The new adult romance genre has been gaining fans worldwide, blending relatable stories with raw emotions and unforgettable characters.
If you’re a fan of emotional, relatable love stories with characters stepping into adulthood, this list of the best new adult romance books for 2025 is just for you.
Featuring diverse voices, compelling plots, and heartfelt moments, here are the top eight books you won’t want to miss.
What is the New Adult Romance Genre?
The new adult romance genre focuses on love stories that cater to mature audiences, typically featuring characters who are adults navigating first relationships, personal growth, and life challenges. These stories often explore themes like passion, intimacy, heartbreak, and emotional connection, with a more explicit or mature tone compared to young adult or new adult romance.
Adult romance spans a wide range of subgenres, including contemporary, historical, paranormal, fantasy, and romantic suspense.
The genre is known for its emotional depth, character-driven narratives, and satisfying resolutions, often culminating in a “happily ever after” or “happy for now” ending.
It appeals to readers looking for relatable, heartfelt, and sometimes steamy romance tales of love and relationships.
List of Best Adult Romance Books
1) “Choosing Me” by DS Johnson-Mills
“Choosing Me” by DS Johnson-Mills is a heartwarming new adult romance set in London. It chronicles the life of Dylan, a young woman looking for a fresh start afterher world spirals into a dark abyss of loss and heartache.
Experience all her firsts as she discovers a deep bond of friendship, intimacy, and love. A relatable modern-day romance filled with emotional twists and turns that would have even the staunchest of hearts melting from the heat. Leaving home and moving to another country is a daunting experience but Dylan takes it in her stride. Navigating her newfound freedom with her BFF Toby, through whom she meets her new lover, Markus. He captivates her mind, body, and soul. Whilst she revels in this awakening as a right of passage Dylans most valuable lesson is one of self-discovery and knowing when to choose herself. Romance and drama are the ingredients that captivates readers and make them want to keep turning the pages. If you enjoy books about strong female characters who makes you want to root for them from the first page “Choosing Me” is the perfect choice.
2) “Heart Bones” by Colleen Hoover
Colleen Hoover weaves a moving tale of loss, love, and healing with “Heart Bones.” The story follows Beyah Grim, who has always felt like an outsider in her own family. After a tragic death, she is forced to spend the summer before college with her estranged father in a wealthy beach town in Texas.
While Beyah plans to keep her head down and wait out her time, everything changes when she meets Samson, a mysterious neighbour with secrets of his own.
This book beautifully contrasts Beyah’s humble background with Samson’s seemingly perfect life, revealing that appearances can be deceiving. Their unlikely bond unfolds against a backdrop of sandy beaches and summer sunsets, creating a story that is both tender and soulful.
With themes of overcoming hardship and finding solace in unexpected connections, “Heart Bones” is a must-read for fans of emotionally rich new adult romance books.
3) “The American Roommate Experiment” by Elena Armas
When Rosie Graham’s life turns upside down, she discovers solace—and unexpected sparks—living in close quarters with Lucas Martín, her best friend’s cousin.
Lucas, a charming Spaniard with a penchant for cooking and an infectious smile, is the perfect housemate… or so she thinks. Between juggling her writer’s block and unresolved feelings, Rosie finds herself agreeing to a series of “experimental dates” to cure her lack of inspiration.
This book is not just about romance; it’s a story of taking risks, trusting others, and rediscovering yourself.
Armas masterfully depicts a slow-burn romance where every interaction is brimming with chemistry and longing.
With witty banter, laugh-out-loud moments, and emotional depth, “The American Roommate Experiment” is the best book to read you didn’t know you needed.
4) “Upsy Daisy” by Chelsie Edwards
“Upsy Daisy” is a heart-twisting love story about breaking free from societal expectations and finding a place where you truly belong.
Daisy Payton is seen as perfect by everyone around her, but she yearns to carve out her own identity in college. Enter Trevor Boon, a self-made man with a troubled past and fierce determination to succeed.
Their love story unfolds as Daisy and Trevor begin to see one another beyond their facades. While Daisy learns to step out of her family’s shadow, Trevor faces his own inner demons, making their growing connection all the more poignant.
With inspiring themes of resilience, transformation, and love that challenges societal norms, “Upsy Daisy” is a must-read new adult romance tale that resonates deeply.
5) “Prince of Hearts” by L.A. Cotton
Arianne Capizola, a sweet and hardworking student, finds her life turned upside down when she crosses paths with Niccolo Marchetti, a rough-edged fighter harbouring dangerous secrets.
Set at the prestigious Montague University, their chemistry is undeniable, but they each carry burdens from the past that threaten their budding relationship.
This novel is a slow-burning exploration of forbidden love, filled with twists, intensity, and emotional depth.
Arianne’s honesty collides with Nicco’s impulsive and oftentimes guarded nature, leading to unforgettable conflicts and resolutions.
Perfect for fans of dark romances with a hint of suspense, “Prince of Hearts” feels like a captivating mix of passion and peril.
6) “Right Where I Left You” by Julian Winters
This LGBTQ+ gem follows Isaac Martin as he navigates the final summer before he starts university. Determined to make the most of these precious months with his best friend Diego, Isaac plans a nostalgic summer packed with fun—but complications arise when his crush, Davi, reenters his life.
Winters delivers a tale full of warmth, wit, and authenticity. Balancing romantic tension with themes of friendship, belonging, and self-discovery, “Right Where I Left You” wonderfully captures the magic of fleeting moments and young love.
It is a story that celebrates diversity, family, and the beauty of taking chances on love.
If you are looking for more novels about romance and friendship, here is a list of the best Loyal Friends novels you won’t want to miss.
7) “You’re the Reason” by J. Nathan
Sophia Galloway’s return to her hometown of Texas and her enrolment at Crestwood University bring more drama than she expected.
Filled with secrets, hierarchy battles, and intense relationships, the book explores more than just romantic love—it dives into the complexities of growing up in a world full of judgement.
J. Nathan’s storytelling is gripping, with moments that will make your heart race or ache for the characters.
The romance is layered, offering readers a mix of swoon-worthy connections and impactful life lessons.
8) “Out on Good Behaviour” by Dahlia Adler
Frankie Bellisario could charm anyone, but when she falls for sweet, principled Samara Kazarian, she faces her greatest challenge yet: proving she is relationship material.
Samara’s upbringing adds challenges, but it also makes their connection deeper and more meaningful. This story is a delightful exploration of self-growth, love, and defying expectations.
Adler’s narrative is packed with relatable emotion, and her cast of unique characters adds charm and depth. It is perfect for readers who enjoy strong female leads and love stories that challenge conventional roles.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned fan, these eight new adult romance books bring something fresh and exciting to the table.
From charming love stories to tales of self-discovery, each title leaves you with a sense of hope and a warm heart.
Don’t forget to add these to your reading list for 2025!
