The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Book Guide: Love, Heartbreak & a Bit of Murder
Heartfelt, Heartbreaking & a Little Murderous: The Perfect Valentine’s Reads
Well then, Valentine’s Day, eh?
Here we go again. Shops are flogging chocolates and overpriced fizz. Love songs are warbling on the radio. Restaurants are jam-packed with couples ready to sink their teeth into something fancy.
And then there’s you. And me. And by heck, am I grateful to have you here!
Maybe you’re all loved up, maybe you’re blissfully single, or maybe you’re just here for a nosey, either way, welcome! You might not have a date (yet), but you do have me, your favourite chaotic bookworm, on a mission to bring you the best Valentine’s Day reads for every mood.
Whether you’re in the market for a swoony romance, a gut-wrenching heartbreak story, or…yes, you heard me right…a bit of murder (because nothing says love like a well-plotted revenge, am I right?), I’ve got just the book for you.
So, grab a coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive in!
1. If You Fancy a Bit o’ Love but Not Too Mushy
Maybe you enjoy romance, but you don’t want to read something that makes you cringe. You want witty banter, characters who don’t act like absolute muppets, and an actual plot alongside the swooning. Well, fear not:
Book Lovers – Emily Henry
A bookish, no-nonsense woman meets a grumpy man who keeps getting in her way, and somehow, it all ends up being completely adorable. Smart, funny, and will make you feel all warm inside just like when you put your socks on straight from the radiator.
The Rosie Project – Graeme Simsion
A socially awkward professor tries to find a wife using logic and spreadsheets. Naturally, it goes terribly wrong in the best possible way. If you like your romance with a side of chaos, this one’s a winner.
The Love Hypothesis – Ali Hazelwood
Fake dating! Science! A big, grumpy, handsome academic! If you love a romance with just the right amount of swoon without making you roll your eyes, this is for you.
2. If You Want Romance That Will Emotionally Ruin You
Some of us don’t want a fluffy love story – we want pain. We want to sob into a cup of coffee and message our mates saying, “I AM NOT OKAY.” If that’s your vibe, get these read:
They Both Die at the End – Adam Silvera
The title does, in fact, tell you exactly what happens, but that won’t stop you from crying like a baby when it does.
November 9 – Colleen Hoover
Fate, bad timing, and love against all odds – this one’s got it all. Emotional, dramatic, and perfect for when you need a book that’ll leave you questioning EVERYTHING.
The Midnight Library – Matt Haig
Not a traditional love story, but more of a what if? novel that’ll make you reflect on life, regrets, and the paths we take. Hopeful and heartbreaking all at once.
3. If You Like Your Romance with a Side of Murder
Some of us love a romance – so long as there’s also a bit of crime, some morally questionable decisions, and maybe even a dead body or two. If you prefer your love stories with added peril, these are for you:
Verity – Colleen Hoover
Twisted, unsettling, and completely unputdownable. It’s part romance, part psychological thriller, and you’ll need a lie down after reading it.
Misery – Stephen King
A writer, a devoted fan, and an absolute nightmare of a love story. Is it a love story? No. Does it explore obsession, devotion and unhinged commitment? Yes. If you’ve ever had an ex that just wouldn’t let go, this’ll make you feel better about it.
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Behind Her Eyes – Sarah Pinborough
A love triangle, secrets, and a twist so shocking you’ll have to reread it to make sure you didn’t imagine it. If you like romance but also want to be completely done in by a book, get this read.
4. If You Like a Bit of Magic with Your Romance
Look, sometimes normal romance just isn’t enough. Sometimes, you need curses, ancient magic, or a bit of mythical drama to make things interesting. If that’s the case, you’ll love these:
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue – V.E. Schwab
Imagine making a deal with the devil to live forever, but then no one can remember you. Bit awkward. Haunting, poetic, and completely gorgeous.
A Court of Thorns and Roses – Sarah J. Maas
Beauty and the Beast, but make it fantasy – with fae, danger, and a slow-burn romance. Starts off as a fairytale retelling and then pulls you into a world of magic, betrayal, and drama. If you love fantasy romance, this is a must read.
Circe – Madeline Miller
A retelling of the witch Circe’s story, full of gods, magic, and epic love. Beautifully written, heart-wrenching, and perfect for anyone who loves Greek mythology.
5. If You Prefer Your Love Stories Slightly… Unhinged
Love isn’t always soft and fluffy. Sometimes, it’s obsessive. Sometimes, it’s dangerous. And sometimes, it’s downright terrifying. If you like your romance on the darker side, these books will have you hooked:
My Best Friend’s Exorcism – Grady Hendrix
Demonic possession, but make it heartfelt. It’s creepy, nostalgic, and weirdly emotional. If you love Stranger Things, you’ll love this.
Mexican Gothic – Silvia Moreno-Garcia
A slow-burn horror story with eerie romance, creepy mansions, and a protagonist you’ll root for. Perfect if you like gothic vibes with a hint of terror.
Rosemary’s Baby – Ira Levin
Look, not all love stories end well. Sometimes, you marry the wrong person. And sometimes, that person might be in a Satanic cult. Just saying.
Final Thoughts
So, whether you want something romantic, tragic, or a little bit terrifying, there’s a book for you this Valentine’s Day.
Personally, I’ll be curled up with a cup of coffee, reading about someone else’s romantic disasters while I eat a full bag of Maltesers – before watching a bunch of people on telly get devoured by zombies. I’m a romantic, what can I say? (I actually am, I promise!).
What’s your perfect Valentine’s read? Drop a comment below-I’d love to hear your recommendations!
Much love,
Your Chaotic Bookworm,
PS – Fancy more romance? Check out my Top Must-Read Romance Novels of 2025!
