Best Romance Books January 2025

Champion

In a world where the elite compete for glory, June and Day find themselves on opposite sides of a deadly game. As a prodigy born into the wealthy Republic, June’s path seems set. But when her brother is murdered, she’s thrust into a dangerous hunt for the prime suspect: Day, a brilliant outlaw from the slums. As their paths collide, they uncover shocking truths that challenge everything they believe. Lu’s gripping dystopian tale explores loyalty, justice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong in a society divided by power and privilege.

Prodigy

In a world where genius is feared, June and Day are two extraordinary teens on opposite sides of a dystopian society. As their paths collide, they uncover dark secrets and face impossible choices. Lu’s gripping narrative weaves together action, romance, and political intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. I couldn’t put it down, staying up way too late just to see what would happen next. A thrilling ride that left me eagerly anticipating the sequel.

Legend

In a world where the lines between reality and fantasy blur, Marie Lu’s “Legend” captivates with its gritty dystopian vision. Two teens from opposite sides of a fractured society collide in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. As they unravel dark secrets, their loyalties are tested and an unlikely bond forms. Lu’s vivid prose and breakneck pacing keep readers on edge, while exploring themes of justice, power, and the cost of rebellion. A thrilling ride that lingers long after the last page.

Children of Blood and Bone

Zélie remembers when magic thrived in Orïsha. But everything changed the night it disappeared, leaving her people vulnerable to a ruthless king. Now, with a chance to bring magic back, Zélie must outwit the crown prince bent on eradicating magic for good. Danger lurks in this West African-inspired world, where Zélie discovers her own hidden powers. As she fights to save her people, she grapples with the weight of destiny and the spark of an unexpected romance. A thrilling adventure that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.

Concrete Rose

Maverick Carter’s life is a balancing act. At seventeen, he’s juggling school, slinging drugs for the King Lords, and caring for his newborn son. When tragedy strikes close to home, Mav faces tough choices that could change everything. As he navigates fatherhood, loyalty, and the weight of his community’s expectations, Mav discovers inner strength he never knew he had. This raw, powerful story of growth and resilience will leave you rooting for Mav long after the last page.

Imagine Me

Juliette thought she’d finally found peace, but the fight for her future has only just begun. With old enemies lurking and new threats emerging, she must confront her past to secure her destiny. As she grapples with her evolving powers and deepening relationships, Juliette realizes that the key to victory lies within herself. This heart-pounding finale to the Shatter Me series will leave readers breathless, as Juliette’s journey comes to a stunning, unforgettable conclusion.

Defy Me

Juliette thought she’d finally found peace, but her world is shattered when Warner reveals a devastating truth. Torn between love and loyalty, she must confront her past and embrace her true power. As alliances shift and enemies close in, Juliette discovers hidden strengths within herself. With heart-pounding action and raw emotion, this gripping installment in the Shatter Me series will leave readers breathless, questioning everything they thought they knew about Juliette’s world and her destiny.

Ignite Me

Juliette’s world is crumbling around her, but she’s never felt stronger. With the power to destroy with a single touch, she’s determined to take down the Reestablishment. As she navigates complex relationships and her own evolving abilities, Juliette must confront her deepest fears and make impossible choices. This heart-pounding finale to Mafi’s dystopian series blends romance, action, and self-discovery in a way that left me breathless. I couldn’t put it down, rooting for Juliette until the very last page.

Restore Me

Juliette thought she’d found peace, but her world is shattered when unexpected visitors arrive. As she grapples with her powers and past, she realizes the truth she believed may be a lie. Torn between duty and desire, Juliette must confront her deepest fears and make impossible choices. With heart-pounding action and simmering romance, this gripping continuation of the Shatter Me series will leave readers breathless, questioning everything they thought they knew.

Unravel Me

Juliette’s touch is lethal, but her heart yearns for connection. As she grapples with her power in a world torn apart by war, she finds solace in unexpected allies. But can she trust them? With each page, Juliette’s journey of self-discovery unfolds, revealing layers of betrayal, love, and the struggle for identity. Mafi’s lyrical prose paints a vivid dystopian landscape, drawing readers into a tale of survival and the strength of the human spirit. A gripping sequel that will leave you breathless.