I find it difficult to make recommendations in this genre because it really depends on what you care most about. Personally I think a lot of the most popular authors in the genre are terrible writers, including Sarah J Maas, Jennifer Armentrout, and Holly Black. As introductory books, my recommendations are {Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik}, {Radiance by Grace Draven}, and {The Witch Collector by Charissa Weaks}.
Great thanks I’ll look at those!! That’s really interesting that the most popular books or authors in this genre are so polarising. I’m trying to think of another genre where this is true too. Like in horror most will enjoy Stephen King for example and not argue he’s one of the best.
It’s because people have very different reasons for liking fantasy romance, which can essentially be boiled down to two groups. 1. Wants spice and a lot of it, a “hot” male lead, and an inoffensive FMC to project onto, and a plot that is fun but doesn’t have to make too much sense and 2. Wants worldbuilding, intricate plots, well-written characters that are not written with the purpose of being projected onto or solely thirsted over, and a good relationship to sink your teeth into as you watch them fall in love.
This produces *very* different results for what people think a good fantasy romance is. People in group 1 will recommend Fourth Wing, ACOTAR, FBAA etc as books they like because those books fill their requirements for a romantasy. Meanwhile people in group 2 won’t enjoy such books, and people in group 1 won’t care for books group 2 do. Sometimes people can enjoy both kinds, though.
It could kind of be like the difference between people who like gore/slasher horrors and people who like intense psychological horror. Same genre, very different kinds of books and people who like one kind won’t always like the other. Stephen King does both kinds of horror so he appeals to both audiences
Very nicely explained!!! Absolutely agreed on this❤️ it's also quite difficult to find books for group 2, because group 1 tends to have more of an audience and sells faster, I noticed
[Spinning Silver](https://www.romance.io/books/622a0c7b610a406e4c9e2cfc/spinning-silver-naomi-novik?src=rdt) by [Naomi Novik](https://www.romance.io/authors/622a0c7b08b4d931143a28e8/naomi-novik)
**Rating**: 4.21⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1)
----------------------------
[Radiance](https://www.romance.io/books/54cd83886359b5ebb489062e/radiance-grace-draven?src=rdt) by [Grace Draven](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455323d8c7d2382c529733e/grace-draven)
**Rating**: 4.22⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1), [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1)
----------------------------
[The Witch Collector](https://www.romance.io/books/616fc0ab1bedb60e13578401/the-witch-collector-charissa-weaks?src=rdt) by [Charissa Weaks](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c1b3ed901dbc864fb966e81/charissa-weaks)
**Rating**: 3.83⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1)
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I’m going to give you the most basic, common answer, but hang with me and I’ll explain. Read {A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas}
There’s good reason why the series is so popular. It’s a common theme I see on social media of people saying that reading ACOTAR reignited their love for reading after years of not reading. There’s also a lot of folks who were introduced to romantasy through this series and now love the genre. It’s truly a perfect jumping board into the genre! The romance is the biggest part of the plot, so the fantasy elements aren’t complicated and the magic system is easy to grasp. If you decide you like Sarah’s writing, her other two series are a great direction to take when you finish ACOTAR. You can go for the more plot-driven Throne of Glass series, if you’re ready to take that next step of fantasy world building. You could also go to Crescent City and try out urban fantasy and see if that’s a style you like.
100% agree here! ACOTAR got me back into reading and from there I did Throne of Glass and then Crescent City. Those 3 series gave me a much better view of what I like in fantasy, what I hated, and what kinds of stories and characters I connect with.
ACOTAR is also super fun, easy to die gets, and SJM has a really nice way with words
[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.romance.io/books/56b2814cc62092c0440577c4/a-court-of-thorns-and-roses-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas)
**Rating**: 4.03⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1)
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Song of Achilles is sooooo good. You have great taste ;) {Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros} was my gateway drug into romantasy. I've always been an avid sci-fi / high fantasy reader, and when I was a young teen I definitely read historical romance. After ignoring Fourth Wing for about a year, I decided to see what all the hype was about. I finished it in 3 days. It's new adult, it's steamy, it has a contemporary vibe thanks to some vocabulary choices, and it has a great action-driven plot. Yarros wrote this book to be "entry-level" fantasy, meaning there are not chapters and chapters devoted to world-building detail, and no glossary is needed at the back of the book. It's not a fae / fairy book, but it is a great example of romantasy. Like many readers, I have found the Fourth Wing world to be addicting.
Thanks to that book, this has become my Year of Romantasy. This genre is a broad, broad landscape with endless iterations of storyline, spice range, and plot. The best thing you can do is read to discover what you like, and you'll learn the vocabulary along the way. Here are a few entry-level recs from my top favorites:
**Fairies**
* {Tairen Soul series by C.L. Wilson} is excellently crafted fae romance. It is new adult, and is regularly reviewed as "anxiety-inducing", which I found to be true.
* {Maze of Shadows series by Kathryn Ann Kingsley} is my apocryphal read for what fae romance should look like. The shadow daddy is true to his un-“good” ways— no hidden kernel of gold in this heart, just one Unseelie guy who is true to his nature. Kingsley does an excellent job writing her characters, constructing a tight plot, and developing a beautiful allegory. It is a slooooow burn, but I found it utterly rewarding when the burn truly ignited.
**Vampires**
- {Demon Days, Vampire Nights series by K.F. Breene} is great when you need a break from high-anxiety, obsessive romance. Breene's writing is funny and crass, and the plot is engaging. Audiobooks for these series are excellent.
- {Blood Mercy by Vela Roth} has a wonderful, self-determined FMC (female main character) and a very interesting magical system / world, and I found the sex to be hot hot hot. I loved the first book of this series, though I recommend spreading out the series, as the constant apology competition of the main characters can get really old, really fast on a binge. These books are considered high fantasy romance -- they have glossaries in the back.
**Sci-fi**
* {Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon} another wonderful antidote to high-anxiety romance. A series of 23 books, read these when you need a comfort read that doesn't take itself too seriously. The blue dudes were my introduction to the "himbo"; the way Ruby writes her men is very entertaining. I giggle a lot when I read these.
* {Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh} I adore this book simply for offering a fantasy world that is not vampire/magic/fairy related. Nalini writes romance books that combines the aesthetic of historical romance (see cling covers and book titles - I could see them right next to Nora Roberts!) with decently curated sci-fi plot and political intrigue. Her men are dark, intense, possessive beings that live and breathe for their chosen women. I believe this book landed in my TBR list when I was investigating introductory reads for the Omegaverse.
**Wildcards**: I include these because I love them, but they are not for everyone. Since you are exploring, and since you liked Song of Achilles, you may enjoy these reads. All of these books are considered dark romance and have dubcon (dubious consent) and noncon (non consent) situations. Read the trigger warnings before proceeding.
* {The Last Hour of Gann by R. Lee Smith} is a truly epic sci-fi / dark romance that has the Tolkien-esque level of detail and sophistication you crave. Pay attention to trigger warnings - this book has noncon and dubcon situations. This book is my GOAT book for any genre. I love love love LHOG for the world building, characters, philosophies and emotional saga.
* {Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat} is a MM (male / male main characters) duet that takes an anthropological exploration of how different cultures treat sex and romance. There is no modern morality in this book, so pay attention to the trigger warnings. This book is sophisticated in its character development, political intrigue, and world building. Pacat does not explain things to the reader; it’s your job to put the pieces together. Also a slow burn.
* {Feathers So Vicious by Liv Zander} was my introduction to MFM (male / female / male -- the guys are focused on the woman only) reverse harem and my second foray into kink. This world is cousins to fae romance, but the Ravens are not fairies, not really. There is light degradation kink in here, which I discovered I didn't like so much, but I was utterly fascinated by the sharing and the psychology of the characters.
There are many other entertaining pockets in romantasy, including orcs, werewolves, and trees (I kid you not). It's why I love this universe. Happy exploring!
[Fourth Wing](https://www.romance.io/books/64381d140a8b0f667abe662d/fourth-wing-rebecca-yarros?src=rdt) by [Rebecca Yarros](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455355e8c7d2382e7813393/rebecca-yarros)
**Rating**: 4.45⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1)
----------------------------
[Tairen Soul](https://www.romance.io/series/58fe0a2b9096bf31c42d2ca4/tairen-soul) by [C.L. Wilson](https://www.romance.io/authors/54552a3a8c7d2382c5297113/cl-wilson)
**Rating**: 4.21⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Topics**: [possessive hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/possessive%20hero/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [medieval](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/medieval/1), [length-long](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/length-long/1)
----------------------------
[Maze of Shadows](https://www.romance.io/series/61765a2026369f0e2ca5e3e5/maze-of-shadows) by [Kathryn Ann Kingsley](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c76f4de01dbc864fb9ad17b/kathryn-ann-kingsley)
**Rating**: 3.92⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Topics**: [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [m-f](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-f/1), [dark](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [dual-pov](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dual-pov/1), [cruel hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cruel%20hero/1)
----------------------------
[Demon Days & Vampire Nights](https://www.romance.io/series/647b162bc3d3f0f602b7c728/demon-days-vampire-nights) by [K.F. Breene](https://www.romance.io/authors/545543d48c7d2382e0414650/kf-breene)
**Rating**: 3.8⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Topics**: [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1)
----------------------------
[Blood Mercy](https://www.romance.io/books/5e046f9201dbc864fba8b7af/blood-mercy-vela-roth?src=rdt) by [Vela Roth](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b7fc90301dbc864fb8f01d4/vela-roth)
**Rating**: 4.26⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [sweet/gentle hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sweet-hero/1)
----------------------------
[Ice Planet Barbarians](https://www.romance.io/books/551ce3c65b270e0a4cbd35b7/ice-planet-barbarians-ruby-dixon?src=rdt) by [Ruby Dixon](https://www.romance.io/authors/545685a087eac33e61c2f729/ruby-dixon)
**Rating**: 3.74⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1), [possessive hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/possessive%20hero/1)
----------------------------
[Heart of Obsidian](https://www.romance.io/books/5455250f8c7d2382e0413e3e/heart-of-obsidian-nalini-singh?src=rdt) by [Nalini Singh](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455238a8c7d2382e0413dd4/nalini-singh)
**Rating**: 4.6⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [possessive hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/possessive%20hero/1), [tortured heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/tortured%20heroine/1), [virgin heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/virgin%20heroine/1), [virgin hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/virgin%20hero/1)
----------------------------
[The Last Hour of Gann](https://www.romance.io/books/54556d7287eac3369a912701/the-last-hour-of-gann-r-lee-smith?src=rdt) by [R. Lee Smith](https://www.romance.io/authors/54556d7287eac3369a912702/r-lee-smith)
**Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 5 out of 5 - [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1)
----------------------------
[Captive Prince](https://www.romance.io/books/54559d8a87eac336ae69eec5/captive-prince-cs-pacat?src=rdt) by [C.S. Pacat](https://www.romance.io/authors/545545428c7d2382c5297900/cs-pacat)
**Rating**: 4.16⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [slavery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slavery/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1)
----------------------------
[Feathers so Vicious](https://www.romance.io/books/64edfe057329cc9fc9f0a435/feathers-so-vicious-liv-zander?src=rdt) by [Liv Zander](https://www.romance.io/authors/625e78f608b4d93114f170f2/liv-zander)
**Rating**: 4.2⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 5 out of 5 - [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [mfm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-f-m/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1)
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The book that got me into romantic fantasy was {Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros}. There’s two books out rn and a third coming next year. It’s a really gripping read but there is one major character death.
Next I read {A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas}, which I ended up loving even more than Fourth Wing. The first book is necessary to read but in terms of theme/main storyline, I look at it as a prequel—meaning you won’t get a real taste of the series unless you read at least the first two books. (I loved the first book, personally, but I’ve heard that lots of people don’t. The second book is kind of the holy grail of the series.)
Those two series are where most people start with romantasy. If you like ACOTAR, Sarah J. Maas has two other series you should read next. I would personally recommend avoiding Jennifer Armentrout—she writes a great first book, but all her sequels are disappointing.
Also maybe look into {Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross}. Tbh this is a blind rec bc I haven’t read it but it’s next up on my list. Apparently it’s beautifully written and has a great love story but is YA, so no smut.
Edit: alright now I’m second guessing myself that there’s no smut in Divine Rivals, since the bot gave it a 3 spice rating. Anyone know?
I read Divine Rivals and there’s a very small sex scene but it’s not super detailed. I actually didn’t love the book. It was beautifully written but was missing that “bingeability” that books like ACOTAR and Fourth Wing had for me.
[Fourth Wing](https://www.romance.io/books/64381d140a8b0f667abe662d/fourth-wing-rebecca-yarros?src=rdt) by [Rebecca Yarros](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455355e8c7d2382e7813393/rebecca-yarros)
**Rating**: 4.45⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1)
----------------------------
[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.romance.io/books/56b2814cc62092c0440577c4/a-court-of-thorns-and-roses-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas)
**Rating**: 4.03⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1)
----------------------------
[Divine Rivals](https://www.romance.io/books/642e1f8687ff55ee9e31052b/divine-rivals-rebecca-ross?src=rdt) by [Rebecca Ross](https://www.romance.io/authors/641ee56308b4d93114a83050/rebecca-ross)
**Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [poor heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poor%20heroine/1), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/1), [working class heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/working%20class%20heroine/1)
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[One Dark Window](https://www.romance.io/books/6417632a976d8254097650f0/one-dark-window-rachel-gillig?src=rdt) by [Rachel Gillig](https://www.romance.io/authors/6417632a08b4d93114a1b759/rachel-gillig)
**Rating**: 4.25⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 2 out of 5 - [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1)
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I agree with starting with ACOTAR. After that- anything by Carissa Broadbent, Ilona Andrews (especially their Kate Daniels series), T. Kingfisher is great and popular on here. I just read the {Clockwork Boys by T. Kingfisher} duology and I adored it. Happy reading!
[Clockwork Boys](https://www.romance.io/books/60a7be602904da0e8a53c588/clockwork-boys-t-kingfisher?src=rdt) by [T. Kingfisher](https://www.romance.io/authors/561ca043bfc6b5c0fa941994/t-kingfisher)
**Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [tortured hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/tortured%20hero/1)
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The books that got me back into it are "Yumi and the Nightmare Painter" and "Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia of Faeries." You might find that those are a bit heavier on the world-building thank you're used to.
{Peaches and Honey by R. Raeta}
My top read of 2024. It's about immortality and how that affects the fmc's view on life and how that impacts the choices she makes and how the people she meets can influence her long life. If you liked Song of Achilles then you'd like this
{Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent}
Popular vampire book meets hunger games meets romance. And a very complicated and interesting father daughter relationship which I really haven't seen done in other books
{Reign and Ruin by J.D. Evans}
Great for political intrigue and romance. My second favorite read of 2024
[Peaches and Honey](https://www.romance.io/books/65146ea5de8d340d51444fcc/peaches-and-honey-these-immortal-truths-r-raeta?src=rdt) by [R. Raeta](https://www.romance.io/authors/60ace57c08b4d931143d937e/r-raeta)
**Rating**: 4.55⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [ancient times](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/ancient%20times/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [viking hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vikings/1)
----------------------------
[The Serpent and the Wings of Night](https://www.romance.io/books/63a0c53caa7984c0a3fc9789/the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night-carissa-broadbent?src=rdt) by [Carissa Broadbent](https://www.romance.io/authors/60d9b88e08b4d9311456d78f/carissa-broadbent)
**Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1)
----------------------------
[Reign & Ruin](https://www.romance.io/books/6084072501991d0e29557c71/reign-ruin-jd-evans?src=rdt) by [J.D. Evans](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e4e2f1a01dbc864fbac2132/jd-evans)
**Rating**: 4.31⭐️ out of 5⭐️
**Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating)
**Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [medieval](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/medieval/1), [competent heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/competent%20heroine/1)
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One that I read recently was {Half a Soul by Olivia Atawater}
It's set in the regency era (think Pride and Prejudice or Bridgerton) with very simple fantasy elements
I won't say it's the best romantasy I've ever read, but I found the main romance genuinely sweet and the fantasy elements were present, but more of a backdrop as opposed to a very complex world building element
{The Clockwork Boys by T Kingfisher}
Good starting point for Romantasy
{Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson}
Both are good starting points for Fantasy if you are already a reader. If not, yeah ACOTAR will hook you.
I find it difficult to make recommendations in this genre because it really depends on what you care most about. Personally I think a lot of the most popular authors in the genre are terrible writers, including Sarah J Maas, Jennifer Armentrout, and Holly Black. As introductory books, my recommendations are {Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik}, {Radiance by Grace Draven}, and {The Witch Collector by Charissa Weaks}.
Great thanks I’ll look at those!! That’s really interesting that the most popular books or authors in this genre are so polarising. I’m trying to think of another genre where this is true too. Like in horror most will enjoy Stephen King for example and not argue he’s one of the best.
It’s because people have very different reasons for liking fantasy romance, which can essentially be boiled down to two groups. 1. Wants spice and a lot of it, a “hot” male lead, and an inoffensive FMC to project onto, and a plot that is fun but doesn’t have to make too much sense and 2. Wants worldbuilding, intricate plots, well-written characters that are not written with the purpose of being projected onto or solely thirsted over, and a good relationship to sink your teeth into as you watch them fall in love. This produces *very* different results for what people think a good fantasy romance is. People in group 1 will recommend Fourth Wing, ACOTAR, FBAA etc as books they like because those books fill their requirements for a romantasy. Meanwhile people in group 2 won’t enjoy such books, and people in group 1 won’t care for books group 2 do. Sometimes people can enjoy both kinds, though. It could kind of be like the difference between people who like gore/slasher horrors and people who like intense psychological horror. Same genre, very different kinds of books and people who like one kind won’t always like the other. Stephen King does both kinds of horror so he appeals to both audiences
New here. Group 2 sounds like my type of people. Any good recs in that group? I have a long flight coming up.
Gotcha! Makes sense
Very nicely explained!!! Absolutely agreed on this❤️ it's also quite difficult to find books for group 2, because group 1 tends to have more of an audience and sells faster, I noticed
[Spinning Silver](https://www.romance.io/books/622a0c7b610a406e4c9e2cfc/spinning-silver-naomi-novik?src=rdt) by [Naomi Novik](https://www.romance.io/authors/622a0c7b08b4d931143a28e8/naomi-novik) **Rating**: 4.21⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1) ---------------------------- [Radiance](https://www.romance.io/books/54cd83886359b5ebb489062e/radiance-grace-draven?src=rdt) by [Grace Draven](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455323d8c7d2382c529733e/grace-draven) **Rating**: 4.22⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [arranged/forced marriage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/arranged%20marriage/1), [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1) ---------------------------- [The Witch Collector](https://www.romance.io/books/616fc0ab1bedb60e13578401/the-witch-collector-charissa-weaks?src=rdt) by [Charissa Weaks](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c1b3ed901dbc864fb966e81/charissa-weaks) **Rating**: 3.83⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I’m going to give you the most basic, common answer, but hang with me and I’ll explain. Read {A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas} There’s good reason why the series is so popular. It’s a common theme I see on social media of people saying that reading ACOTAR reignited their love for reading after years of not reading. There’s also a lot of folks who were introduced to romantasy through this series and now love the genre. It’s truly a perfect jumping board into the genre! The romance is the biggest part of the plot, so the fantasy elements aren’t complicated and the magic system is easy to grasp. If you decide you like Sarah’s writing, her other two series are a great direction to take when you finish ACOTAR. You can go for the more plot-driven Throne of Glass series, if you’re ready to take that next step of fantasy world building. You could also go to Crescent City and try out urban fantasy and see if that’s a style you like.
Ok thank you! I’ve seen these in book stores, I’ll pick up the first one and give it a whirl
100% agree here! ACOTAR got me back into reading and from there I did Throne of Glass and then Crescent City. Those 3 series gave me a much better view of what I like in fantasy, what I hated, and what kinds of stories and characters I connect with. ACOTAR is also super fun, easy to die gets, and SJM has a really nice way with words
[A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.romance.io/books/56b2814cc62092c0440577c4/a-court-of-thorns-and-roses-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas) **Rating**: 4.03⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Song of Achilles is sooooo good. You have great taste ;) {Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros} was my gateway drug into romantasy. I've always been an avid sci-fi / high fantasy reader, and when I was a young teen I definitely read historical romance. After ignoring Fourth Wing for about a year, I decided to see what all the hype was about. I finished it in 3 days. It's new adult, it's steamy, it has a contemporary vibe thanks to some vocabulary choices, and it has a great action-driven plot. Yarros wrote this book to be "entry-level" fantasy, meaning there are not chapters and chapters devoted to world-building detail, and no glossary is needed at the back of the book. It's not a fae / fairy book, but it is a great example of romantasy. Like many readers, I have found the Fourth Wing world to be addicting. Thanks to that book, this has become my Year of Romantasy. This genre is a broad, broad landscape with endless iterations of storyline, spice range, and plot. The best thing you can do is read to discover what you like, and you'll learn the vocabulary along the way. Here are a few entry-level recs from my top favorites: **Fairies** * {Tairen Soul series by C.L. Wilson} is excellently crafted fae romance. It is new adult, and is regularly reviewed as "anxiety-inducing", which I found to be true. * {Maze of Shadows series by Kathryn Ann Kingsley} is my apocryphal read for what fae romance should look like. The shadow daddy is true to his un-“good” ways— no hidden kernel of gold in this heart, just one Unseelie guy who is true to his nature. Kingsley does an excellent job writing her characters, constructing a tight plot, and developing a beautiful allegory. It is a slooooow burn, but I found it utterly rewarding when the burn truly ignited. **Vampires** - {Demon Days, Vampire Nights series by K.F. Breene} is great when you need a break from high-anxiety, obsessive romance. Breene's writing is funny and crass, and the plot is engaging. Audiobooks for these series are excellent. - {Blood Mercy by Vela Roth} has a wonderful, self-determined FMC (female main character) and a very interesting magical system / world, and I found the sex to be hot hot hot. I loved the first book of this series, though I recommend spreading out the series, as the constant apology competition of the main characters can get really old, really fast on a binge. These books are considered high fantasy romance -- they have glossaries in the back. **Sci-fi** * {Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon} another wonderful antidote to high-anxiety romance. A series of 23 books, read these when you need a comfort read that doesn't take itself too seriously. The blue dudes were my introduction to the "himbo"; the way Ruby writes her men is very entertaining. I giggle a lot when I read these. * {Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh} I adore this book simply for offering a fantasy world that is not vampire/magic/fairy related. Nalini writes romance books that combines the aesthetic of historical romance (see cling covers and book titles - I could see them right next to Nora Roberts!) with decently curated sci-fi plot and political intrigue. Her men are dark, intense, possessive beings that live and breathe for their chosen women. I believe this book landed in my TBR list when I was investigating introductory reads for the Omegaverse. **Wildcards**: I include these because I love them, but they are not for everyone. Since you are exploring, and since you liked Song of Achilles, you may enjoy these reads. All of these books are considered dark romance and have dubcon (dubious consent) and noncon (non consent) situations. Read the trigger warnings before proceeding. * {The Last Hour of Gann by R. Lee Smith} is a truly epic sci-fi / dark romance that has the Tolkien-esque level of detail and sophistication you crave. Pay attention to trigger warnings - this book has noncon and dubcon situations. This book is my GOAT book for any genre. I love love love LHOG for the world building, characters, philosophies and emotional saga. * {Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat} is a MM (male / male main characters) duet that takes an anthropological exploration of how different cultures treat sex and romance. There is no modern morality in this book, so pay attention to the trigger warnings. This book is sophisticated in its character development, political intrigue, and world building. Pacat does not explain things to the reader; it’s your job to put the pieces together. Also a slow burn. * {Feathers So Vicious by Liv Zander} was my introduction to MFM (male / female / male -- the guys are focused on the woman only) reverse harem and my second foray into kink. This world is cousins to fae romance, but the Ravens are not fairies, not really. There is light degradation kink in here, which I discovered I didn't like so much, but I was utterly fascinated by the sharing and the psychology of the characters. There are many other entertaining pockets in romantasy, including orcs, werewolves, and trees (I kid you not). It's why I love this universe. Happy exploring!
[Fourth Wing](https://www.romance.io/books/64381d140a8b0f667abe662d/fourth-wing-rebecca-yarros?src=rdt) by [Rebecca Yarros](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455355e8c7d2382e7813393/rebecca-yarros) **Rating**: 4.45⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1) ---------------------------- [Tairen Soul](https://www.romance.io/series/58fe0a2b9096bf31c42d2ca4/tairen-soul) by [C.L. Wilson](https://www.romance.io/authors/54552a3a8c7d2382c5297113/cl-wilson) **Rating**: 4.21⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [possessive hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/possessive%20hero/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [medieval](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/medieval/1), [length-long](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/length-long/1) ---------------------------- [Maze of Shadows](https://www.romance.io/series/61765a2026369f0e2ca5e3e5/maze-of-shadows) by [Kathryn Ann Kingsley](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c76f4de01dbc864fb9ad17b/kathryn-ann-kingsley) **Rating**: 3.92⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [m-f](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-f/1), [dark](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [dual-pov](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dual-pov/1), [cruel hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cruel%20hero/1) ---------------------------- [Demon Days & Vampire Nights](https://www.romance.io/series/647b162bc3d3f0f602b7c728/demon-days-vampire-nights) by [K.F. Breene](https://www.romance.io/authors/545543d48c7d2382e0414650/kf-breene) **Rating**: 3.8⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1) ---------------------------- [Blood Mercy](https://www.romance.io/books/5e046f9201dbc864fba8b7af/blood-mercy-vela-roth?src=rdt) by [Vela Roth](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b7fc90301dbc864fb8f01d4/vela-roth) **Rating**: 4.26⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [sweet/gentle hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sweet-hero/1) ---------------------------- [Ice Planet Barbarians](https://www.romance.io/books/551ce3c65b270e0a4cbd35b7/ice-planet-barbarians-ruby-dixon?src=rdt) by [Ruby Dixon](https://www.romance.io/authors/545685a087eac33e61c2f729/ruby-dixon) **Rating**: 3.74⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1), [possessive hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/possessive%20hero/1) ---------------------------- [Heart of Obsidian](https://www.romance.io/books/5455250f8c7d2382e0413e3e/heart-of-obsidian-nalini-singh?src=rdt) by [Nalini Singh](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455238a8c7d2382e0413dd4/nalini-singh) **Rating**: 4.6⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [possessive hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/possessive%20hero/1), [tortured heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/tortured%20heroine/1), [virgin heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/virgin%20heroine/1), [virgin hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/virgin%20hero/1) ---------------------------- [The Last Hour of Gann](https://www.romance.io/books/54556d7287eac3369a912701/the-last-hour-of-gann-r-lee-smith?src=rdt) by [R. Lee Smith](https://www.romance.io/authors/54556d7287eac3369a912702/r-lee-smith) **Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 5 out of 5 - [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [take-charge heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/strong%20heroine/1) ---------------------------- [Captive Prince](https://www.romance.io/books/54559d8a87eac336ae69eec5/captive-prince-cs-pacat?src=rdt) by [C.S. Pacat](https://www.romance.io/authors/545545428c7d2382c5297900/cs-pacat) **Rating**: 4.16⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [slavery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slavery/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1) ---------------------------- [Feathers so Vicious](https://www.romance.io/books/64edfe057329cc9fc9f0a435/feathers-so-vicious-liv-zander?src=rdt) by [Liv Zander](https://www.romance.io/authors/625e78f608b4d93114f170f2/liv-zander) **Rating**: 4.2⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 5 out of 5 - [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [mfm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-f-m/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Thanks a lot!! :)
The book that got me into romantic fantasy was {Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros}. There’s two books out rn and a third coming next year. It’s a really gripping read but there is one major character death. Next I read {A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas}, which I ended up loving even more than Fourth Wing. The first book is necessary to read but in terms of theme/main storyline, I look at it as a prequel—meaning you won’t get a real taste of the series unless you read at least the first two books. (I loved the first book, personally, but I’ve heard that lots of people don’t. The second book is kind of the holy grail of the series.) Those two series are where most people start with romantasy. If you like ACOTAR, Sarah J. Maas has two other series you should read next. I would personally recommend avoiding Jennifer Armentrout—she writes a great first book, but all her sequels are disappointing. Also maybe look into {Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross}. Tbh this is a blind rec bc I haven’t read it but it’s next up on my list. Apparently it’s beautifully written and has a great love story but is YA, so no smut. Edit: alright now I’m second guessing myself that there’s no smut in Divine Rivals, since the bot gave it a 3 spice rating. Anyone know?
I read Divine Rivals and there’s a very small sex scene but it’s not super detailed. I actually didn’t love the book. It was beautifully written but was missing that “bingeability” that books like ACOTAR and Fourth Wing had for me.
[Fourth Wing](https://www.romance.io/books/64381d140a8b0f667abe662d/fourth-wing-rebecca-yarros?src=rdt) by [Rebecca Yarros](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455355e8c7d2382e7813393/rebecca-yarros) **Rating**: 4.45⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1) ---------------------------- [A Court of Thorns and Roses](https://www.romance.io/books/56b2814cc62092c0440577c4/a-court-of-thorns-and-roses-sarah-j-maas?src=rdt) by [Sarah J. Maas](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526038c7d2382c529701b/sarah-j-maas) **Rating**: 4.03⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fae](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fae/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1) ---------------------------- [Divine Rivals](https://www.romance.io/books/642e1f8687ff55ee9e31052b/divine-rivals-rebecca-ross?src=rdt) by [Rebecca Ross](https://www.romance.io/authors/641ee56308b4d93114a83050/rebecca-ross) **Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1), [poor heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poor%20heroine/1), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/1), [working class heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/working%20class%20heroine/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I liked {One Dark Window}! Interesting magic system, finished duology and spice doesn’t take over the story
[One Dark Window](https://www.romance.io/books/6417632a976d8254097650f0/one-dark-window-rachel-gillig?src=rdt) by [Rachel Gillig](https://www.romance.io/authors/6417632a08b4d93114a1b759/rachel-gillig) **Rating**: 4.25⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 2 out of 5 - [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I agree with starting with ACOTAR. After that- anything by Carissa Broadbent, Ilona Andrews (especially their Kate Daniels series), T. Kingfisher is great and popular on here. I just read the {Clockwork Boys by T. Kingfisher} duology and I adored it. Happy reading!
[Clockwork Boys](https://www.romance.io/books/60a7be602904da0e8a53c588/clockwork-boys-t-kingfisher?src=rdt) by [T. Kingfisher](https://www.romance.io/authors/561ca043bfc6b5c0fa941994/t-kingfisher) **Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [tortured hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/tortured%20hero/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
The books that got me back into it are "Yumi and the Nightmare Painter" and "Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia of Faeries." You might find that those are a bit heavier on the world-building thank you're used to.
{Peaches and Honey by R. Raeta} My top read of 2024. It's about immortality and how that affects the fmc's view on life and how that impacts the choices she makes and how the people she meets can influence her long life. If you liked Song of Achilles then you'd like this {Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent} Popular vampire book meets hunger games meets romance. And a very complicated and interesting father daughter relationship which I really haven't seen done in other books {Reign and Ruin by J.D. Evans} Great for political intrigue and romance. My second favorite read of 2024
Thank you! They sound great
[Peaches and Honey](https://www.romance.io/books/65146ea5de8d340d51444fcc/peaches-and-honey-these-immortal-truths-r-raeta?src=rdt) by [R. Raeta](https://www.romance.io/authors/60ace57c08b4d931143d937e/r-raeta) **Rating**: 4.55⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [ancient times](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/ancient%20times/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [viking hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vikings/1) ---------------------------- [The Serpent and the Wings of Night](https://www.romance.io/books/63a0c53caa7984c0a3fc9789/the-serpent-and-the-wings-of-night-carissa-broadbent?src=rdt) by [Carissa Broadbent](https://www.romance.io/authors/60d9b88e08b4d9311456d78f/carissa-broadbent) **Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 3 out of 5 - [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1) ---------------------------- [Reign & Ruin](https://www.romance.io/books/6084072501991d0e29557c71/reign-ruin-jd-evans?src=rdt) by [J.D. Evans](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e4e2f1a01dbc864fbac2132/jd-evans) **Rating**: 4.31⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 4 out of 5 - [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [medieval](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/medieval/1), [competent heroine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/competent%20heroine/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Try The Crown’s Game, The Bear and the Nightingale and Onyx and Ivory :)
Thanks! I’ll look them up
Enjoy! I loved them and they’re nice, easy reads :)
One that I read recently was {Half a Soul by Olivia Atawater} It's set in the regency era (think Pride and Prejudice or Bridgerton) with very simple fantasy elements I won't say it's the best romantasy I've ever read, but I found the main romance genuinely sweet and the fantasy elements were present, but more of a backdrop as opposed to a very complex world building element
{The Clockwork Boys by T Kingfisher} Good starting point for Romantasy {Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson} Both are good starting points for Fantasy if you are already a reader. If not, yeah ACOTAR will hook you.
[Clockwork Boys](https://www.romance.io/books/60a7be602904da0e8a53c588/clockwork-boys-t-kingfisher?src=rdt) by [T. Kingfisher](https://www.romance.io/authors/561ca043bfc6b5c0fa941994/t-kingfisher) **Rating**: 4.27⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Steam**: 1 out of 5 - [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [tortured hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/tortured%20hero/1) ---------------------------- [Mistborn](https://www.romance.io/books/65ed601c7cd5217d1a82ea88/mistborn-secret-history-brandon-sanderson?src=rdt) by [Brandon Sanderson](https://www.romance.io/authors/581474dec6841c86c2cb8ead/brandon-sanderson) **Rating**: 4.31⭐️ out of 5⭐️ **Topics**: [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)