Romantasy books blend the best of both the fantasy and romance genres, delivering high-stakes political conflicts, endless action and plot twists, and, of course, swoon-worthy love. Whether you’re into sizzling enemies-to-lovers banter, marriages of convenience, or reluctant alliances that turn spicy AF, you’re bound to find it in a romantasy book. The romance tropes are endless, and the magic is too.
Part of why romantasy is so popular right now is because of that unique and special genre blend. Both romance and fantasy offer similar appeals on their own: comfort, escapism, and empowerment. Romantasy is no different. A romantasy book can allow a reader to disappear into another world and forget about their own, and at the same time, also shine a light on very real-world issues. Many times, romantasy books feature arcs of women who fight for their autonomy and reclaim their own power, inspiring their readers along the way. And for the hopeless romantics among us, there’s confessions of love, yearning, and unlikely lovers.
Of course, there’s no shortage of romantasy novels to choose from; take one stroll around any bookstore and you’re likely to spot endless shelves featuring the most popular titles, proving just how much this genre has taken the world by storm.
With that, choosing your next read can sometimes be overwhelming. If that’s your situation, we’ve got you covered. We turned to some bookish reviewers to learn about their favorite romantasy books, and included a few of our own picks as well. So grab your Kindle or take a trip to the bookstore, because your TBR is about to get a lot longer.
When the Tides Held the Moon by Venessa Vida Kelley
“When the Tides Held the Moon” by Venessa Vida Kelley
When The Tides Held the Moon by Venessa Vida Kelley is such a moving and uplifting tale of belonging that is also wonderfully queer. The romance between Benny and Río was so wholesome to read about, filled with so much acceptance and warmth, and is still one of my favorite romantasies today. It also has so many gorgeous illustrations drawn by the author!
—Patricia of patriciascozyreads
Weavingshaw by Heba Al-Wasity
“Weavingshaw” by Heba Al-Wasity
Heba Al-Wasity’s debut interrogates legacy on all fronts, and the ghosts that follow us generation after generation. It’s a stunning portrait of desperation, exploitation, and the nature of home, livened by an unlikely romance between a woman with the ability to see the dead and a dangerous purveyor of secrets. Weavingshaw is everything I’ve come to crave from this genre: fiercely political with a romance that initially seems impossible but soon becomes inevitable.
