10 Must-Read Romance Books of May 2025
- Joao Nsita
- Apr 8
- 12 min read
May 2025 is shaping up to be a swoon-worthy month for romance readers, with a lineup of novels that promise to tug at heartstrings, ignite sparks, and sweep us off our feet.
From sun-drenched lakeside summers to snowed-in Alaskan cabins, from marriages of convenience in Amsterdam to second-chance love on the open road, these books deliver tropes we adore—enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, and slow-burn chemistry—wrapped in fresh, irresistible premises. Whether you’re a fan of witty banter, emotional depth, or steamy tension, this list has something to make your heart race.
Here are the 10 must-read romance books dropping in May 2025 that you won’t want to miss.
1. One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Description:Good things happen at the lake—or so Alice’s grandmother insists. For Alice, one summer at Barry’s Bay at seventeen proved it true: a single photograph of three teens in a yellow speedboat altered her life’s trajectory. Now a photographer who thrives behind the lens, Alice prefers capturing others’ moments to living her own. But when Nan’s hip injury sparks a plan for a nostalgic summer escape, Alice returns to the lake, craving something more. Her peace shatters with the roar of that familiar yellow boat, piloted by Charlie Florek—nineteen when she snapped his picture, now a grown-up flirt who makes Nan giggle and Alice ache for simpler days. As balmy days and starlit nights unfold, Charlie’s green-eyed gaze sees straight through her, stirring a longing she can’t ignore. Will this summer rewrite her story, or leave her lens-focused heart exposed?
Why It’s a Must-Read:Fans of Every Summer After will cheer—Charlie Florek’s getting his shot at love! Carley Fortune’s knack for crafting lake-set romances brimming with nostalgia and tender tension makes this a summer essential. Alice’s quiet strength paired with Charlie’s shameless charm promises a slow-burn romance that’ll shimmer like sunlight on water.
2. What Happens in Amsterdam by Rachel Lynn Solomon
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Description:Dani Dorfman’s thirties hit like a plot twist she didn’t see coming: an office fling flops, her job vanishes, and she’s adrift in Amsterdam, chasing a dream she never dared believe in. Feeling lost among cobblestone streets and canals, she literally crashes into Wouter van Leeuwen—her high school ex, once a Dutch exchange student in her family’s home, now a smoldering blast from the past. Their breakup stung, but the sparks still fly, tinged with old grudges. When Wouter needs a wife to inherit a stunning canal house and Dani needs a visa to stay, a marriage of convenience seems logical—until close quarters blur the lines between pretense and passion. Can Dani risk a second chance, or will this be another chapter she regrets?
Why It’s a Must-Read:Rachel Lynn Solomon’s signature blend of steamy chemistry and heartfelt stakes shines in this modern twist on second-chance romance. The Amsterdam setting—think tulips, bikes, and late-night canal walks—adds a dreamy backdrop to a marriage-of-convenience plot that’s equal parts witty and swoony.
3. Can’t Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan
Release Date: May 13, 2025
Description:Hendrix Barry is a woman on the rise—ambitious, driven, always reaching higher. But life’s latest curveball, caring for an aging parent, leaves little room for romance. Relationships? A low return on investment, she’s decided—until Maverick Bell struts into her orbit. A tech mogul with a tailored suit and charm that could melt glaciers, Mav locks eyes with Hendrix at a summer party, and the air crackles. He’s the first to truly see her, desire her, match her stride—but he’s forbidden fruit, a distraction from her goals. When Mav pursues her with relentless devotion—spoiling her, understanding her—Hendrix faces a choice: cling to her carefully charted course or dive into the unknown for a love that might just be worth it.
Why It’s a Must-Read:Kennedy Ryan closes out her Skyland series with Hendrix’s story, and it’s poised to dazzle. This forbidden romance brims with emotional depth, sizzling tension, and Ryan’s unparalleled knack for crafting characters who feel real. Mav’s pursuit of Hendrix is the stuff of romance dreams—expect heart-pounding moments and a tear or two.
4. Rewind It Back by Liz Tomforde
Release Date: May 20, 2025
Description:Hallie Hart’s history with Rio DeLuca is a reel of tender memories and jagged heartbreak: neighbors at eleven, a crush at thirteen, love at sixteen, shattered at nineteen. Six years later, she’s an interior design intern in Chicago, hoping to dodge the hockey star next door—until fate laughs and lands her renovating his bachelor pad into a family home. Rio, the last single guy in his crew, thought love was off the table until Hallie’s return rewinds his heart to twelve, when she was his everything. Their jaded past crackles with tension, but as paint cans open and walls come down, so do their defenses. Can they rebuild what they lost, or will old wounds keep them apart?
Why It’s a Must-Read:Rio’s finally getting his HEA, and Liz Tomforde’s hockey romance fans are buzzing! This neighbors-to-lovers, second-chance tale blends Tomforde’s sharp humor, steamy chemistry, and emotional heft. Hallie and Rio’s journey promises to be a tear-jerking, heart-melting score.
5. The Love Haters by Katherine Center
Release Date: May 20, 2025
Description:Katie Vaughn’s been burned by love and now risks torching her career. Facing a layoff as a video producer, she leaps at a gig profiling Coast Guard rescue swimmer Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson in Key West—except she’s no swimmer and fakes it to get by. Complicating matters: her coworker Cole, Hutch’s estranged brother, pitched the job. In paradise, Katie meets Hutch—scientifically gorgeous, a fellow love skeptic—and gets tangled in lies, hurricanes, and a Great Dane named Rue. Swim lessons and stolen kisses with Hutch spark chances to face fears and find bravery, but can two love haters rewrite their script amid conga lines and chaos?
Why It’s a Must-Read:Katherine Center’s knack for heartfelt hilarity shines in this opposites-attract romp. The Key West setting and Coast Guard backdrop—researched firsthand—add a thrilling edge to a romance packed with quirky charm and soul-stirring growth. Katie and Hutch are a match made in rom-com heaven.
6. Left of Forever by Tarah DeWitt
Release Date: May 20, 2025
Description:Wren and Ellis Byrd were soulmates from the start—childhood sweethearts turned teen parents to Sam, building a life in Spunes, Oregon. But love couldn’t hold them, and divorce split their forever apart. Now in their thirties, Wren runs the town bakery, Ellis fights fires, and their separate lives hum with unspoken longing. When Sam heads to college, a joint move-in trip sparks Ellis’s plea for a road trip back home—a last shot at rekindling what they lost. Along California’s coast, amid stunning vistas and cramped car seats, Wren glimpses a future worth fighting for. Letters bridge their past when words fail—will they seize what’s left of forever, or let it slip away?
Why It’s a Must-Read:Tarah DeWitt’s second-chance romance stole hearts with Savor It cameos, and now Wren and Ellis get their spotlight. This road-trip tale blends nostalgia, raw emotion, and a slow-burn rekindling that’ll have you rooting for love’s encore. It’s a top contender for 2025’s most anticipated read.
7. It’s a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan
Release Date: May 27, 2025
Description:Jane Jackson grew up as “Poor Janey Jakes,” a sitcom punchline with barbecue sauce in her braces. Now a Hollywood exec, she’s faking it till she makes it—until a lie about snagging popstar Jack Quinlan’s song for her first project backfires. Jack, her first kiss and deepest shame, hasn’t spoken to her in twenty years. Enter Dan Finnegan, a pompous cinematographer and old crush, who’s her ticket to Jack at a festival in his hometown. A week in close quarters with Dan forces Jane to face her past, unravel her lie, and maybe find something real. Can snark turn to sparks, or will her Hollywood facade crumble?
Why It’s a Must-Read:Annabel Monaghan delivers a witty, nostalgic rom-com with a Hollywood twist. Jane’s journey from sitcom kid to love-seeking exec, paired with Dan’s unexpected charm, promises banter, tension, and a heartwarming payoff that’ll leave you grinning.
8. Friends with Benefits by Marisa Kanter
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Description:Evie and Theo are best friends with a plan: a marriage of convenience for practical perks—health insurance for her Foley artist gig, a rent-controlled apartment for his teaching job. It’s all business, no feelings—except Theo’s been secretly in love with Evie forever. What starts as a logical fix spirals when fake vows blur into real emotions. As Evie chases her dream opportunity and Theo wrestles with his heart, their cozy setup teeters on the edge of something deeper. Can a friendship this solid survive a love that’s anything but pretend, or will confessing the truth risk it all?
Why It’s a Must-Read:Marisa Kanter’s friends-to-lovers tale with a marriage-of-convenience twist is pure cozy romance gold. Theo’s quiet pining and Evie’s oblivious charm promise angst, sweetness, and a heart-aching payoff that’ll keep you up past bedtime.
9. Bad Publicity by Bianca Gillam
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Description:Andie’s dream job as a publicist comes with a catch: her star client is Jack Carlson, the college nemesis who wrecked her life years ago. Now she’s stuck on a month-long European book tour with him, dodging the urge to strangle him amid Paris cafés and Italian sunsets. Their snarky banter—sharp as a paper cut—masks an attraction that grows with every forced moment together. As the tour winds through romance-soaked cities, Andie’s resolve wavers: is Jack still the jerk she hates, or the lover she can’t resist? One thing’s clear—hating him was easy, but resisting him might be impossible.
Why It’s a Must-Read:Bianca Gillam’s debut screams rom-com perfection: enemies-to-lovers, a European backdrop, and a book tour setting that’s catnip for romance fans. Andie and Jack’s chemistry is a slow burn with a sizzle, making this a deliciously addictive read.
10. Ride with Me by Simone Soltani
Release Date: May 20, 2025
Description:A wild Vegas night leaves Stella Baldwin, fresh from being jilted at the altar, married to F1 driver Thomas Maxwell-Brown. What starts as a drunken mistake turns strategic: staying hitched could boost his career and mend her heart. Fast cars and high stakes fuel their ruse, but the lines between business and pleasure blur as they race through the season. Thomas’s charm behind the wheel matches his off-track allure, and Stella’s resilience sparks something real. Can they keep it professional, or will this marriage of convenience speed into a love worth keeping?
Why It’s a Must-Read:Simone Soltani’s second Formula 1 romance delivers adrenaline and heart in spades. This marriage-of-convenience plot, paired with a jilted bride and a roguish racer, is a high-octane spin on classic tropes that’ll have you cheering from the sidelines.
Conclusion
May 2025 is a romance reader’s paradise, bursting with stories that blend emotional depth, sizzling chemistry, and unforgettable settings. From Carley Fortune’s lakeside nostalgia in One Golden Summer to Liz Tomforde’s hockey-fueled second chance in Rewind It Back, these 10 must-reads offer something for every heart—whether you crave witty banter, slow-burn tension, or trope-twisting surprises.
Each book promises to sweep you into a world where love conquers all, leaving you breathless and begging for more. So, mark your calendars, preorder your favorites, and let these tales carry you away. Romance isn’t just a genre—it’s a journey, and these May releases are your ticket to ride.
For more love stories to fuel your obsession, check out That Love Podcast’s Romance Book Recommendations.
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15 FAQs About the 10 Must-Read Romance Books of May 2025
What makes May 2025 special for romance books?
May 2025 brings a stellar lineup of romance novels from beloved authors, blending classic tropes with fresh twists, perfect for summer reading.
Are these books part of series or standalone novels?
Some, like Can’t Get Enough (Skyland #3) and Rewind It Back (Windy City), are series entries; others, like One Golden Summer, stand alone.
Which book has the best second-chance romance?
Left of Forever by Tarah DeWitt is a standout, with Wren and Ellis’s road-trip rekindling stealing the show.
Is there a romance with a unique setting?
What Happens in Amsterdam by Rachel Lynn Solomon offers a dreamy Dutch backdrop, complete with canals and tulips.
Which book is best for enemies-to-lovers fans?
Bad Publicity by Bianca Gillam delivers snarky banter and sizzling tension on a European book tour.
Are there any sports romances in this list?
Yes, Ride with Me by Simone Soltani races in with an F1 driver, and Rewind It Back features a hockey star.
Which book has the steamiest romance?
Can’t Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan promises knee-melting heat with Maverick’s pursuit of Hendrix.
Is there a marriage-of-convenience plot?
Friends with Benefits by Marisa Kanter and Ride with Me by Simone Soltani both spin this trope with heart and humor.
Which book is the funniest?
The Love Haters by Katherine Center blends hilarity with heart, thanks to conga lines and a quirky Great Dane.
Are these books suitable for all ages?
Most suit readers 16+ due to mild spice and emotional themes; check specific content warnings for each title.
Which author is a debut writer?
Bianca Gillam makes her mark with Bad Publicity, a rom-com gem that’s already generating buzz.
Is there a book with a Hollywood twist?
It’s a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan dives into Tinseltown with Jane’s sitcom past and studio exec dreams.
Which book is best for summer vibes?
One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune captures lake-life magic, perfect for a beach read.
Can I preorder these books now?
Yes! All are available for preorder on Amazon—links are provided above for each title.
Where can I find more romance recommendations?
Visit That Love Podcast’s Romance Book Recommendations for more swoony reads!
Looking for your next great read? Dive into these captivating book reviews and discover stories that will stay with you long after the last page!
Play Your Part (All In, Book 1) by Kathryn Kincaid – A Captivating Journey of Self-Discovery – A touching romance that explores the pressures of perfection, self-doubt, and the courage to follow your heart. Kathryn Kincaid delivers a heartfelt journey where love and ambition collide in the most unexpected way.
Hockey Heart – A Single Dad Hockey Romance (Skates and Sparks) by Kate Wilder – When a rugged hockey player and devoted single dad meets the one woman who makes him believe in love again, sparks fly both on and off the ice. A swoon-worthy romance packed with sizzling chemistry and heartfelt emotions.
Two Weeks in Tahoe by Erica Everett – A woman looking for a fresh start, a charming local who wasn’t part of the plan, and a stunning mountain backdrop set the stage for a romance that proves two weeks can change everything.
The Pieces We’ve Lost by H.K. Green – A deeply emotional novel that weaves past and present into a poignant tale of love, regret, and healing. As one woman pieces together the story of her past, she uncovers the truth about the love she thought was lost forever.
The Sixty-Forty Rule by Ellie K. Wilde – A clever and steamy romance that challenges the idea of balance in relationships. Can love truly be fifty-fifty, or does one person always give more? This witty and thought-provoking novel will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about love.
Dream Girl Drama by Tessa Bailey – A Sizzling Forbidden Romance – Tessa Bailey brings her signature steamy romance to life in this passionate and high-stakes love story. When a woman falls for the one man she absolutely shouldn’t, resisting temptation is impossible—but will giving in cost them everything?
Wild Side by Elsie Silver – A Small-Town Romance That Ignites the Heart – A slow-burn, emotional romance that captures the beauty of small-town life and the thrill of taking a chance on love. With undeniable chemistry, playful banter, and a few unexpected twists, this book will steal your heart.
Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone – A Heartwarming Beacon in the Storm of Grief – This deeply moving story explores love, loss, and the power of second chances. When two souls, each carrying their own burdens, find unexpected solace in each other, they discover that even in the darkest times, love has a way of shining through.
Oathbound (The Legendborn Cycle #3) by Tracy Deonn – A Magical Odyssey Through Power and Destiny – The highly anticipated third book in the Legendborn Cycle delivers an epic journey of magic, legacy, and self-discovery. Tracy Deonn masterfully expands her world of Arthurian legends with gripping action, intricate lore, and an unforgettable heroine.
First Time Caller (Heartstrings #1) by B.K. Borison – A Cozy Romance That Rings True – A sweet and cozy romance that unfolds over late-night calls and heartfelt confessions. When a radio host connects with an anonymous caller, neither expects the sparks that fly—or the surprises that await them in real life.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne – A Battle of Wits That Steals Your Heart – A deliciously addictive enemies-to-lovers romance filled with witty banter, sizzling tension, and a love story that will have you grinning from start to finish. A must-read for fans of slow-burn romance and office rivals who just can’t resist each other.
📚✨ Dive into these reviews and find your next favorite book!
Romance Community Resources
For more romance novel reviews, discussions, and recommendations, check out these fantastic resources:
Dear Author - A trusted source for honest and well-thought-out reviews, often featuring witty commentary.
All About Romance - One of the oldest romance review sites, offering extensive reviews, author interviews, and discussions covering various romance genres.
Smart Bitches, Trashy Books - Known for its humorous and insightful reviews, this site also features a podcast and community discussions about romance novels.
Heroes and Heartbreakers - This site provides reviews and recommendations, highlighting both popular and lesser-known romance novels.
Romance.io - A site with a comprehensive database of romance novels, offering user-generated reviews and recommendations across various subgenres.
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