There’s just something magical about winter. The crisp chill in the air, the comfort of soft blankets, the aroma of hot chocolate swirling through the room—and of course, the joy of curling up with a heart-melting love story. Whether you’re snowed in, avoiding the cold, or simply craving that seasonal glow from within, winter romance books are the ultimate cozy indulgence. This year, we’re diving into a mix of contemporary romance reads, holiday romance books, and spicy romance books that are dominating BookTok romance recommendations and lighting up bestseller lists.
So snuggle up, reader. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best romance books winter 2025 has to offer.
1. Why Winter and Romance Are a Perfect Match
There’s a reason cozy romance novels feel more intimate when the world outside is frosty. Winter forces us to slow down. It begs for slower mornings, longer nights, and warm, comforting stories. Whether it’s Christmas romance books filled with festive cheer or feel good romance tales of healing and connection, these novels reflect the very season we’re living in—soft, raw, and undeniably romantic.
And this year? The romance books trending USA have only gotten more deliciously swoon-worthy.
2. Curl Up With These Top Romance Novels for Winter
Let’s get straight to the point: these romantic fiction books are your new winter besties. From emotional tearjerkers to steamy romance recommendations, here are the top romance novels that deserve a spot by your bedside (or in your arms) this season.
A. “Before I Let Go” by Kennedy Ryan
Genre: Contemporary Romance / Second Chance**
A favorite in book club romance picks, this powerful story explores the complexities of grief, love, and reconnection. Yasmen and Josiah’s journey from heartbreak to healing is equal parts raw and redemptive. It’s not just a romance—it’s a deep dive into what makes us human.
Why it’s perfect for winter: Emotional depth, realistic characters, and a story that warms you from the inside out. It’s one of the romance novels must read this season.
B. “The Holiday Switch” by Tif Marcelo
Genre: Young Adult / Holiday Romance**
Set in a charming small town during the festive season, this sweet Christmas romance book follows Lila and Teddy as they accidentally swap phones—and discover each other’s secrets. It’s pure feel good romance, with enough snowflakes and stolen glances to make your heart flutter.
Holiday romance books like this are a must when the twinkling lights are up and carols fill the air.
C. “Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace
Genre: Sports Romance / College Romance**
For those craving spicy romance books with witty banter and sizzling tension, “Icebreaker” is a must-read. Anastasia and Nate’s chemistry is electric—and the BookTok romance recommendations have made sure this one is romance books viral for all the right reasons.
Expect tension, trauma healing, and enough steam to fog up your windows.
D. “A Cross-Country Christmas” by Courtney Walsh
Genre: Sweet Holiday Romance / Road Trip Trope**
If you love cozy romance novels that feel like Hallmark movies (but better), this is your jam. Lauren and Will, once childhood acquaintances, are forced into a cross-country holiday road trip. Cue the forced proximity, unresolved tension, and… yep, romance.
It checks all the boxes for the best love stories—and it’s gentle on the heart, making it a perfect choice for readers who like a slower, more emotional burn.
E. “The Right Move” by Liz Tomforde
Genre: Contemporary Sports Romance**
This one’s got everything: fake dating, roommates, NBA stars, and spicy romance books energy turned up to max. Indie and Ryan’s relationship starts off guarded and slowly simmers into something beautifully vulnerable.
If you’re on the hunt for romance novels 2025 that mix steam with sincerity, this is the one.
3. Trending Romance Novels in the USA Right Now
Let’s talk about what’s hot—really hot. The romance books trending USA this winter include titles that are not just gaining traction on social media, but are also dominating reader hearts everywhere.
Here are three trending romance novels you’ll want to get your hands on ASAP:
- “Funny Feelings” by Tarah DeWitt – A friends-to-lovers slow burn set in the world of stand-up comedy.
- “Flawless” by Elsie Silver – Cowboy romance with a rugged hero and a strong, no-nonsense heroine. It’s part of the popular romance 2025 wave.
- “The Do-Over” by Lynn Painter – A time-loop rom-com that brings both humor and heart in spades. Contemporary romance reads like this are an instant serotonin boost.
4. Book Club Romance Picks to Warm the Whole Group
Need a story that sparks both swoons and great discussion? These book club romance picks bring depth and joy:
- “Part of Your World” by Abby Jimenez – Funny, tender, and socially relevant.
- “The Dead Romantics” by Ashley Poston – A ghostwriter falls for… an actual ghost. Intrigued yet?
- “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood – Still a favorite in many circles, especially for those craving romance novels must read with science nerd vibes.
These titles combine feel good romance with just the right pinch of heartbreak and hope.
5. For the Readers Who Like It Spicy: Steamy Romance Recs
Winter isn’t just for snuggling under a blanket—it’s for letting things sizzle too. These steamy romance recommendations are perfect if you’re looking to turn up the heat:
- “Things We Never Got Over” by Lucy Score – Brooding bad boy meets stubborn heroine.
- “King of Wrath” by Ana Huang – A billionaire romance that’s equal parts angst and heat.
- “Credence” by Penelope Douglas – Definitely not your average romance. Dark, intense, and a must for bold readers.
Whether you’re single or not, spicy romance books like these bring the fantasy full-force.
6. Romance Novels 2025 You Can’t Miss
Let’s look ahead. The romance novels 2025 lineup is already bursting with exciting releases. Here’s a sneak peek of upcoming titles gaining buzz:
- “Love, Lies & Lattes” by Mia Sanders – A barista and a mystery novelist collide in a small-town cafe.
- “The Christmas Rebound” by Elle Lavigne – Expected to be one of the most heartfelt Christmas romance books this winter.
- “Snowfall Serenade” by Ayla Winters – Classical musician meets snowplow driver in a snowy Vermont town. You’ll want this on your cozy romance novels list.
These are shaping up to be some of the popular romance 2025 titles everyone will be talking about.
7. Final Thoughts: The Joy of Romantic Fiction in Winter
There’s no wrong way to enjoy romantic fiction books. Maybe you read one a week or maybe you binge-read four in a weekend. Whether it’s the sweet warmth of a feel good romance or the daring allure of a spicy romance book, these stories tap into something universal—our desire for connection.
This winter, don’t just endure the cold—embrace it with a book that melts your heart.
From holiday romance books to booktok romance recommendations, there’s a world of best love stories waiting for you. So find your favorite blanket, light a candle, and let one of these top romance novels sweep you away.
And if you’re ever looking for more recommendations or reader vibes, check out Riya’s Blogs—we’re always talking books, and always chasing the next great love story.
Want to read a bit more? Find some more of my writings here-
The Ultimate List of “Would You Rather” Questions for Adults, Teens, and Everyone in Between!
Book Review: Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
Alone in a Room Full of Light: A Poem About Loneliness That No One Sees
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