These books deliver the romance you’re after, but they aren’t just about grand gestures and happy-ever-afters. They’re also raw, messy, and real. Plus, they bring a refreshing variety of characters with plenty of LGBTQ+ representation, breaking away from the typical heteronormative romance the genre is notorious for.

Employees at stores like Montgomery & Taggert, Connecticut’s first romance-only bookstore recommend authors such as Krystal Marquis, Kristan Higgins and more.

HACHETTE; Berkley It doesn't matter if you're spending Valentine's Day alone or with a significant other, the best gift is a romance novel. The idea of romance looks different for every reader these days.