Books can transport us into different worlds, mindsets, and lives—and with everything going on nowadays, it’s understandable if you’re looking for an escape right about now. And what better genre to get swept up in than romance? Romance novels have been booming for the last few years, partially because there’s something for everyone: The newest love stories range from sweet to sexy, and everywhere in between, with every race, gender, and sexuality represented. They span nearly every genre on the shelf, from historical to sci-fi to horror to fantasy, and cover every classic-for-a-reason trope, like enemies-to-lovers, friends-to-lovers, grumpy-sunshine, fake relationship, forbidden love…the list goes on (and on).
This year’s slate of new romance offerings overwhelmingly delivered on their promise to whisk readers away into heart-pounding stories sure to leave you swooning. Here, arranged by subgenre, are 25 of the best romance books of 2025. (For even more recommendations for your TBR stack, check out our lists of the year's best mystery-thriller books and the best novels of 2025.)
