Introduction
As the new year approaches, January 2025 brings an irresistible lineup of romance novels guaranteed to captivate readers and ignite hearts during the winter chill. With settings ranging from the mysterious Amazon rainforest to emotionally intense contemporary backdrops, these stories feature fierce heroines, passionate enemies-to-lovers dynamics, and enchanting fake relationship plots. We delved into Goodreads, Amazon, and leading publisher announcements to curate this definitive list of the six must-read romance books of January 2025 that you won't want to miss.
1. Temple of Swoon by Jo Segura
Publication Date: January 7, 2025 Publisher: Berkley
Dr. Miriam Jacobs, an ambitious archaeologist with a knack for corny jokes, leads a groundbreaking expedition to uncover the fabled Lost City of the Moon in the Amazon. Journalist Rafael Monfils, tasked with documenting the journey, has a hidden agenda: protecting the city’s secrets at any cost. As danger closes in and sparks fly, they must decide whether to trust their growing feelings or stay loyal to their respective missions.
Major Themes: Adventure, hidden identities, forbidden love.
2. All The Missing Pieces by Catherine Cowles
Publication Date: January 7, 2025 Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Ridley Sawyer, a determined true crime podcaster, is obsessed with solving the mystery of her twin sister’s disappearance. Her latest investigation takes her to Shady Cove, where she locks horns with Sheriff Colter Brooks. Though Colt wants her gone, her stubborn determination forces them to work together, revealing secrets neither expected.
Major Themes: Mystery, suspense, second chances, finding love amid danger.
3. Beg, Borrow, or Steal by Sarah Adams
Publication Date: January 7, 2025 Publisher: Dell
Small-town high school teacher Emily Walker can’t believe her long-time rival, Jack Bennett, is back in town. Their ongoing feud reignites when they're forced to work together to prevent Emily’s secret romance novel from being exposed. Their tense dynamic morphs into something neither saw coming as walls come down and old grievances fade.
Major Themes: Enemies-to-lovers, small-town charm, and forgiveness.
4. Once Smitten, Twice Shy by Chloe Liese
Publication Date: January 14, 2025 Publisher: Berkley
Juliet Wilmot is done with love after a devastating breakup. Will Orsino, shy but determined, needs a wife to inherit his family business. They strike a fake relationship deal—Juliet will teach him the art of romance while he promises to help her out of a tricky financial bind. But as they “practice” love, reality becomes harder to deny.
Major Themes: Fake relationships, personal growth, second chances at love.
5. Unromance by Erin Connor
Publication Date: January 14, 2025 Publisher: Forever
Disillusioned romance author Sawyer Greene has lost her writing spark after a painful breakup. Actor Mason West is desperate to reinvent himself after a failed TV career. Together, they agree to debunk romantic tropes by staging real-life “unromantic” encounters. But as these staged scenarios become unexpectedly genuine, they must confront their own unresolved feelings.
Major Themes: Deconstructing romance tropes, healing from heartbreak, unexpected love.
6. Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
Publication Date: January 21, 2025 Publisher: Entangled: Red Tower Books
In the third installment of the Empyrean series, Violet Sorrengail faces new threats as Basgiath War College prepares for war. With protective wards failing and enemies rising, Violet embarks on a perilous mission to secure alliances for Navarre. Secrets, betrayal, and forbidden love will push her to her limits as she fights to protect her kingdom and bonded dragons.
Major Themes: Dragons, magic, war, forbidden love.
Conclusion
January 2025’s romance lineup promises unforgettable stories packed with adventure, passion, and emotional depth. These novels showcase strong heroines, gripping love stories, and fresh twists on beloved romantic tropes. Whether you’re a fan of suspense-filled mysteries, fiery enemies-to-lovers plots, or fantastical worlds with epic stakes, there’s something for every romance reader to savor.
FAQs About the Most Anticipated Romance Books of January 2025
1. Are these books standalones or part of a series?Most are standalones, except Onyx Storm, which is the third book in Rebecca Yarros’s Empyrean series.
2. Where can I purchase these books?These books are available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and major online retailers.
3. Are any of these suitable for young adult readers?While most books target adult romance readers, Onyx Storm may appeal to mature YA fantasy fans.
4. What romance tropes are featured?Expect popular tropes like enemies-to-lovers, fake relationships, forbidden love, and second chances.
5. Is Temple of Swoon heavy on adventure or romance?Both! It strikes a perfect balance between thrilling adventure and a slow-burn romance.
6. How steamy are these books?Most of these titles contain steamy romance scenes, though levels of heat vary.
7. Is All The Missing Pieces a romantic suspense?Yes, blending mystery with an emotionally charged love story.
8. Who would enjoy Beg, Borrow, or Steal?Fans of enemies-to-lovers romances and small-town charm will adore it.
9. What makes Unromance unique?Its self-aware deconstruction of rom-com clichés makes it refreshing and hilarious.
10. When will these books be available?All titles will be released throughout January 2025.
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