If you’re wondering what are good romance novels for adults or searching for the best romance novels for adults to add to your reading list, this article has you covered. Romance novels for adults offer a rich blend of emotional depth, complex characters, and mature themes that resonate with grown-up readers. Below, we review seven of the top romance novels that stand out in 2025 for their storytelling, character development, and heartfelt romance.
Discover Top 7 Best Romance Novels for Adults
1. Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Emily Henry’s Great Big Beautiful Life is a dazzling novel that intertwines a love story with a compelling mystery. It follows two writers competing to write the biography of a reclusive heiress, Margaret Ives, and in the process, they navigate rivalry, secrets, and unexpected romantic tension. The novel explores themes of truth, trust, and loss with emotional sensitivity, particularly handling grief in a poignant, non-melodramatic way. Henry’s engaging writing style and vivid island setting create an immersive experience that captures the fragile beauty of love and trust.
2. On Her Terms by Amy Spalding
On Her Terms is a sweet, sexy sapphic romcom centered on a fake relationship that blossoms into genuine love. The story follows Clementine, a newly out bisexual woman, and Chloe, who helps her navigate her “baby gay era.” Spalding’s witty banter, relatable humor, and heartfelt exploration of queer relationships make this novel a standout. It also thoughtfully addresses themes like coming out later in life and plus-size relationships, making it both entertaining and meaningful for adult readers seeking diverse romance stories.
3. Fake It Like You Mean It by Megan Murphy
Megan Murphy’s debut novel Fake It Like You Mean It balances humor and heartfelt moments in a story about Elle, who returns home to care for her grandmother with Alzheimer’s, and Adam, a live-in nurse. Their pretend relationship, born from compassion, gradually turns into something real amid the challenges of caregiving and family obligations. Murphy’s grounded portrayal of romance within the complexities of real life elevates this fake-dating trope into a mature and touching narrative.
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4. Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez
Yours Truly offers a sweet romance about Dr. Briana Ortiz, who is juggling a difficult divorce, family health crises, and a budding relationship with Dr. Jacob Maddox. The novel features slow relationship development, a fake dating trope, and male lead anxiety, creating a realistic and heartwarming love story. Its blend of humor and emotional depth makes it a great pick for readers looking for the best romance novels for adults with relatable characters and situations.
5. Juniper Hill by Devney Perry
Juniper Hill is a small-town romance featuring Memphis Ward, a single mother starting anew in Montana, and Knox Eden, a grumpy chef and her temporary landlord. The novel explores themes of domesticity, second chances, and the challenges of building a new life. With no third-act breakup and a focus on bonding and family, it appeals to readers who enjoy heartfelt, grounded romance stories with average steam levels.
6. Forever Your Rogue by Erin Langston
This historical romance centers on Cora, a newly widowed mother, and Nathaniel, a charismatic rogue. Their fake engagement evolves into real love, with Langston delivering a swoony, sexy, and heartfelt story full of domestic affection and emotional stakes. The novel is praised for its strong heroine, reckless hero, and the tender way it portrays love and family bonds, making it one of the best romance novels for adults who appreciate historical settings.
7. The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory
The Wedding Date is a fun, glossy take on the classic fake dating trope. Guillory refreshes this familiar setup with engaging characters and a light, enjoyable narrative perfect for a vacation or beach read. It’s a great choice for readers looking for a romance that is easy to jump into and offers a feel-good story without heavy melodrama.
Why These Are the Best Romance Novels for Adults?
These novels stand out because they combine mature themes, realistic character development, and diverse romantic experiences. Whether you prefer contemporary, historical, queer, or small-town romance, these books offer something heartfelt and engaging.
If you want to discover the best romance novels for adults in 2025, these seven titles are excellent starting points that promise to enrich your reading list with love stories that are both entertaining and meaningful.
This curated list highlights the richness and variety available in adult romance novels today, helping you find your next great read that fits your taste and mood. Thank you for reading!
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