Romantasy, a blend of romance and fantasy, is currently a major trend in literature, with Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing and Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses leading the way.
As new romantasy novels hit the market weekly, choosing the next read can be overwhelming. For those seeking their next romantasy journey, here are the top 10 must-reads for this fall, including thrilling debuts, fresh series, and anticipated sequels. For more book suggestions, reviews, and updates, subscribe to our free newsletter, The Bookish Drop, on Substack.
Clara, condemned to a lifetime behind bars for creating magical tarot cards, a skill reserved for Arcana Academy members, receives a lifeline from the academy’s head, Prince Kaelis. Enrolled as a student and betrothed to the prince, Clara’s fate takes a dramatic turn.
For enthusiasts of dark academia and intricate magic systems, this romantasy novel is a captivating choice this season. With a mix of romance, a diverse character lineup, and an enchanting cover, this book is a must-have addition to any bookshelf.
Bestselling YA author Holly Black, known for the Spiderwick Chronicles and the Folk of the Air trilogy, returns with the long-awaited sequel to Book of Night. Charlie Hall faces heightened dangers as she hunts down rogue shadows.
For those craving a break from typical romantasy clichés and a taste of urban fantasy, the Charlatan Duology offers a compelling series this autumn. Packed with intelligence, pace, addictive characters, and a fascinating magical framework, this series is sure to captivate readers.
Sophia, seeking refuge from her oppressive uncle’s control, joins Killmarth, a prestigious academy for magic wielders. To prove themselves, each hopeful must endure the Ordeals, a series of perilous tests.
Teaming up with powerful magic user Alden Locke to break free from her uncle’s grasp, Sophia navigates a world of friends, foes, and potential killers. This rich romantasy tale appeals to fans of dark academia, trials, and rivals-to-lovers dynamics, leaving readers eager for the sequel.
Drawing from Sri Lankan mythology, this debut romantasy follows Anula’s quest to marry and dethrone the raja who devastated her kingdom. When her schemes go astray, Anula must bargain with a divine being with its own agenda.
Her Soul for a Crown offers a captivating world, a varied cast, and a slow-burning romance. Recommended by renowned romantasy author Scarlett St. Clair, this novel promises an engaging read this fall.
From the creator of the Crowns of Nyaxia series comes Daughter of No Worlds, the initial volume in the War of Lost Hearts trilogy. Tisaanah, a former slave seeking justice and the rescue of her abandoned friend, embarks on a quest to the Orders, a hub of powerful magic wielders.
This dark romantasy tale, filled with apprenticeships, hatred, and a quest for vengeance, showcases Carissa Broadbent’s storytelling prowess. Whether a newcomer or a seasoned fan, readers will be swiftly drawn into this immersive narrative.
Princess Jessamine, faced with a kingdom plagued by an incurable ailment, enters a political marriage to save her people, only to be betrayed by her husband. Seeking vengeance, she strikes a deal with a god of death, setting the stage for the Gravesinger series.
The Deathless One, first in the series, promises a mix of witchcraft, female defiance, and morally ambiguous romance. This romantasy read, with its blend of fantasy and revenge, is a top choice for autumn.
Nell, shattered by betrayal, makes a plea for love and attracts the attention of Enver, a cursed immortal. Faced with a choice of escaping a labyrinth or becoming Enver’s eternal companion, Nell embarks on a labyrinthine adventure.
Until the World Falls Down, a fusion of Labyrinth and Beauty and the Beast, offers a unique plotline filled with surprises and twists.
Wild Reverence, a standalone romantasy within the universe of Rebecca Ross’ Divine Rivals, follows Matilda, a goddess with messenger magic, and Vincent, a mortal boy linked by fate. Their intertwined destinies are reignited by a fateful letter.
Whether a fan of the original duology or a newcomer to the series, Wild Reverence promises an enchanting read with its distinctive magic system and endearing characters.
Cursed Fae’s final installment, Black Hearted, sees the last Faerie princess collaborating with a dark Ethereum lord to break a curse affecting their realms. This fantasy romance, akin to Sarah J. Maas’ works, offers a fast-paced narrative with high stakes and a compelling enemies-to-lovers arc.
House of Dragons, the initial volume in the Royal Houses series by K. A. Linde, introduces Kerrigan, a half-Fae, half-human
