Happy Valentine’s Day! Last year I shared five uncommon love stories with you, so I thought I’d continue the tradition this year by sharing five uniquely romantic tales! I’ve tried to select some of my favorite books that don’t automatically come to mind when you think about classic love stories.

I’m especially excited about this year’s selection, mainly because there’s a nonfiction book in the mix. Some of these books you will have seen several times on the blog–but that’s okay! I won’t apologize for playing favorites when it comes to love stories. So, in no particular order, here are five unique love stories for you to enjoy!

 Surprised by Oxford by Carolyn Weber

What Makes This Story Unique: It’s a true story, and it’s incredibly romantic. The author, Carolyn Weber, writes about her time studying in Oxford, which is one of my favorite places on the planet, and how she found a surprisingly strong faith community there. In addition to a host of delightful literary references, Weber also tells how she met her husband and fell in love with him at Oxford (that’s the dream, am I right, ladies?).

Atonement by Ian McEwan

What Makes This Story Unique: Don’t read Atonement unless you’re ready for a shock. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again–I finished reading this book, set it down on the bed, and then sat and stared at the wall for a minute before everything hit me and I started crying. McEwan is the master of the unreliable narrator, and this story is truly a work of art. If you haven’t read it, I can’t recommend it highly enough!

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

What Makes This Story Unique: It’s a classic American novel–you probably read it in eleventh grade–so why is it on my list of unique stories? I think Gatsby is unique because it takes characters who aren’t entirely likable and forces you to empathize with them. I love this book because it’s a classic story of unrequited love that never seems to get old.

 The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

What Makes This Story Unique: It’s written in letters, first of all, which is fun. It’s also another book for book lovers. The main character is a writer, the setting is sublime, and the love that blooms between the characters (romantic love, friendship, community, you name it!) leaps off the page. This one is also a book you’ve probably heard me recommend a lot. It’s a go-to recommendation for me.

Brooklyn by Colm Toibin

What Makes This Story Unique: Toibin’s novel was made into a movie just a few years ago, and the film version is equally as beautiful. This book tells the story of an Irish immigrant who moves to New York City to find a new life. It’s a touching story of homesickness and finding true love. My favorite part is how the story develops so subtly; it lends a sense of genuineness to the characters and the plot.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading a little about some of my favorite unique love stories. Have you read any of these books? Which books did I leave off that I should put on my list for next year?

Happy Valentine’s Day, and Keep Reading!

Sarah