Whether you’re single or in a relationship, the best way to spend this Valentine’s Day is on a date with a good book. 

I have compiled a list of books that are sure to make your heart burst, break and everything else that defines the romance genre, with the hope that you will open one up and be transported to a world of meet-cutes and soulmates. 

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

Starting off strong with a blast from the past, “Pride and Prejudice” has won the hearts of readers since its publication in 1813 all the way up to the modern day. I firmly believe that everyone should read this book because of its lasting impact and beautiful writing. It follows Elizabeth Bennet and the trials and tribulations of her relationship with Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. Luxurious balls, family drama and professions of love seep out the pages, laying the foundation for the original enemies to lovers trope.

“Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus

Although many people wouldn’t consider it a romance book, “Lessons in Chemistry” does something that a lot of books would benefit from: incorporating romance as a subplot as opposed to the central theme. The story takes place in the 1960’s amidst a male-dominated workplace and follows Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist as she forges her own path with incredible determination. Her career is the central focus, but (and I won’t spoil anything) after meeting Calvin Evans, her whole world changes. The writing is witty, it’s an incredibly fast read and you’ll find yourself fiercely supporting the protagonist in every single one of her actions. This makes her love story all the more harrowing and impactful.

“The Princess Bride” by William Golding

There’s something about the timelessness of William Golding’s rhetoric that enables the fairytale romance in this book to reach me at any point in my life. It was love at first sight when I read it at age ten; I grew an even deeper appreciation when I saw the movie at 12 and I experience a sense of nostalgia and connection whenever I revisit it. Every time, I am delighted by the matter-of-fact, comical tone and the thrilling quests of Buttercup and Westley. Never had I read such a wonderfully random plot and I have yet to find a book that entertains me as much as this one. 

“The No-Show” by Beth O’Leary

It was impossible for me to not include this book on the list because it takes place on Valentine’s Day! If you’re looking for a modern, romantic mystery, then there is literally nothing more apt than this engaging novel. Three women come to find that they have all been stood up by the same man on the very worst day of the year for such an atrocity to occur: Feb.14. This delightfully emotional story with an unexpected twist will assure readers a good time. 

“Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe” by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

The title pretty much sums it up. Two boys in 1987 El Paso, Texas navigate their friendship, sexualities, race, family and every other aspect of life that can be covered in 392 pages. I remember starting this book at 10 p.m. and stayed up until 3 a.m. to finish it; it was just that good! You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll learn more than you’d ever expect about life and love. I truly couldn’t get this book out of my head. If you’re looking for true substance and powerful characters, this is a must read.