Whether you’re craving steamy contemporary romance, immersive dark academia, mythological retellings, or richly layered fantasy worlds, December 2025 offers something compelling for every kind of reader. Here are the 10 most anticipated books arriving on shelves this December—each deserving a prime spot on your reading list.
10 Most Anticipated Books of December 2025
In Your Dreams (When in Rome #4) – Sarah Adams
Release date: December 30, 2025
Sarah Adams returns to Rome, Kentucky, with the fourth installment in her beloved small-town rom-com series. This time, the spotlight falls on a chef who comes home to run a farm-to-table restaurant and finds herself tangled in old emotions and unexpected new attraction.
Adams leans into her signature blend of heartfelt vulnerability, gentle humor, and slow-build chemistry. Early buzz points to themes of second chances, healing past wounds, and the kind of romance that unfolds with warmth rather than melodrama.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- A major emotional payoff for long-time fans of the series.
- A cozy, feel-good read ideal for the holiday season.
Perfect for anyone craving a hopeful, comfort-first love story to close out the year.
The Mating Game – Lana Ferguson
Release date: December 2, 2025
Lana Ferguson dives back into paranormal romance with a story that thrives on tension, humor, and supernatural sizzling chemistry. Centered around a reluctant pairing between a human contractor and a brooding wolf shifter, the narrative spirals from forced proximity into an irresistibly heated connection.
While it shares the universe of earlier works, this title stands on its own, making it accessible to newcomers and longtime fans alike.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- Paranormal romance continues its resurgence, and Ferguson’s blend of wit and spice hits the mood perfectly.
- Offers a blend of romance and fantasy with unapologetic intensity.
Ideal for readers who like their winter reads bold, playful, and a little wild.
We Who Will Die (Empire of Blood #1) – Stacia Stark
Release date: Expected December 30, 2025
Launching a brand-new series, this dark and dramatic romantasy introduces a Roman-inspired world where vampires rule through fear and spectacle. The story unfolds amid political unrest, brutal competitions, and forbidden attraction, offering a high-stakes narrative infused with slow-burn romance.
Stark’s new saga promises vivid world-building and relentless emotional tension, placing characters in moral grey zones where survival comes at a brutal cost.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- Positioned as a must-read for fans of epic, character-driven romantasy.
- Presents a dramatic, immersive entry into a new fantasy universe.
A title expected to dominate fantasy conversations heading into the new year.
Crowntide (Lightlark #4) – Alex Aster
Release date: December 2, 2025
The Lightlark phenomenon continues with Crowntide, following Isla Crown as she navigates the mysterious and treacherous realm of Skyshade. With ancient power struggles, shifting alliances, and looming danger, the narrative escalates both emotionally and politically.
This chapter deepens the mythology of the series while testing loyalties and pushing characters toward irreversible choices.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- Continuation of one of the most influential YA fantasy sagas in recent years.
- High emotional stakes following major cliffhangers in previous books.
Expect high drama, impossible choices, and fan-favourite twists.
An Arcane Inheritance – Kamilah Cole
Release date: Late December 2025 (varies by region)
Set in an elite university steeped in hidden power, this dark academia fantasy explores how magic is controlled, inherited, and weaponized within oppressive systems. As secret societies tighten their grip, the story interrogates identity, history, and the cost of institutional privilege.
With sharp social commentary and an eerie, atmospheric vibe, this debut has already sparked significant anticipation.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- Combines fantasy with cultural critique and academic intrigue.
- Appeals to fans of morally complex storytelling.
A haunting, cerebral read for those who like their magic tinged with consequence.
Canticle – Janet Rich Edwards
Release date: December 2, 2025
This literary historical novel transports readers to thirteenth-century Bruges, following a devout young woman grappling with faith, independence, and personal awakening. Rich, meditative, and deeply intimate, the story sheds light on medieval women’s spiritual and emotional lives.
Its contemplative pacing and vivid setting make for a powerful immersion into a rarely explored perspective.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- Sheds light on women’s experiences in medieval religious communities.
- A quiet, deeply reflective historical narrative.
A thoughtful choice for readers seeking sincerity and atmosphere.
Dawn of the Firebird – Sarah Mughal Rana
Release date: December 2, 2025 (Deluxe edition)
This revenge-driven fantasy follows a displaced princess determined to reclaim power in a world shaped by political intrigue and cultural conflict. Blending emotionally resonant prose with expansive world-building, the story captures the cost and complexity of ambition.
Praise highlights its originality, richly textured setting, and morally conflicted heroine.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- Features Islamicate-inspired world-building and emotionally charged themes.
- Strong appeal among fantasy readers seeking diverse epic storytelling.
A grand, cinematic adventure fueled by vengeance and resilience.
Fallen Gods (Fallen Gods #1) – Rachel Van Dyken
Release date: December 2, 2025
Drawing from Norse mythology, this adult romantasy centers on a woman raised as a weapon, bonded to gods and destiny. As ancient enemies awaken and loyalties blur, the story explores power, control, and forbidden desire.
High emotion and higher stakes define this new series opener.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- Blends myth retelling with emotionally intense romance.
- A strong entry point for readers transitioning into fantasy romance.
Expect passion, peril, and powerful mythic echoes.
Tailored Realities – Brandon Sanderson
Release date: December 2025
This short fiction collection showcases Sanderson at his most inventive, assembling stories that span across science fiction and fantasy landscapes. Anchored by a new original piece, the volume collects previously scattered works into one cohesive offering.
Perfect for readers seeking variety and sharp storytelling in smaller doses.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- A must-have for longtime fans and completists.
- Ideal for short, immersive reading sessions during the busy holiday season.
A sampler platter of Sanderson’s imaginative range.
Tender Cruelty (Dark Olympus #9) – Katee Robert
Release date: December 2, 2025
This long-awaited installment finally brings Zeus and Hera to the forefront in Katee Robert’s bold reimagining of Greek mythology. As Olympus teeters on the brink and personal grudges take center stage, the story dives deep into fractured power dynamics and smoldering tension.
Expect emotional unraveling, political chaos, and signature steam.
Why it’s so anticipated:
- Focuses on one of the most iconic and volatile mythic relationships.
- Critical turning point in the fan-favorite series.
For loyal readers, this one’s set to be a dramatic highlight.
