Best romantasy books to start with (one of our best-sellers)

Romantasy — romance braided through epic fantasy — is having a moment, and it’s one of the genres that moves fastest off our shelves. Fae courts, dragon riders, enemies-to-lovers, and very high stakes. If you’re ready to fall in, here’s where to start.

1. A Court of Thorns and Roses — Sarah J. Maas

The gateway for a whole generation of readers. A mortal huntress, a fae lord, and a slow-burn that explodes. Start here, then brace for the sequel (A Court of Mist and Fury) everyone obsesses over.

2. Fourth Wing — Rebecca Yarros

Dragon-rider war college, deadly trials, and crackling tension. The book that put “romantasy” on every bestseller list. Wildly fun.

3. From Blood and Ash — Jennifer L. Armentrout

A guarded maiden, a charming guard, and a world full of secrets. Pure propulsive escapism with a devoted following.

4. The Cruel Prince — Holly Black

Sharper and more political — a mortal girl scheming in a treacherous fae court. Perfect if you like your romance with knives out.

5. Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood — Sarah J. Maas

Urban-fantasy flavored romantasy with a grown-up cast and a mystery engine. Bigger and a touch more mature.

6. Divine Rivals — Rebecca Ross

Rival journalists, magic typewriters, and a gentler, aching romance. A lovely lower-spice entry point.

7. The Bridge Kingdom — Danielle L. Jensen

A warrior princess sent to spy on (and marry) an enemy king. Tight, tropey, and immensely satisfying.

Come browse our romantasy shelf

Because romantasy readers tear through series fast, it’s perfect for trading — finish a trilogy and swap it for credittoward the next. It’s one of our best-selling sections, so there’s usually plenty in — come browse in person, check our online shelves, or ask the Matchmaker for your next obsession. Want more dragons and less romance? See our fantasy starter guide.