Are you ready to dive headfirst into a world where love and magic intertwine in the most enchanting—and sometimes totally heart-wrenching—ways? Welcome to the genre that understands you completely: romantasy! That’s right, it’s that delicious blend of romance and fantasy, where mystical realms and magical powers are as essential as the swoon-worthy love stories at their core. Because let’s be honest, what’s more addictive than a tale of two people destined (or cursed!) to be together, fighting forces beyond our world?
Whether you’re a sucker for enemies-to-lovers banter, royal intrigue, or the ultimate forbidden love, there’s a romantasy book out there with your name written in the stars—or maybe in ancient runes. In this list, we’re spotlighting 15 must-read romantasy books that bring the drama, the adventure, and, of course, all the feels. Grab a cozy blanket and a quiet corner, because these are the stories you’ll want to escape into and never come back from. Welcome to the magical (and oh-so-romantic) world of romantasy!
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A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR Series) by Sarah J. Maas
Buy the ACOTAR book set for $52.00
What would a romantasy book list be without ACOTAR?!
If you want to know what ACOTAR character you are most like – check out this personality quiz!
Brief Synopsis:
The story kicks off with Feyre Archeron, a human huntress struggling to keep her family alive, who finds herself dragged into the faerie lands of Prythian after killing a wolf in the woods. Unbeknownst to her, the wolf was actually a fae in disguise, and now she’s bound by an ancient treaty to serve her captor, Tamlin, a High Lord of the Spring Court. But as Feyre unravels the mysteries surrounding her new home and its alluringly dangerous inhabitants, she realizes there’s much more at stake than her freedom—and that her heart might be in jeopardy too.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
ACOTAR brings together a fierce heroine, a richly imagined fae world, and a slow-burn romance that will make your heart race. Maas’s storytelling is known for its emotional highs and lows, and this series is no exception. Feyre’s journey from survival-driven human to resilient fae warrior, all while navigating complex relationships and unraveling dark secrets, makes this series unputdownable and one of the best romantasy books out there. Not to mention, there’s an unexpected shift in the romance plot that will have you questioning everything—and reaching for the next book immediately.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for readers who crave a high-stakes mix of fantasy and romance with lots of twists, tension, and characters who grow (and smolder) with every book. If you love fae lore, intense love triangles, and a strong female lead, ACOTAR is a series you can’t miss.
Read this article next for an in-depth character analysis of the most iconic characters and villains of ACOTAR!
The Fourth Wing (Empyrean Series) by Rebecca Yarros
Buy The Fourth Wing on Amazon for $16.99
Brief Synopsis:
Enter the world of Basgiath War College, where only the strongest survive. Violet Sorrengail, a bookish and reluctant warrior, is thrown into this brutal academy by her mother, the General, to train as a dragon rider. The catch? Dragon riders are typically brawny soldiers, and Violet, with her smaller frame and a tendency to rely on wits over brute strength, seems ill-suited for the job. But with dangerous classmates, life-or-death challenges, and an unpredictable (and swoon-worthy) rival named Xaden Riorson, Violet finds herself fighting not only for survival but for her place among the fiercest warriors—and possibly for her heart.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
The Fourth Wing stands out as a fresh, exhilarating take on fantasy romance (regularly voted as one of the best romantasy books to date). Yarros blends high-stakes action with electrifying romance, weaving Violet’s growth from an underestimated underdog into a fierce competitor. The school’s ruthless environment, combined with the simmering tension between Violet and Xaden, makes for a page-turner that will have you rooting for their unlikely bond—and wondering who will make it out alive. Plus, the dragon lore and battle scenes add a captivating layer of thrill to this romantasy adventure.
Suggested Audience:
Ideal for readers who love a strong female protagonist, edge-of-your-seat survival stories, and a hefty dose of romance with a side of enemies-to-lovers tension. If you enjoyed Throne of Glass or Red Queen, The Fourth Wing will sweep you away with its unique world-building and unforgettable characters.
The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
Buy The Serpent and the Wings of Night on Amazon for $16.97
Brief Synopsis:
Oraya, a human raised in a world of vampires, has learned to survive on her own terms. Adopted by the feared vampire king, she’s a cunning, resilient fighter determined to prove her worth in the world of deadly night creatures. When she enters the Kejari, a brutal competition held by the goddess Nyaxia, she finds herself battling vampires and risking everything to win. But her survival becomes infinitely more complicated when she meets Raihn, a rival vampire warrior who both intrigues and infuriates her. Their tentative alliance blurs the line between enemies and something much deeper, pulling Oraya into a whirlwind of forbidden attraction and deadly stakes.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
The Serpent and the Wings of Night is a dark, tantalizing tale that combines intense, blood-pounding action with a swoon-worthy slow-burn romance. Broadbent crafts a beautifully haunting world filled with rich lore, suspense, and deep emotional stakes. Oraya’s journey from a lone survivor to a fierce contender is as gripping as her chemistry with Raihn, which unfolds with plenty of tension and fierce banter. This romantasy book brings just the right amount of danger, heart, and romance, making it hard to put down.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for fans of dark fantasy and forbidden love, especially those who enjoy enemies-to-lovers dynamics and fierce, complex heroines. If you loved A Court of Thorns and Roses or Kingdom of the Wicked, The Serpent and the Wings of Night will enchant you with its intense battles, fierce romance, and lush, dangerous world.
Powerless by Laurent Roberts
Buy Powerless on Amazon for $14.97
Brief Synopsis:
In a kingdom ruled by those with powerful abilities, powerless Mara never quite fit in. She’s lived in the shadows, blending in to survive in a society that values power above all else. But when fate throws her into an unexpected alliance with Alac, the charming yet troubled son of the kingdom’s cruel ruler, Mara’s world turns upside down. Alac has secrets of his own, and together, they form an uneasy partnership that slowly ignites into something more. As they confront dark forces and unravel dangerous plots, Mara must confront her own potential—and redefine what it means to be truly powerful.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Powerless captivates with a compelling mix of romance, rebellion, and self-discovery. Roberts skillfully develops Mara’s growth from an overlooked outsider to someone who realizes the depth of her strength, even without traditional power. The push-and-pull relationship between Mara and Alac is as addictive as it is heart-wrenching, with enough angst and longing to keep you hooked. This romantasy book delivers thrilling twists and an underdog story that resonates, making it a truly empowering read for anyone who’s ever felt out of place.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for readers who love romantasy books and stories about hidden strength, complex relationships, and underdog heroes. If you enjoy slow-burn romances with high stakes, a touch of rebellion, and the allure of forbidden love, Powerless will pull you in with its rich character dynamics and sweeping fantasy setting. Fans of Shadow and Bone and Defy the Night will find this a must-read addition to their bookshelf.
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Buy From Blood and Ash on Amazon for $15.99
Brief Synopsis:
Poppy has always been known as the Maiden, chosen by the gods and destined to bring honor to her people. But her life is far from her own—isolated, heavily guarded, and forbidden to interact with others. Despite her sheltered existence, Poppy has a fierce spirit and secretly longs for freedom. Everything changes when she meets Hawke, her new guard with a mysterious past and a charm she can’t ignore. As forbidden desires and hidden truths come to light, Poppy is thrust into a world of war, power struggles, and an ancient evil lurking in the shadows. Gah – romantasy books are awesome!
Why It’s a Must-Read:
From Blood and Ash is a deliciously addictive blend of fantasy, romance, and mystery that keeps you guessing at every turn. Armentrout crafts a captivating world filled with supernatural intrigue and heart-pounding action, all centered around Poppy’s transformation from a cloistered Maiden to a fierce heroine in her own right. The chemistry between Poppy and Hawke is electric, with an intense push-and-pull that leaves readers breathless. This romantasy book delivers both the thrill of epic battles and the emotional stakes of forbidden love, making it impossible to put down.
Suggested Audience:
Ideal for readers who crave stories with high-stakes romance, intricate world-building, and a powerful female lead. Fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and Throne of Glass will love From Blood and Ash for its blend of seductive romance and intense fantasy adventure. If you’re drawn to tales of rebellion, resilience, and passion, this series will captivate you from the first page.
House of Earth and Blood (Crescent City Series) by Sarah J. Maas
Buy House of Earth and Blood on Amazon for $19.25
Brief Synopsis:
Bryce Quinlan seems like your average party-loving young woman, but beneath the surface, she’s carrying the weight of a devastating tragedy. In the vibrant city of Crescent City, where fae, shifters, and other magical beings coexist, Bryce’s world is shattered when she loses her closest friends to a brutal murder. Determined to find justice, she teams up with Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel with his own dark past and a ruthless reputation. Together, they dive into Crescent City’s dark underworld, uncovering dangerous secrets and slowly forming a bond that neither of them expected.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
House of Earth and Blood combines Maas’s signature epic storytelling with a rich, urban-fantasy setting that’s as gritty as it is magical. Bryce’s character journey from carefree to courageous is compelling, and her chemistry with Hunt is both fiery and tender, creating an emotional depth that resonates. Maas masterfully weaves themes of love, friendship, and redemption, giving readers a story that’s as heart-wrenching as it is exhilarating. This romantasy book will have you laughing, crying, and desperately flipping pages to unravel the mystery and root for Bryce and Hunt’s romance.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for readers who enjoy urban fantasy with a touch of romance, mystery, and dark intrigue. If you’re a fan of strong, flawed heroines, morally complex love interests, and fast-paced plots, House of Earth and Blood is a must-read. Fans of The Mortal Instruments and A Court of Thorns and Roses will find themselves completely immersed in the Crescent City series, where danger, romance, and magic collide in unforgettable ways.
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
Buy Divine Rivals on Amazon for $11.71
Brief Synopsis:
Set against the backdrop of a world on the brink of war between gods, Divine Rivals follows Iris Winnow, a young newspaper reporter grieving the loss of her brother, who has gone missing on the front lines. Determined to make her mark as a writer and uncover the truth, Iris finds herself entangled in a rivalry with her enigmatic colleague, Roman Kitt. But when mysterious letters begin arriving from Roman, offering words of comfort and understanding, their rivalry takes an unexpected turn. As the divine conflict intensifies, Iris and Roman are pulled into a story of love, fate, and the power of words, discovering that sometimes, even in a world divided by gods, human connection can bridge any divide.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Divine Rivals is a beautifully crafted romantasy that blends lyrical prose with a deeply emotional love story. Ross’s storytelling is both tender and intense, bringing readers into a world where love and fate intertwine amidst the chaos of divine warfare. Iris’s journey of resilience, as she battles her grief and uncovers her own strength, is inspiring, while her chemistry with Roman brings a deliciously slow-burn romance filled with letters, longing, and unspoken words. This is a novel that captures the beauty and pain of love, set against a unique fantasy world with high emotional stakes.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for readers who love epistolary romances, complex character dynamics, and stories about love in times of turmoil. If you enjoyed other romantasy books like The Night Circus or Letters to the Lost, Divine Rivals will resonate with its romantic tension, poetic writing, and the poignant journey of two people brought together by fate. Ideal for romantasy fans who crave both emotional depth and beautifully written prose.
Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber
Buy Once Upon a Broken Heart on Amazon for $6.72
Brief Synopsis:
Evangeline Fox has always believed in true love, but when the love of her life is stolen away, she strikes a desperate deal with the infamous Prince of Hearts, Jacks. In a world where magic is both enchanting and treacherous, Evangeline is thrust into a series of magical bargains and games with Jacks, who is as dangerous as he is alluring. As Evangeline journeys through realms filled with curses, secrets, and unexpected alliances, she discovers that nothing—and no one—is quite what it seems, especially when it comes to the Prince of Hearts and her own broken heart.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Once Upon a Broken Heart sweeps readers into a whimsical, fairy-tale-inspired world filled with unexpected twists and the intoxicating allure of forbidden love. Garber’s storytelling is lush and enchanting, crafting a romantasy book that feels like stepping into a dreamy, unpredictable maze. Evangeline’s adventurous spirit and her complicated connection with the charming yet morally gray Jacks bring a delightful tension that will keep readers guessing. This romantasy novel combines romance, adventure, and fairy-tale magic, making it a captivating escape for fans of whimsical fantasy and love stories tinged with mystery.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for fans of fairy tales, morally complex characters, and magical adventures. If you loved Caraval or The Cruel Prince, Once Upon a Broken Heart will captivate you with its charming yet dark world, rich character dynamics, and a romance that’s as heartbreaking as it is intriguing. Ideal for readers who enjoy a mix of magic, romance, and the timeless allure of a fairy-tale setting with a twist.
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
Buy The Cruel Prince on Amazon for $7.38
Brief Synopsis:
Jude Duarte was only seven years old when her parents were murdered, and she and her sisters were taken to live in the High Court of Faerie. Now, as a mortal in a world ruled by deadly and cunning faeries, Jude is determined to prove she belongs among them. But Faerie is as treacherous as it is beautiful, and Jude finds herself in a power struggle with none other than Prince Cardan, a spoiled and wicked faerie prince who despises mortals—especially Jude. As she navigates court politics, betrayal, and unexpected alliances, Jude must decide how far she’s willing to go to carve out a place for herself in the brutal world of Faerie.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
The Cruel Prince delivers a darkly seductive blend of politics, power, and twisted romance that will keep you hooked from the first page. Black’s portrayal of Faerie is lush yet dangerous, and her characters are as complex as they are morally ambiguous. Jude’s fierce determination and her tension-filled relationship with Cardan create a gripping, enemies-to-lovers dynamic that’s impossible to resist. This story of a mortal girl’s ambition in a ruthless faerie court is filled with betrayal, clever twists, and a romance that will have you questioning loyalties and motivations at every turn.
Suggested Audience:
Ideal for fans of dark, morally complex fantasies, enemies-to-lovers romance, and the intricate politics of magical courts. If you enjoyed romantasy books like A Court of Thorns and Roses or Throne of Glass, The Cruel Prince will captivate you with its edgy faerie world, fierce heroine, and addictive love-hate relationship. This is a must-read for those who enjoy their romantasy with a side of intrigue, danger, and unrelenting ambition.
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
Buy One Dark Window on Amazon for $13.67
Brief Synopsis:
Elspeth Spindle lives in a mist-shrouded kingdom cursed by dark magic, and she harbors a dangerous secret: a monster lurks within her mind. Known as the Nightmare, this sinister presence has been her hidden companion since childhood, offering her forbidden magic but at a price. When Elspeth crosses paths with Ravyn, a mysterious highwayman with his own secrets and a plan to overthrow the kingdom’s oppressive rule, she becomes embroiled in a deadly game. Together, they must navigate a world of deception, hidden magic, and ancient curses to survive, but as their fates intertwine, so do their secrets—and the cost of keeping them.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
One Dark Window weaves an atmospheric and haunting tale that combines gothic romance with dark fantasy. Gillig’s writing immerses readers in a world of eerie mists and ancient magic, where trust is scarce, and nothing is as it seems. Elspeth’s relationship with the Nightmare creates a captivating internal conflict, while her connection with Ravyn unfolds in a slow-burn romance laced with tension and danger. This novel is as much a story of self-discovery as it is of love and rebellion, drawing readers into a dark, enchanting world that feels as thrilling as it is unsettling (another win for romantasy books!).
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for fans of dark, atmospheric fantasy with complex characters, forbidden magic, and a touch of the gothic. If you loved Uprooted or The Bear and the Nightingale, One Dark Window will mesmerize you with its haunting setting, intense character dynamics, and a romance shadowed by secrets and curses. This book is ideal for readers who enjoy their romantasy tinged with mystery, darkness, and a beautifully eerie world.
Bride by Ali Hazelwood
Brief Synopsis:
In a twist on the classic marriage-of-convenience trope, Bride follows the story of Emma, a brilliant but down-on-her-luck scientist who’s in desperate need of a fresh start. Enter Lucas, a wealthy businessman with a heart of gold and a serious PR problem. He proposes an arrangement that seems too good to be true: marry him to solve his image issues, and she’ll gain the financial stability to pursue her research dreams. As Emma and Lucas navigate their “fake” marriage, their carefully drawn boundaries begin to blur, sparking an undeniable chemistry that makes it harder to remember what’s real and what’s just for show.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Ali Hazelwood is known for her witty, heartfelt romances that bring together smart, relatable heroines and swoon-worthy love interests, and Bride is no exception. Hazelwood brings humor, intelligence, and emotional depth to this modern romantasy, giving readers a story that’s as fun as it is touching. Emma’s journey from skeptic to someone daring to believe in love is beautifully crafted, while her dynamic with Lucas is filled with banter, chemistry, and a slow burn that keeps the tension building. This book delivers the perfect mix of humor, romance, and emotional resonance.
Suggested Audience:
Ideal for fans of romance with a touch of fantasy, marriage-of-convenience plots, and smart, science-loving heroines. If you enjoyed The Love Hypothesis or The Hating Game, Bride will captivate you with its strong, quirky characters and endearing love story. Perfect for readers who love modern romantasy books with sharp wit, intelligent dialogue, and a heartwarming happily-ever-after.
When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker
Buy When the Moon Hatched on Amazon for $15.46
Brief Synopsis:
In a realm where the cosmos itself pulses with magic, Talia lives a quiet life as a stargazer, one of the few chosen to observe celestial phenomena and predict the future of her world. But when the moon mysteriously hatches, splitting open to reveal an ancient, otherworldly creature, Talia’s life takes an unexpected turn. As she is called upon to join a quest to unravel the meaning behind this celestial event, Talia is paired with Caelum, a brooding warrior with a hidden past and an undeniable connection to the stars. Together, they must navigate a world on the brink of transformation, facing both cosmic threats and a burgeoning attraction that seems written in the stars.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
When the Moon Hatched is a captivating blend of cosmic fantasy and slow-burn romance, taking readers on a journey through a world where the heavens hold as many secrets as the earth below. Parker weaves a beautifully atmospheric tale filled with mystery, adventure, and a romance that feels as vast as the sky. Talia’s journey from quiet stargazer to reluctant heroine, paired with Caelum’s enigmatic strength, creates a dynamic that keeps readers riveted. The story is rich with lore, intrigue, and a romance that simmers with every shared gaze and unsaid word.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for readers who love celestial settings, cosmic mystery, and slow-burn, star-crossed romance. If you enjoyed Strange the Dreamer or Sky in the Deep, When the Moon Hatched will sweep you away with its otherworldly charm, intricate character dynamics, and a romance that feels as fated as the stars. This book is ideal for those who crave fantasy worlds steeped in wonder, lore, and the magic of the night sky.
A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen
Buy a Fate Inked in Blood on Amazon for $16.14
Brief Synopsis:
Set in a Norse-inspired world brimming with gods, magic, and prophecy, A Fate Inked in Blood follows Freya, a shieldmaiden with a mysterious mark and a fate tied to ancient prophecy. Born a warrior but bound by duty to her people, Freya is thrust into a struggle between powerful forces who believe she holds the key to their salvation—or their destruction. Her only ally is Bjorn, a rugged, enigmatic warrior with his own secrets and a connection to the gods. Together, they must navigate dangerous alliances, deadly battles, and a simmering attraction that threatens to ignite their already fated paths.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Jensen delivers an epic romantasy rooted in Norse mythology, blending fierce battles, ancient magic, and a romance as intense as it is forbidden. Freya’s journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, making her a heroine readers can root for, while her chemistry with Bjorn crackles with tension and depth. Jensen’s richly crafted world is filled with mythological intrigue and complex characters, creating a tale where love, destiny, and sacrifice intertwine. This book balances heart-pounding action with an emotional romance that will keep you invested from beginning to end.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for fans of mythology-inspired fantasy, strong warrior heroines, and slow-burn romance with fated lovers. If you enjoyed The Song of Achilles or Sky in the Deep, A Fate Inked in Blood will captivate you with its powerful characters, epic stakes, and a Norse backdrop filled with gods, prophecies, and timeless battles. This is an ideal read for those who love their fantasy with a dash of myth, magic, and a love story woven by fate itself.
A Shadow in the Ember by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Buy A Shadow in the Ember on Amazon for $17.99
Brief Synopsis:
In a world ruled by gods, mortals, and monsters, A Shadow in the Ember follows Seraphena, a young woman fated to serve a purpose far darker than most: she was born to seduce and kill the Primal of Death, a god of immense power who could bring ruin—or salvation—to her kingdom. With her life and loyalty entangled in a dangerous web, Sera’s task becomes complicated when she meets Nyktos, a Primal who is far from the monstrous figure she expected. As she grows closer to him, Sera faces impossible choices between love and duty, all while unraveling secrets that could change the course of destiny itself. Romantasy books give all the feels and goosebumps!
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Jennifer L. Armentrout masterfully crafts a story filled with intrigue, passion, and high-stakes tension that fans of romantasy will love. Sera’s complex journey of self-discovery is enthralling, and her chemistry with Nyktos brings a blend of romance and danger that’s impossible to resist. The novel’s rich world-building, inspired by mythology and layered with magical lore, immerses readers in a story where gods play games, fate has a price, and love defies all boundaries. This romantasy is filled with tension, twists, and the slow-burn romance that Armentrout’s fans have come to adore.
Suggested Audience:
Ideal for readers who love stories of fate, forbidden romance, and morally complex characters in a world of gods and magic. If you enjoyed romantasy books like A Court of Thorns and Roses or Kingdom of the Wicked, A Shadow in the Ember will sweep you into a darkly enchanting world filled with passion, power, and choices that challenge destiny. It’s perfect for anyone craving an intense, myth-inspired romantasy with a heroine who dares to defy her fate.
Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole
Buy Spark of the Everflame on Amazon for $20.99
Brief Synopsis:
In a kingdom where magic is feared and forbidden, Elara lives a quiet life as a healer, hiding her fire-wielding abilities from everyone around her. But when her powers are accidentally revealed, she is thrust into a dangerous journey across a land where magic is hunted and her life is constantly at risk. Alongside Kaden, a mysterious rogue with secrets of his own and an unexpected link to her past, Elara embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about her powers and the legendary Everflame, a source of ancient magic tied to the kingdom’s survival. As sparks fly between them, Elara must decide if she’s willing to embrace her magic, even if it means igniting a revolution.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Spark of the Everflame delivers an enchanting mix of elemental magic, adventure, and romance, creating a world where love and rebellion burn brightly against the odds. Cole’s storytelling draws readers into a journey of self-discovery as Elara learns to embrace her powers and confronts the cost of freedom. The chemistry between Elara and Kaden is electric, blending slow-burn romance with witty banter and heart-stopping tension. With a beautifully built world and a story about courage, acceptance, and the power of magic, this novel captures the essence of romantasy.
Suggested Audience:
Perfect for fans of elemental magic, forbidden romance, and stories about embracing one’s true self. If you loved Serpent & Dove or The Shadows Between Us, Spark of the Everflame will captivate you with its spellbinding romance, layered characters, and an adventurous plot that keeps the pages turning. This book is ideal for readers who crave a story where magic, destiny, and love ignite in a thrilling and heartwarming way.
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