Top 5 Books of 2025 - Our must-read Romance & Romantasy picks of the year

It’s almost a wrap on 2025 — and for Romance and Romantasy books, it was an unforgettable year. From slow-burn tension that wrecked us to sequels that actually lived up to the hype, these books had everything: twists, high stakes, and just the right amount of spice.

We’ve narrowed it down to our Top 5 Books of 2025, ranked by category. If you’re building your TBR or hunting for your next five-star read, start here.

Shop all five on our site—trust us, you won’t regret it.

Best Overall:

Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry. 

The six star book of 2025, this story is filled with lush world building, an arranged marriage trope, and an ending we’re still recovering from.The slow-burn tension simmers perfectly, while dangerous monsters and high emotional stakes keep the pages turning.

Shop Shield of Sparrows — you won’t regret it!

Best Hype:

Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid.

Hold our tuna melts and pour a glass of ginger ale! With secret lovers, explosive chemistry, and nonstop tension, Heated Rivalry is the MLM romance the internet can’t stop obsessing over. Shane and Illya’s story is emotional, addictive, and guaranteed to turn you into a hockey fan whether you planned on it or not.

Get in on the action - on and off the ice!

Best Plot Twist:

Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider. 

The first book in the Fire & Metal Duology is filled with adventure, secret powers, and the plot twist to end all plot twists. We’re still shocked from that ending. If you love books that keep you guessing and leave you completely bewildered, Metal Slinger is a must-read.

Add to cart today —trust us.

Best Series:

Compelling Fates Saga by Sophia St. Germain 

Begins with A Tongue so Sweet and Deadly 

Completed series alert! This four book series is bound to cure your post ACOTAR and Throne of Glass reading slumps. It’s unique, spicy, emotionally rich, and currently blowing up on BookTok for a reason.

Start the series now and thank us later.

Best Sequel:

Brimstone by Callie Hart. 

The highly anticipated sequel to Quicksilver did not disappoint. Rejoin the characters you fell in love with (Carrion Swift we’re looking at you!) on their quest to save their realm from the dark curse of the gods.

Continue the journey—this sequel is not to be missed.

Start the new year off with a strong TBR list. You won’t want to miss out on these incredible reads and discover your next six star book.

Shop these titles & so many more at Behind the Curtan Books.