10 Best Romantasy Books To Sweep You Off Your Shelf In 2025

Are you tired of searching shelves for your next exciting read in romantic fantasy? Goodreads users predict that romantasy, a blend of romance and fantasy, will only grow hotter in 2025.

This post lists the 10 best romantasy books to help you quickly find thrilling tales filled with spicy magic, dark adventure, and unforgettable love stories. Keep scrolling; your new favorite book awaits!

Key Takeaways

Romantasy stories combine fantasy worlds with romantic plots, and Goodreads readers expect this style to explode in popularity by 2025.

Popular titles include “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros—with dragons, battle training, and intense trials—and “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas, filled with fae kingdoms and fiery love stories.

Darker romantasy novels are also trending, such as “Blood Beneath the Snow” and “The Serpent and the Wings of Night,” which highlight grim plots and dangerous vampire battles.

Academic settings pop up often in romantasy reads like “Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries,” while others craft creative magic systems, as Naomi Novik did in “Uprooted.”

Recently, authors started adding characters from different backgrounds, realistic magical worlds, and serious risks that challenge romantic bonds, leading streaming platforms to pick up several romantasy books for adaptation.

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Fourth Wing takes readers to a world where dragon riders face deadly trials at a brutal war college. Rebecca Yarros weaves magic, romance, and danger into a story that will keep you turning pages late into the night.

Dragon-Riding Adventures and Romantic Escapades

A young couple embraces tenderly in a forest with a majestic dragon perched nearby.

Violet Sorrengail faces deadly stakes at Basgiath War College—bonding with a dragon means staying alive. Her journey blends gripping danger with pulse-racing romance, drawing readers deep into a wild fantasy adventure.

Tairn, her dragon companion, provides humor, warmth, and emotional depth, all while Violet tackles threats around every corner. Then there is Xaden Riorson—the moody, intense rival who ignites an electric spark Violet simply can’t deny.

The tension between Violet and Xaden crackles across every page, shifting from fiery rivalry to heated romance. Their bond grows under the brutal pressures of dragon training, war preparation, and personal struggles, offering readers action blended perfectly with intimacy.

Fans of spicy fantasy stories will appreciate this exciting mix of thrilling battles and passionate scenes sprinkled throughout the plot. Soon, we’ll check out another popular romantasy series, whisking readers into magical fae worlds filled with enchantment and desire.

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas takes readers into a world where a huntress falls for a faerie lord in this steamy series that mixes danger with desire. You’ll want to grab this book fast to see why fans can’t stop talking about Feyre and her journey through the magical faerie courts!

Enchanting Fae Realms and Passionate Alliances

A young woman stands in a forest, wearing a green jacket and looking up in wonder.

Maas crafts a vivid fantasy world packed with magic in every corner—and menace around every bend. Her fae kingdoms brim with vibrant settings, peculiar creatures, and powerful ancient spells that sweep readers right into the plot.

I got completely caught up in these enchanted lands, flipping pages way after midnight. The characters shift from bitter rivals to passionate lovers, battling side by side against shared threats.

Romance grows gradually through each book, letting readers bond closely with the characters’ paths. Fans of fantasy smut will appreciate the steamy scenes sprinkled throughout the later installments.

Love can be a dangerous thing in the hands of the fae.

Action, magic, and romance blend seamlessly in this captivating series—ideal for anyone craving an escape into another reality. Maas cleverly mixes traditional faerie myths and modern narratives, surprising me with every unexpected twist.

The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent

Carissa Broadbent weaves a tale of deadly vampire tournaments and forbidden love that will keep you reading late into the night. Oraya, a human raised among vampires, fights for her life while falling for her most dangerous opponent in this dark, spicy adventure.

Dark Battles and Captivating Love Stories

A young woman faces off against a vampire warrior in a dimly lit stone arena.

Oraya battles fiercely for survival in the lethal Kejari tournament, clashing against fierce vampire fighters at every turn. Her impressive combat abilities shine brightly, proving she deserves her place in this gritty fantasy setting.

The story blends brutal battles with surprising romance, bringing Oraya closer to her intense rival, Raihn. Tension sparks between them—dangerous, irresistible, and full of heat.

At its core, the plot highlights the conflict between desire and staying alive. Readers can easily relate to Oraya’s struggle as she wrestles with new emotions and her urgent drive to conquer the tournament.

With vampires lurking in every scene, the stakes climb even higher—every interaction carries risk and excitement. Packed with pulse-pounding fights and tender moments, this book will grab your attention and refuse to let go well past bedtime.

City of Gods and Monsters by Kayla Edwards

City of Gods and Monsters pulls readers into a world where ancient deities walk among mortals in modern cities. Kayla Edwards weaves a tale of forbidden love between a mortal woman and a god who must hide his true nature, all while dark forces threaten to expose the secret society of mythical beings.

Mythical Mysteries and Romantic Intrigue

A young woman walks alone through a dim, atmospheric city street at dusk, surrounded by worn buildings and subtle urban decay.

“City of Gods and Monsters” sweeps readers into a thrilling universe where ancient gods roam freely among humans. As the first installment of the “House of Devils” series, this novel guides you down shadowy streets filled with hidden secrets—and into passionate encounters behind closed doors.

I couldn’t put this story down for three consecutive nights! Released independently in January 2022, the book sells for only $3.99—an absolute bargain for lovers of spicy romantic fantasy.

Edwards creates characters who fight fierce mythical foes while helplessly tumbling into love, often knowing it’s a risky choice.

Some gods demand worship. Others demand blood. The worst ones demand your heart.

The Kindle edition offers an X-Ray tool, letting you easily follow characters through unexpected plot turns and dramatic twists. The book blends dark romance and fantasy themes with mythology in exciting and creative ways.

Forbidden love tropes fit seamlessly into the backdrop of ambitious gods, dangerous politics, and monster hunting adventures. Fantasy romance readers often compare it to Fourth Wing—but set in gritty cityscapes, with fewer dragons and more urban flair.

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries takes readers on a magical journey with a grumpy scholar who studies fae creatures while falling for her charming rival – grab this book if you love academic settings mixed with slow-burn romance and magical discoveries!

Magical Expeditions and Faerie Discoveries

A remote Scandinavian village at night, covered in freshly fallen snow, exudes a tranquil and cold ambiance.

Professor Wilde’s adventure to a secluded Scandinavian village unlocks a magical door into faerie research. She carefully records peculiar customs of local fae creatures, even while enduring brutal winter storms.

Her notes reveal strange habits and behaviors, observed with careful scientific detail—yet, somehow, romance sneaks its way into her scholarly pursuits.

This captivating romantasy novel shines through its uncommon mix of academic study and enchanting discoveries. Readers will appreciate how dark romantasy themes blend seamlessly with classic elf fantasy elements.

The Nordic landscape forms an ideal setting, offering faerie scenes that feel both genuine and filled with mystery. Lovers of the Fourth Wing series will find fresh appeal in these magical beings and their intriguing ties to humans.

Uprooted by Naomi Novik

Naomi Novik’s “Uprooted” pulls readers into a magical forest where danger lurks behind every tree. The slow-burn romance between Agnieszka and the Dragon adds heat to this spicy romantasy tale about a young woman who discovers her own power.

Magical Forests and Heartfelt Bonds

A couple stands in a misty forest, wearing casual clothing and displaying relaxed, genuine expressions.

Uprooted transports you into a magical forest—the Wood—where threats hide quietly behind shadowy trees. This spicy romantasy novel centers around Agnieszka, a young woman picked to serve a mysterious wizard known simply as the Dragon.

Their bond gradually shifts from cautious fear, to mutual respect, and then something even deeper, as they confront the Wood’s wicked powers. I loved how the forest takes on a life of its own, its roots twisting right into the core of the story.

This story stands out for exploring themes like personal growth and accepting change. Agnieszka uncovers her innate magical abilities—wild, untamed, and quite different from the Dragon’s precise and practiced magic.

Their romance grows naturally through contrasts and cooperation, through fighting battles together and encouraging each other’s strengths. The dark, mysterious forest setting forms a perfect stage for a romantasy adventure—filled with towering ancient trees, hidden mysteries, and transformative magic that changes both place and people.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

The Night Circus appears at night without warning, filled with black and white tents that hide magical wonders. Inside this mysterious traveling show, two rival magicians fall in love while competing in a dangerous game that puts their hearts and lives at risk.

Bewitching Spectacles and Spellbinding Romance

A young couple stands in an intimate embrace in a nighttime circus setting, with a serious and contemplative expression on their faces.

Erin Morgenstern’s first novel transports readers to an enchanted circus that appears only after sunset. Black-and-white tents pop up overnight, offering breathtaking shows beneath the stars.

Inside, two talented magicians—Celia and Marco—face off in a magical duel. Their rivalry soon becomes something deeper, as their attraction grows stronger. I stayed awake until dawn, absorbed by their forbidden love story unfolding among ice mazes and clock gardens.

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not.

This circus sets the perfect stage for a spicy magical romance. Guests stroll through mazes crafted from clouds and watch acrobats float gracefully through the air, while the two magicians quietly fall for each other.

Morgenstern creates a story world where magic seems possible, and romance appears where you’d least expect it. Readers who enjoy darker romance fantasy novels will appreciate how the fierce competition creates impossible hurdles for the lovers, making their bond even stronger.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

Sangu Mandanna weaves a cozy tale of misfit witches who form an unlikely family while hiding their magic from the world – this heartwarming story mixes spells, romance, and found family in ways that will make you laugh and cry as you curl up with a cup of tea and this spicy romantasy gem.

Whimsical Magic and Community Secrets

A group of young women gather around a campfire outside a wooden cabin in a snowy forest, reading and chatting.

Mika Moon spends most days alone—just a witch keeping quietly to herself—until a strange letter changes everything. The mysterious note leads her straight to Nowhere House, home to three young witches who desperately need her magic and guidance.

There, Mika teaches the girls to handle their powers, confronting her own past hurts along the way. Through simple spells and heartfelt lessons, Mika creates a bond that feels like family, showing them—and herself—how it feels to belong.

But magic carries risks in this spicy blend of romance and fantasy. While building a supportive community at Nowhere House, Mika boldly challenges rules she’s kept for years. Meanwhile, secrets hidden in the house gradually come to light, forcing Mika to deal head-on with harsh realities like racism and homophobia from outside communities.

Her story highlights how bravery, compassion, and connection can build a loving home from scratch.

Next up, prepare for a snow-covered adventure in “Blood Beneath the Snow”, where hidden desires and dangerous passions collide.

Blood Beneath the Snow by Alexandra Kennington

Alexandra Kennington’s “Blood Beneath the Snow” draws readers into a frost-covered world where deadly secrets hide under pristine white landscapes. The forbidden romance between a winter witch and a cursed prince creates magic that melts even the coldest hearts.

Wintry Secrets and Forbidden Passions

“Blood Beneath the Snow” delivers an exciting mix of intense romance and chilling adventure straight to your bookshelf. Revna, a headstrong princess, boldly confronts vicious trials known as the Bloodshed Trials, courageously defying oppression amid a harsh winter landscape.

Her journey twists dramatically after being kidnapped by the dreaded Hellbringer—sparking an irresistible chemistry that turns bitter cold into scorching heat.

I genuinely couldn’t set down this dark, romantic fantasy—Revna’s fierce attitude constantly collided with her captor’s icy demeanor, adding depth and passion to every page. The steamy moments blend seamlessly with thrilling danger, hooking any fan of fantasy romance instantly.

Richly detailed, elf-inspired settings provide an enchanting escape, bringing warmth even during the coldest winter nights of 2025.

Fear the Flames by Olivia Rose Darling

Fear the Flames” throws readers into a world where fire magic tests the limits of courage and love. Olivia Rose Darling crafts a story filled with burning passion and high stakes as her characters face deadly trials that could either forge their bond stronger or reduce it to ashes.

Fiery Challenges and Courageous Hearts

Elowen Atarah endures fiery trials that push her beyond her limits, in this gripping dark fantasy romance. Her relationship with Cayden Veles simmers slowly through trauma and betrayal, building tension that compels readers forward.

Colorful side characters infuse humor into intense scenes, offering welcome relief from emotional moments—making the tale both uplifting and heartbreaking.

Sometimes the bravest hearts are forged in the hottest flames.

Fans of romantic fantasy with spice will eagerly follow Elowen’s growth into a confident leader. Her journey shows how past hurts influence present decisions, and how true bravery often demands confronting one’s hidden fears.

Inspired by elf legends, this fantasy depicts a world where love isn’t simple—but it’s worth every battle fought along the way.

How Will Romantasy Book Narratives Evolve in 2025?

A young woman sitting in a warmly lit room surrounded by books and cozy furniture.

Romantasy books in 2025 will offer far more than love stories and dragons. Writers will create vivid fantasy worlds, where magic follows clear rules, and cultures feel authentic and alive.

The stories will raise the stakes—heroes facing life-and-death choices that deeply challenge their bonds and loyalties. I’ve noticed many authors blending darker romantasy elements with lighter, uplifting themes, appealing to a broader range of readers.

Streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max will adapt even more of these books, motivating writers to craft highly visual, fast-paced plots perfect for binge-watching.

In response, new micro-niches will emerge to satisfy specific reader interests. Stories might spotlight romantic adventures involving elves, while others explore spicy romance set in fresh, imaginative magical lands.

Readers won’t merely read these stories—they’ll actively shape them, interacting with online communities and social media fan groups. Classic fantasy concepts such as enemies-to-lovers will continue, but they’ll receive surprising twists to keep even loyal fans engaged.

The boundary separating romantasy and other story types will become softer, as authors play with new structures and creative magic ideas in unexpected ways.