If you’re a fan of young adult literature, you’re likely familiar with the popularity of YA fantasy romance books. These books combine the thrill of fantasy and magic with the heart-pounding excitement of falling in love. From forbidden romances to star-crossed lovers, the world of YA fantasy romance is filled with stories that capture the imagination. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or new to YA, there’s something for everyone in these enchanting tales.
Flame and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
Enter Faerie in this epic fantasy book filled with fast-paced adventure, forced proximity enemies to lovers, and a magical book that thinks for itself. Perfect for fans of Throne of Glass.
“Who did this to you?” Though the volume of his voice was low, it came out as deadly as poison.
–Flame & Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
Every young adult romantasy book is better with a love interest who will do anything to protect his girl. Get that and more in this riveting epic fantasy tale.
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The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh
A sumptuous and epically told love story inspired by A Thousand and One Nights.
Some things exist in our lives for but a brief moment. And we must let them go on to light another sky.
–The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh
The Wrath and the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh is a gripping and beautifully written YA fantasy romance. It has captured the hearts of readers around the world. The book tells the story of Shahrzad, a young woman who volunteers to marry the Caliph of Khorasan. Soon after, she discovers he has been executing his brides after just one night of marriage. Determined to put an end to the Caliph’s reign of terror, Shahrzad takes it upon herself to unravel the secrets that lie at the heart of his kingdom. Along the way, she finds herself falling for the Caliph. The two must navigate their growing feelings for each other amidst a dangerous and complex political landscape. The Wrath and the Dawn is a breathtakingly romantic and deeply compelling story that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Finale by Stephanie Garber
Welcome, welcome to Finale, the third and final book in Stephanie Garber’s Caraval series!
Occasionally, there are minutes that get extra seconds. Moments so precious the universe stretches to make additional room for them.
–Finale by Stephanie Garber
Finale is the stunning conclusion to the Caraval trilogy by Stephanie Garber. This is a fantastic YA fantasy romance that will keep you spellbound from beginning to end. The book picks up where Legendary left off, following sisters Scarlett and Tella as they navigate the dangerous and unpredictable world of Caraval. The sisters try to unravel the mysteries of the game and confront the evil mastermind behind it all. Throughout, they find themselves drawn into a web of romance and intrigue that wind until the very end. With its vivid descriptions, complex characters, and heart-stopping romance, Finale is a must-read for anyone who loves YA fantasy books that are both thrilling and romantic.
This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi
Clashing empires, forbidden romance, and a long-forgotten queen destined to save her people—Tahereh Mafi’s first in an epic, romantic trilogy inspired by Persian mythology.
“I haven’t the slightest idea what we’re doing,” he said softly. “Though if you mean to take me captive, you need only ask. I would come willingly.”
–This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi
This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi is a breathtakingly beautiful YA fantasy romance that will transport you to a world unlike any other. The book tells the story of Soraya, a princess who is cursed with a poisonous touch and has been forced to live her life in isolation. When a charming young man named Luca arrives at the palace, Soraya is swept up in a romance that is as dangerous as it is irresistible. As the two navigate their feelings for each other and try to unravel the mysteries of Soraya’s curse, they must also confront the political intrigue and danger that threatens to tear their kingdom apart. With its lush prose, intricate world-building, and compelling characters, This Woven Kingdom is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy romance books that are both magical and heart-wrenching.
Daughter of the Siren Queen by Tricia Levenseller
The capable, confident, and occasionally ruthless heroine of Daughter of the Pirate King is back in this action-packed sequel that promises rousing high seas adventures and the perfect dash of magic.
Your enchantments last long after your song fades.
–Daughter of the Siren Queen by Tricia Levenseller
Daughter of the Siren Queen by Tricia Levenseller is a thrilling and action-packed YA fantasy romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The book follows Alosa, a fierce and cunning pirate captain who is determined to reclaim her rightful place as queen of the seas. Along the way, she finds herself falling for a charming and dashing young man named Riden, even as she must navigate the treacherous waters of pirate politics and deal with a host of dangerous enemies. With its strong and capable heroine, swashbuckling adventure, and swoon-worthy romance, Daughter of the Siren Queen is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy books that are both thrilling and romantic.
Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin
Bound as one, to love, honor, or burn. Book one of a stunning fantasy trilogy, this tale of witchcraft and forbidden love is perfect for fans of Kendare Blake and Sara Holland.
“If this woman is to be my wife,” he said, swallowing hard, “you will not touch her again.”
–Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin
Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin is a captivating and enchanting YA fantasy romance that has taken the book world by storm. The book tells the story of Lou, a powerful witch who is forced to flee her coven and take refuge in the city of Cesarine. There, she crosses paths with Reid, a stoic and duty-bound witch hunter who is determined to rid the city of all magic. Despite their differences, Lou and Reid find themselves drawn to each other in a forbidden romance that could threaten everything they hold dear. With its richly drawn characters, lush world-building, and steamy romance, Serpent and Dove is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy books that are both magical and heart-wrenching.
A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir
Beyond the Martial Empire and within it, the threat of war looms ever larger.
Curse this world for what it does to the mothers, for what it does to the daughters. Curse it for making us strong through loss and pain, our hearts torn from our chests again and again. Curse it for forcing us to endure.
–A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir
A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir is an epic and heart-wrenching YA fantasy romance that will leave you breathless. The book is the third installment in the Ember in the Ashes series and picks up where the previous book left off, following the intersecting journeys of Laia, Elias, and Helene as they fight to save their world from the darkness that threatens to engulf it. As the three navigate their own personal demons and confront the harsh realities of war, they also find themselves drawn into a web of romance and passion that could either destroy them or give them the strength to keep fighting. With its complex and multifaceted characters, sweeping world-building, and gripping storyline, A Reaper at the Gates is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy romance books that are both epic and emotional.
To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo
Princess Lira is siren royalty and the most lethal of them all. With the hearts of seventeen princes in her collection, she is revered across the sea. Until a twist of fate forces her to kill one of her own.
People don’t tell secrets because someone needs to know them. They do it because they need someone to tell.
–To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo
To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo is a dark and twisty YA fantasy romance that will sweep you away to a world of danger and intrigue. The book tells the story of Lira, a siren princess who is known throughout the seas for her deadly and ruthless nature, and Elian, a prince who is known for his prowess as a pirate hunter. When the two cross paths, they find themselves caught up in a dangerous game of cat and mouse that quickly becomes a passionate and forbidden romance. With its hauntingly beautiful prose, complex and morally ambiguous characters, and thrilling action sequences, To Kill a Kingdom is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy books that are both dark and romantic.
Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick
Nora should have known her life wouldn’t stay perfect for long.
Being with you never felt wrong. It’s the one thing I did right. You’re the one thing I did right.
–Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick
Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick is a thrilling and suspenseful YA fantasy romance. It’s the second installment in the Hush, Hush series. Read more about Nora and Patch, two star-crossed lovers. They must navigate the dangers of the supernatural world and the machinations of their enemies in order to be together. As the two struggle to uncover the truth about their past and their connection to each other, they are also forced to confront their own inner demons and the dark secrets that threaten to tear them apart. Crescendo has intense and passionate romance, high-stakes action, and supernatural thrills. This is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy books.
Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
Choose: a quick death… or slow poison…
Everyone makes choices in life. Some bad, some good. It’s called living, and if you want to bow out, then go right ahead. But don’t do it halfway. Don’t linger in whiner’s limbo.
–Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder is a captivating and original YA fantasy romance that will transport you to a world of intrigue and magic. The book follows Yelena, a young woman who is saved from execution and offered a chance at life as the food taster for the Commander of Ixia. She navigates the dangerous political landscape of Ixia. Meanwhile, she tries to uncover the truth about her own mysterious past. Unexpectedly, she also finds herself drawn to Valek, the Commander’s mysterious and enigmatic assassin. With its gripping storyline, well-drawn characters, and expertly crafted world-building, Poison Study is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy books that are both thrilling and romantic.
The Beauty of Darkness by Mary E. Pearson
The third and final book in Mary E. Pearson’s Remnant Chronicles.
But now I knew finding love and holding on to it were not the same thing.
–The Beauty of Darkness by Mary E. Pearson
The Beauty of Darkness by Mary E. Pearson is a sweeping and epic YA fantasy romance. It will take you on a journey of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. The book is the third and final installment in The Remnant Chronicles trilogy. It continues the story of Lia, a princess who must fight for her throne and her true love. She struggles to do so in the midst of a world of political intrigue and danger. Lia must navigate the complex relationships and alliances that threaten to tear her kingdom apart. She also grapples with her feelings for Rafe, the prince of Dalbreck, and Kaden, the assassin who once betrayed her. With its lush and evocative prose, richly imagined world-building, and compelling characters, The Beauty of Darkness is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy books that are both epic and romantic.
Crown of Bitter Thorn by Kay L. Moody
This heart-wrenching tale of love and acceptance features a mortal in Faerie who struggles to belong. Book 3 in The Fae of Bitter Thorn series.
Love is not something you earn once and never fight for again. Love requires constant nurturing. In return, it often gives more than deserved. But you must give more than deserved too.
–Crown of Bitter Thorn by Kay L. Moody
Crown of Bitter Thorn by Kay L. Moody is a thrilling and emotional YA fantasy romance that will leave you breathless. The book follows Elora, who must navigate the dangerous politics of Faerie. As she struggles to defeat a powerful leader, she also must learn to use her new abilities. Prince Brannick’s steady presence helps when everything falls apart. With its well-drawn characters, intricate world-building, and heart-pumping romance, Crown of Bitter Thorn is a must-read. Fans of YA fantasy books will love this action-packed and deeply romantic read.
Crown of Bitter Thorn
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What is a good fantasy romance?
- Flame and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
- The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh
- Caraval by Stephanie Garber
- This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi
- Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller
- Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin
- An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
- To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo
- Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
- Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
- The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson
- Court of Bitter Thorn by Kay L. Moody
What are fantasy romance books called?
Fantasy romance books are often referred to as “romantasy” books. This is a mash up of “romance” and “fantasy.” This designation is specifically meant for books that have romance as the main plot. Some readers also refer to fantasy romance books as romantic fantasy. However, other readers insist that “romantic fantasy” is a title meant for books with romance as a subplot. Or, in other words, romantic fantasy books have romance as a subplot.
Why People Love YA Fantasy Romance Books
YA fantasy romance books have captured the hearts of readers across the world, and it’s not hard to see why. For many readers, these books offer a perfect blend of the fantastical and the romantic. Romantasy novels whisk them away to magical worlds full of adventure, danger, and heart-pumping romance. Whether it’s falling in love with a dragon rider, a faerie prince, or a brooding vampire, readers are easily drawn in. They love the thrilling and emotionally charged relationships that unfold between characters in these books. They offer a chance to escape the real world. Also a chance to indulge in the kind of grand, epic romance that we all secretly crave.
But it’s not just the romance that makes these books so beloved. YA fantasy romance books often feature strong, empowered heroines who defy societal expectations and fight for their own agency and independence. They grapple with complex issues like identity, family, and destiny, all while navigating the tricky terrain of love and relationships. These books offer readers a chance to see themselves in these characters. Readers can also imagine themselves as powerful and capable heroes of their own stories. So often in our world, young people are underestimated and undervalued. These books provide a much-needed space for young adults to explore their own desires, dreams, and emotions. And it’s in a safe and empowering way.
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