Valentine’s Day isn’t all that big in Australia, although the marketers of all things romance make every effort to change that. Of course, I’d rather a book than flowers and chocolate (not that I don’t love them both!) so let’s get your recommendations for the perfect Valentine’s Day love story!
If you are anything like me, it’s super hard to keep recommendations short, but I am going to ask that you stick with three only. It’s a given that you will have way more than three recs you could make, that you love lots of books and lots of authors, and by recommending three, you aren’t disrespecting all the others you might have in your brain…okay?! And let’s do this genre by genre, so we can really share more than three over time!
Here are my three…
- The Convenient Groom by Denise Hunter – Denise is my go to author for contemporary romance and this one is my sentimental favourite of hers. Lucas Wright! I don’t really need to say any more 😉 Other than the fact that you can get your hands on this gorgeous novel (ebook) for only 99 cents!
- Splitting Harriet by Tamara Leigh – Mad Ox. Jelly Bellys. Tattoos. Adore this super fun story with a deeply meaningful subtext. If you think Tamara only excels writing medieval romance, then think again!
- Just One Summer by Nicole Deese, Amy Matayo, Tammy L. Gray, and Jenny B. Jones – I couldn’t choose between these authors’ contemporary romance novels as my third pick, so this novella collection is the best! Sassy, sweet, and spicy, Just One Summer is the perfect romantic treat!
What are three of your must read contemporary romance novels that come to mind this Valentine’s Day?
February 14, 2017 at 10:32 pm
Contemporary Romances
Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck
Close to You by Kara Isaac
My Stubborn Heart by Becky Wade
February 18, 2017 at 8:46 am
Staci » Loved all of those, too, Staci! Have you read Kara’s Can’t Help Falling? I enjoyed it even more than her debut.
February 18, 2017 at 12:43 pm
I have Rel! I enjoyed it as well. I liked Close to You more, but they were both wonderful.
February 15, 2017 at 3:30 am
You’re the One that I Want – Susan May Warren
The Red Door Inn – Liz Johnson
Just a Kiss – Denise Hunter
February 18, 2017 at 8:45 am
Amy » I must read The Red Door Inn! I want to read all of Liz’s PI series and just haven’t got to them yet. You have reminded me to get to it xo
February 15, 2017 at 6:58 am
Erynn Mangum’s “Cool Beans” series. They’re light and funny, the romance is obvious, but gentle, and it’s funny.
February 18, 2017 at 8:45 am
Tracy » Yes! Did you know she’s publishing indie stories now? You can get them on Amazon. Loved all her series, including Cool Beans.
February 15, 2017 at 10:41 am
Hey Rel,
I confess to not reading too many in this genre, but there are some I have really enjoyed:
1. The Balcony by Lynn Morris – This was her entry in Bethany’s Portraits novels. I love Lynn’s writing and really enjoyed this story, especially the nod to gothic tales.
2. Sophie’s Heart by Lori Wick – I read somewhat reluctantly after Lori asked me for my opinion, and I confess I shed a few tears over this heartwarming story.
3. Forever Christmas by Christine Lynxwiler – I was privileged to edit this one for Barbour, and loved the charming Christmas tale.
Thanks, Rel.
February 18, 2017 at 8:44 am
Aaron McCarver » My favourites of Lori’s were both contemporaries – Pretense and The Princess. Sophie’s Heart was lovely, too.
February 16, 2017 at 2:34 am
These are mine that come to mind:
1. When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren
2. How to Catch a Prince by Rachel Hauck
3. The Convenient Groom by Denise Hunter
But there are so many other authors like Becky Wade, Belle Calhoune, … that I wish I could include!
February 18, 2017 at 8:43 am
Becky Smith » There’s always more, I get that! Good to see another fan of The Convenient Groom, Becky 🙂
February 16, 2017 at 5:06 am
Hum…let’s see…
1. Keep Holding On by Melissa Tagg
2. Talon by Ronie Kendig
3. Once Upon A Prince by Rachel Hauck
So fun!!!
February 18, 2017 at 8:43 am
Emilie » Great selections, Emilie! Hard to keep it to just three, right?!
February 16, 2017 at 1:50 pm
Age of Faith Series (Garr Wulfrith . . . sigh) – Tamara Leigh
Mark of the Lion – Francine Rivers
When Crickets Cry – Charles Martin
….. and a box of chocolates!
February 18, 2017 at 8:42 am
Pam – Florida » You have named three of my favourite authors, Pam!!!
February 19, 2017 at 7:42 am
Keeping it to three is impossible. Especially since contemporary romance is (overall) my favored genre. I adore it. Instead of saying these are my three favorites, here are three OF my favorites.
1. Meant to be Mine by Becky Wade (BEAUTIFUL story)
2. The End of the World by Amy Matayo (Heartbreaking, but such a good book)
3. Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter (Probably the first romance that I really “felt” the strong message it imparts)
There are SO many others to praise (not to mention some INSPY nominations that I’m trying to steer away from ;D), including “Just One Summer” as you recommend above. I’ve also not yet read your favorite by Denise, so perhaps 2017 will be THE year I do.
Fun question! 🙂