Romance and fantasy blend seamlessly in Romantasy, a popular literary genre currently in the spotlight. Leading the trend are Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros and A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas.
With new romantasy novels hitting bookshelves regularly, choosing the next read can be a challenging task. If you’re seeking your next romantasy adventure, here are 10 essential picks for this autumn. These selections range from thrilling debuts and fresh series to highly anticipated sequels from beloved authors. For additional book recommendations, reviews, and news, remember to subscribe to our complimentary weekly newsletter, The Bookish Drop, on Substack.
Clara faces a bleak future when sentenced to life in prison for creating magical tarot cards, a skill exclusive to the prestigious Arcana Academy. However, her luck changes when the academy’s headmaster, Prince Kaelis, offers her a lifeline. In exchange for her assistance, she is enrolled as a student and betrothed to the prince, as reported by the Express.
For enthusiasts of dark academia intertwined with intricate magical systems, this romantasy novel is a must-read this autumn. Filled with romantic tension, a diverse character ensemble, and a striking cover, this book deserves a place on every bookshelf.
Bestselling YA author Holly Black, known for works like the Spiderwick Chronicles and the Folk of the Air trilogy, returns with the long-awaited sequel to Book of Night, her adult debut. Charlie Hall faces heightened danger as she pursues rogue shadows.
For those seeking a departure from typical romantasy themes and a taste of urban fantasy, the Charlatan Duology is the go-to series this autumn. It’s smart, fast-paced, and entirely engrossing, featuring memorable characters and an engaging magical framework.
Sophia seizes an opportunity to escape her cruel uncle’s control by enrolling at Killmarth, a prestigious academy for magic users. To prove their worth, each aspirant must navigate the Ordeals, a series of perilous challenges.
To survive and sever the blood bond with her uncle, Sophia aligns with Alden Locke, a formidable wielder. Yet, can she differentiate between friends, rivals, and potential adversaries?
This rich romantasy tale caters to fans of dark academia, trials, and rivals-to-lovers dynamics. The intricate magic system and cliffhanger ending will leave readers yearning for the sequel.
Drawing from Sri Lankan mythology, this debut romantasy chronicles Anula’s quest to marry and overthrow the raja who devastated her kingdom. However, when her plans falter, she must make an offering to a divine entity with its own agenda.
Her Soul for a Crown boasts a captivating world and a diverse cast of characters, along with a slow-burning romance. While leaning more towards fantasy than romance, it comes highly recommended by bestselling romantasy author Scarlett St. Clair, making it a fall must-read.
From the creator of the Crowns of Nyaxia series comes Daughter of No Worlds, the initial installment in the War of Lost Hearts trilogy. This dark romantasy narrative follows Tisaanah, a former slave on a quest for justice and to rescue her abandoned best friend.
Embarking on a journey to the Orders, home to the world’s most potent magic wielders, Tisaanah must first apprentice with a fire wielder harboring deep-seated resentment towards the Orders.
Carissa Broadbent, a prominent figure in the romantasy genre, delivers a captivating tale that will engross both new and seasoned readers within the first few pages.
Princess Jessamine’s realm is plagued by an incurable disease, leading her to enter a political union to save her people. However, she is assassinated by her new husband for the throne.
But death is not the end for Jessamine as she strikes a deal with a god of death to seek retribution. The initial book in the Gravesinger series is replete with witchcraft, female fury, and a morally ambiguous romantic interest, making it an ideal autumn romantasy read.
Nell’s world crumbles after a devastating betrayal leaves her shattered, prompting a desperate plea for love in return for anything. Her plea is answered by Enver, a cursed immortal, who presents her with a choice: escape his labyrinth within 48 hours or be his eternal companion.
This story is a tantalizing blend of Labyrinth and Beauty and the Beast, featuring an original plot filled with unexpected twists.
Wild Reverence, a standalone romantasy set in the universe of Rebecca Ross’ bestselling Divine Rivals, follows Matilda, the youngest goddess of her clan with modest messenger magic, who matures ahead of her time.
Delivering missives across realms, Matilda harbors secrets, including a mortal boy who dreams of her but whom she has never met. Destiny reunites Matilda and Vincent a decade later when a letter alters their fates.
Whether a fan of the
