54 Best Romance Fantasy Books Of All Time

Read the best romance fantasy books of all time by the most popular and brilliant diverse writers from around the world. Explroe steamy romantic novels about magical adventures, kick-ass heroines, and anti-heroes in these truly magical romantic fantasy books for adults and young adult readers.

Fantasy books with romance are for men too. These books can be adventurous, thrilling, and even a bit scary. Just like the heroines & heroes of these stories, they do come in all kinds of personalities and needs just as we do, the readers.

You’ll find here classic fantasy romance books as well as lesser-known ones from diverse writers, and LGBTQIAP+ characters for curious readers. You can choose from books from all over the world that will not only ignite your imagination but your travel bug too.

RELATED: New Fantasy Romance Books

From damsel in distress to pink romance, comedy, sassy gals, and warriors here are our favorite fantasy romance novels and book series from around the world.

Are you looking for more fantasy books? Then check out our bookish guides and book lists. Or visit our online book nook filled with the most exciting new book releases, must-read classic novels, and lesser-known books by diverse and fan-favorite writers from all around the world.

Best Romantic Fantasy Books that take you around the world… & beyond.

54| Fireheart Tiger by Aliette de Bodard | 2021 | High Fantasy romance novel

Fireheart Tiger is about Thanh who as a child was sent to the country of Ephteria to keep the peace in her own country.

Now that Thanh is grown and returned to her mom’s imperial court she has to find a way to protect the balance and freedom in her country while also dealing with her feelings for her beautiful first love, Eldris.

It’s an entertaining YA novel with an enchanting world that will surely help you escape from real life at least for a little while.

Fireheart Tigre is a beautiful romance story filled with magic set in Vietnam during the imperial dynasties.

53| Blood Heir (Aurelia Ryder #1) by Ilona Andrews | 2021 | Urban fantasy, Science Fiction, Paranormal romance book series

It’s set in a post-apocalyptic Atlanta where magic and technology rules over people’s lives. Our hero is Julie who years ago left the city but now had to return to save her family.

However, she had to change her face, look, and couldn’t tell anyone who she is.

She has to stop an ancient prophecy from being fulfilled while finding out who’s behind the murders.

Blood Heir is an exciting paranormal fantasy novel for adults and teens who love post-apocalyptic stories and ancient magic.

52| The Ruthless Lady’s Guide to Wizardry by C.M. Waggoner | 2021 | Historical Romantic fantasy Novel

It’s a story about Delliaria who works as a petty thief up until the day when she manages to get a well-paying job as a female bodyguard. She not only gets a chance to start a new life but meets a new love interest who changes her mind about getting married and settling down with a husband.

It’s a quick and fun read with a little bit of mystery, LGBT+ characters and is set in a lush witchy, and magic-filled Victorian world.

It’s a great choice for teens and adults who love lighthearted novels.

The Ruthless Lady’s Guide to Wizardry is a witty, magical Victorian fantasy novel with a pinch of romance and darkness.

51| Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth (Author), Sara Lautman (Illustrations) | 2020 | Comedy Horror Romance Fantasy Novel

This laugh out loud funny horror-comedy is set in New England at a cursed boarding school for girls and is filled with beautiful illustrations.

Our story starts at The Brookhants School for Girls where Flo and Clara fell in love and gets inspired by a scandalous writer’s biography, Mary MacLane, to start their secret club the ‘Plain Bad Heroines’.

They hold their secret meeting closeby an apple orchard where they’re soon both found dead. After three more people die in gruesome deaths The Brookhants School for Girls closes its doors forever.

A century later another writer picks up the school’s story that leads to various adaptations and the girl’s story gets known by everyone.

Even a new movie gets made based on Flo and Clara’s story and that’s when the school opens its gates once more. Past and present gets entangled which leads to spooky and hilarious situations.

Plain Bad Heroines will be your favorite October 2020 read. This a hilarious gothic LGBT+ fantasy romance novel that you’ll never want to end.

50| The Left-Handed Booksellers of London by Garth Nix | 2020 | Mystery Romance Fantasy Novel

We follow Susan as she tries to find her father and on her journey, she meets Merlin and her sister Vivien who are also trying to solve their own family mystery.

As they investigate they soon realize that the two cases might just be connected.

This is a fun and easy to read novel that will introduce you to not only a magical world but to English folklore and legends too.

The Left-Handed Booksellers of London is a fun adventure fantasy novel with romance set in an alternate London where a secret world exists in which magic is real and is about to show it to the whole world.

49| A Deadly Education (Scholomance #1) by Naomi Novik | 2020 | Young Adults Romance Fantasy Book Series

We follow El as she tries who is probably the most powerful student in the school. While she’s without friends and has to face the monsters alone she’s not afraid.

Her dark magic can protect her from any monster. The only problem is that she’s not sure if others will die too if she uses it.

A Deadly Education is a super fun and humorous fantasy romance book for YA readers who enjoy stories about magical schools and fantasy stories with a dark twist.

48| The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab | 2020 |  Time Travel Romance Fantasy Book Series

This is when and where Addie makes a bargain with Luc. She’ll become immortal but will be forgotten by anyone she’ll ever meet.

Addie’s journey begins through centuries, countries, and continents. She immerses herself in culture and art and as time passes she’s desperately trying to leave something of herself behind.

However, three hundred years later she finds herself in a small bookstore with a man who finally knows her name.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue will be one of the most beautiful fantasy romance books you’ll pick up in 2020. Addie’s exciting life stretches trough 300 years and her name will be one that everyone who reads this novel will remember.

47| The Inheritance Games (The Inheritance Games #1) by Jennifer Lynn Barnes | 2020 | Young Adult Mystery Romance Fantasy Book Series

The story follows Avery, whose life changes in a heartbeat when the eccentric millionaire, Tobias Hawthorne dies and leaves his fortune to her.

However, she can’t just sign a paper and enjoy her newfound wealth. She has to move in into his mysterious mansion and live with Hawthorne’s four grandsons along with other relatives. The house is filled with riddles, codes, and secrets that Avery and the four boys have to solve if they want to figure out why she inherited everything.

It’s a great YA fantasy story that reads really well. Avery’s character is witty and brave. It’s not a very complex mystery book as a detective novel but it is exciting. While it is not a romance book love and romance turned out to be one of the most important themes in the book.

The Inheritance Games is a truly entertaining YA fantasy book for those who love mysteries with a touch of romance.

46| Kingdom of the Wicked (Kingdom of the Wicked #1) by Kerri Maniscalco | 2020 | YA Dark Romance Fantasy Book Series

This dark story is about two sisters Emilia and Vittoria. They’re both powerful witches who are hiding their true identity and just try to live a normal life just like everybody else.

However, one night the worst thing happens; Vittoria disappears and soon Emilia finds her body.

She sets on a dark and dangerous quest to find her sister’s killer. She meets Wrath who’s trying to solve the mysterious murders himself and from that moment begins their real journey in Wicked.

Kingdom of the Wicked is also one of the greatest fantasy books for foodies who would love to read more about magical Italian recipes.

Kingdom of the Wicked is a dark romantic fantasy book with witches and dark magic.

45| A Golden Fury by Samantha Cohoe | 2020 | Romance Fantasy Novel

The story is about Lea who lives with her powerful alchemist mother. They’re working towards figuring out how to make the famous Philosopher’s Stone and when they finally reach their goal Lea’s mom descends to madness and destroys the stone.

Lea soon figures out that there is a dark curse on the stone and anyone who creates it will lose their mind forever. As if this wasn’t enough trouble there is also a war coming so Lea has to move to Oxford to be with her father she doesn’t even know.

Her real adventures start here when other alchemists find her and want to use her and her loved ones to get to the stone.

It’s a great historical fantasy book and is a perfect choice for those who love their fantasy in smaller doses in novels.

A Golden Fury is a lush and enchanting fantasy book with romance, alchemists, and a rich and magical world.

44| Blood & Honey (Serpent & Dove #2) by Shelby Mahurin | 2020 | YA Adventure Romance Fantasy Book Series

In this second book, the story gets darker and a bit more dangerous too as Dames Blanches, Lou, Reid, Coco, and Ansel find themselves running from the coven.

As they’re trying to find some allies to help them they’re also struggling with learning to use their own powers. We get to know the world and the characters more deeply and thankfully we also get a better understanding of how the magical system works.

Blood & Honey is one of the most exciting YA fantasy romance books with witches and magic you’ll find in 2020 that’s perfect for adults as well.

43| A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash #2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout | 2020 | Paranormal Romance Fantasy Book series

Thankfully the second book turned out great and it picks right up where we were left in the first book.

We get to know more of this exciting and enchanting world while also getting to know Poppy and Cas more deeply while watching how their relationship develops. Of course, we also get a good those of romance too.

In the second book, Poppy is captive again but finds herself in a much more dangerous situation than before. Her powers are growing and as they get closer to Atlantia more and more secrets join in to make their journey even more thrilling.

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire is one of the steamiest Young Adults fantasy romance books of 2020. If you enjoy getting to know wonderfully built fantasy worlds where kingdoms and secrets are part of the everyday then this series should be your next.

42| Fable: A Novel by Adrienne Young | 2020 | YA Adventure Romance Fantasy Novel

The story is about Fable whose mom drowns in a terrible storm when she’s only fourteen years old. If that wasn’t enough her father leaves her on and a dangerous island where it’s easier to find a thief than just a bit of food.

We join the story when Fable is seventeen and does everything in her power to finally get off the island so she can take her rightful place next to her father who is a powerful trader.

She decides to join the crew of a young trader named Will this way finally crossing the Narrows. However, she realizes that her journey will be much more dangerous than she ever imagined.

Fable is one of the most fascinating 2020 fantasy romance books. It’s a thrilling Young Adult fantasy book series perfect for fantasy novel lovers who enjoy stories with adventures and a bit of darkness.

41| The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea by Maggie Tokuda-Hal | 2020

The story is about Flora the ruthless captain of a pirate ship who has to disguise herself as a male, Florian.

The book is set in the colonial times only this time Japan is the colonizer and it’s a world in which magic and witches exist.

Flora is a fierce genderfluid black leading character whose life changes forever when she falls in love with Evelyn on board of the pirate ship Dove.

It’s good to know for fantasy bookworms that this first book doesn’t have a super deep character building or a unique and detailed magic system created it’s more about the story and the world-building.

The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea is a fascinating diverse LGBT+ romantic fantasy novel for adults filled with magic and a dangerous and epic voyage.

40| Luna Rising: Book 1 of the Luna Rising Series
by Sara Snow | 2020

Ruby is a normal human girl who studies law while working a part-time job and lives a normal life. However, one night she gets attacked and saved by the school’s heartthrob Xavier. Only he saves her not in his human but his werewolf form.

The only problem is that no human can know about the existence of werewolves anymore. Things seem to calm down when Xavier declares Ruby as his mate however things get more complicated and dangerous when an alpha to be from a rival pack also wants Ruby as his mate and abducts her.

Luna Rising is the first book of an exciting paranormal shifter romantic fantasy book series with werewolves that’s going to be a fast and thrilling read.

39| Stardust by Neil Gaiman – 1997

Our protagonist is Tristan who falls completely in love with his small villages’ beauty Victoria. When it seems that he may lose her to another suitor he has no other choice but to go on a journey on the other side of the ancient wall and bring back a star as proof of his love.

Tristan finds a star fairly soon but that’s where his real adventures start rather than end.

He meets witches, flying pirates who collect lightning and explore a whole new world filled with danger and magic.

This beautifully written whimsical tale is now considered a classic fantasy romance story that adults and YA readers can also enjoy.

38| The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern – 2011

The Night Circus is a mysterious attraction that appears in cities from time to time without any previous signs. Follow the duels of young magicians Celia and Marco, who have been trained and prepared for such a youthhood in their whole lives. Their rivalry may just turn into love that creates a bond no one can compromise.

As you dive into the world of the Cirque des Reves, you are going to meet interesting characters and unfold incredible secrets and mysteries.

The Night Circus will take you around the world and introduce to you one of the most magical love story ever written which easily makes it one of the best romantic fantasy novels.

37| The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow – 2019

In this mysterious book, January learns about the secret tales of magic doors that lead to other worlds. This book carries the scent of other worlds that are filled with new adventures, dangers, and unforgettable love.

January’s lonely and isolated life with Mr. Lock soon takes a truly magical turn as she steps into an otherworld through a door in a field.

If you ever wished to have the power to make everything you write down reality and enjoy beautifully written prose, and magical realism then this one of a kind bildungsroman romantic fantasy book with magical realism is for you.

36| Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick – 2009

One day things change, when a mysterious and charming boy appears in her life. Patch attracts Nora like a magnet. She cannot explain it and as much as it terrifies her, she just wants to be around him.

Soon she has to realize; something is not right with Patch. He seems to be always near her, wherever she goes and knows much more about her than any of Nora’s friends.

Nora uncovers the truth that she has become part of something much bigger, an ancient war between the immortal and the fallen ones.

Hush Hush is a fun YA romance fantasy fiction book series that adults can enjoy too.

35| Master of Crows by Grace Draven – 2009

It could be a death wish as Silhara is very powerful and knows Martise sent as an apprentice, is actually spying on her.

The sorcerer is being under constant pressure by the god Corruption. With his mind under constant attack, his desperation just grows.

Despite the bumpy start of their relationship, Martise and Silhara fall in love with each other facing terrible challenges to survive and save what is important to them.

We find this one among the best romance fantasy books every romantic soul would love.

34| Kushiel’s Dart Novel by Jacqueline Carey – 2001

In a world, where erotics are not despised at all, she is sold to be a servant of a nobleman. Anafiel soon realizes the woman is special; she has been pierced by Kushiel’s dart and is sentenced to feel pleasure and pain as one.

Phedre after her training becomes a talented spy and courtesan. She will have to use her skills to save her homeland.

This book is full of twists, erotic lines, and sacrifice. The world is interestingly crafted with all sorts of villains and supporting characters that make this book a very colorful read. It is surely among the best romantic fantasy books for adults.

33| Girls of Paper and Fire (Girls of Paper and Fire #1) by Natasha Ngan – 2018

Lei is destined to serve the king, but she is special. Her beauty and golden eyes stand out, just as this year when a ninth girl is to join, a fire girl.
Our protagonist, Lei had seen her mother torn apart by the palace guards, which she will never forget. Driven by revenge and survival instincts, she endures the worst one would have to.

The servant girls are basically the king’s harem, being raped and abused. Lei’s wounds and trauma are becoming easier to bear as she finds love. The two girls rely on each other and help make these terrible times somewhat less difficult to survive, making Lei more determined to get a payback.

This Asia inspired romance fantasy book for LGBTQIAP+ communities is a must-read for everyone.

The Malaysian Natasha Ngan has written an amazing book everyone has something to take away from who loves fantasy, stunning world-building, and touching stories.

32| Daughter of the Forest (Sevenwaters # 1) by Juliet Marillier – 1999

One day, her father’s new wife, a witch enchants him and casts a course on the Lord’s six sons. Only Sorcha can break the course by going on a quest completely silent. As she leaves her once-happy-and-safe home she gets abducted by the enemies of Sevenwaters.

In captivity, she endures terrible (sexual) abuse that scars her for life.

The book is overall an incredible fantasy book that brings up many sensitive topics, which are, fortunately, gaining more and more attention, but still not enough.

We think everyone should read one of the best historical fantasy books with romance talking about serious issues. We get to read into how she processes the trauma while not forgetting about her brothers whom she wants to save.

31| Carry On (Simon Snow #1) by Rainbow Rowell – 2015

The story is about Simon who despite being the chosen one seems to always make a mess of everything. While his roommate Baz enjoys making fun of him. Baz is also an evil and snarky gay vampire who’s super hot.

While Simon has relationships with girls he also feels a strong attraction towards Baz and eventually kisses him. Which makes him start thinking about if he is gay. However, even his therapist thinks that it’s not the most important thing for him to consider at the time.

Their time at the magical Watford School of Magicks is filled with adventures, ghosts, and of course love.

Harry Potter fans are especially going to like these series that start out just a bit slow but then probably become one of your favorite LGBTQIAP+ fantasy romance reads with a fun and charming gay main character.

30| Feral Sins (The Phoenix Pack, #1) by Suzanne Wright – 2012

Taryn Warner is set up for an arranged mating with a possessive, undesirable alpha male by her father. She naturally isn’t into the idea but it seems she has no other options.

This book is just hilarious, with the sarcastic humor of the alpha female. She is not giving in easy and always has a thing or two to say to lighten the mood.

Over the pages, we dive into shifter politics, seeing how packs create alliances and how the hierarchy is forming.

By the end, Taryn ends up with her desired mating partner, with whom she just cannot keep it to only formalities.

It is a fun book for erotic fantasy book lovers, full of hot sex action, dirty talk, and dark humor.

29|  The Lightning-Struck Heart (Tales From Verania #1) by T.J. Klune – 2015

This powerful act doesn’t go without the attention of higher power’s and Sam soon becomes an apprentice to the King’s Wizard, Morgan of Shadows.

That’s when the real fun and adventures start. He meets with hornless gay unicorns, half-giants, and even falls in love with a guy he can never have.

However, Sam can’t control his magic and after the prince gets kidnapped by a sexually aggressive dragon the King sends him and Ryan on a dangerous journey to save the Prince, Ryan’s boyfriend.

The biggest danger is that Sam falls even more in love with a guy he can never have.

It’s an utterly funny, weird in the best way possible, romantic high fantasy gay fiction book that you’ll end up reading more than once.

28| The Candle and the Flame by Nafiza Azad – 2019

Fiji born author Nafiza Azad has a vision of countless cultures living in peace and women being strongly independent.

The sad story of Fatima living in a city along the Silk Road is quite interesting, full of action and twists.

One day she goes through unexpected changes, no one can comprehend and many of her loved ones fear. Her adventures begin as she finds herself drawn to the maharaja and the dangers of the battle of magic.

The Candle and the Flame is a slow-burning magical YA adventure fantasy book with Muslim and LGBTQIAP+ representation.

27| Angelfall (Penryn & the End of Days, #1) by Susan Ee – 2011

Seventeen-year-old Penryn’s sister has been taken by angels and she fearlessly goes after them to save her. Penryn encounters a wingless warrior angel bearing the marks of the devastating war. They form an unlikely alliance after the girl helps him. Raffe and Penryn stick together both with their own agenda.

It is a superb YA apocalyptic paranormal romance fantasy book series full of action.

26| Trickery (Curse of the Gods, #1) by Jaymin Eve – 2017

That alone would sentence someone to a life of no joy. Pair this up with clumsiness and an odd kind of humor. Reading the book you may find yourself asking, ‘How did she live that long?’.

Thanks to a mistake, she ends up being a servant of five sols at the prestigious Blesswood Academy. She is picked on constantly, teased to make her want to give up. As said before, if such things do not annoy you, it is a fun read with some great laughter.

The book may hold a little more as well, the five sols and Willa may show a little sparkle of attraction making these books one of the best reverse harem fantasy books with great humor.

25| Tournament of Losers by Megan Derr – 2015

His adventures start when the local crime gang drags him out of bed and tell him he has three days to pay his father’s debts. Rath doesn’t know what to do since it seems impossible to come up with that much money in such a short time.

That’s when Rath’s Madame comes up with the great idea that he should enter the Tournament of Losers where every seventy-five years, peasants compete for the chance to marry into the noble and royal houses. Rath would be given a stipend to live on for the duration of the tournament which would be just enough to cover his father’s debt.

Now Rath has only one thing to do, win the first few rounds, collect his stipend so he can go back to try and live a quiet life. But he finds out that Tress the charming stranger he slept with is actually one of the nobles who are about to be married off.

As the tournament goes on, they grow even more fond of each other which leads to a real fairytale story ending.

It’s a fun gay adventure-romance fantasy book that starts out a little slow but then makes up for it with fantastic world-building, humor, and a beautiful love story.

24| Guilty Pleasures (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #1) by Laurell K. Hamilton – 1993

One day, master vampire Jean-Claude contacts her for help as some terrible murders had taken place. Anita has a thing for the devilishly attractive man, but she manages to resist and do her job – for a while.

Overall, Anita’s sense of dark humor, the world and story building with the writing style make this book one of the best vampire urban fantasy books with romance.

As you read on in the series, you will find Anita to become more and more of a sexual being. In later books, there are some serious steam-maker scenes but worth the wait.

23| Moon Called (Mercy Thompson, #1) by Patricia Briggs – 2006

Mercedes is an awesome female protagonist, who definitely takes a place on the top of cool women in literature list. She lives in a world, where things just look similar but they are quite different.

Mercy is a Volkswagen mechanic living in the Tri-Cities of Washington. She happens to be able to shapeshift into a coyote, while she has a werewolf neighbor, and there are many more creatures of fantasy.

The Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs is a fresh breath making it one of the best urban fantasy book series with a kick-ass female protagonist who always says what’s on her mind… and a little romance on the side.

22| Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress, #1) by Jeaniene Frost – 2007

She is searching for the darkest places of the city, seeking vengeance on his vampire father for how he has treated her mother.

As Cat enters the underworld, a vampire bounty hunter captures her, called Bones. They agree to work together and it looks like Cat just found the most unlikely companion she would have never thought of.

Soon she has to realize, not all undead are bad and develops feelings towards the seductive vampire.

Jeaniene Frost’s books are surely one of the best paranormal romance fantasy books with vampires, full of action and a badass female main character.

21| Wildest Dreams (Fantasyland, #1) by Kristen Ashley – 2011

Seoafin Wilde has always been encouraged by her parents to take risks and never shy away from adventures. One day her parents disappear in a plane crash, urging Finnie to jump into an adventure of her wildest dreams.

She meets a witch who can take her to a parallel universe, called the Winter Wonderland of Lunwyn, where she has been tricked by her twin to marry The Drakkar.

Finnie being sharp and well-prepared dives into the adventures her new life throws at her. Drakkar soon realizes, the woman he married is not the hated princess Sjofn, but an open, free-spirited heroine, whom he grows very fond of.

The book is full of adventure and twists, it’s one of the best paranormal romantic fantasy winter books with dragons.

20| Graceling (Graceling Realm, #1) by Kristin Cashore – 2008

She had been able to kill anyone with her bare hands since she was eight. Despite her rank and status, she is destined to be nothing more than a tool of terror.

One day, despite her numbness to feelings, she quickly falls in love with Prince Po. It is a very unlikely romance, neither sides knowing what to expect or being able to resist.

The story unfolds quickly after a fairly slow start, but it is definitely worth the wait. A mind-blowing love story of an enforces set in an imaginative world.

It is surely one of the best YA  romance fantasy books with a female killing machine in focus.

19| Pantomime (Micah Grey #1) by Laura Lam – 2013

Gene has undesired magical powers that only long gone creatures had. One day, when realizing her parents are planning treachery, she decides to leave home dressed as a boy.

Her adventures take her to strange people and odd places. Then she ends up at a circus, where she becomes part of the troupe as an aerialist under the name of Micah Grey. The circus turns out to keep secrets no one would have ever imagined.

Pantomime is a thrilling book with a complex, intersex protagonist a love triangle and one of a kind adventures. All these make Pantomime one of the best high fantasy LGBTQIAP+ YA books every love seeker will hold dear.

18| Dark Lover (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #1) by J.R. Ward – 2005

The dark and troublesome love story of Beth, who is now experiencing a completely new feeling, and the last purebred vampire to walk among us is a fascinating and unlikely romance we were all waiting for.

Despite the fearful reputation of the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s leader, Beth just cannot resist. Their love may mean eternal darkness for both of them.

What should they do? Stay away from each other and fight their feelings or give in to lust?

This paranormal romance fantasy book series will certainly boil your blood and even make you want to travel to Caldwell to find your own dark lover.

17| Lord of the Fading Lands (Tairen Soul, #1) by C.L. Wilson – 2007

His name will never be forgotten, but a thousand years later love has summoned him to rise and take Ellysetta, a woodcraver’s daughter.

Evil doesn’t rest either, Rain’s ancient enemy has risen as well to destroy what is dear to the King; his people. The king then has to gather all his power and unite with his heart’s gem to overcome all terrible.

This is probably one of the best paranormal romantic fantasy books where the protagonist rises from the dead.

16| A Promise of Fire (Kingmaker Chronicles, #1) by Amanda Bouchet – 2016

Cat travels incognito as a soothsayer with a circus, hoping to remain undetected. To her misfortune, a southern warlord, Griffin sets his eyes on her willingness to do whatever it takes to get her. First, she is just a tool for securing his power, but later he has to realize he has feelings for her Griffin hasn’t felt for a long time.

Cat tries to resist the warlord’s charm, however, the indulgence seems to be difficult to say no to. Griffin may just be a better person than first impressions suggest.

A Promise of Fire is one of the best engaging and adventurous paranormal romance fantasy book series with a kick-ass warrior female lead and a complex love story on the side.

15| Of Fire and Stars (Of Fire and Stars #1) by Audrey Coulthurst – 2016

The story is about Princess Dennaleia who’s future has been sealed by politics. Her hand was offered to the prince of Mynaria to strengthen an alliance between the two lands. Denna has to face many challenges as she tries to prepare for this marriage in a land where magic is forbidden.

She not only has to hide her growing magic but also tries to get familiar with the customs and learn how to ride the formidable warhorses of Mynaria. Her teacher is however who scares her the most; Princess Amaranthine called Mare who is just as wild as Mynaria’s horses.

After the shocking assassination Mare and Denna join forces. As time passes, Denna and Mare get to know each other better and realize there is plenty to love in one another. Their friendship begins to grow into something much more.

To do as their heart’s desire would ruin the alliance between the two empires putting both in danger. It is a beautiful story of two people finding love for the first time and fighting for it.

It’s a lovely fantasy romance book perfect for younger readers and adults who are craving a nice fairytale story with an LGBTQIAP+ twist.

14| A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1) by Sarah J. Maas – 2015

Things become heated when her captor turns out to hold secrets one could never think of. As she develops feelings of desire and passion towards the mysterious captor, the lands of the magical kingdom hold even more dangers.

Now, to fulfill her love, she has to break an ancient course.

The A Court of Thorns and Roses is one of the best romantic fantasy book series that will make your heart beat stronger.

13| Twilight by Stephenie Meyer – 2005

The story of the girl next door, Bella meeting the mysterious, charming, and polite Edward swept the whole world. Edward is – without exaggeration – perfect, someone most girls and parents would wish for.

As they fall deeper and deeper in love, they also get in the middle of a terrible war. Throughout the series of the Twilight books, you are going to see the love become reality everyone wishes for. Even if there is a price to pay, probably everyone is jealous of Bella now.

Twilight is also one of the most beloved audibooks by Ya and fatasy readers.

12| The Lions of Al-Rassan Novel by Guy Gavriel Kay – 1995

Set in the Asharite empire, which has fallen into decay ruled by petty kings seeking only their own gains.

Follow the story of poet, diplomat, soldier Ammar ibn Khairan, advisor of King Amalik of Cartada and Rodrigo Belmonte, feared military leader. Their fate soon brings them together with Jehane, court physician, one of the most important figures in the war threatened Al-Rassan.

This book is flowing very interestingly throughout the over 500 pages making it one of the best historical romance fantasy books set in a peninsula based on Moorish Spain.

11| Warprize (Chronicles of the Warlands #1) by Elizabeth Vaughan – 2005

After the king Xyron has passed, his incapable son takes over the kingdom. A terrible war is on a breakout as the Firelanders gather at the borders. The king’s other child, Xylara is trained to be a healer and despite her opposition to the war, she does her best to save as many people as possible. Even Firelanders. Anyone, who gets wounded in the battle, she is determined to heal them.

She is very comforting towards the Firelanders held captive by her nation that catches the attention of the attractive and puzzling Fireland warlord. He is open to peace talks for only one thing in return; Xylara’s hand.

Our heroine knows, there is no choice for her, if she wants to save her people by bringing peace to the kingdom, she has to become the Warprize.

10| Amberlough (The Amberlough Dossier #1) by Lara Elena Donnelly – 2017

However, not everyone agrees with this idea. That’s where we meet our protagonists master spy Cyril DePaul and his lover Aristide Makricosta, smuggler and emcee at the popular Bumble Bee Cabaret.

Their adventurous life takes a dangerous turn when Cyril enters a complex game of deception where he tries to keep his love, Aristide safe while also trying to stop the crooked police and the homophobic Ospies to dictate his life.

Amberlough is a fascinating gay fantasy spy thriller with romance that takes place in one of the most darkly glamorous fictional cities ever, Amberlough.

9| Rhapsodic (The Bargainer #1) by Laura Thalassa – 2016

Follow the dark adventures of Callypso Lillis, a siren who owes the Bargainer a little too many favors. The Fae King hasn’t yet asked for anything in return. One day, on the other hand, he comes to Callie to take what is due.

There are terrible things happening in the Fae world and the king knows, he only stands a chance to save his people if he gets the help of a siren.

This quite dark series deserves a place on the list of the best fantasy romance novels.

8| An Ember in the Ashes Novel by Sabaa Tahir – 2015

Despite that, one day her brother is accused and imprisoned for treason. The only way for her to free him is to help the rebels by spying and passing on valuable information from the Empire’s military academy.

There she meets Elias, one of the best soldiers of the empire. Soon, it comes to light that he is not at all who he seems to be. Elias cannot stand all the injustice and cruelty he is supposed to enforce. The two then realize, their fate is tightly connected.

It is surely one of the most exciting YA fantasy books with romance.

7| Outlander (Outlander #1) by Diana Gabaldon – 1991

This is definitely on the top of every best romance fantasy books-list for a good reason. Some may have had enough of that love triangle as for the past five years it was everywhere, but we say there is more to come, fortunately.

This is probably the greatest historical romance fantasy book with time travel ever to hit the shelves. It’s also one of the best fantasy books set in Scotland and is a fun book to read before you visit.

The Outlander tv series is just as popular if not even more. You can read details about the show and the various awards it won over the years on Wikipedia.

6| Poison Study novel by Maria V. Snyder – 2005

The first book of the astounding Poison Study series begins with Yelena on death row for murder. She is being offered a way out from certain death by Valek, the chief of security. Yelena then becomes the food taster of the commander.

The chief, making sure Yelena is under control, keeps feeding her poison, which he has the antidote for.

This captivating story is quite a ride with Valek developing feelings for Yelena. Will this unlikely love survive all difficulties?

5| Huntress by Malinda Lo – 2011

As the two young and utterly brave girls go through inhumane challenges, they become very close to each other. It even seems that their special bond blooms into love.

They are superb role models for younger girls to see how brave one can be. It is also a very important LGBTQIAP+ romance fantasy book as it is a topic that still raises eyebrows, while it is important to talk about it.

We find it inevitable for every person to read books such as the Huntress to understand more about their feelings. It just makes the experience better, that you can do so through thrilling adventures with fascinating characters.

4| Daughter of Smoke & Bone (Daughter of Smoke & Bone #1) by Laini Taylor – 2011

Also, she speaks many languages and some of them are not even human languages. Is that enough to convince you about her being otherworldly?

Karou gets mixed up in situations during her errands no one would be capable of comprehending with a sane mind.

She meets a fairy, with whom she finds love, but not everything is perfect. After she learns about her origins, things are never going to be the same anymore.

The Daughter of Smoke and Bone is one of the best fantasy series with romance.

3| The Princess Bride by William Goldman – 1973

This book is just hilarious, while all the characters are very complex and alive. The story’s main character is Westley, a poor servant boy who decides to go on adventures and takes on the identity of the dreaded pirate Roberts so he can win the hands and heart of his true love.

And there is Buttercup. Don’t let the name mislead you; she is brave and kicks ass. Add another handful of superb characters with joyful personalities and dive into the unlikely adventures we all dream about.

Probably everyone remembers Inigo Montoya, whose father was killed and now takes revenge. He sets out on a quest, during which he encounters all sorts of creatures and obstacles.

It is a humorous book, the “good parts” of the original Morgenstern classic. Goldman’s style of writing is just hilarious, you are going to fall in love quickly. Prepare for a lot of fights, fencing, revenge, love, and even more laughter.

The Princess Bride is one of the best adventure romance fantasy books for men and boys you can think of.

You can also watch a really fun short video created by popular actors.

2| The Shape of Water by Guillermo del Toro, Daniel Kraus – 2018

It is a captivating story of bravery, compassion, and an unlikely love.

Often the most unexpected person could make the biggest change. In 1962 a woman had very little say in matters and even finding a steady job was no piece of cake. Elisa Esposito is struggling in every sense. There are only a couple of people in her life who provide any sort of emotional support, it seems she is on the edge of giving up.

One day though, she sees a half-human creature swimming in a large water tank. They connect quickly and emotional bond forms between them. She is even willing to risk everything for his freedom.

It is definitely one of the best romantic fantasy books for adults.

1| The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern – 2019

It’s a wonderful tale about Zachary who one day stumbles upon a book that seems to tell his story.

He can’t stop himself but go on a whimsical journey to wonderous worlds where he falls into an intoxicating world soaked in romance and mystery.

Here he learns about casting spells, pirates, lovers, liars, and ships that sail upon a Starless Sea.

It’s a truly unique love story that’s perfect for adults, kids, men, women, and anyone who has a deep love for literature.

Thank you for reading!