Ever wondered why your TikTok feed is full of winged fae warriors, forbidden kisses in candlelit castles, and heroines with daggers strapped to their thighs? You’re not alone. The romance genre—where romance and fantasy collide in the most swoon-worthy, magical ways—has completely taken over the book world. In fact, romance novels are some of the most talked-about books online right now, with fans binge-reading series and waiting not-so-patiently for the next installment.
These 10 must-read romantasy novels captivate readers with epic battles, political intrigue, slow-burn romance, and enemies-to-lovers drama.
Understanding Romantasy: The Rise of a Popular Genre
Romantasy—a blend of romance and fantasy—represents a genre fusion that is increasingly prominent in contemporary literature. It combines the adventurous elements of fantasy with the emotional depth of romance, creating narratives that intertwine high-stakes action with complex relationships. The appeal of this combination lies in its ability to balance excitement with emotional engagement.
- High stakes + high emotions – Readers get the thrill of battles, quests, and curses mixed with the intensity of romance.
- Escapism with depth – Worlds full of magic and danger give readers an escape, while romance makes it emotionally grounding.
Popular narrative tropes such as enemies-to-lovers, fated mates, and forbidden romance are central to romantasy, among many others. Popular narrative tropes such as enemies-to-lovers, fated mates, and forbidden romance are central to romantasy, among many others.
With TikTok (#BookTok) fueling the craze, romancy has become one of the fastest-growing subgenres today. If you’ve been meaning to dip your toes in (or need your next obsession), this list is for you.
10 Swoon-Worthy Romantasy Novels That Fans Can’t Stop
1. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
One title that has experienced a significant surge in popularity is Fourth Wing. Set in the brutal Basgiath War College, where dragon riders are trained and only the strongest survive, this novel delivers danger, magic, and undeniable chemistry.
- Why it’s a must-read: The enemies-to-lovers romance between Violet, the fragile-but-fierce protagonist, and Xaden Riorson, the broody, powerful wingleader, is pure dynamite.
- Best for: Readers who want adrenaline-pumping action, dragons with actual personalities, and a romance that burns as hot as dragon fire.
2. Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
Of course, the sequel deserves its spot here. If Fourth Wing hooked you, Iron Flame raises the stakes even higher. Without giving spoilers, let’s say alliances are tested, new threats emerge, and Violet’s resilience is pushed to the breaking point.
- Why it’s a must-read: The pacing is relentless, the world-building expands, and the romance only intensifies.
- Best for: Fans of epic sequels that deliver bigger battles and deeper character growth.
3. Maas – Enchantment and Intrigue
No romance list is complete without mentioning Sarah J. Maas. ACOTAR remains one of the most beloved romantasy series, and it’s still drawing in new readers every year. The story begins with Feyre Archeron, a mortal huntress who kills a fae wolf and finds herself dragged into the magical world of Prythian.
- Why it’s a must-read: This series redefined romance, blending fae politics, steamy romance, and lush world-building.
- Best for: Readers who love sprawling fantasy worlds and slow-burn romances that pay off big time.
4. Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas strikes again—this time with an urban romance twist. Crescent City follows Bryce Quinlan, a half-fae party girl who gets pulled into a dangerous investigation after tragedy strikes. Alongside Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel, she uncovers secrets that shake the entire city.
- Why it’s a must-read: It’s a fresh mix of modern settings (cell phones and nightclubs) with sweeping magic and romance.
- Best for: Readers who want a fusion of contemporary and fantastical worlds with emotional depth.
5. Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
Set in a world where gods are at war, Divine Rivals introduces us to Iris, an aspiring journalist, and Roman, her rival-turned-love interest.
- Why it’s a must-read: The romance feels tender and old-fashioned, balanced by the grit of a wartime setting.
- Best for: Fans of epistolary romance mixed with mythological undertones.
6. Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross
The sequel to Divine Rivals progresses Iris and Roman’s narrative, adding additional romantic developments amid intensifying challenges. As the conflict among the gods intensifies, the narrative explores their relationship amid increasingly difficult decisions.
- Why it’s a must-read: The blend of magical realism, lyrical writing, and romance makes it unforgettable.
- Best for: Anyone who fell in love with Divine Rivals and craves more.
7. From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout – Adventure and Romance Intertwined
This romantasy giant follows Poppy, a Maiden whose life is tightly controlled—until she meets Hawke, a mysterious guard with secrets of his own. Forbidden love, destiny, and a world on the brink of change set the stage for an epic saga.
- Why it’s a must-read: Armentrout nails the perfect balance of fantasy intrigue and steamy romance.
- Best for: Fans of fated mates, forbidden desire, and shocking plot twists.
8. The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent – Mystical Politics and Power Struggles
Receiving attention as a notable vampire romance comparable to Fourth Wing, the novel centers on Oraya, a human adopted by the vampire king, who becomes involved in a perilous tournament for survival. During this journey, a tense and strategic alliance develops between her and Raihn, a vampire warrior.
- Why it’s a must-read: It’s fierce, bloody, and brimming with tension between survival and passion.
- Best for: Readers who love morally gray characters and ruthless competitions.
9. The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King by Carissa Broadbent
The sequel takes Oraya and Raihn’s story even deeper, testing loyalties and exploring the aftermath of power struggles. With romance woven into every decision, the book captures the raw intensity of both love and war.
- Why it’s a must-read: Broadbent’s world-building shines, and the romance will rip your heart out (in the best way).
- Best for: Readers who love sequels that up the emotional ante.
10. Powerless by Lauren Roberts
New to the romantasy scene but already making waves, Powerless follows Paedyn, a girl without powers, who pretends to be gifted to survive. Her deception leads her straight into the path of a powerful and infuriating prince. Cue the sparks.
- Why it’s a must-read: It’s got that addictive mix of fake identity, slow-burn romance, and high fantasy intrigue.
- Best for: Fans of underdog heroines and opposites-attract tropes.
Rising Stars in Romantasy You Shouldn’t Miss
While the ten titles above are dominating bestseller lists and bookish conversations, the romance world is also brimming with fresh stories that are quickly capturing readers’ hearts. These rising stars prove that the genre is evolving, diversifying, and becoming even more exciting. If you’re looking for something new to binge, keep an eye on these gems:
- The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon – This Southeast Asian–inspired romantasy blends elemental magic with political intrigue, delivering a lush and atmospheric tale of war, loyalty, and forbidden love. With vibrant cultural influences and a slow-burning romance that simmers beneath the chaos of battle, it’s quickly becoming a fan favourite among readers craving fresh world-building outside the typical Eurocentric fantasy mould.
- Lightlark by Alex Aster – A high-stakes competition sets the stage, where rulers face life-and-death challenges while navigating intricate personal dynamics. The narrative weaves together strategic alliances, hidden agendas, and romance that test loyalty and trust, creating a story that is both suspenseful and emotionally engaging.
- What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez – Transport yourself to 19th-century Egypt in this romantasy adventure that mixes archaeology, ancient curses, and slow-burn romance. With its immersive setting, witty banter, and a heroine determined to uncover the truth, What the River Knows offers an Indiana Jones–meets–romantasy vibe that feels both unique and unputdownable.
These rising romance books are proof that the genre isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement. Each title pushes boundaries, explores fresh cultural influences, and reminds us why readers can’t get enough of love stories set against magical, dangerous backdrops.
Why You’ll Love Diving Into Romantasy
Is romance really your thing? Here’s the truth: this genre has a little something for everyone, whether you lean toward epic world-building, swoon-worthy relationships, or the kind of fandom buzz that makes you want to stay up until 2 a.m. scrolling TikTok theories.
- For the fantasy lovers – If you adore sprawling kingdoms, magical systems, and epic quests but often find yourself wishing there were more heart-fluttering moments, romantasy is your dream genre. It gives you all the sword fights, dragons, and world-ending prophecies—then layers in stolen glances, electric banter, and kisses that feel just as powerful as the battles.
- For the romance readers – Maybe you love the emotional pull of romance but want something beyond contemporary tropes. Romantasy delivers love stories set against life-or-death stakes, where passion isn’t just about chemistry—it’s about survival, loyalty, and destiny. The danger surrounding the characters makes every romantic moment feel even more intense.
- For the fandom seekers – Let’s be honest: half the fun of reading romantasy is what happens after you turn the last page. This genre thrives online, with readers sharing fan art, creating playlists, dissecting theories, and quoting the spiciest lines. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have made romcom a cultural phenomenon, turning book releases into events and characters into icons.
At its core, romantasy works because it offers both passion and peril in equal measure. You’re not just falling in love with the characters—you’re stepping into entire worlds where love can rewrite fates, heal kingdoms, or destroy empires. And once you dive in, it’s nearly impossible not to crave your next romantasy adventure.
Romantasy Hits to Devour
The best thing about romantasy is that there’s always another book to obsess over. Whether you’re craving dragon riders, vampire lovers, or gods at war, these 10 current must-read romantasy novels prove that the genre is only getting bigger and better.
A cozy setting enhances the reading experience, allowing full immersion in the characters’ journeys and the richly imagined, magical worlds they inhabit.
