Which Novels Make The Best Romance Books List For 2025?

I've always been drawn to stories that explore love in its many forms, and lesbian romance novels have a special place in my heart. One of my absolute favorites is 'The Price of Salt' by Patricia Highsmith, a groundbreaking novel that defied the conventions of its time with its hopeful ending. Another gem is 'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters, a historical romance with twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. For something more contemporary, 'Kiss the Girl' by Melissa Brayden offers a sweet and engaging love story set in the music industry. These books not only celebrate love between women but also provide rich narratives and well-developed characters that stay with you long after you've finished reading.

As someone who deeply values representation in literature, I've been on the hunt for asexual romance novels that truly resonate. One standout is 'Loveless' by Alice Oseman, which beautifully explores the journey of self-discovery and platonic love. It's a heartfelt story that challenges traditional romance tropes while celebrating identity. Another gem is 'How to Be a Normal Person' by TJ Klune, a quirky and hilarious take on love without the pressure of physical intimacy. The characters are endearing, and the humor makes it a joy to read. For those who enjoy fantasy, 'The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics' by Olivia Waite is a historical romance with an asexual protagonist. The emotional depth and intellectual connection between the characters are captivating. 'Let’s Talk About Love' by Claire Kann is another must-read, focusing on a biromantic asexual protagonist navigating college life and relationships. These books offer diverse perspectives on love, proving that romance isn't one-size-fits-all.

As someone who devours romance novels like they’re candy, 2023 has been an incredible year for the genre. One standout is 'Happy Place' by Emily Henry, which perfectly balances humor, heartbreak, and second-chance love. It’s a story about rekindling relationships and finding yourself, and it’s impossible to put down. Another favorite is 'Yours Truly' by Abby Jimenez, a slow-burn romance with so much emotional depth and witty banter that it feels like a warm hug. For those who love a bit of fantasy mixed with romance, 'Divine Rivals' by Rebecca Ross is a must-read. It’s a tale of rival journalists in a magical world, and the chemistry between the leads is electric. If you’re into historical romance, 'The Duchess Takes a Husband' by Harper St. George is a steamy, empowering read set in the Gilded Age. Lastly, 'Love, Theoretically' by Ali Hazelwood is a delightful enemies-to-lovers story with a STEM twist. Each of these books brings something unique to the table, making 2023 a fantastic year for romance lovers.

I've spent years diving into romance novels, especially the best friend's brother trope, and I keep coming back to authors who nail that tension and forbidden love vibe. Tessa Dare is a standout with her historical romances like 'When a Scot Ties the Knot,' where the brotherly dynamic adds layers to the romance. Another favorite is Meghan Quinn, who writes contemporary stories with humor and heart, like 'The Secret to Dating Your Best Friend’s Sister.' For indie authors, Pippa Grant’s 'Beauty and the Beefcake' is hilarious and sweet. These authors understand the delicate balance of loyalty, attraction, and the thrill of crossing that line.

As someone who reads romance novels religiously, I have a soft spot for dad's best friend tropes, and there are a few publishers that consistently deliver quality stories in this niche. Harlequin’s Dare and Desire lines often feature older-man-younger-woman dynamics with emotional depth, while Entangled Publishing’s Brazen imprint excels at steamy, forbidden romances. For indie gems, Tessa Bailey’s 'Fix Her Up' (published by Avon) and Vi Keeland’s 'The Bossman' (self-published) are fantastic examples. Carina Press also has a strong catalog of age-gap romances with complex characters and believable conflicts. If you want something more literary, St. Martin’s Griffin published 'The Idea of You' by Robinne Lee, which, while not strictly dad’s best friend, has a similar vibe. Each of these publishers brings something unique to the table, so it depends on whether you prefer steam, emotional depth, or a mix of both.

I’ve fallen headfirst into so many fantasy romances with worlds so vivid they feel like second homes. 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas is a standout—the way Prythian’s courts are fleshed out, from the lush Spring Court to the eerie Night Court, is pure magic. The political intrigue and lore behind the High Fae and humans create a backdrop that’s as gripping as the romance. Maas doesn’t just describe settings; she makes them pulse with life, like the tension between territories is a character itself. The world-building here isn’t just decorative; it drives the relationships, especially Feyre’s evolving dynamic with Tamlin and Rhysand. Then there’s 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black, where Elfhame’s twisted beauty steals the show. The faerie world is dripping with dark glamour—every forest path and palace corridor feels dangerous yet irresistible. Black’s genius lies in how she ties Jude’s human resilience to the merciless rules of faerie society. The politics are razor-sharp, and the romance? It’s a slow burn that thrives in this cutthroat environment. The world doesn’t just surround the love story; it shapes it, forcing the characters to navigate betrayal and power plays. These books don’t just build worlds; they make them breathe.

a few authors consistently stand out for their ability to craft stories that stick with you. Nora Roberts is a powerhouse, blending romance with suspense in books like 'The Bride Quartet'—her characters feel real, and the chemistry is electric. Nicholas Sparks is another legend, though his stories often hit harder emotionally, like in 'The Notebook,' which is both heartbreaking and beautiful. Then there's Julia Quinn, whose 'Bridgerton' series combines historical flair with witty, passionate romances. These authors don’t just write love stories; they create worlds you want to live in, making them must-reads for any romance lover.

Romance novels with May-September themes, where there’s a significant age gap between the protagonists, have a unique charm that draws readers into stories of unconventional love. One publisher that consistently delivers high-quality works in this niche is Harlequin, particularly their 'Harlequin Desire' and 'Harlequin Presents' lines. These imprints specialize in passionate, character-driven romances, often featuring older heroes or heroines who bring maturity and depth to the relationships. The writing is polished, and the emotional arcs are well-crafted, making their books a reliable choice for fans of age-gap romance. Titles like 'The Billionaire’s Legacy' by Reese Ryan or 'The Greek’s Forgotten Wife' by Maya Blake explore power dynamics and emotional vulnerability in ways that feel fresh yet comforting. Another standout publisher is Avon, an imprint of HarperCollins, known for its diverse range of romance subgenres. Their Avon Impulse line often features contemporary May-September romances with a modern twist. Authors like Tessa Bailey and Sarah MacLean have contributed to this space, blending humor and steamy chemistry with nuanced explorations of age differences. Avon’s strength lies in its ability to balance tropes with originality, ensuring that each story feels distinct. For readers who prefer historical settings, Avon’s historical romance catalog includes gems like 'The Duchess Deal' by Tessa Dare, where age gaps are woven into the fabric of the plot without overshadowing the romance. St. Martin’s Press, through their Griffin and Swerve imprints, also excels in publishing age-gap romances that appeal to a broad audience. Their titles often feature complex characters and sophisticated storytelling, as seen in 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang, which subtly touches on age differences alongside other emotional themes. St. Martin’s Press is particularly adept at selecting stories that resonate with contemporary readers while maintaining a timeless quality. Their editorial standards ensure that the romances feel authentic and emotionally satisfying, whether the focus is on a younger heroine finding her footing with an older partner or vice versa. For indie publishers, Entangled Publishing stands out with their 'Brazen' and 'Scorched' lines, which specialize in high-heat romances, including May-September dynamics. Their books often feature bold, unapologetic heroines and heroes who defy stereotypes, creating a dynamic that’s both sexy and emotionally compelling. Titles like 'The Bastard’s Bargain' by Katee Robert showcase how Entangled embraces unconventional pairings with flair. Their willingness to push boundaries makes them a favorite among readers who crave something a little different. Lastly, Berkley, a division of Penguin Random House, has a strong reputation for publishing romance novels with depth and diversity. Their authors, like Jasmine Guillory and Lucy Score, often incorporate age gaps into their stories in ways that feel organic and meaningful. Berkley’s books are known for their relatable characters and engaging prose, making them a go-to for readers who want substance alongside their swoon-worthy moments. Whether it’s a lighthearted rom-com or a more serious exploration of love and life stages, Berkley’s catalog has something to offer.