It’s the month of love! As a primarily romance and fantasy reader I thought now would be a great time to talk about some of the contemporary romance novels in my personal collection. I’m tired of feeling guilty about books I haven’t read yet, and I want to counteract that feeling by talking about them whenever I get the urge to! So here are a handful of books I have and have not read, that I think will help put you in the mood this February.
This novel falls on the cusp of young adult and new adult, featuring two college aged main characters who are both trying to discover who they truly are outside of the boundaries their parents have set for them.
This story is sweet, funny, and absolutely swoon worthy, while also not shying away from the darker side of cultural differences between 1st generation Americans, and their parents who left their home countries for better or worse.
Our main character joins a fake dating site to “Rent a Boyfriend” for the holidays, to help alleviate the nagging pressure her parents throw at her during these gatherings. This book works as both a winter holiday read, and a year round romance that will remind you of the spark from your first love.
I flew through this novel when I first received it (I believe as an ARC). I have always loved the idea of someone from the Royal family falling for someone who currently presides in the White House.
This enemies to lovers LGBT romance was hot, secretive, seductive, and smart. These characters weren’t just two guys hooking up. They had the weight of the world and political campaigns on their shoulders.
I really enjoyed the discussions their relationship created in this fictional political sphere. It’s been a few years since I’ve read this, and I’d love to reread it soon, and see if it stands the test of time.
I picked this book up because I wanted to experience more LGBT voices in my novels, specifically female experiences. I haven’t read this novel yet, so instead of my recollection, I’ll leave you with some quotes from people who have.
“HONEY GIRL is an emotional, heartfelt, charming debut, and I loved every moment of it. Morgan Rogers is an incredible talent; she creates characters I couldn’t stop thinking about, and who I loved immediately. I can’t wait to see what she does next.” – Jasmine Guillory
“With imagery that leaps from the pages, HONEY GIRL is a brilliant debut. A story about finding your place in the world, about finding love—and accepting it by learning to love yourself. Prepare for this one to vault its way to the top of your TBR pile.” – Christina Lauren
I absolutely loved the idea of a plus sized woman entering a Bachelor-esque competition. I anticipate this novel being as heartbreaking as it is heartwarming. I haven’t read this novel yet, so instead of my recollection, I’ll leave you with some quotes from people who have.
“One to Watch is a powerful story about the love we have for ourselves and others. It’s a vibrant, tender, stylish, sexy, and outrageously joyful book, and I couldn’t bear to put it down for one second.” – Hannah Orenstein
I bought this book right when I discovered KPOP. As a mid sized woman myself, it was quite a shock to see the Korean beauty standards for the first time. Finding this book was like a palate cleanser. I was also following the cover model on IG and Tiktok when she announced this cover!
I haven’t read this novel yet, so instead of my recollection, I’ll leave you with some quotes from people who have.
“I’ll Be the One delivers on all dimensions: a swoony ship, body positivity, a complex mother-daughter relationship, and a realistic, relatable protagonist readers will root for!” – Gloria Chao
I got this book when the internet was raving about this series. I was also incredibly excited because it was my first ever orange book, which just so happens to be my favorite color. I was, and still am, very excited to read about two young adults whose parents are trying to arrange their marriage. It’s a topic I’ve never read about in contemporary fiction and I can’t wait to see what happens.
I haven’t read this novel yet, so instead of my recollection, I’ll leave you with some quotes from people who have.
“Utterly charming.” —Mindy Kaling
“Effervescent.” —Chicago Tribune
“Full of warm characters and sweet romance.” —Entertainment Weekly
“Get ready to fall in love with Dimple Shah and Rishi Patel.” —HelloGiggles
Have you read any of the books on my list? Based on these titles, is there something you would recommend for me to read next? Let me know! And happy reading!
❤ Sasha Marie
Read With The Librarian 
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