The Top 10 Fantasy Romance Books of the Last Year
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There's something absolutely magical about fantasy romance novels that keeps me coming back for more. The perfect fantasy romance combines the escapism of fantastical worlds with the emotional depth of a compelling love story. What makes these books truly exceptional is their ability to balance intricate world-building with character development, creating heroes and heroines who feel real despite their supernatural circumstances. The best fantasy romances feature strong, complex protagonists who grow throughout their journey, magic systems that feel organic to the story, and romantic tension that builds naturally alongside the plot. I look for books that don't sacrifice characterd-building for plot – instead, they weave all these elements together seamlessly.
The past year has been particularly rich for fantasy romance, offering everything from gothic mansion competitions to dragon-filled kingdoms. These stories transport us to worlds where love truly can conquer all, even when facing ancient curses, political intrigue, or supernatural enemies. Here are my top ten fantasy romance novels from the last year that perfectly capture what makes this genre so addictive.
$11.99
$6.87
4.96 out of 5 stars
Caraval (Caraval, 1)
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Caraval (Caraval, 1) by Stephanie Garber
Tagged As:
YA fantasy, magical realism, carnival setting, circus fantasy, tarot cards, illusion vs reality, sister bond, mystery, adventure, standalone with series potential, slow burn romance, Beauty and the Beast elements, HEA
Why I Like This Book:
This enchanting novel follows Scarlett Dragna, who has spent years dreaming of attending Caraval, a legendary magical competition where the audience participates in an elaborate performance. When she finally receives her long-awaited invitation, Scarlett is whisked away to the show with her sister Tella and a mysterious sailor named Julian. However, their adventure takes a dark turn when Tella is immediately kidnapped by Legend, Caraval's enigmatic mastermind. Scarlett must navigate a maze of illusions, magic, and dangerous games to find her sister before the five nights of Caraval end, all while being warned that nothing she sees is real.
What I absolutely love about this book is how Garber creates a world that feels like stepping into a beautiful, dangerous dream. The magical atmosphere is intoxicating, with every scene painted in vivid, almost overwhelming detail. Readers consistently praise the book's imaginative world-building and the way it captures the feeling of being lost in a carnival that's both wonderful and terrifying. Many appreciate how the story explores the complex relationship between the sisters and the themes of protection, sacrifice, and growing up. The romance with Julian develops naturally throughout the magical chaos, adding emotional depth without overshadowing the fantastical elements. The concept of Caraval itself – where reality blurs with performance – creates a unique reading experience that many describe as addictive.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you enjoy atmospheric fantasy with circus and carnival settings, magical competitions that blur reality and illusion, and sister relationships at the heart of the story, this will captivate you completely. The book appeals to those who love YA fantasy with romantic elements but aren't looking for explicit content, preferring emotional tension and slow-burn development instead.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️| Mild
$4.99
4.83 out of 5 stars
Forged in Blood: A Dark Paranormal/ Fantasy romance (Broken Bloodlines Book 1)
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Forged in Blood: A Dark Paranormal/Fantasy Romance (Broken Bloodlines Book 1) by Lindsey Hall
Tagged As:
dark paranormal romance, vampires, university setting, ancient prophecies, Ruby Dragon Society, found family, orphan heroine, multiple love interests, reverse harem elements, elemental magic, bloodline magic, academy fantasy, trilogy opener, cliffhanger ending, steamy romance, HEA over series
Why I Like This Book:
This dark paranormal romance introduces us to Ophelia Hart, an orphan with dreams of becoming a social worker to help forgotten children like herself. When an unexpected opportunity arises to attend the prestigious Montridge University, Ophelia thinks her life is finally taking a positive turn. However, she quickly catches the attention of the three ruthless commanders of the Ruby Dragon Society – powerful vampires who rule the campus with fear. As Ophelia discovers a world of magic, ancient prophecies, and supernatural politics, she must learn to trust the very beings everyone else fears, especially the enigmatic Professor Alexandros Drakos, while darker forces threaten everything around her.
What draws me to this story is its perfect blend of academic paranormal romance with genuine emotional depth. The university setting provides a familiar backdrop for the supernatural elements, making the fantastical feel grounded and accessible. Readers often mention loving Ophelia's strength and relatability – she's not immediately powerful but grows into her abilities naturally. The vampire politics and ancient bloodline mythology create rich world-building that doesn't feel overwhelming. Many appreciate how the romance develops gradually, allowing for real emotional connections rather than instant attraction. The found family dynamics between Ophelia and her supernatural protectors add warmth to what could otherwise be a very dark story.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you crave dark academia vibes with vampire romance, university settings with supernatural politics, and orphan heroines discovering hidden powers and found family, this will be your next obsession. Perfect for those who enjoy reverse harem elements, ancient prophecies, and steamy paranormal romance with multiple books to explore character development.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️| Insanely Hot
$22.00
$12.81
4.23 out of 5 stars
When the Moon Hatched
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When the Moon Hatched (The Moonfall Series, 1) by Sarah A. Parker
Tagged As:
high fantasy, dragons, fae, assassin heroine, dragon rider hero, enemies to lovers, second chance romance, elemental magic, rebellion themes, epic world-building, dual POV, slow burn, series opener, viral BookTok sensation, adult fantasy romance, HEA
Why I Like This Book:
This epic high fantasy romance spans 700 pages of intricate world-building and follows Raeve, a skilled assassin working for the rebel group Fíur du Ath. Set in a world where dragons soar through the skies and magic flows through ancient bloodlines, the story takes a dramatic turn when Raeve gets caught during a mission. Her capture leads to unexpected developments that change everything she thought she knew about her world and herself. The romance centers around her relationship with Kaan Vaegor, a mysterious and protective figure with his own complex past and hidden depths.
What makes this book extraordinary is Parker's commitment to creating a fully realized fantasy world that feels authentic and lived-in. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the invented languages to the complex magic systems involving different elemental affinities. Readers consistently praise the strong character development, particularly how Raeve maintains her agency and strength throughout her journey. Many love the slow-burn romance that allows both characters to grow individually before coming together. The dragon-centric world-building receives particular acclaim, with readers appreciating how the creatures feel integral to the story rather than decorative. Despite its length, readers often mention being completely absorbed and wanting more by the end.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you love epic fantasy with dragons, assassin heroines with hidden powers, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, and intricate world-building that spans multiple books, this will become your new addiction. Perfect for those who enjoyed Fourth Wing but want more complex world-building and deeper character development alongside the dragon romance.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️| Mild
$19.00
$9.71
4.68 out of 5 stars
A Dawn of Onyx (The Sacred Stones)
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A Dawn of Onyx (The Sacred Stones) by Kate Golden
Tagged As:
enemies to lovers, healing magic, captive romance, fae, high fantasy, magic kingdoms, political intrigue, powerful heroine, brooding hero, dual POV, slow burn, series opener, Goodreads Choice Award nominee, TikTok sensation, adult fantasy romance, HEA
Why I Like This Book:
This captivating enemies-to-lovers fantasy follows Arwen, a young woman with healing powers who finds herself thrust into a dangerous world of politics and magic. When circumstances force her into the court of Kane, a powerful and brooding figure with his own dark secrets, Arwen must navigate treacherous political waters while learning to control her abilities. As external threats loom and both characters harbor secrets that could destroy them, they must learn to trust each other despite being natural enemies. The story beautifully balances the development of their relationship with action-packed plot elements and supernatural threats.
What I adore about this book is the masterful handling of the enemies-to-lovers trope without falling into common pitfalls. Golden creates genuine reasons for the initial conflict between Arwen and Kane, making their eventual romance feel earned rather than forced. Readers frequently praise the slow-burn development and the way both characters must work to overcome their prejudices and past traumas. The magic system feels organic to the world, and Arwen's healing abilities create interesting moral dilemmas and plot complications. Many appreciate that Arwen remains strong and independent throughout the story, never losing her identity in the relationship. The supporting characters and world-building receive consistent praise for feeling realistic and well-developed.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you crave perfectly executed enemies-to-lovers romance with healing magic, political intrigue, and powerful heroines who maintain their strength, this will sweep you off your feet. Ideal for those who love slow-burn development, morally complex characters, and fantasy worlds with genuine stakes beyond the romance.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️| Moderate
$12.95
$7.19
4.82 out of 5 stars
Song of the Forever Rains (The Mousai, 1)
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Song of the Forever Rains (The Mousai, 1) by E.J. Mellow
Tagged As:
historical fantasy, magic music, sorceresses, Thief Kingdom, political intrigue, undercover mission, forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, found family, sisterhood, voice magic, mission-based romance, dual POV, series opener, standalone feel, HEA
Why I Like This Book:
Set in the mystical world of Aadilor, this novel follows Larkyra Bassette, the youngest member of the Mousai, a trio of powerful sorceresses whose voices can literally slay monsters. When the corrupt Duke of Lachlan is discovered to be trafficking a dangerous drug that harms his tenants, Larkyra is given her first solo mission to stop him by posing as his potential bride. However, her plans become complicated when she meets Lord Darius Mekenna, the duke's rightful heir, who has his own mysterious motivations for wanting to rid Lachlan of its corrupt ruler. As Larkyra and Darius work together, they must learn to trust each other while navigating deadly political intrigue.
What I love most about this book is how Mellow seamlessly blends historical fantasy elements with unique magical systems. The concept of magic tied to music and voice creates beautiful, lyrical scenes that feel both powerful and artistic. Readers often praise the strong character development and the way both Larkyra and Darius feel like complete individuals before their romance develops. Many appreciate the detailed world-building that draws from historical periods while maintaining its own distinct fantasy flavor. The political intrigue adds depth to the romance plot, creating stakes beyond just the relationship. The found family dynamics with the other Mousai members provide emotional warmth and complexity to Larkyra's character arc.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you enjoy historical fantasy with unique magic systems, undercover missions with romantic complications, and sisterhood bonds with found family dynamics, this will captivate you completely. Perfect for those who love voice-based magic, political intrigue, and character-driven stories with both grumpy/sunshine dynamics and forced proximity elements.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️| Moderate
$18.99
$12.46
4.68 out of 5 stars
One Dark Window (The Shepherd King, 1)
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One Dark Window (The Shepherd King, 1) by Rachel Gillig
Tagged As:
dark gothic fantasy, tarot card magic, internal possession, morally gray characters, Providence Cards, ancient curses, psychological complexity, hidden magical abilities, quest for powerful artifacts, atmospheric gothic setting, series opener, dual POV, HEA over series
Why I Like This Book:
This dark gothic fantasy introduces Elspeth Spindle, a young woman hiding a dangerous secret – she survived the mysterious fever that grants magical abilities but also attracts the attention of the king, who executes fever survivors. The magic system revolves around ancient Providence Cards, similar to tarot, which grant incredible power at a terrible cost. When Elspeth accidentally touches one of the most powerful cards, she becomes possessed by a malevolent entity called the Nightmare. As she struggles to maintain control of her own mind, she becomes entangled in a quest to collect the twelve most powerful cards to break an ancient curse threatening their kingdom.
What draws me to this story is the brilliant exploration of magic that comes with genuine consequences. Gillig doesn't shy away from showing the dark price of power, creating tension and stakes that feel real and dangerous. Readers consistently praise the atmospheric writing that creates a truly gothic mood throughout the story. Many appreciate the complexity of the magic system and how it ties into the larger world mythology. The internal struggle between Elspeth and the Nightmare creates a unique type of character development that explores themes of control, identity, and self-acceptance. The dark, mysterious tone appeals to readers who want fantasy romance with genuine psychological depth and moral complexity.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you crave dark gothic fantasy with tarot card magic, internal possession storylines, and morally complex characters facing impossible choices, this will consume your thoughts. Perfect for those who enjoy atmospheric world-building, psychological complexity, and magic systems with genuine consequences and prices to pay.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️| Mild
$19.00
$10.05
4.38 out of 5 stars
A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, 1)
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A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, 1) by Sarah J. Maas
Tagged As:
Beauty and the Beast retelling, fae romance, high fantasy, faerie courts, captive romance, magic curses, political intrigue, strong heroine, mortal/immortal romance, series opener, dual POV, slow burn progressing to steamy, New Adult, viral BookTok sensation, HEA
Why I Like This Book:
This beloved Beauty and the Beast retelling follows Feyre, a mortal huntress who kills a faerie wolf in the forest, only to be dragged to the magical realm as punishment by Tamlin, a powerful High Fae lord. As Feyre adapts to life in the Spring Court, she discovers that Tamlin and his court are under a terrible curse. What begins as captivity slowly transforms into something deeper as Feyre learns about the complex politics of the faerie courts and discovers feelings for her captor. To save Tamlin and his people, Feyre must navigate deadly trials and face the powerful sorceress Amarantha, risking everything for love.
What makes this book so compelling is how Maas takes a familiar fairy tale framework and expands it into something entirely new and complex. The world-building around the different faerie courts creates a rich political landscape that extends far beyond the original story. Readers often praise Feyre's character development from a struggling mortal to a strong, capable heroine who maintains her humanity even as she gains power. Many appreciate how the romance develops gradually, allowing both characters to grow and change. The book successfully balances romantic elements with action, political intrigue, and personal growth. The court politics and magical systems provide depth that appeals to both romance and fantasy readers.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you love Beauty and the Beast retellings with complex faerie courts, mortal heroines discovering hidden strength, and political intrigue woven throughout romantic development, this will become your gateway obsession. Perfect for those wanting fairy tale retellings with adult complexity, court politics, and romance that evolves from captive to consensual with genuine character growth.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️| Mild
$3.99
4.3 out of 5 stars
Phantasma: A dark fantasy romance (Wicked Games Book 1)
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Phantasma: A Dark Fantasy Romance (Wicked Games Book 1) by Kaylie Smith
Tagged As:
dark fantasy romance, gothic mansion setting, deadly competition, haunted house, demons and temptations, mysterious stranger, Faustian bargain, psychological horror elements, sister bond, desperate heroine, morally gray hero, atmospheric gothic, series opener, HEA
Why I Like This Book:
When Ophelia's sister disappears, there's only one way to save her – by entering Phantasma, a deadly competition held within a haunted mansion where the prize is a single wish. The mansion is a maze of twisted corridors and lavish ballrooms filled with demons and temptations, where Ophelia must face nine increasingly dangerous challenges. With only one possible winner and other contestants willing to kill for victory, Ophelia's fears threaten to overwhelm her until a mysterious stranger named Blackwell offers her a bargain. Charming but dangerous, he promises to guide her through the trials in exchange for ten years of her life, creating a dark attraction that may prove more dangerous than the competition itself.
What I find irresistible about this book is how Smith creates a truly atmospheric gothic setting that feels both beautiful and terrifying. The concept of a deadly competition within a supernatural mansion provides the perfect backdrop for both horror and romance elements. Readers consistently praise the dark, seductive atmosphere and the way the romance develops naturally despite the dangerous circumstances. Many appreciate how Ophelia maintains her agency and intelligence even when faced with impossible choices. The competition format creates natural tension and pacing, while the romantic elements add emotional depth to what could otherwise be purely action-driven. The gothic romance elements appeal to readers who want their fantasy with genuine psychological complexity and moral ambiguity.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you crave gothic mansion settings with deadly competitions, mysterious bargains with dangerous strangers, and dark atmospheric romance with psychological horror elements, this will haunt your dreams in the best way. Perfect for those who enjoy sister bonds as motivation, morally gray love interests, and competitions where survival isn't guaranteed.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️| Moderate
$19.99
$17.99
4.51 out of 5 stars
The Ever King: A Dark Fantasy Romance (The Ever Seas)
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The Ever King: A Dark Fantasy Romance (The Ever Seas) by L.J. Andrews
Tagged As:
dark fantasy romance, underwater kingdom, maritime mythology, enemies to lovers, revenge plot, morally gray hero, innocent heroine as pawn, pirates and sirens, Vikings and fae, scarred king, vengeance themes, series opener, HEA
Why I Like This Book:
This sweeping dark fantasy romance follows Erik, the scarred king of the Ever Kingdom, who has spent years planning vengeance against the man who killed his father and trapped him beneath the waves, making him a prisoner in his own underwater realm. When his enemy's innocent daughter accidentally breaks the magical chains binding the Ever Kingdom, Erik sees the perfect opportunity for revenge by making her an unwitting pawn in his vicious game. However, as Erik pursues his plans for retribution, he finds himself unexpectedly drawn to the woman he intended to use, forcing him to choose between his carefully planned revenge and the growing feelings that threaten to change everything.
What captivates me about this story is how Andrews creates a truly unique fantasy world that blends maritime mythology with traditional fantasy elements. The underwater kingdom setting provides a fresh backdrop for the enemies-to-lovers romance, while the combination of pirates, sirens, fae, and Vikings creates a rich, diverse world. Readers often praise the morally complex hero who must grapple with his desire for revenge versus his growing capacity for love. Many appreciate how the heroine maintains her strength and agency even when caught in Erik's schemes. The world-building receives consistent acclaim for feeling both fantastical and grounded, with the maritime setting adding a distinctive flavor to the fantasy romance genre.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you love underwater kingdoms with maritime mythology, morally gray heroes torn between revenge and love, and unique world-building that combines pirates, sirens, and fae, this will sweep you away. Perfect for those craving enemies-to-lovers with genuine emotional stakes, scarred kings with complex motivations, and fantasy settings that feel completely fresh and original.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️| Explicit
$19.00
$12.69
4.78 out of 5 stars
A Court of Mist and Fury
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A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses, 2) by Sarah J. Maas
Tagged As:
fae romance, PTSD representation, trauma recovery, mates bond, Night Court, political intrigue, Inner Circle found family, personal empowerment, consent themes, mental health, steamy romance, series continuation, dual POV, spicy scenes, HEA
Why I Like This Book:
In this powerful sequel, Feyre has survived Amarantha's trials and returned to the Spring Court, but the victory came at a tremendous cost. Though she now possesses the powers of the High Fae, her heart remains human, and she struggles with the trauma of what she endured to save Tamlin's people. As she grapples with her new reality, Feyre must honor her bargain with Rhysand, the enigmatic High Lord of the Night Court. As she navigates the dark political waters of his court, she discovers that a greater evil threatens their world, and she may be the key to stopping it – but only if she can harness her newfound abilities and heal her fractured soul.
What makes this sequel extraordinary is how Maas deepens and expands everything that worked in the first book while taking the story in bold new directions. The exploration of trauma and healing feels genuine and respectful, showing Feyre's journey toward recovery rather than glossing over her experiences. Readers consistently praise the character development and how relationships evolve in realistic, complex ways. Many appreciate the expanded world-building that introduces new courts and political dynamics while maintaining the emotional core of the story. The book successfully balances personal growth with larger plot stakes, creating a story that works on multiple levels. The way it handles themes of agency, consent, and personal empowerment resonates strongly with readers looking for fantasy romance with emotional depth.
Who Will Like This Book:
If you crave character-driven sequels that tackle trauma recovery with sensitivity, found family dynamics in magical courts, and steamy romance that develops organically from emotional connection, this will consume your every thought. Perfect for those who appreciate PTSD representation, political intrigue with personal stakes, and relationships that evolve from the first book in meaningful ways.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️| Explicit
Final Thoughts
These ten fantasy romance novels represent the very best of what the genre offered this past year. From magical competitions and vampire universities to underwater kingdoms and faerie courts, each book provides a unique escape into worlds where love and magic intertwine. Whether you're drawn to gothic atmospheres, epic world-building, or complex character development, these stories offer something for every fantasy romance lover. Each one demonstrates the power of combining fantastical elements with genuine emotional depth, creating reading experiences that linger long after the final page.
