10 Must-Read Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books Coming Out in December 2025
- Joao Nsita
- 4 hours ago
- 13 min read
As the year draws to a close and the winter solstice approaches, the literary world prepares to offer us one final gift: a spectacular lineup of new releases. December is often a quiet month for publishing, but 2025 is breaking the mold. We are seeing a massive surge in high-stakes fantasy, intricate sci-fi, and the ever-popular "romantasy" genre that has dominated BookTok and Pinterest boards throughout the year.
If you have been scrolling through social media lately, you have likely noticed the "Winter Arc" trend—where people commit to self-improvement, cozy habits, and deep reading during the colder months. There is no better way to embrace this than by diving into a new world. The trends this season are leaning heavily into "Dark Academia" (think secret societies and forbidden magic), "Vampire Revivals" (gritty, Roman-inspired bloodsuckers), and "Cosmic Horror" hidden within rural settings.
We have curated a list of the ten most anticipated Science Fiction and Fantasy books hitting the shelves this December. These aren't just books; they are portals to other dimensions, perfect for escaping the grey skies of winter. From the conclusion of viral TikTok series to the debuts of darker, edgier narratives, here is everything you need to read before the year ends.
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10. An Arcane Inheritance (Deluxe Edition) by Kamilah Cole
Release Date: December 30, 2025 Genre: Dark Academia / Contemporary Fantasy
Starting our list at number ten is a title that perfectly encapsulates the "Dark Academia" aesthetic that has taken over Pinterest. An Arcane Inheritance by Kamilah Cole promises to be a modern-day twist on the genre, specifically targeting fans of R.F. Kuang’s Babel and Naomi Novik’s A Deadly Education.
The Premise The story introduces us to Warren University, an institution that stands among the ivy elite. However, its prestige is built on a foundation of bones—specifically, the forbidden magic of its most prized BIPOC students. The university hides the rot of a secret society desperate to keep their powers burning bright, regardless of the cost. Enter Ellory Morgan, a determined freshman set on proving she belongs in these hallowed halls. But as she settles in, the ornate buildings and shadowy paths feel terrifyingly familiar. A sense of déjà vu grows into something sinister, and Ellory realizes she has been here before. To save herself from being lost for good, she must convince Hudson Graves, a brooding legacy student, to help her remember a past that magic is trying to erase.
Why It’s Must-Read Kamilah Cole is tackling institutional power dynamics through the lens of magic, a theme that resonates deeply in current fantasy literature. The deluxe edition releasing in December implies beautiful packaging, likely with the sprayed edges and foil stamping that collectors go wild for. This book explores the price of power and the refusal to let the corrupt win.
Pairing Suggestion Reading about high-stakes academic magic requires a snack that feels sophisticated yet comforting. We recommend pairing this read with our Cheddar and Chive Scones. They are the perfect savory treat to nibble on while uncovering dark secrets in an ivory tower.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → An Arcane Inheritance by Kamilah Cole
9. Crowntide (The Lightlark Saga Book 4) by Alex Aster
Release Date: December 2, 2025 Genre: YA Fantasy / Action & Adventure
Coming in at number nine is the highly anticipated conclusion to a series that owes much of its success to the viral nature of BookTok. Alex Aster’s Lightlark saga has sold over three million copies, and Crowntide looks to be an explosive finale.
The Premise Isla Crown has charted a new destiny. She is leaping into the unknown to defeat her insidious ancestor, Lark. The setting shifts to Skyshade, a realm that is nothing like Isla anticipated. She must utilize every skill she has honed over the previous three books just to survive. Meanwhile, fan-favorite characters Grim and Oro are willing to set fire to their own kingdoms rather than leave Isla stranded. The plot hinges on a fragile alliance forged to get her back, requiring the forgiveness of long histories of betrayal. Isla must reconcile her past to carve out a future, with the fate of the realms hanging in the balance.
The Hype Alex Aster has mastered the art of the cliffhanger and the love triangle. This book promises secrets, deception, and romance—the trifecta of YA fantasy. Readers who have followed Isla’s journey from the Centennial to this final confrontation will be desperate to see how the threads weave together.
Pairing Suggestion A series finale is a bittersweet event that calls for a classic comfort food. As you turn the final pages of Crowntide, enjoy a batch of our Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies. Sweet, chewy, and satisfying, they are the emotional support snack you’ll need for the end of an era.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → Crowntide by Alex Aster
8. Children of Fallen Gods (The War of Lost Hearts, 2) by Carissa Broadbent
Release Date: December 9, 2025 Genre: Epic Fantasy / Romance
At number eight, we have the second installment in The War of Lost Hearts series by Carissa Broadbent. Broadbent has become a titan in the indie-turned-traditional fantasy space, known for her heart-wrenching character arcs and intricate magic systems.
The Premise The tagline sets the tone: "No war can be fought with clean hands." Tisaanah has bargained away her freedom to save those she left behind in slavery. Now bound by a blood pact, she is forced to fight the Orders’ war. Max, her love interest and mentor, is determined to protect her, but a betrayal tears their world apart. Tisaanah must gamble with a dark power known as Reshaye, while Max is forced into a leadership role he never wanted, confronting his mysterious past. Darker forces loom over them, and the central question becomes: what are they willing to sacrifice for victory, power, and love?
Why Read It? If you love high stakes and "hurt/comfort" tropes, this is for you. Broadbent excels at writing trauma and resilience. The magic system involving the "Orders" and the sentient weapon Reshaye provides a unique twist on standard fantasy warfare.
Pairing Suggestion This book is heavy on war, strategy, and emotional turmoil. You need comfort food that warms you from the inside out. We suggest making our Cozy Chicken Pot Pie Bites with Biscuits. They are hearty, warm, and perfect for sustaining you through a reading marathon.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → Children of Fallen Gods by Carissa Broadbent
7. Tailored Realities by Brandon Sanderson
Release Date: December 9, 2025 Genre: Sci-Fi Anthology
Number seven brings us a collection from one of the most prolific authors in the genre, Brandon Sanderson. Known primarily for his massive Cosmere fantasy universe, Tailored Realities showcases his versatility in science fiction and short-form storytelling.
The Premise This collection gathers ten works of short fiction, including the never-before-published novella "Moment Zero." It spans genres from futuristic detective thrillers to inventive space operas and superhero action. It includes stories like "Snapshot," "Perfect State," and "Defending Elysium" (which connects to his Skyward series).
The Appeal For fans who are intimidated by the sheer size of The Stormlight Archive, this anthology is a perfect entry point. It offers bite-sized concepts that display Sanderson’s greatest strength: his creativity. "Snapshot," for example, deals with a detective agency that can recreate a specific day in the past to solve crimes—a concept worthy of a Christopher Nolan film.
Pairing Suggestion Short stories are great for quick bursts of reading, perhaps in the morning before the day starts. Match the high-energy concepts of Sanderson’s sci-fi with our Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso. It provides the caffeine kick you need to keep up with the twists and turns of "Moment Zero."
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → Tailored Realities by Brandon Sanderson
6. The Village at the Edge of Noon by Darya Bobyleva
Release Date: December 2, 2025 Genre: Horror / Folk Fantasy / Weird Fiction
At number six, we have a translation debut that promises to be one of the most unique reads of the year. The Village at the Edge of Noon taps into the "Slavic Folklore" trend that has been gaining traction in the fantasy community.
The Premise Residents of a village outside Moscow wake up to find the road to the motorway gone. The woods have transformed into a dark, overgrown forest inhabited by "something mysterious and unfriendly." People who venture in vanish or return changed. The internet is down, and the weather never changes. Time seems to loop. Strange noises and visitations plague the villagers. Katya, a solitary young woman, is the only one who begins to glimpse the truth of what is happening as the forest looms closer.
Why It’s Unique This book explores the concept of the "uncanny." It takes the familiar—a summer village—and twists it into a nightmare where time loops and isolation breeds madness. It is described as a mix of Twin Peaks and Russian folklore.
Pairing Suggestion For a book this atmospheric and earthy, you need a dish that reflects the setting. Our Roasted Pumpkin with Honey & Olive Oil is simple, rustic, and delicious. The sweetness of the honey contrasts with the dark themes of the book, grounding you in reality while you read about a village slipping out of it.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → The Village at the Edge of Noon by Darya Bobyleva
5. Something Wicked (Idle Reputations) by Falon Ballard
Release Date: December 2, 2025 Genre: Fantasy / Political Thriller / Romance
Number five is a fascinating departure for Falon Ballard, who is typically known for her contemporary romantic comedies. Something Wicked appears to be a high-stakes fantasy romance with a gritty political edge.
The Premise The country of Avon is in turmoil after an uprising overthrows the monarchy. A decree states that presidential candidates must complete a special task: kill the former monarch of their home province. Callum, the son of the dethroned king, wants to run. To come to terms with the patricide he must commit, he seeks the help of Lady Caterine, a "Gifted" courtesan at La Puissance, a premier sex club. Caterine has the magical ability to manipulate emotions via intimacy. As they bond, they discover a dark force building within the club that threatens the future of Avon.
The Vibe This book sounds incredibly spicy and politically complex. It mixes elements of Game of Thrones political maneuvering with a unique, magic-based romance system. The "Gifted" concept adds a layer of fantasy to the gritty revolution setting.
Pairing Suggestion A book set partly in a high-end club with themes of desire and danger calls for a decadent dessert. Our Chocolate Lava Cakes for Two are the perfect accompaniment. Rich, molten, and indulgent, they match the intensity of Callum and Caterine’s connection.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → Something Wicked by Falon Ballard
4. Graveyard of Demons (Saga of the Forgotten Warrior, 5) by Larry Correia
Release Date: December 2, 2025 Genre: Epic Fantasy / Grimdark
Coming in at number four is the penultimate entry in Larry Correia’s Saga of the Forgotten Warrior. This series is a favorite among fans of hard-hitting action fantasy and complex caste systems.
The Premise Ashok Vadal, the hero of the people, lives! Once a Protector enforcing the Capitol’s strict laws, he now leads the rebellion against it. The Capitol is teetering on collapse, and the Great Extermination is spreading. Ashok, wielding his black steel sword, must unite with Thera, a prophet, to stop Grand Inquisitor Omand Vokkan. Vokkan has struck a pact with ancient demons to annihilate the casteless. Ashok must traverse deserts and battle sea demons in a world where lines between friend and foe are blurred.
Why Read It? Correia is a master of action sequences. If you like your fantasy with tactile combat, high stakes, and a world inspired by Indian mythology and caste systems, this series is top-tier. It’s gritty, fast-paced, and building toward a massive conclusion.
Pairing Suggestion This is a book about warriors, deserts, and rebellion. You need a meal that is easy to make but satisfying enough to fuel a revolution. Our Sheet Pan Chicken with Apples & Delicata Squash is the perfect low-effort, high-reward dinner to eat while you devour this page-turner.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → Graveyard of Demons by Larry Correia
3. The Mills of the Gods by Tim Powers
Release Date: December 2025 (Digital) Genre: Historical Fantasy / Supernatural Thriller
At number three, we have a standalone novel from the legendary Tim Powers. Powers is famous for "secret histories"—taking real historical events and weaving supernatural explanations into them.
The Premise Set in Paris, 1925. Harry Nolan is an expatriate American illustrator whose life is upended when he is assigned to illustrate an article about the death of a god. The author of the article? Ernest Hemingway. A centuries-old French brotherhood, the Sauteurs, burns down the magazine office to suppress the story. Harry teams up with Vivi Chastain, an orphan possessed by the spirit of a man from a previous life. Guided by Gertrude Stein (who knows the city's supernatural secrets), they must evade the Sauteurs and stop them from sacrificing people to the god Moloch.
The Atmosphere This book oozes atmosphere. Post-war Paris, the Lost Generation of writers, catacombs, and ancient Phoenician gods. It is a heady mix of art history and thriller.
Pairing Suggestion You are reading about 1920s Paris, Hemingway, and Stein. The only appropriate accompaniment is a sophisticated, pumpkin-spiced cocktail that bridges the gap between the cozy season and the roaring 20s. Try our Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini. It’s elegant, caffeinated, and perfect for unravelling supernatural mysteries.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → The Mills of the Gods by Tim Powers
2. The Dark Is Descending (Nytefall Trilogy, 3) by Chloe C. Peñaranda
Release Date: December 2, 2025 Genre: High Fantasy / Romantasy
The runner-up for December is the explosive conclusion to the Nytefall trilogy. Chloe C. Peñaranda has built a massive following with her intricate world-building and emotional character arcs.
The Premise Reeling from a shocking betrayal, Astraea, the Star Maiden, must race to break the curse imprisoning her lover, Nyte. With the loss of daylight, the realm is on the brink of ruin. Astraea must retrieve the Maiden’s broken key to kill the wrathful gods. The stakes are apocalyptic: dragons will fly, gods will face gods, and star-crossed lovers must yield to fate or pay the greatest sacrifice.
The Trends This book hits every major fantasy trend of 2025: celestial magic, "fated mates" vibes (star-crossed lovers), and high-stakes god wars. The deluxe edition features stenciled edges, making it a physical collector's item for the "Bookstagram" crowd.
Pairing Suggestion For a book this sweet and intense, you need a dessert that matches the "celestial" and "autumnal" transition vibes. Our Delicious Pumpkin Carrot Cake is rich, moist, and layered—just like the plot of this trilogy finale.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → The Dark Is Descending by Chloe C. Peñaranda
1. We Who Will Die (Empire of Blood, 1) by Stacia Stark
Release Date: December 30, 2025 Genre: Dark Romantasy / Dystopian Fantasy
Taking the number one spot is the start of a brand new series, We Who Will Die by Stacia Stark. Stark is a bestseller known for the Kingdom of Lies series, and this new book is poised to be the next big obsession for fans of The Hunger Games and Fourth Wing.
The Premise Set in a Roman-inspired world ruled by merciless vampires, Arvelle lives in the perilous Thorn district. To save her brothers, she makes a magically binding vow to kill the emperor, an ancient vampire. But to get close to him, she must enter the Sundering—a gladiator-style arena where only the strongest survive to join the elite guard. She draws the ire of the Primus, the emperor's protector (who happens to be her ex-lover), and allies with the emperor’s sadistic son, Rorrik.
Why It’s Number One This book combines the most potent trends of the year:
Vampires: They are back in a big way, but these aren't the sparkly kind; they are brutal, Roman-esque rulers.
The Arena: The "deadly competition" trope remains undefeated in keeping readers hooked.
Complex Romance: Allying with an ex and a sadistic prince? The romantic tension promises to be off the charts.
Pairing Suggestion A book about vampires, blood oaths, and Roman-inspired decadence needs a meal that is rich, red, and satisfying. Our Turkey & Butternut Squash Lasagna is the perfect comfort food to ground you while you read about Arvelle’s fight for survival in the Sundering.
🔹 Pre-order this book on Amazon → We Who Will Die by Stacia Stark
Conclusion
December 2025 is shaping up to be a monumental month for speculative fiction. Whether you are looking for the intellectual stimulation of Tim Powers’ historical fantasy, the heart-pounding action of Pierce Brown’s sci-fi (if you haven't read Red Rising yet, now is the time to catch up before diving into these new releases), or the romantic tension of Stacia Stark’s vampire court, there is a book on this list for you.
These stories offer more than just entertainment; they provide a necessary escape. They allow us to process complex emotions—grief, hope, rage, and love—through the safety of fiction. So, as the nights get longer, light a candle, bake one of our recommended treats, and open the cover of a new adventure.
Don't forget to stream your favorite adaptations and shows while you wait for your pre-orders to arrive! Check out Amazon Prime Video or Netflix for the latest fantasy series.
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FAQs
1. Are these books available for pre-order? Yes, all the books listed in this article have release dates in December 2025 and are currently available for pre-order on major platforms like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Pre-ordering ensures you get the lowest price and often secures special editions.
2. What is "Romantasy"? Romantasy is a portmanteau of "Romance" and "Fantasy." It refers to books where the romance plot is just as central and important as the fantasy world-building and action. Authors like Sarah J. Maas and Carissa Broadbent are leaders in this genre.
3. Are any of these books suitable for young adults? Yes, Crowntide by Alex Aster is classified as YA (Young Adult). Many others, like We Who Will Die and Children of Fallen Gods, are "New Adult" or Adult, meaning they may contain more graphic violence or explicit romantic content.
4. What is "Dark Academia"? Dark Academia is an aesthetic and literary sub-genre that focuses on higher education, the arts, and classic literature, often with a focus on mystery, secret societies, and a moody, gothic atmosphere. An Arcane Inheritance fits this perfectly.
5. Do I need to read previous books to understand the sequels on this list? For Crowntide, Children of Fallen Gods, Graveyard of Demons, and The Dark Is Descending, yes, you should read the previous books in their respective series to understand the plot. We Who Will Die and An Arcane Inheritance are book ones or standalones.
6. Why are vampires trending again in 2025? Trends are cyclical. After a period of fae and dragon dominance in fantasy, readers are returning to vampires for their themes of immortality, seduction, and gothic horror. Stacia Stark's new book reflects this revival.
7. Is Tim Powers’ book a true story? No, The Mills of the Gods is a work of historical fantasy. While it features real historical figures like Ernest Hemingway and Gertrude Stein, the plot involving supernatural brotherhoods and ancient gods is fictional.
8. What are "sprayed edges"? Sprayed or stenciled edges refer to the decoration on the page edges of a hardcover book. Publishers often release "Deluxe Editions" (like for Stacia Stark's book) where the paper edges are colored or have a design printed on them.
9. Can I listen to these as audiobooks? Most major releases now launch with an audiobook version simultaneously. Check Audible or Libro.fm on the release date.
10. Where can I find the recipes mentioned in this article? You can find all the delicious recipes linked throughout the article on the That Love Podcast website under the "Recipes" or "Blog" section.
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