How To Host A Romance Novel Book Swap

Long live Galentine’s Day! To be honest, February is probably the most depressing month of the year ( still It’s cold and that still dark). But the day that celebrates female friendships is a bright spot in the otherwise boring 28 days. It’s something to be celebrated! And what could be more fun than hosting a romance novel book swap?

Romance novels are a huge part of our nation’s literary culture, thanks to #BookTok and hugely successful series like ACOTAR and Fourth Wing. (Romantasy, anyone?) As the most romantic day of the year approaches, why not host a book swap for romance novels? This genre is growing and has gone far beyond predictable plot lines and silly book covers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to host it yourself.

Featured image from interview with Sophie Collins Christy Graham.

What actually is a book exchange?

Exchanging books is just that. Guests bring their favorite books and exchange them, and everyone goes home with their first book. This is a themed book swap, so have your guests bring a romance or romance-adjacent novel to share. Traditionally, you’ll swap books you’ve already read and loved, but feel free to let your guests know they can bring new books, especially if romance is a new genre. It’s so much fun choosing books to share.

The fun of a book exchange is that you can invite as many friends as you like. This party works for large groups of 20 or more, but you can have just as much fun with 5 or 6 guests. Send a group text or compose a message Ebito, Be sure to include your guests bringing romance novels to share. Then the fun begins.

First, decide on the menu. Simple self-cooking is perfect for such gatherings. The Romance Novel Book Swap is the perfect time to enjoy light snacks and fun signature cocktails.

Remember, you don’t have to prepare a three-course sit-down meal for a gathering like this. Keep it casual and have fun.

set the scene

Preparing your home for a book swap doesn’t mean you have to give it a complete deep clean. But take the time to stay organized, clear away clutter, and decide where your guests will put their books. Ideally, place the table in a central location so that guests can peek at all the books. This is where the exchange takes place!

When guests start arriving, show them where to put their books and offer them drinks. The party begins with chats, updates, and snacks. Turn on a fun playlist and have fun with the girls. You don’t need a strict schedule, but be sure to check if guests need to leave at a certain time. You want to make sure everyone has time to participate in the exchange.

Let’s exchange books

When it’s time for the exchange, gather your guests around a table with books and explain the rules of the exchange. If you’ve played White Elephant, the same rules apply.

1. Write the numbers on small slips of paper and have everyone choose one from the hat. This will determine when your guests will take their turn.
2. The guest who chooses number 1 will choose the first book. The guest who chooses the second option can move on and choose a book from the pile, or choose one already selected. You can only choose a book twice. If a book is taken, choose another book from the pile.
3. Continue exchanging until everyone has a book.

Depending on the size of your group (and time), it’s fun to have your guests share a quick synopsis of the books they brought with you before you start the exchange. If your guest brought a book to read, you can also share why you love it. You might share the level of spice, how dreamy the romance is, or a particular scene that’s worth reading. This could make the exchange a little more exciting and even more competitive.

Have fun reading new books with your friends!

A book swap is an easy and fun way to bring the girls together and provide a fun experience for everyone. By the end of the time, everyone will go home with a new book and new memories. Take this as a sign, send out an invitation, and celebrate the female friendships in your life. Cheers to Galentine’s Day. Enjoy hosting!

This post was last updated on February 7, 2026 with new insights.