Love is in the air and romance readers are in for a treat! From second chances to fake dating, from steamy tension to slow-burn sweetness, next year’s releases promise to deliver all the swoons and butterflies we crave. From the auto buy authors you love to some breathtaking debuts, start planning your reading year now. These are the most anticipated romance reads of 2025!
Beg, Borrow, Or Steal by Sarah Adams (1/7)
Romance writer Emily Walker’s orderly life is upended when her rival, Jack Bennett, returns to Rome, Kentucky after a broken engagement. Now both neighbors and teaching colleagues, their notorious feud reignites. Jack, a secret best selling mystery author himself, delights in antagonizing Emily. But when she accidentally emails her manuscript to their principal, potentially exposing her writing career, she reluctantly turns to Jack for help. As they scheme to retrieve the email, their trademark hostility takes an unexpected turn. Their collaboration might just be the plot twist that transforms their enemies-to-lovers story into reality.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Temple Of Swoon by Jo Segura (1/7)
Despite her corny jokes, Dr. Miriam Jacobs aims to prove herself by leading an expedition to find the Lost City of the Moon in the Amazon. Rafael Monfils, posing as a journalist documenting their journey, secretly plans to derail the mission to protect the sacred city and his mother’s legacy. However, Miriam’s persistence foils his sabotage attempts, and her quirky nature begins to win him over as they trek through the rainforest. But their growing attraction becomes complicated when they discover they’re not alone in their search, adding new dangers to their jungle adventure.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
All The Missing Pieces by Catherine Cowles (1/7)
True crime podcaster Ridley Sawyer investigates cold cases across the country, driven by the unsolved disappearance of her twin sister. When her latest story leads her to Sheriff Colter Brooks’s town, he’s determined to prevent media chaos. Despite their initial friction and his attraction to her haunting blue eyes, Colt maintains his distance. But when Ridley’s investigation turns dangerous, he offers her protection, bringing her into his home. As she charms both him and his dog, Colt discovers there’s more to Ridley than he assumed. Yet their growing connection might prove fatal as they edge closer to uncovering dangerous truths.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Single Player by Tara Tai (1/7)
Video game writer Cat Li lands her dream job crafting romance storylines for the highly anticipated game “Compass Hollow”, only to clash with her boss, Andi Zhang. They’re a romance-hating gamedev trying to rebuild their reputation after being doxxed, but forced to incorporate love stories by their investor’s demands. As they work together, Andi discovers there’s more to Cat than just romantic idealism. But when Cat uncovers a plot threatening Andi’s career, they must overcome their differences and trust each other– both professionally and personally– before it’s game over for them both.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Once Smitten, Twice Shy by Chloe Liese (1/14)
After having her heart broken, former romantic Juliet Wilmot has given up on love. Meanwhile, shy Will Orsino needs a wife for his family business but lacks dating experience. When their paths keep crossing, they strike a deal: Juliet will help Will learn romance, with no strings attached. It seems perfect—neither wants real love, and they’re definitely not right for each other. But as they practice the art of romance, unexpected feelings develop. Despite their guarded hearts and past hurts, what started as pretend might be transforming into the real love story neither was looking for.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Let’s Call a Truce by Amy Buchanan (1/14)
Widowed mother Juliana Ryan, rebuilding her career while raising two kids, overhears her handsome but arrogant colleague Ben Thomas calling her a liability. Their resulting office feud spans two years until a joint project forces them to cooperate. As their antagonistic relationship thaws, Juliana discovers Ben’s charming side, and their heated boardroom arguments evolve into passionate encounters. She finds herself drawn to someone who unexpectedly understands her complex life as a working mother. However, just as she considers opening her heart again, Ben’s past resurfaces, challenging their chance at love.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The Broposal by Sonora Reyes (1/21)
In this debut romance, Sonora Reyes weaves a tale of two best friends whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways. Alejandro (Han) avoids romantic attachments while grappling with questions about his sexuality and undocumented status. His roommate Kenny finally breaks free from a controlling girlfriend, choosing his friendship with Han over her ultimatums. When Han’s work visa falls through, Kenny proposes a marriage of convenience to help his friend stay in the country—and maybe spite his ex. But as they navigate their fake relationship, they discover their pretend romance might be awakening very real feelings between them.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (1/21)
After spending a year and a half at Basgiath War College, Violet Sorrengail faces her greatest challenge as enemies threaten from both outside and within. With the protective Aretian wards failing, she must venture into unknown territories to secure allies for Navarre. Determined to protect her dragons, family, home, and the man she loves, Violet embarks on a perilous mission that will test her abilities to their limits. She carries a secret that could either save or destroy everything. This thrilling blend of fantasy and romance builds to a crescendo as Violet races to find truth and magical power, before an approaching storm threatens to destroy everything she holds dear.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
I Think They Love You by Julian Winters (1/28)
Competing for CEO of his family’s company, Denzel Carter claims he’s in a serious relationship to prove his stability. When his plan to fake-date his best friend Jamie falls through, he’s forced to turn to Braylon—the ex who broke his heart. Braylon agrees to help, needing Denz’s mayoral connections for his own career advancement. What starts as a mutual business arrangement becomes complicated as text messages and stolen kisses blur the lines between pretense and reality. In this second-chance romance by Julian Winters, their fake relationship might lead to the real love they never expected to find again.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Out Of The Woods by Hannah Bonam-Young (1/28)
High school sweethearts Sarah and Caleb Linwood have been inseparable for seventeen years. But when Sarah’s solo project – a memorial fundraiser for her mother – fails and Caleb steps in uninvited to save it, she questions her independence and identity within their marriage. The incident uncovers years of buried tensions, leading the nature-averse couple to attempt an unlikely solution: a therapeutic wilderness retreat. As they stumble through the woods together, these married-at-nineteen sweethearts must rediscover themselves and each other, proving that sometimes getting lost is the best way to find your way back home.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Deep End by Ali Hazelwood (2/4)
A focused Stanford junior and platform diver, Scarlett Vandermeer avoids relationships while pursuing med school and recovering from a career-threatening injury. Enter Lukas Blomqvist, the disciplined swimming champion who seems her polar opposite. When a secret emerges, they strike up a casual arrangement, telling themselves it’s just temporary. But as they train for the Olympics, their connection deepens beyond the pool. Despite her intentions to keep things simple, Scarlett finds herself falling for the golden boy of aquatics. What started as a convenient fling threatens to pull her into deeper emotional waters than she ever planned to swim.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The Perfect Rom-Com by Melissa Ferguson (2/11)
At her first writers’ conference, Bryony Page hopes to sell her manuscript to raise awareness for “The Bridge”, her grandmother’s struggling organization where she teaches English as a Second Language. Instead, she lands an unexpected role as ghostwriter for romance novelist Amelia Benedict, with literary agent Jack Sterling promising to help publish her own book in return. Bryony’s ghostwritten novels unexpectedly transform Amelia into a global bestseller, making her too valuable for the Foundry Agency to release. Meanwhile, Jack finds himself increasingly drawn to the talented writer secretly penning these successful stories, complicating their professional relationship.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Back After This by Linda Holmes (2/25)
A seasoned podcast producer, Cecily Foster finally gets her shot at hosting her own show – but with two challenging conditions: it must document her dating life, and she needs mentoring from famous dating coach Eliza Cassidy. Reluctant to showcase her romantic struggles publicly, Cecily agrees only to protect her mentee’s job. Complications arise when she meets Will, a charming photographer, during a chance encounter chasing a runaway dog. Despite their obvious chemistry, Eliza forbids the relationship, forcing Cecily to choose between following her mentor’s advice and pursuing genuine connection. Now she must decide whether to trust her own instincts or follow the prescribed path to love.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The Love Simulation by Etta Easton (3/4)
When the school principal diverts library funding to a football field, Brianna Rogers joins a Mars simulation program, hoping to win prize money for her school. The twist? The principal’s son Roman, a handsome science teacher with whom she has a complicated relationship, unexpectedly joins the team. Despite her suspicions that he’s there to sabotage their chances, Roman proves to be a dedicated teammate. As their close quarters fuel both their rivalry and undeniable attraction, Brianna discovers there’s more to Roman than meets the eye. Soon she faces a heart-wrenching choice between her beloved school and her growing feelings for Roman.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Story Of My Life by Lucy Score (3/11)
With her writing career on the brink and evicted from her Manhattan apartment, Hazel makes an impulsive decision to buy a house in rural Pennsylvania, hoping to rejuvenate her creativity through small-town living. Though she discovers her new hometown is struggling to survive, she finds unexpected inspiration in Cam, her brooding contractor, and his community-focused family who run an animal rescue. While Hazel tells herself she’s merely gathering material for her book, her growing connection with Cam and the town threatens to become more than just research material.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Fake It Like You Mean It by Megan Murphy (3/18)
When Elle returns home to care for her grandmother Lovie, who’s battling Alzheimer’s, she finds Adam Wheeler—her grandmother’s live-in nurse—occupying her old bed. Their tense coexistence takes an unexpected turn when Lovie becomes convinced they’re a couple in love. They play along, assuming she’ll forget by morning but she doesn’t. As they maintain the charade for Lovie’s sake, Elle finds herself thinking about Adam more than she should. What started as a well-meaning deception becomes complicated when pretending starts feeling real and their fake relationship begins stirring genuine feelings.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The Love Haters by Katherine Center (3/20)
Video producer, Katie Vaughn faces job loss unless she accepts a career-changing opportunity: profiling Coast Guard rescue swimmer Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson in Key West. The catch? She can’t swim but pretends she can, and the assignment comes through Cole, Hutch’s brother. In paradise, Katie finds herself drawn to the handsome but love-skeptical Hutch, while becoming entangled with his eccentric Aunt Rue and rescue Great Dane. As she navigates swimming lessons, helicopter rides, and brewing hurricanes, her lies threaten to surface. Between stolen kisses and natural disasters, Katie must find the courage to face her fears and embrace the truth.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Just Our Luck by Denise Williams (3/25)
Sybil Sweet, embracing her role as her family’s aimless member, visits a late-night donut shop with her last dollars for lottery tickets and comfort food. There she meets Kiran Anderson who is struggling to save his family’s bakery. Their flirty encounter turns into something more, but Sybil disappears the next morning, accidentally leaving behind her winning lottery ticket. When Kiran’s attempt to return the ticket goes viral, they agree to fake a relationship to benefit both his business and her family image. Despite the millions at stake, they discover their greatest stroke of luck might just be finding each other.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez (4/1)
Veterinarian Xavier Rush seems perfect—until he speaks and ruins the illusion. When he proves capable of admitting his mistakes, Samantha finds herself on an unforgettable date with him. Despite their incredible connection, she’s forced to push him away due to her family crisis. She asks him to preserve their magical night as just a perfect memory. But neither time nor distance can erase what sparked between them and maybe one perfect memory isn’t enough. As they discover, creating a lifetime of memories together might be even better than holding onto just one perfect moment.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Any Trope But You by Victoria Lavine (4/1)
Romance novelist Margot Bradley’s career implodes when her secret document of unhappy alternate endings leaks online. Desperate to support her ill sister Savannah, she pivots to writing murder mysteries and ends up at a remote Alaskan resort to write her first book. There she meets Dr. Forrest Wakefield, a former cancer researcher now running his family’s resort while caring for his sick father. Despite their mutual resistance to romance— she doesn’t believe in happy endings, he fears losing anyone else— their connection deepens through snowy nights and unlikely encounters. Both must overcome their fears of love before Margot’s departure turns their story into another unhappy ending.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Swept Away by Beth O’Leary (4/1)
Lexi seeks a one-night stand while Zeke, typically searching for lasting love, decides to make an exception for her. After an intense evening at the pub, they end up on a houseboat at the marina, sharing a passionate night together. The next morning’s hangover brings a shocking discovery— they’re adrift in the North Sea. As their situation becomes increasingly dire with dwindling supplies and mounting waves, their casual encounter transforms into a fight for survival. While awaiting rescue, they’re forced to face not only the elements but also their unexpected feelings for each other.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Flirting Lessons by Jasmine Guillory (4/8)
Nearly-thirty Avery Jensen decides to break free from her rigid lifestyle after a breakup, wanting to explore dating women and embracing spontaneity. Enter Taylor Cameron, Napa Valley’s notorious flirt, who’s bound by a bet to stay celibate for two months. She offers to teach Avery the art of flirting, seeing it as a perfect distraction from her own romantic troubles. What starts as weekly lessons evolves into undeniable chemistry between them. While Avery blossoms under Taylor’s guidance, both women struggle to admit their growing feelings. As their connection deepens, Taylor must face her fears of commitment before she loses her chance at genuine love.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (4/22)
Two writers converge on Little Crescent Island: sunny-natured Alice Scott, seeking her breakthrough, and brooding Pulitzer winner Hayden Anderson. Their mission? To compete for the chance to pen Margaret Ives’ biography— the reclusive heiress and former socialite who vanished from public life decades ago. During their month-long trial period, Margaret reveals her story in fragments. Each writer is bound by strict NDAs preventing collaboration. But as Alice and Hayden circle each other with growing attraction, they realize their own tale is unfolding alongside Margaret’s mysterious narrative. The question remains: Will their story end as romance, tragedy, or something in between?
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune (5/6)
Photographer Alice prefers capturing others’ moments rather than living in her own spotlight. When her grandmother (Nan) breaks her hip, Alice suggests returning to Barry’s Bay, where one magical summer and a photograph of three teens in a yellow boat changed her life at seventeen. Their peaceful retreat is interrupted by Charlie Florek, one of her long-ago subjects, now grown into a charming man who brings laughter to Nan and awakens something in Alice. As they spend sun-drenched days on the lake together, Alice discovers what it’s like to be truly seen by someone else’s lens, forcing her to confront her growing feelings.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Can’t Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan (5/13)
Hendrix Barry has it all– a successful entertainment career, great friends, and loving family. While juggling her demanding business and caring for an aging parent, romance seems like a luxury she can’t afford. Her past relationships have taught her that finding someone who matches her drive is nearly impossible. Enter Maverick Bell, a charismatic tech mogul who instantly captivates her. Despite their electric connection and his persistent pursuit, he’s strictly off-limits for her career ambitions. Yet as Maverick shows her unprecedented understanding and appreciation, Hendrix must decide if achieving her goals means sacrificing a chance at genuine love.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Flirty Dancing by Jennifer Moffatt
Out of accounting and into show business, 27-year-old Archer Read stakes everything on a musical revue at Shady Queens, a queer resort in the Catskills. His last chance at avoiding a defeated return to Ohio becomes complicated when he discovers he’ll be working with Mateo Dixon, his teenage Broadway crush, now a mysteriously brooding dance director. While trying to ignore his lingering feelings for Mateo, Archer starts a romance with his charming bunkmate Caleb. As personal dramas and backstage chaos threaten the show’s success, Archer learns that both performing arts and love require sacrifice and courage to pursue.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid (6/3)
Physics professor Joan Goodwin trades her quiet life at Rice University for a shot at becoming one of NASA’s first female astronauts in 1980. At Johnson Space Center, she joins an extraordinary team of candidates: pilots— Hank and John, determined Lydia, compassionate Donna, and brilliant engineer Vanessa. As Joan prepares for her first mission, she discovers not just the wonders of space exploration but also unexpected passions and connections that transform her understanding of life and love. However, everything changes dramatically during the fateful STS-LR9 mission of December 1984.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Ready To Score by Jodie Slaughter (6/3)
Assistant football coach Jade Dunn’s path to becoming head coach hits a snag when she meets her rival at a crucial networking poker game. Enter Francesca Lim, an art teacher and former coach who abandoned her football career for love, only to have it end in heartbreak. As they compete for the same coveted position, their fierce rivalry masks an undeniable attraction. Despite their attempts to focus solely on career advancement, their competitive spirit evolves into something more passionate. In this small-town football drama, both women must decide if they’re willing to risk their professional dreams for a chance at unexpected love.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston (6/17)
Successful LA songwriter Joni Lark returns to her coastal hometown of Vienna Shores, North Carolina, seeking inspiration through a creative block. Instead, she finds her world unraveling: her best friend’s distant, her mother’s losing memories, and her family’s music venue, The Revelry, faces closure. Amid the chaos, she begins hearing an enchanting, unfinished melody accompanied by a mysterious voice. When its owner – a gruff but intriguing musician – appears in town, they’re drawn together by their inexplicable musical connection. As they work to complete the haunting song, both must decide if they’re willing to risk their hearts for something more than music.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
The Jasad Crown by Sara Hashem (7/15)
A captive in a mountain stronghold, Sylvia struggles with the Urabi’s belief that she can restore their homeland’s glory. While grappling with her powerful magic and complex legacy, she must gain their trust without losing herself in the process. Meanwhile, Arin searches for her, torn between his father’s military plans and his sacred vows. As war looms, Sylvia faces a critical choice: the Urabi’s dangerous plan to raise the Jasadi fortress could either kill her or destroy what remains of her humanity. This thrilling blend of romance and high-stakes adventure follows an exiled queen’s fight not just to survive, but to reclaim her throne and protect those she loves.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Give Me A Reason by Jayci Lee (7/29)
Korean drama actress Anne Lee sacrificed her relationship with Frederick Nam ten years ago to save her father from bankruptcy. She left for Korea, believing she was protecting Frederick’s future. He transformed his heartbreak into purpose, becoming a firefighter in Culver City. When they reunite as bridesmaid and groomsman at a wedding, their buried feelings resurface. Despite Frederick’s anger and distance, Anne realizes she never stopped loving him. Though years of hurt and misunderstanding stand between them, their second chance at love depends on whether they’re brave enough to take a risk on each other again.
Order the book now: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Leave A Comment