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Goodreads Choice Awards Romance Books of 2025

  • evemrileyauthor
  • 3 hours ago
  • 4 min read

Every year Goodreads readers cast their votes for the books that grabbed their hearts and refused to let go. The 2025 romance category is packed with stories about love in all its messy, wonderful forms. We have vulnerability, second chances, unexpected sparks, and the kind of emotional chaos that makes you want to hug the book when you are done. 


I have put together a clear, friendly breakdown of the major titles, each with a short write up to help you decide which one deserves the next coveted spot on your nightstand. Grab a blanket, make a cup of something warm, and enjoy browsing your next batch of bookish obsession. 


 

Two people reading on a vibrant red and orange background. Text: Emily Henry, Great Big Beautiful Life. Reese's Book Club logo visible.

Great Big Beautiful Life

by Emily Henry 

3.97 ⭐on Goodreads


This novel follows a writer with a hopeful outlook, and a Pulitzer winning journalist who prefers logic over emotion. When the two end up on a small island for a joint biography project, their differences spark curiosity and chemistry. Emily Henry is known for strong character work and this book continues that trend with humour, heart, and a slow building connection. 



Two hands intertwined with droplets, set against a purple and blue geometric background. Text: Ali Hazelwood, Deep End, A Novel.

Deep End

by Ali Hazelwood 

3.87 ⭐on Goodreads


Scarlett dreams of medical school while competing as a dedicated athlete. Lukas is her opposite in many ways, focused, disciplined, and guarded. Their lives collide in a way neither expects and their careful partnership grows into something both risky and rewarding. Sports romance fans will enjoy the intensity, the personal challenges, and the emotional payoff. 



Two people sit on a vintage radio with headphones, colored in pink hues. Text reads "First-Time Caller" and "B.K. Borison." Mood is nostalgic.

First Time Caller

by B. K. Borison 

3.96 ⭐on Goodreads


Lucie works at a romance hotline but secretly doubts the very idea of love. A late night call from a stranger shifts something in her life and what follows is a tender exploration of trust, vulnerability, and connection. It is a warm contemporary romance with modern themes and a touch of humour. 




Two people in a yellow boat on blue water, under a colorful sky. Book title: One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune, a bestseller.

One Golden Summer

by Carly Fortune 

4.30 ⭐on Goodreads


Set against sunlit beaches and nostalgic memories, this story explores the idea that the past can open the door to new love. When two people reconnect after years apart, they discover that unfinished feelings can grow into something unexpected. Fans of second chance romances will find this one full of atmosphere. 



Couple walking on a beach at sunset with a dog. Text: "Abby Jimenez, Say You'll Remember Me," colorful sky and Ferris wheel background.

Say You Will Remember Me

by Abby Jimenez 

4.02 ⭐on Goodreads


Xavier Rush appears to be the perfect man, kind, thoughtful, and easy to fall for. This story looks at what happens when love is real but life is complicated. Abby Jimenez blends emotional honesty with light humour, creating a romance that feels grounded and relatable. 




Red and black book cover titled "Scythe & Sparrow" by Brynne Weaver. Features silhouettes, motorcycle, and chaotic elements. Emotive and dynamic.

Scythe and Sparrow

by Brynne Weaver 

4.08 ⭐on Goodreads


After a painful loss, Fionn Kane wants nothing more than a quiet life, but fate has other plans. When a new connection enters the picture, Fionn must confront grief, hope, and the possibility of love again. This is a slow burn romance filled with tenderness and personal growth. 




A book cover titled "King of Envy" features a shattered green bottle on a light floral background with gold text and crown embellishment.

King of Envy

by Ana Huang 

4.06 ⭐on Goodreads


This story features passion, tension, and complicated emotions. Ana Huang creates a romance full of conflicted characters and high stakes feelings. It is a great pick for readers who like intense storytelling and messy, human relationships. 





Red skyline with skyscrapers and crescent moon. Text: "Rewind it Back" by Liz Tomforde. Quote by Laura Pavlov at top.

Rewind It Back

by Liz Tomforde 

4.47 ⭐ on Goodreads


This is a thoughtful second chance romance where two people must confront past mistakes and decide whether they can build something new. It is heartfelt, emotional, and perfect for readers who enjoy redemption stories with plenty of heart. 





Two entwined bodies against a bokeh background with bold gold text: "The Favorites" by Layne Fargo. Mood: Passionate and intense.

The Favorites 

by Layne Fargo 

4.06 ⭐on Goodreads


A layered story that blends romance with ambition and personal conflict. It follows characters whose dreams and relationships collide in challenging ways. Readers who enjoy complex emotional journeys will appreciate its depth and realism. 




Green book cover of "Wild Side" by Elsie Silver. Features mountains, a wrestler mask, and a wedding couple. Text includes praise from Ana Huang.

Wild Side

by Elsie Silver 

4.18 ⭐on Goodreads


This is a great pick if you love a little trouble mixed into your romance. The heroine lands in a tough situation and ends up paired with a broody, closed-off man who is absolutely the wrong choice, which makes him impossible to ignore. Their tension turns into real chemistry, and the emotional unraveling is both satisfying and sweet. Elsie Silver delivers a story that feels gritty, tender, and very easy to fall into. 


 

Why Readers Love These Books 

  • They represent a wide mix of romance styles such as slow burns, second chances, sports romance, emotional contemporary stories, and character driven plots. 

  • Every title earned its place through reader votes which means these books resonated strongly with real audiences. 

  • This list is a great starting point if you want romance novels that are already loved and widely recommended. 


If your heart is ready for another fictional crush, a late-night page-turner, or a soft place to land, this list is a wonderful place to begin. I hope one of these romances settles in beside you with a warm drink and keeps you company long after the final chapter. Happy reading.


Eve x




 

Copyright © 2025 Eve M. Riley | All rights reserved

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