Best Romance Books: Top 35 to Read Online in 2025

As this year has unfolded, romance stays on top of exciting new releases and groundbreaking authors engaging readers across the globe as we enter 2025. From steamy werewolves to modern sweet happily ever afters, this year seems to have a little bit of everything that any romance novel lover could ever want. The following list provides the best romance novels where we have focused on the variety of the storytelling techniques and forgot about the ordinary cliches.

Best 5 Werewolf Romance Books

Mated To Big Brother-in-law

"Mated To Big Brother-in-law" is a werewolf romance by Author AlisTae. Sophia’s life is turned upside down when she falls for the younger brother of Bryan Morrison, the ruthless Alpha of the Night Shade Pack. Known for his cold-blooded demeanor and powerful influence, Bryan has one rule: if an Alpha rejects their mate, they lose their title. But when fate intertwines Sophia's life with his, she must navigate dangerous territory as her forbidden connection with Bryan threatens everything she holds dear.

Best for readers who enjoy forbidden love, intense Alpha males, and Love-Triangle.

Taking Alpha's Twins Away After Divorce

A great werewolf romance by Author AlisTae. Natalia never expected her arranged marriage to Adrian Miller, the future Alpha of the pack, to be so difficult. In the beginning, Adrian barely acknowledged her, leaving her to fight for his affection. But when Natalia decides to leave him for good, her hidden secret could change everything. As she plans to move on, Adrian realizes she may be the only woman he’s ever truly desired. With everything on the line, will she forgive him—or walk away forever?

Best for readers who enjoy love after divorce, slow-burn romances, hidden identities, and second-chance love stories.

I Am The Luna

I Am The Luna is a werewolf romance story by Author Moonlight Muse. Zaia’s life crumbles when her husband, Sebastian, divorces her for his ex-girlfriend. Cast out from her pack and home, Zaia carries a secret that could change everything—she’s pregnant with his children. Sebastian, the successful Alpha with a flourishing empire, has everything but his marriage. What will happen when he learns about the secret she hides from him, will he regret the decision he made? Will she forgive him and take him back? This emotional rollercoaster is perfect for fans who enjoy second-chance romance stories. 

Another Chance for the Luna Queen

Another Chance for the Luna Queen is a passionate werewolf romance by Aurora Starling. It revolves around Ella, the Luna Queen of a werewolf kingdom who ends up killed by her once-loving husband. Ella discovers her husband has never loved her and only married her for her status. Luckily death is not the end of the journey. Ella wakes up to find she has been reborn on the day he proposes to her. This time she vows to set everything right. It’s a must-read for those who enjoy reborn werewolf romance that’s spiced with Ella’s revenge and self-growth. 

Reclaiming My Broken Luna

Werewolf romance written by Selene Souchon. Heartbroken and rejected, Astrid endures the pain of an unwanted bond with her Alpha mate, Killian. Forced to leave her pack after his ex-girlfriend returns, she discovers her strength amid betrayal. But when dark secrets about Giselle come to light, Killian realizes his grave mistake. Now, he must fight to win back the Luna he let go—but can Astrid ever forgive him? A gripping tale of love, heartbreak, and redemption in the world of werewolf romance.

Best 5 Mafia Romance Books

Mafia Men: Nikolai's Inferno

Book One of the Mafia Men Series by Janedoewritings tells the story of Evangeline Bolton, a sheltered young woman whose world is turned upside down when her parents are murdered. Thrust into the dangerous world of Nikolai Costello, a ruthless mafia boss, Evangeline is forced to navigate a life filled with power struggles and forbidden attraction. As her feelings for Nikolai intensify, she finds herself torn between love and survival, all while uncovering the dark secrets behind her parents' deaths. A must-read for fans of dark romance, mafia intrigue, and complex relationships.

Mafia’s Property

The book Mafia's Property introduces Natalia, a high school student who has been abused by her father for a long time. After graduation, she chose to work on her own. She met Don Carlo Moretti, a handsome but dark murderer. Natalia was forcibly taken away by Don Carlo Moretti, and the imprisoned love story began.

Best for those who enjoy erotic violence and excitement.

A Submissive For The Beastly Mafia

A Submissive For The Beastly Mafia by Commy Vic is a dark Italian mafia romance following 22-year-old Allesia Guerrero, who meets Russel Mancini, a dominant mafia Don accidentally. After refusing his $2,000,000 proposal for one night, their lives collide again when she saves him during an attack at her workplace, landing her in jail. There, she’s rescued by another mafia boss, Nikolai Gianni. In the span of 48 hours, Allesia must choose between two dangerous enemies. No is not an option. Perfect for fans of dark romance, steamy scenes, insane plot twists, virgin FL and morally gray characters.

Mafia Men VI - Alessandro's Games

Book Five of the Mafia Men Series by Janedoewritings follows Vivian Kane, a skilled hacker who enters the life of mafia boss Alessandro Costello with a single swipe. What starts as a simple theft quickly turns into a high-stakes game of power, revenge, and forbidden attraction. As Alessandro hunts her down, Vivian must navigate a dangerous world where every touch brings them closer to their darkest desires. Perfect for fans of mafia, dark romance and intense mind games.

Black Aces MC (The Complete series)

Black Aces MC is a complete series of four biker mafia romance stories written by British author Emma Mountford. The series tells the stories of the men who ride hard for their club and the women they would do anything for. These four scorching hot couples have four different styles of dark romance stories. Best for readers who enjoy dark mafia romance and biker club romance.

Best 5 Dark Romance Books

The Alpha’s Contract

British author Taylor West, who is the chosen one, after launching this wonderful book in mid-2024, 3 months later, this baby was crowned No.1 hit on werewolf/lycan genre and is still keeping it up! Diving into Neah’s story, besides the sweetest romance atmosphere, we could also see girl's power rocking the world. Who says girls/women can’t decide their own fate? Who says she-wolf can’t be an Alpha? Join Neah and her wolf Nyx on a wonderful butt-kicking journey and witness more characters’ inner growth with us!

Contractually Yours, Alpha

The book is a werewolf romance by Giftemmy. Our Female Lead Riley, betrayed by her ex-mate, is desperate to escape her past when she signs a risky deal with Alpha Thane: act as his mate for six months in exchange for freedom and a fortune. Though Thane promises protection, his dark and possessive nature raises doubts about the true cost of her freedom.

Best for readers who enjoy steamy romance, alpha characters, and intense, high-stakes relationships.

Chosen By The Moon

Werewolf romance written by Izabella W. In a shattered world ruled by Lycans, 17-year-old Dylan faces a terrifying fate—she’s the mate of the most infamous and ruthless Lycan king. Torn between survival and resistance, she’s thrust into a perilous journey of love, loss, and defiance. Will she break free or succumb to her destined bond? A gripping dystopian wolf tale with mature themes. Read with caution!

THE LYCAN KING’S SECOND CHANCE MATE

THE LYCAN KING’S SECOND CHANCE MATE is a captivating werewolf romance by Sumi. Betrayed by her own boyfriend, Ashanti was sent to the Lycan King's harem. Unlike her fellow girls who are excited about their new luxurious life in the palace, Ashanti is repulsed by the idea of dedicating her life to pleasing the Lycan King. However, upon the first day of her arrival, Ashanti is astonished to find out that the very Lycan King is her fated mate. Yet, instead of love and recognition, she’s met with his cold indifference. A perfect  book for readers who enjoy intense dramas and steamy romance.

Pop My Cherry Daddy!

A mafia romance written by Xee. Bella meets a dangerous man who changed her life upside down.Ignazio is not someone you can mess with. The only way to get her out of this is through submission, which she found she is getting there, to be his good girl. Recommended for fans of erotica and mifia romance.

Best 5 Fantasy Romance Books

Sacrificed to the Dragon Prince

A fantasy Romance novel by VictoryAnne Vice. The story follows Millicent Walker, a mute orphan with no memory of her past, who is cast out as a sacrifice to a dragon in a small coastal town. Despite being viewed as a cursed freak, Millicent’s fate turns out to be far more powerful than anyone could have imagined.

Best for readers who enjoy dark fantasy, strong female protagonists, and unexpected twists.

The Gentle Dragon

A dragon book writen by Cooper. It is the purest and most touching story between a dragon doctor and the last dragon of her kind. It's not only about how they fall for each other but also how they heal and become better selves. Kaylani is the last water dragon in the world, and she recognizes Everett as her human mate the second she sees him. Could they overcome the huge gap between them and save the Hybrids from the crazy scientist? Best choice for readers who love pure and supportive relationships.

The Dragon's Lost Phoenix Princess

Created by the wonderful British writer Becca Lou, this book tells the story of Serena, a slave whose identity is a mystery, who discovers her true identity and saves the world after encountering the Dragon Vilkas. If you are into fantasy stories, phoenixes, dragons and werewolves, then don't miss this book.

The Dragon King's Obsession

A fantasy romance written by Kalenca. This book is about Princess Charlotte who is not loved by her father and is bullied at will like a servant despite being a princess. In exchange for her mother's freedom to divorce her father and leave the hellish palace, she offers to marry the most feared king on earth, Damian the Dragon. She helps Damian find the crystal with her intelligence and knowledge of archaeology, and is recognized by Damian. Just when she thought she had accomplished her mission and could regain her freedom, Damian was unwilling to let her go!

This book is for readers who enjoy reading fantasy novels as well as those who like to have an age gap between the hero and heroine.

The Dragon King's Chosen Bride

She thought she couldn't love again after witnessing the cruelest betrayal, her boy friend and her best friend making each other moan in bed. But dropping the trash in her life brought the perfect prince to her, and it's only in him that she found herself.

Best 5 Vampire Romance Books

The Pack's Emissary

The Pack's Emissary, the seventh book in the Havermouth Pack Series by Everleigh Miles. Aislen and her harem travel to Trayrock, where they fight against many enemies who want to decimate the land and change the world entirely. Can Aislen win the war, when everyone is out for their own gain? When her enemies are also her allies, who can she trust? 

Best for those who like a werewolf/vampire super steamy reverse harem.

My Vampire Professor

My Vampire Professor Is a teacher/student forbidden vampire romance by Eve Aboe Story. Tessa accidentally had a casual fling with a “call boy”, who ended up being her new writing professor. How will they reconcile their professional life with their indisputable feelings for each other? The book is a match for readers who enjoy vampire romance and embrace a bit of harmless taboo.

Arch Enemies

 A werewolf and vampire story written by Cooper. What will Leana do when she finds her mate is a dangerous Vampire? How will Drake overcome his insatiable desire to feed off of Leana's blood and show her that he wants her as a mate, not a blood bag? Will the two be able to find a way to come together, or will Leana reject Drake, causing another rift between the supernatural factions? Best choice for readers like forbidden love and the werewolf genre.

Seductive Awakening

Seductive Awakening is a gay werewolf romance by Adjoaq. Troy Stanton has felt alone all his life although he lives in a large community of powerful warlocks. He has always known that he doesn’t belong but he has nothing against the people he lives with. When a pack of wolves invade his homestead and kill everyone he knows, Troy flees for his life. But he never forgets the face of the sinfully sexy human leader of the wolves. An excellent choice for people who enjoy MxM werewolf romance.

The Vampire King's Feeder

It's written by Bella Moondragon, who has a warm soul. Emory is supposed to be the alpha, but she has to be Vampire Kane's personal feeder. She will do everything when her enemy&master  requests. What will Kane do when he finds he loves Emory, will he abandon his fiancee and choose Emory as his future mate? Best choice for readers who love the werewolf genre.

Best Hockey Romance Books

My Hockey Alpha

My Hockey Alpha is a teen werewolf romance by Eve Above Story. Devastated by catching her boyfriend cheating on site with the cheerleader, Nina ended up having a one night stand with the Hockey team captain Enzo. Enzo is an infamous playboy who never took the same girl to bed twice, except for Nina. And Nina gradually finds out there’s something unusual about Enzo, something unhuman. The book is a must-read for those who enjoy young adult werewolf romance sprinkled with some hot moments. 

My Hockey Alpha Neighbor

My Hockey Alpha Neighbor is a thrilling werewolf romance by Jane Above Story. After a humiliating breakup, Carol can’t help but be captivated by her new hot neighbor Aiden and they hit it off instantly. Carol and her ex are forced to compete with each other in securing a big client to keep their job. Just when Carol feels she’s destitute, Aiden turns out to be a celebrity Hockey player, and makes it public that he is in love with his new neighbor. The book is a match for those who enjoy heartwarming urban werewolf romance.

Best 5 Romance Books for Young Adult

Curves and Basketball a BBW romance series

A plus size YA story written by author Keisa Khaos. Essence and Kymoni, two Big Beautiful Plus size women fresh out of highschool and straight into college life. They meet the basketball players Syncere and Shawn. The young people start their love story in college. An excellent choice for people who enjoy YA, or black big women story. 

Pregnant Too Young — Daddy Is A Billionaire Jock

A YA story writen by a dog person, Veliciah. Michelle is afraid of men, she convinces herself that things will be better when she comes to college. But god jokes about her when her professor pairs Maddox and her together. They are opposites, but chemistry sparks stop what they plan. Best choice for readers who love a nerd and a ambicious billionaire.

My Best Friend’s Brother Is My Sneaky Link

"My Best Friend’s Brother Is My Sneaky is a Link" is a YA/TEEN novel by Royalty. 

The book is about Camille's college life, and the arrival of best friend's brother Daniel disrupted her original life and brought about a huge change. When they first met, he held a sex party in the apartment, which shocked Camille and gave her a negative impression. In the days that followed, their relationship gradually became more and more different...

Best for readers who enjoy steamy scenes, teen romance, virgin FL and intense, high-stakes relationships.

The Princes of Ravenwood

The Princes of Ravenwood is a campus romance by Bryant. After a relocation, Riko was transferred to Ravenwood. Thinking this was just another average private school, she was life was completely disrupted by the Frost Triplets. Treated like royalty by every student and staff at Ravenwood, the Frosts could do whatever they want, but they were annoyed by the fact that most people couldn't even tell them apart. However, Riko was different, and that caught the Frosts attention. A perfect novel for readers who enjoys polyamorous relationship, or reverse harem, if you like.

My Badboy Knight

A good girl & bad boy YA story written by author Lora Ashley. Tasha and Diane, two good girls heartbroken by their past traumas, were stuck with two charming playboys. They stormed into their life, crumbling down the walls built around their heart, and made them fall in love again. Best for readers who enjoy campus romance and opposite attraction.

Best 5 Steamy Romance Novels

SEX WITH THE VIRGIN MAID

Sex with the Virgin Maid is an erotic urban romance by Wild Dreams. Hera is an innocent convent girl who decides to explore the world and make her own career. She took a job as a housekeeper at the famous promiscuous playboy Bryce’s house. Bryce has never been short of lovers, yet there’s an instant spark when he sets his eyes on Hera. This book is right in the alley for those craving a hot and blushing read. 

She's Mine To Claim: Tasting And Claiming His Luna

A werewolf romance written by extraordinary YA author Demiah13. Emily had always been in love with her best friend Bryson Taylor, the son of Alpha. Since she's the lowest rank she never expected she would really become Bryson's mate. However, the situation changed fiercely after her real identity has been revealed. To save everyone she loved, she was forced to flee from Bryson and the pack. This is a dramatic and inspirational story about fighting for pure love, and it is a hymn to love, family, friendship and justice.

THE FORGOTTEN LUNA

A werewolf story by talented author Cassandra M. Adessa, an orphaned Omega, unexpectedly becomes the mate and Luna of Alpha Kael. Their perfect life unravels when tragedy strikes and Kael loses his memory, forgetting their bond and returning to his former lover. Adessa is left heartbroken, realizing that her dreams were never truly hers to keep. A gripping tale of love, loss, and fate, perfect for fans of werewolf stories.

Alpha Caius and the Runaway Luna

Alpha Caius and the Runaway Luna by talented werewolf author Jane Doe. Forced to marry her abusive ex-boyfriend, Anastasia has no choice but to flee from her home. With the help of her wolf and her magical ability, which she’s kept secret her entire life, she manages to stay on the run for three long years. Everything changes on one fateful night when a horrible mistake leaves her in the clutches of the heartless Alpha Caius. Hatred and desire blossom between the two, leading to a 365 days marriage contract. Perfect for readers who enjoy supernatural elements, and intense emotion.

On My Professor's Bed

A NA story written by Xee. Elena meets a man who captivates her. Dante is her professor, but from the first time they met there is an irresistible chemistry. An accidental outburst causes both professor and student to neglect the rules by drenching themselves in the taboo act unable to resist that desire that existed between them. Recommended for fans of erotica and forbidden love.

Best Gay Romance Books (MM Romance)

The CEO's Bad Boy

The book is a contemporary forbidden romance by Caelen F Fae. Rhett’s life takes an unexpected turn when his father’s best friend, Gabriel, arrives to stay with the family. Initially put off by Gabriel’s stiff persona, Rhett quickly notices the intense sexual tension between them.  As both of them face personal and professional challenges, they must navigate their differences and find a way to work together—or risk losing everything.

Best for readers who enjoy age-gap romances, intense power dynamics, and complex emotional struggles.

In The Arms Of Mr. Billionaire

In The Arms Of Mr. Billionaire is a LGBTQ+ novel by SHINING. It introduces billionaire CEO Ethan Asher hires the brilliant but unassuming Brandon Nate Daniel as his new personal assistant. Neither expects a casual dare to ignite a passionate romance. As playful flirtations turn into undeniable passion, Ethan and Brandon find themselves entangled in a steamy, forbidden relationship that threatens to unravel their carefully constructed lives. With secrets surfacing and office politics heating up, they must decide if their love is worth risking everything.

Best for those who like forbidden love and billionaire novels.

Under His Command

A LGBTQ＋novel by Osarumwense Osakue.The story is about an employee, Riley, who becomes obsessed with his boss when he accidentally sees his boss's body in the restroom. Unable to accept that he may have feelings for his boss, he decides to meet an online friend to start an affair and divert his attention, but to his surprise, the online friend is no other than his boss. To make matters worse, the boss threatens him and forces him to become his pet! This book is for readers who like to read about LGBTQ+ as well as forbidden dark love stories.

Best Lesbian Romance Books

The Bet (The Female version of Christian Grey)

One night stand between a rebellious girl and an unpopular boy. At school they are nemesis, but in bed they are the perfect match. Lured by his taste, she lures him over and over until he is addicted to her.

My Dad's Wife

My Dad's Wife is a girl x girl spicy romance. Ashley Black didn't expect life around her new step mom can be this hard. Wait, did I mention Angela is an intersex girl? They bonded fast after Angela's arrival. Ashley was doing good in her new school too with other girls. Dut everything between them completely changed after Ashley's dad cheated on his new wife. Perfect for readers who enjoy forbbiden romance.

Best Age Gap Romance Novel

Divorced By Mistake: My Ex-wife Becomes a CEO

A billionaire romance novel written by Anney GW. The book tells the story of Serena, who was long neglected by her husband, Bill. When she saw Bill getting close to his hot secretary, Doris, Serena, already pregnant, decided to divorce him. After the divorce, Bill’s uncle Calvin entered her life and brought many changes. Serena worked hard and became the CEO of a jewelry company. Her ex-husband soon regretted losing her and tried to change himself to win her back.

Perfect for readers who enjoy stories about marriage and post-divorce relationships.

Best Enemy to Lovers Romance Novel

The Pure-Hearted Princess and the Kiss of Darkness

A werewolf romance written by Author Moonlight Muse. The new book of the Rossi Legacies. 

The story follows Kataleya, the daughter of an Alpha, on her quest to reunite with Enrique, the boy who once protected her but lost everything in the process. Now, Kataleya’s mission is to help him heal, even as her growing powers become deadly. Enrique, now a cold-hearted Alpha driven by the thirst for power, is consumed by darkness. This gripping tale of love, sacrifice, and inner struggle is ideal for fans of intense supernatural romance.

FAQs

1.What are the best romance books when bored?

When it comes to immediate gratification, the best entry into the world of literature, I would suggest, is novels that are designed to plunge the reader into the action within the first chapter. Titles such as "Mated To Big Brother in Law" and "Taking Alpha's Twins Away After Divorce" maintain protagonists' conflict and attraction from the book's beginning. Many of these stories give their readers powerful beginnings that get them immediately involved in the plot.

2.What is considered the best romance novel?

Although everyone has a different idea of what “best” is and which novels fit this description, they all agree on revealing excellent characterization of characters, powerful emotions and great narratives. Now, works such as "The Alpha's Contract" and "Sacrificed to the Dragon Prince" are at the forefront of the genre, introducing fresh ideas about romantic relationships and elaborated interesting settings.

3.Can a 15-year-old read romance novels?

Young readers should prefer romance novels for teenagers or books that are tagged Young Adult (YA) or Teen Romance. Some of them are "Curves and Basketball" and "The Princes of Ravenwood" because they have elements of romance presented clean and nontoxic for young people. It is necessary that parents learn the content ratings before recommending particular titles to their children.