5 Romance books to get you in the mood for love this Valentine's Day

Spice romance books displayed at Barnes & Noble. Photographed by Kimberley Spinney
Spice romance books displayed at Barnes & Noble. Photographed by Kimberley Spinney

When we think of Valentine's Day, romance is definitely at the top of our reading list. But if you are looking for something special to read this year, why not go all in and snag a romance that is actually set around Valentine's Day?

Honestly, narrowing down what romance to read for Valentine's Day seems like an epic task, but we decided that if we stuck with the actual holiday as our guide, it definitely made things a bit easier. So what are we reading (or rereading) in 2025?

Check out our five Valentine's Day themed romances that we are reading this year for the day of love

Cupid's Contract by S.N. Moor

Are you looking for a spicy romance with a sassy heroine, a why choose romance and spice? Then this might just be the perfect choice for your Valentine's Day. This book from S.N. Moor does have a few lines that made me roll my eyes, but overall this was a fun read that brought the spice and some humor. (And yes, I loved the fact that there was that Valentine's Day theme to the story.)

Be Mine, Twisted Valentine by Gianni Holmes

If you want a dark and twisted take on Valentine's Day and romance, then this book is the way to go. Be Mine, Twisted Valentine was part of a collaboration of authors working on a series called Corrupt Cupid. That means that this book is definitely one that requires some trigger warnings, but is definitely worth reading if you enjoy a gay romance with heat and darkness. This is a wild ride, but perfect for a more twisted Valentine's Day.

A Sugarloaf Valentine: A Sweet Romantic Comedy (Sugarloaf Bakery Book 1) by Rosemary Whittaker

This Valentine's Day you may want to give something more cozy a read. And A Sugarloaf Valentine is definitely a sweeter romance with a bakery twist (no spice, but it's still nice). I read this book in a single sitting because it was fun and entertaining with some fake dating mixed in to that Valentine's Day theme. As an added bonus to this one, there is a bit of comedy as well, which really made it more enjoyable. If you enjoy a cozy romance, then this is perfect for your TBR.

Anti-Valentine Date by Ashleigh Quinn

If you are over the hype of Valentine's Day, but you love a little romance, then this book is perfect for you. This is definitely an opposites attract romance with dating around Valentine's Day. Anti-Valentine Date does not have any spice, but it still delivers the romance and we love that. There is some miscommunication in bringing the drama, but it just works. And honestly, I really like our leading lady in this one.

The Valentine's Hate by Sidney Halston

Do you enjoy the enemies to lovers trope? Then this Valentine's centric romance is the one you want. This story from Sidney Halston features quirky characters, a little bit of spice and a romance that works, then this could be your perfect Valentine's Day read. Think of this book as a bit of an escape, and get cozy with some fake dating with enemies turned romantic partners. For me, this was definitely a 4 star read.