Long live Galentine’s Day! Let’s be real, February may be the saddest month of the year (it’s always cold and it’s always dark). But a day dedicated to celebrate female friendships is a bright spot in an otherwise tedious 28 days. This is supposed to be celebrated! And what could be more fun than organizing a love novel book exchange?
Romance novels hold an important place in our country’s literary culture, thanks in large part to #BookTok and hit series like ACOTAR and Fourth Wing. (Romance, anyone?) With the most romantic day of the year upon us, why not host a romance novel swap? The genre has grown, and it’s so much more than predictable plots and silly book covers. Here’s how to host yours, step by step!
Featured image of our interview with Sophie Collins by Christie Graham.
What is a book exchange, anyway?
Book exchanges are exactly what they sound like. Guests bring a beloved book to the exchange and everyone leaves with a book that is new to them. Since this is a themed book exchange, invite your guests to bring a romance or romance-adjacent novel to share. Traditionally, you exchange books that you’ve already read and love, but don’t be afraid to let your guests know that they can bring new books as well, especially if romance is a new genre for them. A lot of the fun is choosing a book to share!
Send your invitations + define your menu
The joy of a book exchange is that you can invite as many friends as you want. This party works with a large group of 20 or more people and can be just as fun with just 5 or 6 guests. Send a group text or prepare a Avoid, and don’t forget to include that guests must bring a romance novel to share! Then the fun begins.
First, decide on your menu. Food that is easy to serve yourself is best for a gathering like this. A romance novel swap is the perfect time for light snacks and a fun signature cocktail!
- Fancy brunch? Try to serve asparagus frittata with goat cheese and vegetables, coffee and walnut cream cheese cake, and mimosas.
- If you’re hosting a lunch or dinner, why not make a big pot of soup? Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, tortellini soupAnd Tuscan soup are all delicious and so easy to prepare.
- You really can’t go wrong with a big charcuterie board and a few bottles of wine. Personally, I can’t have a party without serving dessert, and chocolate chip cookies in a cast iron skillet it would be so much fun to dive into once the swap is over.
Remember, you don’t have to prepare a three-course sit-down meal for a gathering like this. Keep it casual and keep it fun!
Prepare the decor
Prepare your home because a book exchange doesn’t necessarily mean a complete deep cleaning. But take the time to tidy up, declutter, and decide where guests will place their books. Having a table in a central location so guests can take a look at all the books up for grabs is ideal. This is where the exchange will take place!
When guests start arriving, show them where to place their book, then offer them a drink. The party can begin with chatting, catching up and light bites. Turn on a fun playlist and hang out with the girls. No strict schedule is necessary, but be sure to check if any of your guests have to leave at a certain time. You want to make sure everyone has time to participate in the exchange!
Exchange your books
Once it’s time to trade, gather your guests around the table with the books and explain the rules of trading. If you’ve played White Elephant before, the same rules apply.
- Write numbers on small slips of paper, then ask everyone to choose one from a hat. This will determine when guests take their turn.
- The guest who chose number one chooses the first book. The guest who chose number two moves on next and can choose a book from the pile or choose one that has already been chosen. A book can only be chosen twice, and if your book has been taken, you choose another from the pile.
- Keep swapping until everyone has a book!
Depending on the size of your group (and the time you have), it’s fun to ask guests to share a brief summary of the book they brought before you begin the discussion. If a guest has brought a book that they have read, they can also explain why they like it. Maybe share the spice level, how dreamy the love interest is, or a particular scene that’s totally worth it. This makes the exchange a little more exciting, and perhaps even more competitive too!
Enjoy time with your friends and your new book!
A book exchange is a fun and easy way to bring the girls together and provide a fun experience for everyone. At the end of your time, everyone will leave with a new book and new memories. Consider this your sign to extend the invitation and celebrate the female friendships in your life. Cheers for Galentine’s Day and welcome!
Romance novels to exchange
Barnes and Nobles
Barnes and Nobles
Barnes and Nobles
This article was last updated on February 7, 2026 to include new information.
The position How to Plan a Romance Novel Exchange You and Your Daughters Will Love appeared first on Camille Styles.