Romantasy for fantasy readers: 7 picks heavy on the world-building

If you came up on Tolkien and Sanderson, “romantasy” might sound like all kissing and no plot. Not these. Here are seven with the maps, magic systems, and stakes a fantasy reader wants — the romance just sweetens the deal.

1. Fourth Wing — Rebecca Yarros

A brutal dragon-rider war college with real stakes and a propulsive plot.

2. The Cruel Prince — Holly Black

Cutthroat fae politics and scheming. Plot-forward and sharp; romance is the spice, not the meal.

3. The Bridge Kingdom — Danielle L. Jensen

Espionage, war, and a clever heroine. Tight plotting with a slow-burn underneath.

4. An Ember in the Ashes — Sabaa Tahir

Brutal empire, dual POVs, and high stakes. More fantasy than romance, and excellent.

5. The Will of the Many — James Islington (fantasy-forward)

For when you want the world-building dialed way up; romance lighter, plot enormous.

6. Crescent City — Sarah J. Maas

A genuine mystery engine and a sprawling world alongside the romance.

7. The Jasmine Throne — Tasha Suri

Lush epic fantasy with political depth and a sapphic romance woven through.

Cross the aisle

Browse our shelves or tell the Matchmakeryou want romantasy that’s heavy on plot. Coming from pure fantasy? Pair this with our fantasy starter guide or books like Dune.