Feb. 14 is right around the corner. Whether you plan on spending the holiday with your significant other, your children or yourself, books can help you get in the mood and spark creativity. They also make great gifts for loved ones young and old. Here, I’ve highlighted several different kinds of books — each celebrating love and affection in their own unique ways.

“Love in a Nutshell” by Janet Evanovich and Dorien Kelly: This one has love, mystery and entertainment written all over it. Kate Appleton has just lost her job and her husband. She turns to her parents’ summer house in Keene’s Harbor, Mich., The Nutshell, for help. As she attempts to make a new life for herself by turning the home into a bed and breakfast, she discovers secrets, sabotage and a new love interest. It’s sweet, light-hearted and a fun, quick read that provides a perfect little escape for those looking to indulge in some wholesome romance.

“Wabi Sabi Love: The Ancient Art of Finding Perfect Love in Imperfect Relationships” by Arielle Ford: This book is perfect for people who have good relationships that they’re eager to make even better. It focuses on Wabi Sabi, the ancient Japanese idea of illuminating the beauty in imperfection, and uses real-life stories of couples learning to turn conflict into connection and differences into mutual passions. We should all learn to embrace our partners’ quirks and imperfections rather than see them as irritations, and what better time to do so than Valentine’s Day?

“Me Without You” by Ralph Lazar and Lisa Swerling: Looking for the perfect way to say “I love you” to your special someone? This charming book of illustrations is simply adorable and makes the cutest gift. It goes to show that it doesn’t take much more than a few words to let someone know how much they mean to you.

“Cupcakes, Cookies & Pie, Oh, My!” by Alan Richardson and Karen Tack: If you plan on making treats and goodies for your loved ones or perhaps for a Valentine’s Day party, this is the book you should turn to. It’s filled with interesting and wonderful desserts such as high-heeled cupcakes and a pie topped with marshmallow pigs. It is loaded with step-by-step how-to pictures and very straightforward instructions. These creations are gorgeous and are sure to delight audiences of all ages.

What are some of your suggestions for readers looking for loveable stories, recipes and gifts?