As we look ahead to 2025, the romance genre is poised for an exceptional year with numerous new releases that promise to delight readers. From fantasy films infused with romantic elements to thrilling new film projects featuring actors we can’t wait to see, the upcoming year is brimming with potential for engaging love stories. Time-hopping romances and adventurous narratives showcase the versatility and timeless appeal of the romance genre, ensuring that countless untold stories will capture the hearts of readers.
With an array of romance novels set to release throughout 2025, it’s nearly impossible to mention them all. However, we have compiled the 15 most exciting and highly anticipated releases that fans of the genre will definitely want to check out. Featuring esteemed authors like Emily Henry and Tessa Bailey alongside talented debut writers, these new additions span a variety of tropes, including forbidden love, enemies-to-lovers, and charming romantic comedies. Readers can anticipate a fantastic year ahead as they dive into these carefully crafted tales of love.
1. The Broposal By Sonora Reyes
Expected Release: January 21, 2025
Sonora Reyes, acclaimed for their young adult novel The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School, which won a Lambda Literary Award and was a National Book Award finalist, takes a bold step into adult romance with The Broposal. The story follows two best friends, Han and Kenny, who enter a marriage of convenience to safeguard Han’s immigration status and to provoke jealousy in Kenny’s ex-girlfriend. This novel beautifully interweaves multiple popular romance tropes including friends-to-lovers and fake dating.
Reyes’ storytelling often incorporates vital themes such as identity, selfhood, and social justice. In The Broposal, expect to find discussions on immigration and xenophobia, all while enjoying a captivating romance narrative.
2. The Relationship Mechanic By Karmen Lee
Expected Release: January 21, 2025
Following the success of her first book, The 7-10 Split, Karmen Lee presents The Relationship Mechanic, the second installment of her Peach Blossom series. If the first title featured former friends navigating their complex relationship, this new entry instead revolves around a steamy fling between Jessica Jae-un Miller and Vini Williams, who are drawn to each other despite differing desires and insecurities.
Lee’s favorite romance tropes come into play as readers explore forced proximity and the inherent tension that arises from the characters’ differing aspirations. The conclusion of this series will arrive later in 2025 with the final installment, The Secret Crush Book Club.
3. It’s A Love/Skate Relationship By Carli J. Corson
Expected Release: January 28, 2025
It’s A Love/Skate Relationship marks Carli J. Corson’s debut novel, centering on Charlie, a hockey player, and Alexa, a figure skater who must team up for an important skating competition. When circumstances lead Charlie to partner with Alexa in exchange for scout opportunities, their contrasting personalities create an entertaining backdrop for an enemies-to-lovers storyline.
This young adult romance has generated considerable buzz, with early reviews praising it as “a lighthearted teen romance”that will resonate with fans of sweet and charming love stories.
4. Deep End By Ali Hazelwood
Expected Release: February 4, 2025
In a delightful departure from her previous focus on STEM themes, Ali Hazelwood’s latest offering, Deep End, explores a friends-with-benefits agreement between a diver and a swimmer as they both pursue Olympic aspirations. With Hazelwood’s signature steamy chemistry and well-developed characters, readers are sure to be captivated by the dynamics between Scarlett and Lukas.
Anticipation is high for this title, as Hazelwood’s works continue to gain popularity, and Deep End promises to seamlessly blend romance with sports undertones.
5. Dream Girl Drama By Tessa Bailey
Expected Release: February 4, 2025
With her third book in the Big Shots series, Dream Girl Drama delves into the complicated love story between Sig and Chloe, who find love at first sight only to face the complications of their parents becoming engaged. Balancing the challenge of newfound family ties with their growing feelings, this installment promises to deliver plenty of conflict and chemistry.
Bailey’s skillful storytelling ensures that even amidst the taboo themes of impending stepsibling romance, readers can expect a satisfying resolution that aligns with the artist’s engaging narrative style.
6. First-Time Caller By B.K. Borison
Expected Release: February 11, 2025
Moving from the Lovelight series to contemporary romantic comedy, B.K. Borison’s latest work, First-Time Caller, takes inspiration from the beloved film Sleepless in Seattle. The story follows Aiden, a podcast host who unwittingly becomes part of a love story that blooms from a viral advice call. As Aiden connects with Lucie, a woman navigating her own romantic uncertainties, this modern nod to classic romance is sure to resonate with fans.
With Borison’s knack for charming storytelling, First-Time Caller is set to meet expectations as a delightful romantic comedy inspired by a timeless narrative.
7. On Her Terms By Amy Spalding
Expected Release: February 25, 2025
Amy Spalding’s latest addition to the Out in Hollywood series, On Her Terms, showcases the dynamic between TikTok star Clementine and dog-walker Chloe, who feign a romantic relationship for their respective social and familial obligations. The story weaves a delightful romance that explores the complexity of modern relationships while spotlighting the virtual world.
Having received accolades for her engaging young adult novels, Spalding’s transition to adult territory is met with excitement by fans looking for another heartfelt romance.
8. Say You’ll Remember Me By Abby Jimenez
Expected Release: April 1, 2025
Abby Jimenez returns with Say You’ll Remember Me, a standalone novel featuring a chance encounter between Xavier and Samantha that blossoms into a powerful connection, despite her reservations about pursuing a relationship. As they navigate the passage of time and distance, Jimenez promises to explore themes of enduring love that resonates deeply with readers.
Recognized for her compelling storytelling, Jimenez’s works have consistently garnered attention. Fans are eager to see how she craft their poignant journey in this upcoming release.
9. Flirting Lessons By Jasmine Guillory
Expected Release: April 8, 2025
Renowned for her series The Wedding Date, Jasmine Guillory’s Flirting Lessons marks her first delve into LGBTQ+ romance. This novel revolves around novice flirter Avery, who enlists the help of experienced flirt Taylor in a humorous yet poignant exploration of attraction and identity. Their unexpected chemistry develops amidst conflicting romantic goals, leading to a compelling outcome.
Guillory’s work often garners praise for its representation and relatability, and readers eagerly anticipate an exciting new chapter in her celebrated writing career.
10. Great Big Beautiful Life By Emily Henry
Expected Release: April 22, 2025
Emily Henry’s upcoming release, Great Big Beautiful Life, offers a unique narrative involving two competing writers, Alice and Hayden, as they attempt to pen the biography of Margaret Ives, an enigmatic heiress. Their separate understandings of Margaret’s life spark compelling chemistry, serving as both a backdrop for romance and a riveting exploration of character dynamics.
With Henry’s signature emotional depth, this novel promises to be a notable addition to her bibliography.
11. King Of Envy By Ana Huang
Expected Release: April 29, 2025
Renowned for her enticing Twisted series, Ana Huang’s latest installment in the Kings of Sin series, King of Envy, follows the reclusive billionaire Vuk Markovic and supermodel Ayana Kidane. Their complicated relationship unfolds against the backdrop of Ayana’s impending engagement to Vuk’s best friend, which adds layers of tension and intrigue to their connection.
Exploring themes of forbidden romance and self-discovery, Huang’s tale is anticipated to captivate readers and stands as the fifth entry in a dynamic series.
12. Nav’s Foolproof Guide To Falling In Love By Jessica Lewis
Expected Release: April 29, 2025
Nav’s Foolproof Guide to Falling in Love, Jessica Lewis’s debut contemporary novel diverges from her fantasy roots, showcasing a young romance that balances humor and emotion as Nav grapples with her disbelief in love after witnessing her best friend’s heartbreaks. This poignant narrative blossoms when Nav and Gia strengthen their bond, leading to a heartwarming and complex love story.
13. Dream On, Ramona Riley By Ashley Herring Blake
Expected Release: May 13, 2025
Ashley Herring Blake returns with Dream On, Ramona Riley, a heartfelt tale featuring Ramona, who after relinquishing her dreams of becoming a costume designer, gains a second chance when a film crew arrives in her small town. This new twist brings her face-to-face with Dylan, her long-lost love, fueling a charming tale of reconnection and personal growth.
14. Along Came Amor By Alexis Daria
Expected Release: May 27, 2025
Marking the culmination of the Primas of Power series, Along Came Amor centers on Ava Rodriguez, who begins a passionate relationship with hotelier Roman Vasquez following her divorce. Their steamy nights together are complicated by familial ties, and as they navigate these intersections, readers can look forward to a rich and tantalizing romance story.
15. How to Lose a Lord In Ten Days By Sophie Irwin
Expected Release: July 17, 2025
Sophie Irwin’s historical romance, How to Lose a Lord in Ten Days, reimagines the comedic sensibilities of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days within a charming Regency setting. The tale revolves around Lydia Hanworth, who struggles to navigate Lord Ashford’s persistent romantic advances. The countdown begins as she seeks to escape their betrothal before it becomes publicly acknowledged.
This delightful adaptation is sure to infuse traditional romantic comedy with Irwin’s unique perspective, creating a narrative that charms and entertains alike.
Sources: Instagram, Kirkus, NPR, Kirkus, Boston Globe, Bookshop.org
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