Its the time of year to make all the lists, and while goals and self improvment are all good, lets not forget about fiction. To take a few moments and read just for fun, disconect from the phone, and unplug, even if it is only for a few moments each day. For me, the colder months of January and February are all about cozy, heartwarming stories that bring a bit of light and love into the season.
It just feels right to curl up with something warm and lighthearted when it’s frosty outside.
While researching my next reads, I curated a list of romantic novels that are all excellent choices.
I hope this list inspires you to dive into some romantic reads and rekindle your love for fiction. Let’s make time to unplug and enjoy the simple pleasure of a good story.
1. The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
Why It’s Worth Exploring:This delightful STEM-based romance follows Olive, a PhD student, and Adam, a professor, as they navigate a fake-dating scheme. Full of witty banter, awkward moments, and undeniable chemistry, The Love Hypothesis offers humor and heart while tackling themes of trust and self-discovery.
Perfect For: Readers who love quirky, smart heroines and slow-burn romance.
2. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
Why It’s Worth Exploring:Poppy and Alex, polar opposites and best friends, reconnect during a summer trip that could change their lives forever. This heartfelt story examines how love can grow from deep friendship and how taking risks can lead to life’s greatest rewards.
Perfect For: Fans of friends-to-lovers romances with heartfelt emotional depth.
3. Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Why It’s Worth Exploring:Set against the backdrop of a quaint small town, this novel features a driven literary agent and a brooding editor who keep crossing paths. It’s a love letter to book lovers and an exploration of the choices we make for family, ambition, and love.
Perfect For: Those who appreciate sharp humor, small-town charm, and enemies-to-lovers tropes.
4. Beach Read by Emily Henry
Why It’s Worth Exploring:January may not scream “beach weather,” but this engaging novel will transport you there. It follows two authors who swap genres and inspire each other to write—and live—outside their comfort zones.
Perfect For: Readers looking for heartfelt romance mixed with poignant life lessons.
5. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
Why It’s Worth Exploring:Enemies turned lovers, Lucy and Joshua’s steamy office rivalry is filled with witty banter and laugh-out-loud moments. Their playful antagonism masks a deeper connection that makes for a highly entertaining read.
Perfect For: Those who enjoy workplace romances and sizzling chemistry.
6. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Why It’s Worth Exploring:Though not a traditional romance, this captivating tale of old Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo explores her seven marriages and her one true love. It’s a beautifully written story of identity, sacrifice, and the complexities of love.
Perfect For: Readers who enjoy historical fiction with powerful love stories woven throughout.
7. One Day in December by Josie Silver
Why It’s Worth Exploring:What if you locked eyes with your soulmate but didn’t meet them until years later? This emotional rollercoaster of love, loss, and serendipity follows Laurie and Jack over a decade as their paths intertwine.
Perfect For: Hopeless romantics who believe in destiny and second chances.
Why Romantic Novels Are Perfect for January
January often feels like a month of introspection, renewal, and calm after the holiday rush. Romantic novels are perfect companions—they offer comfort, hope, and the reminder that love can blossom in unexpected ways.
How to Make the Most of Your January Reads
- Set the Mood: Light a candle, brew your favorite tea, and snuggle up under a cozy blanket.
- Jot Down Reflections: Use a journal to note favorite quotes or how the characters’ journeys resonate with you.
- Share the Love: Join a book club or share your thoughts on social media to connect with other readers.
Which book will you pick up first? Let us know in the comments!