If you’re the kind of reader who likes fantasy books with a dash (okay, a bucket) of spice, then I am pleased to share my risque, tried, and true list of the best spicy romantasy books on the market thus far.
Don’t worry, these books aren’t just smut. They have plots, excellent dialogue, and intense scenes actual to any fantasy/romantasy stories. But, they’re heavy on romance and spiciness. No judgment here, we’re all adults. Wink, wink, shoulder nudge.
If you enjoyed series like A Court of Thorns and Roses or Fourth Wing, chances are, you’re looking for something similar, or maybe even a bit more ramped up.
I’ve got you covered, friend. Check out these 10 heart-pounding, skin-flushing, blush-inducing spicy romantasy books you absolutely have to read right freaking NOW!
The Best Spicy Romantasy Books on the Market Right Now
A Court of Thorns and Roses Series (ACOTAR) by Sarah J. Maas
Spice Level: 4
Okay, so I know you’ve probably heard and/or read the ACOTAR series by now. It’s only been circulated on the interwebs for years and pushed in our faces by every BookTok influencer in existence. But, if there is a chance that a lost soul stumbles upon this blog and has never dived into the romantic and epic Fae world that is Prythian, it is my honor, no my DUTY, to recommend this beautifully spicy fantasy romance saga. Okay, spiel over. Buy it. Read it. Let me know how my recommendation transformed your life.
PS: the real spicy scenes don’t start until the second book: A Court of Misty and Fury.
Also, check out this guide to the most iconic ACOTAR characters!
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Spice Level: 4
Oh don’t give me that look, you knew this was coming. (clears throat) Okay, so, Fourth Wing is basically the greatest ever. I never even knew I was into dragons until I read this awesome book. But, now they live rent-free in my head. Also, the enemies-to-lovers romance is another thing I never knew I needed, but I’m seriously digging it. This series surprised me how good all of the books are and how I never got bored or uninterested in the storyline or love interest. Plus, there are some seriously spicy scenes throughout, and the build-up in the first book is INSANE.
Psst. If you need more book suggestions similar to Fourth Wing, take a look at this list!
The Serpent and the Wings of Fire by Carissa Broadbent
Spice Level: 3
This series hits a few worthy marks. Dark? Check. Vampires? Check. Enemies to Lovers? Check! If a vampire love story with a Hunger Games twist sounds like something you’d be interested in, I implore you to check out The Serpent and the Wings of Fire. If you’re also into forbidden love and like a Twilight set-up, where a human falls for a vamp, this just might be your book. While the story really hits on the plot, like complex political systems and father/daughter relationships, there is still spice to be had, although it’s in the form of slow-burn (prepare ye-selves).
These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan
Spice Level: 3
The premise of These Hollow Vows is very similar to that of ACOTAR, but with a few twists. Brie, a human, despises faeries and wants nothing to do with them. But when her sister is sold to the Fae king, she makes a deal with the sadistic royal in exchange for her sister. She must steal three magic relics, and to do so, she decides to pose as a potential love interest for a prince. Long story short, she falls for the prince, but then also falls for the leader of a secret agenda. Love triangles galore! This book is sexy, full of action, and a great read for those lost after finishing the ACOTAR series.
A Promise of Fire by Amanda Bouchet
Spice Level: 4
If you like curvy, sassy heroines, alpha male vibes, and a bit of spanking, you are in for a treat ladies and gentlemen. A Promise of Fire has it all: Greek mythology, HOT romance, plentiful adventure, and monsters! Cat, the female lead, can be a bit whiny at times, but this detail is fairly easy to overlook because of the magic and everything else involved (wink, wink). But her inner monologues are also hilarious and cheeky. The world that Bouchet builds is engrossing and quickly transports you into a dimension you never want to leave.
The Song of the Marked by S.M. Gaither
Spice Level: 3
Magic, monsters, and meddling gods sound like a recipe for an epic fantasy saga. And you would be right! To summarize this book, consider a more mature and explicit version of Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas. OR, if Throne of Glass had a baby with Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout! Ooh, now I have your attention. The Song of the Marked is a high fantasy with shapeshifters and warriors set in Medieval times. It has forbidden love and a badass heroine. What’s more to love?
Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
Spice Level: 3
A spy and warrior princess sent to infiltrate a rival kingdom under the guise of a bride, ends up falling passionately in love with the king and must choose which kingdom she serves. It’s an intriguing plot with steamy forbidden love, but this story also serves as a reminder that there is always more than one point of view and that sometimes our worldviews can be clouded by the ones we love or idolize.
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Spice Level: 4
Move over Young Adult, New Adult has entered the building! Armentrout’s romantasy series has been hailed as a must-read for those who like Sarah J. Maas’ books. Plus, the spice level is similar, so you won’t be disappointed there. I, personally, thought the writing and character development needed more work. But, there were some really great things about the book, like the overall story arc and world-building.
Neon Gods by Katee Robert
Spice Level: 5
Okay, let’s start off by saying that Neon Gods is probably the spiciest book on this list. It is an explicit retelling of Hades and Persephone and checks many boxes when it comes to fantasy. But, be forewarned. Neon Gods is more spice than it is plot. If that’s you’re thing, you will love it. If you need more world-building, action, and tying up loose ends, this book may not be for you.
House of Earth and Blood (Crescent City Series) by Sarah J. Maas
Spice Level: 3
This book is all at once fierce, sexy, and cozy. It takes a little while until you feel like you’ve got a good grip on all of the different characters and basic plot, but once you do, you will settle into a nice groove all the way through. By the end of this lengthy novel, you will be so accustomed to the characters, that you won’t want it to end. Maas does it again with this excellent series. And, as always, there are quite a few spicy times, especially later in the saga.
I hope you enjoyed this list of spicy romantasy books! Drop a comment if you have any more to add!