The past months have been both an activist’s nightmare and an activist’s dream. There’s so much that’s wrong with the world, and there’s so much potential to fix it. If you’re looking to get mobilized and take some action, a good way to start is by reading up on some serious subjects; we may be suffering from a “campaign against established knowledge,” but that’s why it’s more important than ever to remain informed. These three new books in this week’s book club give us a history of activism and suggestions on where to go next, so turn your beach vacay into a battle station, and read on.
The girls were reading this year — and reading a lot of romance books at that. And while you may think all romance books are some variation of sex and happily-ever-afters, there are way more different types of stories you can read, from "fated mates" to "friends-to-lovers." According to Tempt's co-founder and COO, Anna Baidachnaya says there are actually six very clear trends with the romance books that everyone loved this year, too — and they may shock you! We know romantasy books reigned supreme, but they didn't have all the fun.
Keep scrolling to see which trends won the popularity contest!
The top romance trends readers kept reaching for — plus which books to read to get the best of them!
1. Fated Mates
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Baidachnaya says, "2024 was a year of shifting fantasies. At the beginning of the year, women leaned into escapism, and Fated Mates reigned supreme. These stories of love destined by fate offer reassurance and hope, a comforting reminder that some things are meant to be."
Our top picks for fated mates romance books:
The God and the Gumihoby Sophie Kim
Kim Hani may look like human, but she's harboring a secret that has ties to her mythical past. She's reformed because, well, she's full and doesn't need to eat as much as she did. Now she spends her time helping customers at a café where a grumpy god named Seokga frequently visits.
They're forced to work together when a powerful demon starts causing trouble in the town they live in and it seems their plans are destined to fail at first. However, time reveals that some things are bound by fate...even the love they develop for each other.
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A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams
Ricki Wilde and Ezra cross paths after the funeral heiress moves to Harlem to escape the expectations of her family. But the more the latter tries to put distance between them, the more they're drawn together. Eventually, it's revealed that Ezra's been harboring secrets that transcend time and Ricki's at the center of it all.
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Sex, Lies and Sensibility by Nikki Payne
Nora is completely shocked when she realizes her father kept secrets about the way she was conceived — and it weighs heavy on her. She's also managed to do something that's had a lasting impact on her, leaving her to depend on her sister and vice versa.
Though she and her sister have to find a way to save an inn, they realize they're in over their heads for several reasons. One happens to be Ennis "Bear" Freeman. He has low expectations of them until he senses something in Nora that stirs his passion.
It's clear something strong exists between them, but there's more to "Bear" than he's willing to share.
3. Werewolves and Shape Shifters
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"As the year moved forward, we noticed a shift in preferences. By spring, the mystical allure of Werewolves and Shape Shifters captivated audiences. These tales resonate with listeners navigating personal transformations, offering an intriguing mix of wild passion and self-discovery," says Baidachnaya.
Our top werewolves and shape shifter picks:
Brideby Ali Hazelwood
Misery Lark decided to leave behind the politics of being a Vampyre coucilman's daughter by living undetected against normal beings. However, she's unable to refuse the call to perform her duty of marrying the Weres' alpha, Lowe Moreland.
He's as uneasy about their union as she is, but the difference is Misery has her eyes on one prize that she intends to reclaim by any means necessary.
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Zodiac Rising by Katie Zhao
"A vampire, shapeshifter, mortal, and werewolf walk into a bar" isn't something you've heard before, but Zodiac Rising makes sure to introduce you to them anyway. They're an unlikely team, but none of that matters now that 12 zodiac statues are in the hands of evil.
To protect humanity and the mythical world, they'll have to band together to right the wrongs of history — that's if they can get along for five minutes.
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So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison
Sometimes all you need is a new thirst for life to help you realize how much you've been running on auto pilot. Sloane Parker's in a loveless marriage and has stopped yearning for things until a birthday trip with her best friend Naomi changes everything. They meet a group of mysterious strangers that alter Naomi's reality and show her what she's been missing.
3. Alpha Males
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"Alongside this, Alpha Males swept listeners off their feet, embodying strength, passion, and stability in uncertain times. These rugged, dominant heroes captured hearts month after month, holding their ground as perennial favorites," adds Baidachnaya.
Our top picks where alpha males really shined:
The Duke's Unexpected Love by Alexa Aston
James Jones goes from not understanding much about himself to learning he's related to the Duke of Seaton in a short amount of time. He starts adjusting to knowing who he is and finds his place in the elite society.
But then there's Sophie Grant and the seemingly bad luck that's followed her based on her dad's decisions. Things seem to change for the better when Josiah Grant, a wealthy man, comes into her life and becomes her husband. Instead of treating her as beneath him, Josiah gives her the tool to run his business.
Years later, James and Sophie meet each other which makes the former's heart go pitter patter. He doesn't care what the rest of society thinks and pursues her with brilliant fervor that generates ton of whispers.
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Failure to Match by Kyra Parsi
Determined not to fail her difficult client Jackson Sinclair, Jamie puts her all into finding him the perfect love match. He may be insanely rich and handsome, but he's insufferable. Still, she concocts the perfect plan of knowing as much about him as possible.
Things go horribly wrong when Jackson catches her and she's forced to be monitored in a way for a month. But when Jamie starts to see Jackson for who he is, it gets harder to ignore how perfect they are for each other.
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Blood of Dragonsby Penelope Barsetti
After being captured by Talon, Calista can't tell whether she should like or despise him. He's not completely evil, as there's more to him than he likes to show. Still, he's the reason for her suffering so she makes a pact with her dragon Inferno: get rid of the Death King.
When she takes up refuge with her uncle and Queen Eldinar, she signs her fate and the Death King comes to collect — except his appearance makes her realize just how much trouble she's in.
4. Enemies to Lovers
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Baidachnaya says, "Toward the end of the year, modern and relatable themes took the spotlight. Enemies to Lovers, with its tension and emotional payoff, emerged as a late-year darling, showing how rivalry can transform into irresistible romance."
Books where enemies to lovers fell in defied the odds:
The Love Interestby Victoria Walters
Liv Jones is a librarian who has huge dreams of become an romance author, but you kind of need inspiration for that. Her problem is that she doesn't have any until her brother's best friend comes to visit. Aiden Rivers is the last person she wants to be around, but what's more frustrating is how attractive he is. Ironically, he gives her all the inspiration she needs to turn her book goals into reality.
But, she can't possibly be that inspired by him, right?
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The Reason I Married Him by Meghan Quinn
Aubree Rowley's got a lot of baggage that doesn't make her the world's friendliest woman. It's surprising when she agrees to marry Wyatt Preston even though they can't stand each other. But, there's something in it for them.
This marriage grants Aubree farm land he's on while Wyatt will be able to snag the family cabin that's been promised to him.
They put on a show to make people believe they're in love, but they fall in love for real.
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Right on Cue by Falon Ballard
Emmy Harper's known for her amazing writing skills in Hollywood, but that doesn't meant she gets it right every time. Because she took so long to settle on a main character, she's been tasked to be the center of Right on Cue.
To add to her irritation, she has to work with the annoying Grayson West. He's the perfect person to cast and Emmy knows this. He's so perfect that she wonders what it would be like if they took their relationship beyond a movie set.
5. Billionaire Romance
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If You Give a Billionaire a Bride by Ann Einerson
Everly Townstead knows she shouldn't be thinking about her brother's rich best friend (Cash Stafford), especially knowing his family wants to stake their claim in. Yet, their 'marriage' trucks along despite her best attempts to pretend she doesn't feel anything for.
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Til Heist Do Us Part by Sara Desai
Simi Chopra and her crew full of thieves did the unthinkable by stealing a diamond necklace, but they had the help of Jack Danger. Their problem? They get a little to cash happy and spend their shares of money.
As it turns out, the necklace they stole belonged to the mafia and they want it back ASAP. So, Simi and everyone rush to retrieve the diamond necklace from a rival. She'll also have to try to stay focused even though she can't stop looking at Jack.
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Wild Love by Elsie Silver
Ford Grant went from being a successful billionaire to parenting a moody pre-teen, much to his dismay. To make matters worse, his best friend's sister is back.
Rosie Belmont has danger written all over her and dares to ask Ford for a job at his company. Even though he tries to ignore her, it gets harder each day until they decide to cross the lines with no care about repercussions.
Which romance trends did you love this year? Let us know on Facebook!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
The home decor trends for 2025 are in, and they’re all about making your home a direct reflection of you. Whether you live to host others or prefer to keep your space super personal, you truly create the home you want!
The 2025 home decor trends we’re most excited about include: little luxuries, ‘70s vibes, postmodernism, intentional design, color drenching, comfy seats, and biophilic design – and the best part is they can all be found at none other than Anthropologie!
Anthro is packed with adorable (yet practical!) home decor pieces that you can easily infuse into your everyday routine.
Scroll on for the top home decor trends for 2025 you can find at Anthropologie!
Anthropologie
Tula Floral Tulip Fields Pedestal Candle
What is life without some little luxuries? 2025 home decor trends are all about embracing what makes you feel good in your space, and if that's this tulip-shaped candle, so be it.
Anthropologie
Toulouse Bone Inlay Six-Drawer Dresser
The '70s are also coming back in 2025, at least in the way of home decor. This rounded-edge dresser gives all the chill vibes – perfect for a bedroom or guest room upgrade!
Anthropologie
Amoret Swivel Chair
Your home should be your personal oasis, and what truly makes that possible is some comfy seating! This gorgeous swivel chair makes the perfect morning coffee chair, reading chair, or chatting with a cocktail in-hand chair.
Anthropologie
Trova Washed Velvet Curtain
Velvet feels so '70s. Bring the decade back with these stunning curtains!
Anthropologie
Maeve by Anthropologie Striped Ruffle Pillow
"Color drenching" is another huge home decor trend for 2025, so don't be shy to embrace all the hues your inner child's craving! These bold throw pillows come in 4 different colors to spark immense amounts of joy.
Anthropologie
Lilla Cotton Quilt
Another pick with immaculate '70s vibes! Dress up your current bedding situation with this cheerful quilt that boasts motifs of bees and flowers.
Anthropologie
Hand-Knit Crochet Heart Cotton Throw Blanket
Seal the deal with this very retro-esque blanket!
Anthropologie
Rainbow Ceramic Bud Vase
Biophilic design will continue to grow in popularity in 2025, which is music to any plant or flower lover's ears. Take this as a nice excuse to refresh your vase collection to put all the blooms into play at home.
Anthropologie
Dominique Bar Cabinet
Postmodernism is also on the rise to be a major 2025 home decor trend. Embracing organic shapes and earthy colors like the ones on this sleek bar cabinet will set your space right.
Anthropologie
Sculptural Performance Velvet Occasional Chair
Need more comfy seating inspo? Look no further than this funky velvet piece.
Anthropologie
Maeve by Anthropologie Scalloped Cotton Towel Collection
Drench your bathroom in color to make getting ready for the day a little less drab!
Anthropologie
Fern Wood Arch Wall Cabinet
Intentional design will always be in, but it's one of the main 2025 home decor trends we're most excited about – mostly because it means employing chic pieces that are also practical, like this wall cabinet! It doubles as storage wherever you want to put it, and a true eye-catching decor piece in itself.
Anthropologie
Eloise Glass Table Lamp
This little luxury would look so sweet on a bedside table or even in a nursery!
Anthropologie
The Gleaming Primrose Vanity Mirror
This mirror, too. It totally makes mundane tasks like skincare and makeup way more entertaining!
Anthropologie
Chloe Tipped Faux-Fur Pillow
These pillows are reminiscent of what you'd see in a '70s conversation pit. Transport your sofa back to the era with all the (faux) fur!
Anthropologie
Grecian Bust Pot
This Grecian bust pot would be perfect for plants. If biophilic design piques your interest, this piece lets you get fancy with it!
Anthropologie
Philippa Frame
Grab a few of these colorful frames for an instant mood boost in your space.
Anthropologie
Fruit Metal Candle Holder
If you want to include some more greenery in your 2025 home decor plans, but don't necessarily have a total green thumb, these fruity candle holders will do the trick!
Anthropologie
Frances Mirror
This postmodern-inspired mirror instantly makes a statement wherever you place it.
Anthropologie
Twiggy Chandelier
This "birdcage" chandelier totally has a retro feel to it. Its sculptural nature will definitely draw attention from visitors and guests in the new year!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Am I really that delusional to think reading the best romance books of the year had something to do with the deepened connection between my fiancé and I? Maybe, maybe not. What I do know is that these books sparked my imagination which led to more dates and the growth of a love language I used to cringe at — consistent physical touch.
If you love the classic romance troupes, you'll enjoy getting to know the many ways people can fall in love with these 10 books.
Here are 10 best romance books that were so spicy — & I totally fell in love with this year!
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1. How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang
How many times will I add this book to a "best of" roundup? It's hard to say, but this probably won't be the last time you hear about How to End a Love Story.
I don't want to cheapen it's plot by saying it follows the familiar enemies-to-lovers troupe because Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard's trajectory stems from a tragic situation they couldn't control. What readers will discover is they were unfairly thrust in the middle of something that requires a lot of them and have had to try to build their lives after it.
The fact they get to work together on an adaptation of one of Helen's most popular books is just the beginning of the dismantling of their rigid shells.
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2. The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren
The Paradise Problemis the other book I'll forever champion because you couldn't tell it was written by two authors! That's right, Christina Lauren is a bestie duo that managed to craft Anna and Liam's story in a way that makes me wish I could meet them in my mind for the first time.
Unknown to them, they're both dealing with family issues. The only difference is that Anna's always know what it's liked to loved and supported by her dad while Liam's had to face a cold, calculating one. Together, they'll learn that a fake relationship can give way to something beautiful if they're able to work past the looming disaster that's waiting for them.
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3. Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell
Rainbow Rowell created magic with Slow Dance and it has everything to do with the fact two best friends didn't realize they were in love with each other. Their names? Shiloh and Cary.
They used to be really close when they were younger, but adulthood pulled them in separate directions and things sort of fell apart. For Shiloh, being a single mother whose dreams didn't pan out the way she wanted feels particularly tough.
Still, attending a friend's wedding gives her a spark of hope and anxiety because she knows she'll see Cary again. When they do lay eyes on each other, all of their memories and unspoken words come rushing back.
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4. The Slowest Burn by Sarah Chamberlain
The Slowest Burn is the only piece of fiction that inspired me to start cooking recipes with my fiancé again this year. It's full of tasty glimpses of recipes and a little spicy romance that'll make you blush.
Ellie Wasserman and Kiernan O'Neill couldn't be more different than each other, but yet they're forced to get a little more acquainted when they get into a verbal spat during the latter's big night at the restaurant he works at. Ellie's supposed to be the ghostwriter for Kiernan's cookbook, but he has no idea what he wants to include and that aggravates Ellie because she thinks he has the privilege of not caring.
However, a weeks days together proves they've misjudged each other and things start heating up in more ways than one.
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5. Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
Just for the Summer is another fun rom-com that I enjoyed reading for it's interesting plot. Justin and Emma find their way into each other's lives as they grapple with having back luck in the love department. They've both watched countless exes find love and happiness after dating them so they decide it's worth date each other for a while before calling it quits. The problem is that their little time on Lake Minnesota comes with a lot more than they bargained for.
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6. This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune
What is it about flings that makes us think they're a good idea? I don't think we have the answers, especially Lucy and Felix. They have a great time together while she's visiting Prince Edward Island, but Felix has very close ties to Lucy's best friend. Over time, Lucy's trips to the island with her bestie Bridget become more frequent and she swears off having another intimate moment with Felix.
One day, Bridget gets a case of the wedding jitters and leaves for Toronto. Wanting to come to figure out what's going on, Lucy trails behind her. She'll have to ease her friend's fears and pretend she doesn't feel anything for the man she can't stop thinking about.
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7. Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan
Ali Morris reminds me of everyone who's know how to help other people keep track of things while their own life is a mess. She's still grieving her mom when her marriage crumbles so she kind of gives up on life. When she decides to at least get out of the house, she meets Ethan...while wearing overalls of all things.
She's not sure what will happen, but she decides to let herself get caught up in Ethan for the summer. She's genuinely surprised when it genuinely seems like Ethan likes her and wouldn't mind having something more than a summer romance.
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8. A Novel Love Storyby Ashley Poston
Eileen Merriweather is a girl after my own heart because she loves reading romance books too. At least they keep her mind off the fact her soon-to-be-husband decided to call off their wedding during the ceremony. The one thing she has to look forward to is the book club retreat she's going to. She's filled with so much excitement until a mishap leaves her stuck in the small town of Eloraton.
It's a place she's read about before which lessens the blow of what's happened until she realizes nothing's progressed from the author's story who's no longer alive. The only person is her way is an irritatingly moody and sexy bookshop owner who doesn't want her meddling in things.
It could be that she and him are the key to putting things on the right track, if only they can get aligned on a plan.
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9. Wild Love by Elsie Silver
Ford Grant doesn't care about having his accomplishments or looks celebrated. He'd actually prefer to set up shop in Rose Hill, but his plans are interrupted when his alleged daughter finds him. So, he runs his business and tries to connect with the moody pre-teen that's become a regular part of his life. Further complicating his life is the presence of Rosie Belmont — the sister of his best friend.
He doesn't hesitate to give her a job when she asks, determined to keep things professional. However, the more he tries to create distance between them, the more she inches closer.
There's so many reasons why Ford should stay away from Rosie, but emotion keeps overriding logic.
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10. A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams
Tia Williams painted a lovely picture of love between two creative artists who find love in Harlem, NY. It starts with Ricki Wilde understanding she's nothing like her sisters or wealthy family in Atlanta. She'd rather pursue a more freeing experience that's not bound by so many stuffy rules and the terrible romantic picks she keeps running into.
As Ricki gets settled in Harlem, she ends up meeting Ezra and that's when time and love begin to give way to something greater than she could've ever imagined.
Don't miss out on the overall best books I read in 2024! Check out our storefront for even more good reads to pick up this year!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Colleen Hoover stans, listen up! While the announcement that Anne Hathaway would lead CoHo's Verity movie broke the Brit + Co group chat, it has nothing on the announcement that was made today: she'll be joined by the one and only Dakota Johnson. And we freaked out. Dakota is a master at intrigue and suspense, and I can't think of anyone else who'd be able to draw us into the story like she will.
Verity follows it-girl author Verity Crawford (Anne Hathaway) and her husband Jeremy, who hire Lowen Ashleigh (Dakota Johnson) to finish the remaining books in Verity's series. But as Lowen starts to take a closer look at their lives, she comes to the horrifying realization that not all is as it seems. While It Ends With Us is Colleen Hoover's most popular and widely-known title, Verity is regarded as one of the wildest — and I'm sure the movie is going to be the same.
You already know Anne Hathaway, meet the rest of the Verity cast before the movie premieres!
1. Anne Hathaway as Verity Crawford
John Nacion/Getty Images
The Princess Diaries' Anne Hathaway leads the new movie as Verity Crawford, author, wife, and (apparently) secret keeper.
2. Dakota Johnson as Lowen Ashleigh
Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
Dakota Johnson stars as Lowen Ashleigh, a down-on-her-luck writer who's confident working for Verity is her big break.
The actress is also starring in Celine Song's upcoming rom-com Materialists, and told Brit + Co just how much she loved working with "big idiots" Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans.
3. Josh Hartnett as Jeremy Crawford
Theo Wargo/Getty Images
We'll also see Trap's Josh Hartnett as Jeremy Crawford, Verity's husband.
The Verity movie isn't the only Colleen Hoover book adaptation in the works! Read up on the latest news on Regretting You, starring Allison Williams and McKenna Grace.
If there’s one recipe you 100 percent need to crank out some seriously festive Christmas dessert ideas, it’s the classic, basic sugar cookie. Some of the most intricately ordained, masterpiece cookies (like pink Christmas decorations, jolly reindeer, and llamas) begin with a simple foundation. Let’s start with this recipe we love for a vanilla-bean-speckled version that’s sure to hold its own under all that royal icing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter (room temperature + cubed)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
- 1 egg
- 3 cups flour
Directions
Using an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add vanilla bean and egg. Mix until just incorporated. Stop mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
Gradually add flour (you may not need the full three cups), and mix until dough forms and pulls away from the bowl. Divide dough into two even discs and wrap in cling wrap, then refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.
When ready to roll dough, pre-heat oven to 350°F and line baking trays with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Using a rolling pin, roll cookie dough between two pieces of parchment paper to 1/4-inch in thickness, and use cookie cutters to cut out cookie shapes.
Transfer cookies to a baking tray using a lightly floured spatula. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before baking.
Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or when edges begin to brown. The time will be dependent on size and thickness of cookies.
Decorate your easy Christmas cookies to you and your family's liking!
Check out our baking and cooking classes for more recipes to make at home!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
See our ‘Grammable Holiday Cookie Guide.
Recipe via Vickie Liu; photos via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co