Sweeter Than Fiction
02 Feb 2026
Romance page-turners that will steal your heart
Plateau Magazine February-March 2026

Magnolia Parks by Jessa Hastings
This book has my entire heart, and dare I say, is my favorite book series of all time (I’ve reread it multiple times). In a nutshell, it’s Gossip Girl set in London. While some might find the story a little toxic, I think the characters and their relationships are not only real but totally relatable. You will laugh, cry, and probably slam your book shut at certain points—but that’s why I love it. What makes this series truly stand out is its dual female leads, each offering distinct viewpoints that shed new light on the same events. Although the storylines overlap in time, every chapter provides a fresh and compelling perspective. I cannot recommend this book—this entire series—highly enough!
The Playlist by Morgan Elizabeth
What if I told you that this book is a love letter to Taylor Swift fans? As a Swiftie, this book holds a special place in my heart. Every chapter is titled after one of her songs! It also has one of my favorite tropes: best friend’s brother. Also…one bed, anyone? If you know, you know. Our main female character goes on a road trip to check off her ‘Love Story Bucket List’ and, along the way, starts her own love story. Morgan Elizabeth has a way with words, and whenever she releases a new book, I’ll be the first in line!
Consider Me by Becka Mack
First off, Carter Beckett was my top-tier book boyfriend of all time… until recently. He did get dethroned this year, but he’s still holding a very solid second place. This is a hockey romance with a he-falls-first twist—which matters, because he’s a total playboy. But then Olivia Parker shows up, catches his eye, and suddenly, boy is down bad! He breaks all his own rules for her, puts her first, and never hesitates to hype her up—even though he’s the actual celebrity. The first in a series.
Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry
Devney Perry usually writes romantic suspense, so I was excited to see her take on romantasy. This book is one of the most unique in the genre—different from anything I’ve read, and I don’t want to spoil a thing. I absolutely love the main heroine and am eagerly awaiting the second book. This is always one of my go-to recommendations for anyone browsing our romantasy shelves.
