out who she is, keeping his hands off isn’t an option.
More Valentine’s Day Romance Books
If you’re looking for even more love-filled reads themed around Valentine’s Day, check out paranormal and fantasy romance cupid books and our list of Eros and Psyche book recommendations for mythology-inspired romances.
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to dive into a romance novel (not that we need an excuse around here). Whether you’re celebrating with someone special or just indulging in some quality me time, these books are sure to deliver all the heart-fluttering feels. Have some favorite Valentine’s Day books? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear your recommendations!
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I seem to miss these when they release and I enjoy a good Valentine’s Day romance. I see several I want to read now. Thanks so much!
Yay hope you enjoy them!!