Romantic Fantasy: Our Favorite Romantasy Novels Right Now

Romantasy, the enchanting blend of romance and fantasy, has become one of the most captivating subgenres in literature today. Whether it’s epic adventures set in magical realms or forbidden love blossoming amid dragons and ancient prophecies, readers are finding themselves swept away by these immersive stories. At Sawtelle Publishing, we love to share what’s trending, and we’re diving into our favorite romantasy novels right now—stories that combine heart-stopping romance with thrilling fantastical elements. If you’re looking for the best romance novels for adults, these titles should definitely make your list.

NOTE: SPICE LEVELS VARY WITHIN THESE BOOKS

1. "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas

No list of romantasy novels would be complete without mentioning A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas. This beloved series effortlessly blends elements of Beauty and the Beast with high fantasy, creating a world filled with magic, intrigue, and complex relationships. The series follows Feyre, a mortal who is taken to the Fae realm after killing a wolf (which turns out to be a faerie in disguise). As she navigates this dangerous world, she begins to fall for Tamlin, a powerful fae lord, while also uncovering dark secrets about her own powers and the fate of the entire Fae world. If you’re seeking passionate romance mixed with action-packed fantasy, this is one of the best romance novels for adults right now.

Why We Love It: The series is a rollercoaster of emotions, with plot twists, steamy romance, and high stakes. It’s perfect for readers who want their hearts to race just as much as their imaginations.

2. "The Bridge Kingdom" by Danielle L. Jensen

Another standout in the romantasy genre is The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen. This book is the first in a series that explores the political intrigue of a world divided by war, and the forbidden romance that arises between two powerful enemies. Lara is a skilled assassin sent to the enemy kingdom to marry its prince, but her mission to betray him is complicated when she starts falling for him. Jensen weaves a gripping story full of unexpected twists, passionate love scenes, and an intricate world-building that will make readers want to keep turning pages.

Why We Love It: If you’re drawn to slow-burn romances set in worlds filled with political intrigue, this book delivers in spades. The chemistry between Lara and the prince is palpable, and the stakes are incredibly high, making it a perfect fit for fans of romance and fantasy alike.

3. "Serpent & Dove" by Shelby Mahurin

If you’re looking for a book that combines witches, magic, and a sizzling enemies-to-lovers trope, Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin is a must-read. The story follows Lou, a witch who has been hiding her magic, and Reid, a witch hunter with a fierce hatred for witches. When their paths cross in a series of intense events, they are forced into an unlikely marriage that becomes much more complicated than either of them could have imagined. The book is full of witty banter, irresistible chemistry, and a world brimming with magical creatures.

Why We Love It: The tension between Lou and Reid is incredibly addictive, and Mahurin’s world-building keeps you hooked from the first chapter. This is one of those romantasy novels that balances humor, heart, and fantasy elements perfectly, making it one of the best romance novels for adults.

4. "The Kiss of Deception" by Mary E. Pearson

For readers who love a mix of adventure, mystery, and romance, The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson is a standout in the romantasy genre. The book follows Lia, a princess who flees an arranged marriage and finds herself on a journey that introduces her to two mysterious strangers: one a prince, and the other an assassin. As Lia navigates her new life, she discovers secrets about her past, her true identity, and the fate of her kingdom. The love triangle at the heart of the story adds an extra layer of tension and emotion, making it a great pick for fans of romance and high-stakes fantasy.

Why We Love It: Pearson’s ability to weave a complex narrative filled with betrayal, love, and epic adventures makes this book an unforgettable read. The romance is slow-building and emotionally satisfying, making it one of the best romance novels for adults who enjoy both fantasy and heartwarming connections.

5. "From Blood and Ash" by Jennifer L. Armentrout

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout is a fan-favorite series that blends steamy romance with thrilling fantasy in a way that’s impossible to put down. The story centers around Poppy, the Maiden, a girl who is destined to be sacrificed to the gods. But when she meets Hawke, a mysterious and brooding warrior, everything changes. The chemistry between them is electric, and their romance is filled with twists, secrets, and revelations. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a world of gods, monsters, and betrayals.

Why We Love It: The romance in From Blood and Ash is intense and addictive, with a strong and relatable heroine at the center. Armentrout’s writing keeps readers on edge, and the fantasy world is rich with danger and intrigue. This is definitely one of the best romance novels for adults who love epic love stories with an edge.

6. "The Priory of the Orange Tree" by Samantha Shannon

Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree is a sprawling epic that combines dragons, magic, and rich world-building with a touching, heartwarming romance. Set in a world where dragons once ruled the skies and magic is intertwined with the fate of kingdoms, the story follows multiple points of view, including the lives of powerful women who will shape the world’s future. At the heart of the novel is a love story that challenges expectations, with a focus on female empowerment and self-discovery. If you're looking for an epic romantasy novel that also tackles themes of friendship, loyalty, and identity, this is a must-read.

Why We Love It: Shannon’s novel is a beautifully written epic that balances romance with high fantasy. The slow-burn relationship and the strong female characters make it a standout in the genre.

The Best Romance Novels for Adults Right Now

These romantasy novels not only deliver on the romance but also immerse readers in breathtaking worlds filled with magic, danger, and complex characters. If you’re a fan of epic adventures combined with love stories that keep you turning pages long into the night, these titles should be at the top of your reading list. Whether you prefer slow-burn romances, enemies-to-lovers tropes, or tales of forbidden love, there’s something for everyone in the world of romantasy. So, grab one (or all) of these books, and dive into the best romance novels for adults—your next bookish obsession awaits!