If you’re unfamiliar with the fantasy genre, essentially these are books that contain a storyline featuring fairies, magic, and other supernatural creatures that live together.
Since we’re looking at the fantasy romance genre, not only will these books contain elements of magical and supernatural beings, but romantic tropes, too.
You’re sure to discover some of your favorite books just waiting to be read, as well as some of the most popular books in the genre that you need to read.
Authors in this genre use their skills to craft creative worlds, with captivating storylines and enchanting characters, with elements of romance that will sweep you off your feet.
Are you an avid reader of all things fantasy? Then this is the reading list for you.
In this guide, I have pulled together all the best fantasy romance books and some of the fan favorites that you need to get your hands on – you don’t have to worry about reading the back of all the books in your library to find the best books!
This ranges from contemporary fantasy romance books, historical fantasy romance books, urban fantasy romance books, and adult and young adult fantasy books.
Cat Fisa had been traveling with a circus disguised as a soothsayer until Griffin came in – a determined warlord.
Since he is from the magic-deprived south, he recognizes Cat’s power for what it actually is, and thus, takes her.
Cat is a Kingmaker, someone who can tell the truth from lies, and Griffin wants to use her powers to control his recently conquered realm.
However, things become difficult when he begins to realize that he might want Cat for much more than her magic.
When you start reading this book, you’re not going to want to put it down. Cat and Griffin have a back-and-forth banter that is next level – fighting the feelings they both have for each other.
Here, Cat grows a friendship with Griffin’s team, too, who fights to protect her at every turn.
Greek gods are also an element introduced in this novel – making for a unique and utterly amazing fantasy romance book.
You can either read this book as a standalone or continue the whole series if you can’t wait to read what happens next.
As a Maiden, Poppy’s life has never been in her control. She has a special responsibility that requires her to remain untouched and the only way to do so is through solitary confinement until she reaches the day of her Ascension.
However, when a new guard, Hawke, is introduced and takes up the place of the Royal Guard post, something awakens within Poppy, making her question her duty.
With tensions rising between the Desenters and frequent attacks on the kingdom, Poppy finds herself in a difficult situation where she is at risk of not only failing the gods but denying her foretold destiny and potentially losing her heart or life as a result.
According to the 2020 Goodreads Choice Awards, this novel is certainly worthy of the Best Romance Book title – and I believe so too!
It contains all the elements you look out for in a great fantasy romance book, including an immersive story, great writing, a slow-burn romance, and likable characters.
Not only is Poppy a strong heroine but her destiny as a Maiden is fascinating. Moreover, you’re sure to love her relationship with Hawke, too.
This book is so good that you’ll find yourself instantly grabbing the next book in the series to find out how Poppy and Hawke’s life plays out.
Pros
Compelling plot.
Forbidden romance.
Enjoyable.
Cons
This book is slightly slower than Armentrout’s other work.
Prince Brishen Khaskem is the heir to spare in his Kai kingdom. Therefore, to ensure a political alliance between kingdoms, he has to marry a human.
As the niece of the Gauri king, Ildiko has accepted the fate that she is going to marry the young Kai prince.
On the day of their wedding day, both Brishen and Ildiko see each other for what makes them ugly. However, through a new-found friendship, they learn that they are more beautiful than expected.
This fantasy romance book is sure to blow you away – keeping you hooked on Brishen and Ildiko’s first encounter.
The book features two unique characters from completely different kingdoms that have to look past the things they perceived as ‘ugly’ to find the beautiful and true love underneath.
While there isn’t too much ‘magic’ in the story, you’ll be completely absorbed by the incredible, slow-burn romance and the marriage of convenience story.
The day her mother left her, Lark was told to swallow her words and push them deep down, never to be spoken again.
While she is no longer a prisoner to the curse inflicted upon her by her mother, she is still invisible to those around her.
Lark keeps her words close to her chest as The Gifted are hunted in this world. However, there is someone who can hear her words and demands her duty, devotion, and maybe even love, too.
If you have never read fantasy romance novels, then this book is sure to make you fall in love with it.
The author, Harmon, is incredibly talented and creates a mesmerizing and completely unforgettable world with her delicate and beautiful prose, packed with seers, healers, changers, and spinners.
Moreover, it is a gorgeous slow-burn love story, too, set in a majestic, albeit, medieval world.
There is nothing more beautiful than reading about Lark and Tiras’s relationship and how it bloomed to be – growing from simply captive and captor.
The best part? It is a standalone story, therefore, you don’t have to worry about any cliffhangers.
The novel follows the story of Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, who has recently returned from the war and is traveling to Scotland with her husband for their second honeymoon.
However, what she doesn’t expect when standing in a stone circle is to be sent back to 1743 in a war-torn Scotland.
While she is desperate to get back to her old life with her husband, one person is stopping her: a young Highland warrior. She now faces a difficult decision: two different men, in two different times.
Outlander could be considered one of the best romance books thanks to its fantastical and sweeping plot which sees Claire traveling back in time and falling for another man.
You’ll fall in love with all the novel’s magical elements, including time travel and the stone circle, however, there is much more than that.
It is packed with adventure, history, and tons of suspense. However, it is the slow-burn and hard-fought romance between Claire and Jamie that makes this book one of the best.
Once you have devoured this fantasy romance book, you’ll want to read the entire series, and maybe a second time!
Half-Wyr and half-human, after being blackmailed into stealing from a dragon, Pia Giovanni begins to realize that her days are numbered. This is because dragons are the most powerful Elder Races.
In an effort to protect her true identity, Pia has always kept a low profile. However, when Dragos spares her from her crime, she knows that her life will never be the same again.
This goes the same for her heart, too, which is soon to be claimed by the dragon.
This novel can be read as a standalone book, however, it has also been launched into a series to provide all the supporting characters with their own stories.
Here, you are presented with the strong heroine, Pia, who doesn’t cower from Dragos despite his infamous brutality and attractive appearance.
Throughout the novel, you see Drago learn and adapt to Pia’s ways – making for a wholesome and entertaining read.
From this, you receive a connection like no other, with sparks and fireworks flying everywhere.
If you’re a fan of fantasy romance books, then you need to add this to your reading list.
Since she was a child, Finley knew she was different. Visions and hallucinations that plagued her mind had been locked away until she learned her whole life had been a lie.
Upon learning about her skills, he discovers a new world beyond her comprehension, where the only one able to teach her about her gifts is the drop-dead-handsome, Carrick Byrne.
If you’re a fan of Sawyer Bennett’s then this book certainly won’t disappoint.
Bennett gradually opens up a magical world that has been hidden from humans for millennia – offering us a brand new world and an introduction to the series.
Unlike other fantasy romance books that feature historical world settings, this one is based in the modern, contemporary world, where humans, daemon, fae, magic, and one mysterious alpha male live together.
As this is the first book in the series, it serves as a great foundation for the following novels – with tons of mystery to be solved and lots of trouble on the horizon.
Between Carrick and Finley, there are certainly sparks flying, however, to get into the heart of the romance, you’ll have to read the rest of the books in the series.
If you enjoy contemporary fantasy romance books or urban fast romance, then you need to add this novel to your reading list.
Hawk, Laird of Dalkeith, is a brutal warrior, however, no woman has ever come close to his heart. Well, that’s until Adrienne de Simone came along.
After tumbling out of modern-day Seattle, Adrienne finds herself in medieval sixteenth-century Scotland, held captive and married to no other than the rogue laird.
Adrienne is using all her power to keep the man at a distance, but what she doesn’t know is that Hawke is up for a challenge and when he finds something he wants, he gets it.
If you enjoyed Outlander, then you’re sure to love this fantasy romance novel, containing time travel elements, and is set in Scotland, too.
Plus, you can never go wrong with a romance fantasy book containing a brooding Scotsman.
The idea of a modern, independent woman being thrown into the past and into an instant marriage is something that will keep me reading.
The fairies behind the scenes are a nice touch – making fun of and playing with Adrienne and Hawk. Yet, the joke is on them when the two start to fall for each other.
If you love all things history, romance, and fantasy all in one place, then this is the book for you.
Like her cousins, Anatasia Dovovan is gifted with the power of healing, however, she has to keep her powers hidden, especially from her neighbor, Boone Sawyer.
Despite being a single dad, Boone can’t help but look at his new neighbor with a passion that resembles the fairy princesses he writes about in his novels.
However, when an accident happens that puts lives at stake, Anatasia is forced to use her powers even if it means losing Boone’s growing love or even her own life.
Similar to Robert’s other work, this is a contemporary fantasy novel but this one focuses on a family of witches.
Here, we are introduced to characters such as Boone who you can’t help but love, along with his adorable daughter.
Likewise, you’ll love the close-knit Donovan cousins who are always looking out for each other.
This book can be read as a standalone or you can continue the series for a rollercoaster of events and feelings.
Unlike some other romance fantasy books, this one is less about the battle between good and evil and incredible world-building, and more about a woman’s magical healing powers and a fear that stops her from allowing people to believe, love, and accept her.
Breen Kelly has been struggling to keep her head above water for a long time. Not only is she working a job she gates but the number of bills and debt that she has to pay are piling up.
Although, when she discovers a secret investment account under her name, everything changes.
Breen sets off to Ireland in hopes of finding her father. However, she discovers something she could never imagine, a world filled with magic and a long-forgotten duty she has yet to fulfill.
If you enjoy fantasy romance books that focus on incredible world-building, then The Awakening is the perfect book for you.
With only over 430 pages, the first book in the series is used to paint a picture of this new world and build Breen’s multilayered backstory as she encounters a world beyond the clutches of the human realm.
You are sure to fall in love with all the diverse characters and the beautiful backdrop of Ireland.
Desperate to feed her family, Feyre ventures deeper into the woods, little does she know, killing one wolf has the ability to change her entire life.
The thing is, this wasn’t any old wolf. And when a beast-like creature comes to demand retribution, Feyre has no other choice but to go into the magical land with her captor, Tamlin.
However, instead of an animal, Tamlin is a lethal and immortal faerie.
Feyre is lifted out of poverty and into the lavish of Tamlin’s estate. With time, her feelings for Tamlin transform from hostility and coldness to a fiery passion that can’t be ignored.
However, what Feyre doesn’t know is that she is the key to stopping a curse and not only saving her world but Tamlin’s, too.
When it comes to fantasy novels, Maas seems to be the queen. A Court of Thorns and Roses is only one of her fantasy books, but it is certainly a must-read if you haven’t tried out her other work.
Moreover, you can never go wrong with an enemies-to-lovers romance story, therefore, this one should definitely be added to your reading list.
This novel follows the story of Lara – a warrior princess. Here, Lara is determined to bring her kingdom’s enemy – King Aren of the Bridge Kingdom – to his knees and beg for mercy.
Since the Bridge Kingdom controls the only route through the world, it enriches itself at the expense of the other kingdoms. As such, thanks to some upcoming nuptials, Lara intends to change this.
However, as Lara begins to understand the politics of the bridge and what it means for war, she begins to question the validity of her plan and whether or not there are deeper feelings between herself and Aren.
Now, Lara is faced with an impossible decision: which kingdom she’ll save, and which one she’ll destroy?
Fantasy romance novels that feature a strong female protagonist are one of my favorites, and Lara is just this. With tons of twists and turns, you’ll want to find out everything Lara can do.
Following three years of war, Wynter Atrialan is desperate to seek revenge on Summerlea’s king by marrying one of his daughters.
Khamsin Coruscate, a summoner of Storms and the Princess of Summerlear, is placed in an arranged marriage with Wintercraig’s king by her father as punishment.
However, Khamsin sees this as an opportunity to finally get some freedom and potentially fall in love.
If you enjoy fantasy romance books with a marriage-of-convenience and enemies-to-lovers twists, you’re sure to love this book.
You can never go wrong with books that feature a headstrong alpha male who unexpectedly finds himself falling for a woman who he was adamant he would hate.
If this is your first fantasy romance book from Wilson, then get ready to buckle in for a wild ride.
Callypso Lillis has a secret: she is a siren. For years she has been collecting IOUs for favors. However, when the fae king arrives in her room one night, she knows it’s time for repayment.
The Bargainer’s people have been mysteriously disappearing. As such, he has decided to call in her debts in exchange for her help.
However, what happens if calling in this debt means that an old romance begins to rekindle?
However, this romance takes a backstep when an evil awakens that has a particular taste for exotic creatures – one of these exotic creatures happens to be Callie.
If you’re constantly looking for something new and unique, then this novel might be exactly the thing you’re looking for.
Here, interesting characters and a multilayered plot are combined to take you on an adventure of a lifetime.
There are a ton of questions to explore here. What is a siren? Why did she need so many favors? Who is the fae king?
If you need the answers to these questions, then you need to get your hands on this novel.
Pros
Good characters.
Banter.
Chemistry.
Cons
Some readers found the ending to be disappointing.
What started as a simple investigation into the bizarre sound in her next door apartment, Faith never imagined herself falling into a portal and entering a strange new world.
As such, she’s now stuck with the infamous Aron, Butcher God of Battle and Lord of Storms, with the duty of navigating him across the expanse of Aos.
However, one thing is making it hard for Faith to do so, the fact that she doesn’t know anything about the lands or how she is going to be able to guide this arrogant, brutal man without losing her mind in the process.
Having bonded together, they only have one thing in common, to get home. However, this is proving difficult.
While they are faced with endless bickering and enemies on their tails, this is nothing compared to the dangers they are facing in their hearts.
This is one of those novels where you shouldn’t judge the book by its cover. If you’re looking for a unique fantasy romance book, this could be the one for you.
An arrogant God and a sassy heroine – what more could you ask for?
You can only imagine the amount of banter that is going to take place between this pair, you’re sure to come back for more.
Clay Fray, fifteen years old, witnesses a murder outside a New York City nightclub by a group of teenagers with strange markings.
The only problem? Minutes later the body vanishes into thin air – Clair doesn’t know what to think or do.
Little does Clary know that these teenagers refer to themselves as the Shadowhunters – and she just unlocked a whole new world. Even though she’d like to simply put the past behind her, he requires the help of Jace.
While he may be a skilled shadow hunter, he is also a jerk, too. Nevertheless, after mysteriously losing her mother and being attacked by a demon – Clary needs all the help she can get.
While this novel may be a little darker than any previous books you may have read, if you’re interested in the concept of Shadowhunters and this magical world – it is a definite read!
Moreover, you’ll also be entranced by the relationship between Clary and Jace who make for an unlikely duo who end up falling for each other despite all odds.
A tenuous relationship between the walled kingdoms of the south and the barbarian riders of Parsathe is shocked following the murder of the barbarian king and queen.
As revenge, Maddek is determined to make those responsible pay for the demise of his parents.
The first person on his list is the king’s daughter – the one who lured her parents to their death.
However, upon capturing the woman, she isn’t what he expected.
Even though Yvenne is weak and small, she has a powerful mind and proposes a marriage between her and Maddek to unite their goals and bring revenge upon her father.
If this sounds like something up your street, then you need to get your hands on this book.
The dynamic between Maddek and Yvenne isn’t something you should miss – whereby our main heroine takes Maddek completely by surprise.
Prince Rhen, the heir of Emberfall, has been transformed into a beast and has been cursed to repeat his eighteenth year until he can fall in love with a girl.
Rhen begins to lose all hope of ever finding a girl and breaking the curse until he meets Harper.
Having cerebral palsy, Harper knows what it’s like to struggle, however, she doesn’t let this top her.
On the streets of Washington, DC, she tries to save a stranger. However, instead, she finds herself being transported into a magical realm filled with monsters, a curse, and an irresistible prince whose curse is putting the residents of his kingdom at risk.
If you’re a fan of Beauty and the Beast, then you’re going to love this retelling. Plus, the novel features a diverse heroine that falls out of all the stereotypes for an exciting read.
Plus, this is the first book in the three-book series. Therefore, if you like this novel, then get ready to jump into the rest of the series for an exciting adventure.
At seven years old, Jude was stolen from the human world to live in the brutal High Court of Faerie. Despite this, she has always wanted to be one of them.
As a human, she is despised by many of the faes, one of which includes Prince Cardan – the most wicked and youngest son of the High King.
To prove her strength, Jude decides to win a place in the court, however, in order to do so, she becomes intertwined in deceptions and royal intrigues.
This leads to her creating an alliance with none other than the prince himself to save herself, her family, and potentially the kingdom itself.
When it comes to young adult fantasy romances, this is one of the most popular novels. If you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers, then you’ll enjoy the dynamic between Jude and Carden.
That said, romance doesn’t take away from the main plot. Instead, there is plenty of intrigue, drama, and suspense to keep you occupied.
Plus, you don’t have to say goodbye to all your favorite characters once you have finished the series, either, as it is part of a trilogy – there’s tons of fun just waiting to be read.
Since she was eight years old, Katsa was able to kill a grown man using her bare hands thanks to her Graceling abilities.
Gracelings are extremely rare and are born to this land with extreme skill and power. Since he possesses such power, she is forced by her uncle, the king, to become his thug and do his bidding.
However, as Katsa learns more about what it means to be a Graceling, she unlocks a terrible secret that no one can know while falling for the price all at the same time.
This unique story is sure to keep you up at night – you won’t be able to put the novel down!
The Graceling concept is sure to keep you wondering what it is and how it can be manipulated in the wrong hands.
Plus, with the added bonus of romance, what’s there not to love after this novel?
When the day of her Presenting comes around, seventeen-year-old Cyrene Strohm’s future is dramatically transformed from what she imagined after being chosen for one of the most prestigious positions in the county – the Queen’s Affiliate.
However, when Cyrene comes across an unreadable book and a mysterious letter, she soon comes to realize that everything isn’t as it seems.
In the middle of a political world that is full of magic and intrigue, Cyrene can’t help but be intrigued by it all. So much so that she finds herself being drawn to no other than King Edric himself.
If you like your fantasy romance books to be packed with intrigue and suspense with splashes of forbidden attraction thrown into the mix, then you’ll love this novel.
This is the first book out of five novels. Therefore, if you enjoy this book, then there’s more to come!
If you’re looking for the ultimate fantastical romance tale following the main characters Westley and Buttercup then you won’t be able to get enough of The Princess Bride.
A true love that was once was may be found again despite the many captures, beasties, lies, and death – all you have to do is believe in miracles, and it is sure to work out.
If you can’t get enough of true love and adventure, then this class fantasy romance book is for you.
At the age of six, Clare meets her future husband, Henry who is thirty-six. However, the two of them marry when Clare is twenty-three and Henry is thirty-one.
If you’re confused, then join the club! The explanation you’re looking for is that Henry is the first person ever to be diagnosed with Chrono-Displacement Disorder, a condition that resets his clock and places him someplace in time.
Henry and Clare attempt a normal life and a normal marriage despite battling the efforts of his unpredictable time travel that can’t be controlled.
If you have watched the movie and loved it, just know that the book is even better!
The concept of controlling a love that is constantly disrupted by the fate of time is a unique idea that has never been done before.
In a small town called Wall, Tristan Thorn would do anything for the hand of the irresistible Victoria Forester.
For the undeniable prize of her heart, Tristan decides to retrieve a fallen star and give it to the one he loves.
It is such an oath that sends him over the wall into the ancient world of faerie but that’s not only strange beyond imagination but is equally dangerous, too.
If you have watched the movie, you may be surprised to know that it was originally a book.
That said, each format is equally amazing and engrossing – you won’t be able to put it down.
Pros
Amazing world-building.
Immersive.
Captivating.
Cons
Lacked important details.
Buyer’s Guide
Elements Of A Fantasy Romance Novel
There are certain elements that all fantasy romance novels contain, below, I have outlined some of the most common ones to look out for when considering purchasing a book.
Good Versus Evil Plots
Generally, fantasy romance books will contain a plotline or sub-plot line that contains elements of good versus evil.
Typically, magic is portrayed as both good and evil depending on who has control of it.
Therefore, many of the characters find themselves in situations where they are fighting against dark creatures or dark magic.
In some fantasy romance novels, these dark elements can sometimes be quite violent.
Plus, there are some bullying elements that you might want to keep in mind before reading, too.
Incredible World-Building
It simply wouldn’t be a romance book unless it was taking place in a magical location surrounded by fantastical environments that grip you and keep you reading.
If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself and escape into a particular novel, then fantasy romance books are the best way to do this – offering landscapes like no other.
These books are sure to leave you in awe with incredible magical worlds and equally amazing characters.
For this reason, most fantasy novels will dedicate a lot of prose to describing a particular setting and its surroundings – to provide you with a real image of where the characters live and how they interact.
The rules that govern the particular place help to develop the overall feel and look of the location.
Series
Since there is such a large focus on suspense, battle scenes, and world-building, these fantasy romance books are often split up into multiple books and series.
With too many descriptions and details of plotlines to fit into one book, authors decide to dedicate multiple books to their story – allowing you to become fully immersed in the magical worlds, understanding the characters, and all their struggles.
Some readers may not want to invest so much of their time into these novels, however, when you find a fantasy romance novel that ticks all your personal interests, you won’t be able to stop reading – much less want to!
Suspenseful Stories
Since so many fantasy romance novels contain elements of good versus evil – their storylines contain many elements of suspense that are sure to keep you hooked.
If you don’t like romantic suspense, then these might not be the books for you. Since these contain more suspense than others.
Slow-Burn Romance
Many people enjoy fantasy romance novels that have a good balance of fantastical elements and romance – a balance.
However, don’t worry, there are tons of action and adventure to delve into, too. That said, there is generally a sweeping love story between particular characters that triumphs over everything.
Another theme that is common in fantasy romance books is that the romantic elements between characters are often a slow-burn one.
This is especially the case when it comes to fantasy romance book series. That said, even when it comes to standalone books, these themes are vibrant.
However, there is nothing purer about a slow-burn romance – watching the characters go from strangers to lovers is a beautiful experience.
Here, the connection between characters often surprises them thanks to growing tension and attraction that can be intense.
Therefore, if you love slow-burn romances, then you need to get your hands on a fantasy romance book.
Final Thoughts
Fantasy romance books have the ability to transport you to incredible locations that you could never imagine – let alone visit! That’s why this genre is so popular, the world-building is out of this world.
In addition to thrilling adventure, stunning imagery, and multilayered characters – what more could you ask for?
As a result, there are many books in this genre. Therefore, choosing the best books can be somewhat difficult. However, don’t worry, that is why I have compiled this comprehensive list for you.
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with some inspiration on the best fantasy romance books that you need to get your hands on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between Fantasy Romance Vs. Paranormal Romance Books?
When it comes to reading fantasy books, you’ll want to understand the differences between a fantasy romance and a paranormal romance book as they can sometimes be mistaken for the same thing.
Fantasy romance novels typically contain elements surrounding magic, fantastical worlds, magical creatures, and fae.
On the other hand, paranormal romance books focus less on magic and more on paranormal creatures, such as ghosts, vampires, witches, shapeshifters, werewolves, psychics, and zombies.
That said, most books in these two categories will contain elements of a love story with happy endings.
Hi, my name is Anna Davis and I have been working with books for five years now. I got a job at my local library, so I could be closer to all of the books! I created this website in the hopes of inspiring others to start reading again. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your new favorite book from my site!
