Romantasy is one of the most dynamic and emotionally resonant genres in modern fiction.
It offers the epic scale of fantasy with the character-driven focus of romance, inviting readers into worlds where personal stakes and high-stakes magic are equally powerful.
These stories are bold, immersive, and deeply human—which is exactly why they’re resonating so strongly with both readers and writers.
For anyone looking to write their own romantasy, exploring the standouts of the genre is more than inspiration—it’s a masterclass in how this hybrid form really works.
Why you should read the best romantasy books
The most compelling romantasy books reveal what happens when deep emotion drives the engine of a fantastical world.
Each story in the romantasy genre is a layered blend of imagination, tension, and emotional vulnerability.
By reading closely, you start to see how authors weave character arcs into magical systems, how romance is used to deepen—not distract from—the plot, and how stakes are raised through both personal longing and political unrest.
These novels can sharpen your sense of pacing, show you how to build tension that isn’t always action-based, and teach you how to center emotional truth within high-concept storytelling.
If you’re writing your own romantasy, there’s real value in learning from the books that have resonated most.
1. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
A mortal huntress is drawn into a deadly fae realm where nothing is as it seems—and love may be her greatest risk of all.
This novel launched one of the most influential romantasy series of the last decade. Blending lush worldbuilding with a slow-burning romance, Maas builds a faerie kingdom brimming with danger, decadence, and ancient curses. The plot begins with echoes of Beauty and the Beast, but evolves into something much darker, with complex characters and shifting loyalties at its core.
For writers, A Court of Thorns and Roses is a case study in building layered fantasy worlds while centering a deeply personal romantic arc. Maas also demonstrates how to scale a series from an intimate fairytale into sprawling epic fantasy without losing emotional focus. Her use of character transformation and genre-blending is particularly instructive for authors looking to challenge conventions.
2. A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer
A cursed prince. A modern girl with grit. A fairytale retelling that refuses to play by the rules.
This is a sharply imagined Beauty and the Beast reimagining that introduces Harper, a heroine with cerebral palsy who’s snatched from modern-day D.C. into a fantasy realm cursed by a magical blight. Rather than falling into old tropes, Harper resists every expectation, becoming an active player in the story’s unfolding politics and romance.
Aspiring romantasy writers can learn a lot here about bringing fresh energy to familiar archetypes. Kemmerer shows that accessibility and inclusion need not come at the expense of action, emotion, or romance—in fact, they can deepen all three. Her ability to merge real-world perspective with fantasy stakes makes this a valuable blueprint for grounding big ideas in lived experience.
3. A Deal with the Elf King by Elise Kova
A cursed prince. A modern girl with grit. A fairytale retelling that refuses to play by the rules.
This is a sharply imagined Beauty and the Beast reimagining that introduces Harper, a heroine with cerebral palsy who’s snatched from modern-day D.C. into a fantasy realm cursed by a magical blight. Rather than falling into old tropes, Harper resists every expectation, becoming an active player in the story’s unfolding politics and romance.
Aspiring romantasy writers can learn a lot here about bringing fresh energy to familiar archetypes. Kemmerer shows that accessibility and inclusion need not come at the expense of action, emotion, or romance—in fact, they can deepen all three. Her ability to merge real-world perspective with fantasy stakes makes this a valuable blueprint for grounding big ideas in lived experience.
4. A Fate of Wrath and Flame by K.A. Tucker
A thief is pulled from Manhattan’s rooftops into a royal conspiracy in a world where magic has a cost—and pretending to be a princess could get her killed.
Tucker brings a genre-bending flair to this portal fantasy, where modern-day Romeria wakes up in the body of a disgraced princess accused of treason. The novel leans into court politics, mistaken identity, forbidden magic, and a slow-burn romance that simmers beneath layers of distrust.
Writers will find a lot to unpack in how Tucker handles voice and perspective. Romeria remains grounded and relatable even as the stakes skyrocket. The use of an outsider POV in a richly built world is especially instructive for showing—not telling—when it comes to lore. It’s also a prime example of how romantasy can pull from thriller pacing while still delivering emotional depth.
5. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
In a brutal empire built on fear, a slave girl and a soldier discover the power of defiance—and the cost of love in a world at war.
Set in a Roman-inspired empire, this novel follows Laia, a Scholar girl who infiltrates a military academy to rescue her brother, and Elias, an elite soldier who longs for freedom. Their paths collide in a world marked by cruelty, rebellion, and magic just beneath the surface. The romance is slow-burning and secondary, but no less powerful for its restraint.
Tahir’s book is especially valuable for romantasy writers seeking to integrate romance into high-stakes political fantasy. Her prose is sharp, her plotting relentless, and her characters fully alive with internal conflict. This is not a love story with fantasy on the side—it’s a fantasy epic where love matters because survival is not guaranteed. There’s much to learn here about narrative tension and emotional weight.
6. Belladonna by Adalyn Grace
She’s lived with death her whole life—but now he’s speaking to her.
Grace delivers a lush gothic romantasy where Signa, a girl who’s lost every guardian she’s ever had, is drawn into a deadly mystery at a haunted manor. The twist? She can see—and even speak with—Death himself. As poison, ghosts, and long-buried secrets emerge, a slow and haunting romance grows at the heart of it all.
This is a strong example of how romantasy can embrace genre-crossing—part mystery, part romance, part gothic fairytale. The atmosphere does heavy lifting here, and writers will benefit from studying how Grace layers setting and mood to reflect character development. It’s also a reminder that not all romantasy needs to follow the same blueprint. Intimacy can be quiet, strange, and darkly beautiful.
7. Crescent City by Sarah J. Maas
Bryce Quinlan, a half-Fae, seeks vengeance after a demon brutally murders her closest friends, plunging her into a web of magic, politics, and forbidden love.
Maas introduces readers to a modern, urban fantasy world teeming with diverse creatures, intricate hierarchies, and a blend of contemporary and mythical elements. Bryce’s journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and navigating complex relationships amidst chaos.
For writers, Crescent City exemplifies how to seamlessly integrate urban settings with high fantasy elements. Maas’s approach to character development, especially crafting flawed yet relatable protagonists, offers valuable lessons in creating depth and authenticity in romantasy narratives.
8. Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier
Sorcha, the seventh child and only daughter of a noble family, embarks on a perilous quest to save her six brothers from a devastating curse.
Set against a rich tapestry inspired by Irish folklore, Marillier weaves a tale of sacrifice, endurance, and the transformative power of love. Sorcha’s silent journey, dictated by the conditions to break the curse, highlights themes of inner strength and unwavering devotion.
Aspiring romantasy authors can learn from Marillier’s masterful blend of historical context and fantasy, demonstrating how to draw from cultural myths to enrich storytelling. The novel also underscores the potency of non-verbal communication and internal dialogue in character development.
9. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Violet Sorrengail, pressured by her mother to become a dragon rider despite her frail health, faces deadly challenges in a war-torn kingdom where survival is uncertain.
Yarros crafts a gripping narrative that combines the perilous world of dragon riding with intense personal and political conflicts. Violet’s determination and evolving relationships add depth to the high-stakes environment she navigates.
Writers can observe how Yarros balances action-packed sequences with emotional resonance, effectively portraying a protagonist’s growth amidst adversity. The novel serves as an example of integrating traditional fantasy elements with fresh perspectives to captivate readers.
10. From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Poppy, a maiden chosen by the gods, questions her fate and desires as she becomes entangled with a mysterious guard harboring dark secrets.
Armentrout introduces a world where destiny and free will collide, weaving a tale of forbidden love, duty, and self-discovery. Poppy’s internal conflicts and the unraveling of long-held beliefs drive the narrative forward.
This book offers insights into crafting tension-filled romance within a richly built fantasy world. Armentrout’s pacing and layering of mysteries provide a roadmap for maintaining reader engagement through suspense and character dynamics.
11. Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli
In a realm where magic is outlawed, a notorious witch hunter finds his beliefs challenged when he becomes entangled with a witch he cannot resist.
Ciccarelli presents a narrative rife with moral dilemmas, forbidden attraction, and the questioning of societal norms. The protagonist’s journey from blind adherence to personal awakening is both compelling and thought-provoking.
For writers, this novel demonstrates the effectiveness of exploring gray areas in morality and the transformative power of love. Ciccarelli’s nuanced portrayal of internal conflict serves as a guide for developing complex characters in romantasy.
12. House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig
Annaleigh lives in a manor by the sea, where her sisters are dying under mysterious circumstances, leading her to uncover dark secrets and a curse that haunts her family.
Craig crafts a gothic, atmospheric tale inspired by the “Twelve Dancing Princesses” fairytale, blending mystery, horror, and romance. The eerie setting and creeping dread enhance the unfolding narrative.
Aspiring authors can learn from Craig’s ability to create a haunting ambiance and weave suspense throughout a romantasy plot. The novel exemplifies how to balance romance with elements of horror and mystery to enrich the storytelling experience.
13. King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair
Isolde, a mortal princess, is forced into marriage with Adrian, the immortal vampire king, to end a years-long war, but her plans to assassinate him become complicated by unexpected desires.
St. Clair delivers a tale of political intrigue, power dynamics, and a romance that blurs the line between hatred and passion. The protagonist’s struggle between duty and personal longing adds depth to the narrative.
Writers can observe how St. Clair intertwines romance with themes of power and betrayal, crafting a story where love serves both as a weapon and a vulnerability. The novel offers insights into developing chemistry between characters with opposing agendas.
14. Kushiel’s Dart by Jacqueline Carey
Phèdre nó Delaunay, a courtesan marked by a god’s touch, becomes a spy entangled in political machinations and treacherous plots that threaten her homeland.
Carey introduces a richly detailed world inspired by alternate historical Europe, where religion, politics, and sexuality intertwine. Phèdre’s journey is one of self-discovery, sacrifice, and navigating complex relationships.
This novel serves as a masterclass in world-building and integrating intricate political intrigue within a romantasy framework. Carey’s nuanced characters and exploration of themes like consent and destiny provide valuable lessons for crafting mature, thought-provoking narratives.
15. Radiance by Grace Draven
In a marriage of convenience between two different species, human Ildiko and Kai prince Brishen find unexpected companionship that blossoms into love.
Draven subverts the traditional “beauty and the beast” trope by presenting both protagonists as “monstrous” to each other’s races, yet they develop a deep, respectful relationship. The story emphasizes emotional connection over physical appearance.
Aspiring romantasy writers can learn from Draven’s focus on character-driven romance and the gradual development of trust and affection. The novel highlights the importance of cultural understanding and communication in building believable relationships within fantasy settings.
16. Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik
Miryem, the daughter of a moneylender, boasts of turning silver into gold, drawing the attention of the icy Staryk king and becoming entwined in a dangerous bargain.
Novik reimagines the Rumpelstiltskin fairytale, weaving a narrative that explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the value of names. The story follows multiple female protagonists, each displaying resilience and resourcefulness.
Writers can study Novik’s approach to retelling classic tales with originality and depth. The novel demonstrates how to intertwine multiple perspectives and plotlines, creating a rich tapestry that enhances the romantasy genre.
17. Sunshine by Robin McKinley
In a world teetering between mundane reality and supernatural darkness, Rae “Sunshine” Seddon discovers her latent magical abilities after a harrowing encounter with vampires.
McKinley crafts a narrative that seamlessly blends urban fantasy with elements of horror and romance. The protagonist, Sunshine, leads a seemingly ordinary life until she’s thrust into a conflict that reveals her unique connection to magic and the supernatural. Her reluctant alliance with a vampire challenges traditional notions of good and evil, adding depth to the storyline.
For writers, Sunshine exemplifies how to balance everyday settings with fantastical elements, creating a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly. McKinley’s approach to character development, particularly Sunshine’s internal struggle and growth, offers valuable insights into crafting protagonists who are relatable yet extraordinary.
18. Tairen Soul by C.L. Wilson
Ellysetta, a humble woodcarver’s daughter, is revealed to be the prophesied mate of Rain Tairen Soul, the powerful and tormented king of the Fey.
Wilson weaves a tale rich with magic, destiny, and the transformative power of love. The bond between Ellysetta and Rain is central to the narrative, set against a backdrop of impending war and ancient prophecies. The story delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the struggle between light and darkness.
Aspiring romantasy authors can learn from Wilson’s intricate world-building and the depth of her character relationships. The novel demonstrates the importance of developing a compelling romantic arc that is integral to the overarching plot, ensuring that the romance enhances rather than overshadows the fantasy elements.
19. The Bargainer by Laura Thalassa
Callie, a siren with a troubled past, seeks the help of the enigmatic Bargainer, a fae king to whom she owes countless debts, as a new threat emerges in the Otherworld.
Thalassa crafts a narrative that intertwines mystery, romance, and fantasy. The complex relationship between Callie and the Bargainer unfolds through a series of past and present interactions, revealing layers of trust, betrayal, and redemption. The looming danger in the Otherworld adds urgency and intrigue to their story.
For writers, this novel serves as an example of how to effectively use non-linear storytelling to deepen character relationships and build suspense. Thalassa’s portrayal of a morally ambiguous love interest offers insights into creating compelling, multi-dimensional characters.
20. The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
Trained from birth to be a weapon, Princess Lara is sent to marry King Aren of the Bridge Kingdom with the secret mission to bring about his downfall.
Jensen presents a tale of espionage, duty, and forbidden love set in a world where control of a vital bridge dictates the balance of power. Lara’s internal conflict between her upbringing and her growing feelings for Aren drives the narrative, exploring themes of loyalty, deception, and self-discovery.
Aspiring romantasy writers can observe how Jensen balances political intrigue with romantic development, ensuring that both elements are given equal weight. The novel highlights the potential of using an enemies-to-lovers trope within a complex geopolitical context to enhance tension and engagement.
21. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
Jude Duarte, a mortal girl, is thrust into the treacherous world of Faerie, where she must navigate political machinations and her tumultuous relationship with the enigmatic Prince Cardan.
Black crafts a dark and immersive tale that delves into themes of power, ambition, and identity. Jude’s determination to carve a place for herself in a world that views her as inferior is both compelling and relatable. The intricate court politics and morally ambiguous characters add depth to the narrative.
For writers, The Cruel Prince serves as a masterclass in creating complex characters whose motivations drive the plot. Black’s ability to weave romance into a story rife with betrayal and intrigue demonstrates how romantic elements can enhance rather than detract from the central narrative.
22. The Foxglove King by Hannah Whitten
Lore, a woman with the power to raise the dead, is drawn into the dangerous politics of a kingdom where necromancy is both revered and feared.
Whitten constructs a world where magic is deeply entwined with societal structures and personal identities. Lore’s struggle to control her abilities while navigating court intrigue and forbidden love forms the crux of the narrative. The novel explores themes of power, mortality, and the cost of secrets.
Writers can learn from Whitten’s approach to integrating dark fantasy elements with romance, creating a story that is both haunting and heartfelt. The novel exemplifies how to build tension and atmosphere, using setting and lore to enhance the emotional stakes.
23. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Le Cirque des Rêves, a mysterious traveling circus that only operates at night, becomes the stage for a magical competition between two young illusionists bound by a fateful challenge.
Morgenstern’s novel is a tapestry of enchanting visuals, intricate plots, and a slow-burning romance. The alternating perspectives and non-linear timeline add layers to the narrative, immersing readers in a dreamlike world where reality and illusion blur.
Aspiring authors can study Morgenstern’s lyrical prose and atmospheric world-building, learning how to evoke emotion and wonder through descriptive language. The novel also demonstrates the effectiveness of a central romantic plot that unfolds gradually, allowing tension and anticipation to build organically.
24. The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
In a realm where humans are prey, a young woman enters a deadly tournament hosted by vampires, forging unexpected alliances and confronting forbidden desires.
Broadbent creates a high-stakes environment where survival hinges on wit, strength, and strategic partnerships. The protagonist’s resilience and evolving relationship with a formidable vampire contender add emotional depth to the action-driven plot.
For writers, this novel illustrates how to balance intense action sequences with character development and romantic tension. Broadbent’s portrayal of a ruthless yet vulnerable love interest provides insights into crafting compelling dynamics that challenge and captivate readers.
25. The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller
Alessandra plans to seduce, marry, and then kill the Shadow King to seize his kingdom, but her ambitions are complicated as genuine feelings emerge.
Levenseller offers a protagonist who is unapologetically ambitious and morally ambiguous, challenging traditional notions of the romantasy heroine. The cat-and-mouse dynamic between Alessandra and the Shadow King is laced with intrigue, deception, and unexpected vulnerability.
This novel serves as an example of how to craft anti-hero protagonists while maintaining reader engagement and empathy. Levenseller’s approach to a romance built on manipulation and power struggles provides a fresh perspective on relationship dynamics within the genre.
26. The Stolen Heir by Holly Black
Suren, a changeling queen who fled the Court of Teeth, is drawn back into the treacherous world of Faerie when she joins forces with Prince Oak on a perilous quest.
In this return to the enchanting yet perilous realm of Faerie, Holly Black crafts a tale of political intrigue, complex alliances, and the struggle for identity. Suren’s reluctant partnership with Prince Oak takes them through a landscape rife with deception and hidden agendas, challenging their perceptions of loyalty and power.
For writers, The Stolen Heir exemplifies the art of expanding a well-established universe while introducing fresh perspectives. Black’s nuanced portrayal of characters grappling with their pasts and uncertain futures offers valuable insights into developing depth and complexity in protagonists. The novel also demonstrates how to weave romance into a plot driven by political machinations without overshadowing the central narrative.
27. The Winter King by C.L. Wilson
Khamsin Coruscate, a princess exiled due to her stormy magic, is forced into marriage with Wynter Atrialan, the formidable Winter King, to secure peace between their kingdoms.
C.L. Wilson presents a tale where elemental magic, political alliances, and a marriage of convenience intertwine. Khamsin’s fiery spirit and hidden powers clash with Wynter’s icy demeanor and quest for vengeance, creating a dynamic filled with tension and gradual understanding. As they navigate their union, both characters confront personal traumas and external threats that test their burgeoning relationship.
Aspiring romantasy authors can learn from Wilson’s ability to balance a slow-burning romance with an intricate fantasy plot. The novel showcases the effectiveness of using elemental magic as a metaphor for character emotions and conflicts. Additionally, the development of trust and respect between protagonists serves as a blueprint for crafting believable and compelling romantic arcs within a high-stakes fantasy setting.
28. These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan
Brie, a human thief, ventures into the dangerous world of the fae to rescue her sister, becoming entangled with two rival faerie princes and a web of deceit.
Lexi Ryan introduces readers to a realm where nothing is as it seems, and trust is a rare commodity. Brie’s mission to save her sister leads her into the midst of faerie politics, where she must navigate lies, betrayals, and her own conflicted heart. The love triangle at the story’s core adds complexity to Brie’s journey, forcing her to question her desires and alliances.
For writers, These Hollow Vows offers a study in crafting morally ambiguous characters and intricate romantic dynamics. Ryan’s portrayal of a protagonist torn between duty and passion, set against a richly imagined fae world, provides insights into building tension and depth in relationships. The novel also highlights the importance of pacing in revealing twists and maintaining reader engagement.
29. Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Celaena Sardothien, a notorious assassin, is offered a chance at freedom by competing to become the king’s champion, only to uncover dark secrets within the glass castle.
In this series opener, Sarah J. Maas introduces a heroine whose lethal skills are matched by her wit and complexity. Celaena’s journey from prison to courtly intrigue is fraught with danger, romance, and self-discovery. The narrative weaves together elements of competition, mystery, and magic, setting the stage for an expansive saga.
Writers can draw lessons from Maas’s ability to evolve a character over a series, allowing for growth and transformation. The blend of action, romance, and political intrigue demonstrates how to cater to diverse reader interests while maintaining a cohesive and engaging plot. Additionally, the gradual unveiling of the world’s magical elements serves as a guide for balancing exposition with storytelling momentum.
30. To Bleed a Crystal Bloom by Sarah A. Parker
Orlaith, a girl hidden away in a tower, discovers dark truths about her past and the world beyond, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and forbidden love.
Sarah A. Parker crafts a narrative steeped in mystery and gothic allure. Orlaith’s sheltered existence unravels as she confronts the realities of her lineage and the dangers lurking outside her sanctuary. The story delves into themes of captivity, awakening, and the complexities of desire.
Aspiring romantasy writers can learn from Parker’s atmospheric storytelling and the gradual peeling back of narrative layers. The novel exemplifies how to build suspense and curiosity, keeping readers invested in the protagonist’s revelations. Additionally, the exploration of forbidden love within a dark, enchanting setting offers insights into balancing romance with elements of suspense and fantasy.
31. Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha J. Tuli
Lor, a young woman with a mysterious past, is forced to compete in deadly trials to win the favor of the Sun King and secure her place in the realm.
Nisha J. Tuli presents a gripping tale of survival, magic, and intrigue. Lor’s participation in the trials exposes her to court politics, alliances, and the discovery of her own latent abilities. The narrative explores themes of resilience, identity, and the pursuit of power.
For writers, Trial of the Sun Queen serves as an example of integrating competition-driven plots with character development. Tuli’s depiction of a protagonist facing external challenges while grappling with internal conflicts provides a roadmap for creating multifaceted characters. The novel also highlights the effectiveness of a structured trial framework in driving plot progression and maintaining tension.
32. Uprooted by Naomi Novik
Agnieszka, a village girl, is chosen by the enigmatic wizard known as the Dragon to serve him, only to discover her own powerful magic and a looming threat to her homeland.
Naomi Novik weaves a standalone tale inspired by Eastern European folklore, where an ordinary girl becomes central to combating a malevolent force. Agnieszka’s relationship with the Dragon evolves from mistrust to partnership, set against a backdrop of a corrupted forest and political unrest.
Aspiring romantasy authors can study Novik’s approach to integrating folklore with original storytelling. The novel demonstrates the power of a strong, singular narrative arc and the development of a protagonist who defies traditional expectations. Additionally, the depiction of a slow-building romance that complements rather than dominates the plot offers insights into balancing relationship dynamics within fantasy narratives.
33. The Witch Collector by Charissa Weaks
Raina, a mute village girl with hidden magic, is taken by the infamous Witch Collector, leading her on a journey of discovery, rebellion, and unexpected love.
Charissa Weaks introduces a world where magic is both a gift and a curse, and where the lines between captor and ally blur. Raina’s quest to reclaim her voice and power intertwines with a larger struggle against oppressive forces, all while navigating her complex feelings toward her enigmatic captor.
For writers, The Witch Collector exemplifies the use of unique character traits, such as Raina’s muteness, to add depth and originality to a protagonist. Weaks’s portrayal of evolving relationships amidst a backdrop of rebellion provides lessons in crafting romance that develops organically within a larger, action-driven plot. The novel also highlights the importance of agency and empowerment in character arcs.
Are you ready to learn from the best romantasy books?
To write powerful romantasy, immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped the genre.
Read to understand what moves readers, what lingers long after the last page, and what makes these books work on a craft level.
The more you study what’s already out there, the more confidently you’ll be able to shape a world—and a story—that’s entirely your own.