Best Holiday Romance Books of 2025

It Starts with Us: A Novel (2) (It Ends with Us) by Colleen Hoover is a compelling portrait of the dynamics of domestic violence. The story follows Lily as she navigates a second chance at true love with her first love, Atlas, while dealing with her ex-husband, Ryle, who is still very much a part of her life. The novel alternates between the perspectives of Lily and Atlas, revealing more about Atlas's past and exploring the complexities of their relationships. Hoover's talent for creating nuanced and empathetic characters is on full display in this long-anticipated sequel to the bestselling It Ends with Us. This book is a must-read for fans of contemporary women's fiction.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey through the glamorous and scandalous life of aging Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo. As she recounts her story to an unknown magazine reporter, Monique Grant, readers are drawn into a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendships, and forbidden love. The book is both heartbreaking and beautiful, with a twist that will leave readers stunned. Overall, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a must-read for anyone who loves Tinseltown drama and wants to experience the harsh realities of present-day Hollywood.

The Song of Achilles by Ecco Press is a retelling of the legend of Achilles and the Trojan War from the perspective of Patroclus. The novel is an action-packed adventure, an epic love story, and a marvelously conceived and executed page-turner that brilliantly reimagines Homer's enduring masterwork, The Iliad. The book has been praised for its captivating retelling of The Iliad and its well-rounded and compassionate portrait of Achilles. The Song of Achilles is a remarkable achievement that offers a unique perspective on a timeless classic.

The Guest List, a William Morrow & Company publication, is a gripping psychological thriller that will have readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Set on an island off the coast of Ireland, guests gather to celebrate a magazine publisher and a rising television star's wedding. However, the festivities take a dark turn when someone turns up dead. The book's alternating points of view keep the reader guessing until the very end. The author's writing style evokes the classic works of Agatha Christie. Overall, The Guest List is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery.

It Happened One Summer: A Novel is a spicy and unforgettable rom-com duology from the #1 New York Times bestseller and tik tok favorite Tessa Bailey. The story revolves around Piper Bellinger, a Hollywood "It Girl" who is exiled to a small Pacific Northwest beach town after she is cut off from her wealthy family. There, she meets Brendan, a surly and sexy local who thinks she doesn't belong. As Piper reconnects with her past and begins to feel at home in Westport, she starts to wonder if the cold, glamorous life she knew is what she truly wants. This book is an entertaining read with a unique storyline that will keep readers hooked.

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood is a witty and charming debut novel that will leave readers swooning. Olive Smith, a Ph.D. candidate, reluctantly agrees to fake a romance with her colleague, Adam Carlsen, to convince her best friend that she's capable of having a relationship. As their pretend relationship becomes more convincing, Olive and Adam's feelings begin to blur the lines between what's real and what's not. The Love Hypothesis is a refreshing take on the fake-dating trope, with a smart and relatable protagonist and a love interest who's both swoon-worthy and flawed. Hazelwood's writing is both funny and heartfelt, making this a must-read for fans of contemporary romance.

Hook, Line, and Sinker: A Novel (Bellinger Sisters, 2) by Tessa Bailey is a fun contemporary romance novel about a former player who falls for his best friend while trying to help her land a different man. The book is well-written, with charming characters and witty dialogue that keeps the reader engaged. The chemistry between the two main characters is electric, and the tension between them is palpable. Overall, Hook, Line, and Sinker is a delightful and entertaining read that is perfect for fans of romantic comedies.

The After Collection, written by Anna Todd and published by Gallery Books, is a complete set of the five books in the After series. The series revolves around the passionate yet tempestuous romance between Tessa and Hardin. As the relationship faces challenges, secrets are revealed, and tragedies occur, the couple must decide if their love is strong enough to keep them together. The unique aspect of this collection is that it includes a book that explores the ups and downs of Tessa and Hardin's relationship from the perspective of others in their lives. Overall, the collection is a must-read for fans of contemporary women's fiction and those who enjoy a steamy, emotional romance.

Seven Days in June by Tia Williams is a heartwarming and steamy romance novel that follows the story of Eva Mercy, a single mother and bestselling erotica writer, and Shane Hall, an award-winning novelist. When they meet unexpectedly at a literary event, they can't deny the chemistry between them, but their past traumas and broken hearts make it hard to trust each other. Over the next seven days, they reconnect and rediscover their love for each other. This novel is a testament to the strength of Black women and the joy of second chances. Overall, it's a captivating read that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.

The Fifty Shades Trilogy by E L James is a New York Times #1 bestseller and a GoodReads Choice Award Romance Finalist. This three-volume paperback boxed set follows the passionate and daring affair between college student Anastasia Steele and young entrepreneur Christian Grey. The novels are filled with romance, passion, intimacy, wealth, and challenges that test their relationship. The books are intended for mature audiences. Overall, the Fifty Shades Trilogy is a unique and controversial romance that will obsess readers, possess them, and stay with them forever.