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Have you seen the hype around Fourth Wing, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and Throne of Glass? These books belong to a genre we book lovers call romantasy. Romantasy books are a magical blend of fantasy and romance.
If you’re wondering where to start, you’re in the right place! I’ve put together a carefully curated fantasy romance starter pack of 15 series, ranging from beginner-friendly reads to epic sagas, so you can dive into this enchanting genre with confidence.
Why Romantasy Books Are So Popular
Romantasy has taken over BookTok and Bookstagram in recent years—and for good reason. Readers crave passionate love stories set in richly built worlds full of magic, danger, and adventure. It’s the perfect combination of escapism and emotion.
Most romantasy books include:
Slow-burn romance
Enemies-to-lovers tension
Rich world-building
Compelling lore and mythology
Strong character development
Series potential (because we love to binge!)
Spice levels can vary greatly—from completely clean to very steamy—so there’s truly something for every reader.
What Makes a Great Romantasy Starter Pack
Romantasy books typically balance a magical fantasy world with a central romantic plotline. Some lean more heavily toward the fantasy side, while others focus more on romance. When starting out, consider what matters most to you:
Do you prefer more romance or more adventure?
Are you ready for a long epic saga or just want to dip your toes in?
Do you enjoy classic tropes like enemies-to-lovers or found family?
This list is organized to help you decide where to begin based on your reading style and comfort level.
The 15 Best Romantasy Series to Start With
Beginner-Friendly Romantasy Series
Perfect for readers just dipping their toes into the genre. These are fun, engaging, and easy to get into.
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
A fierce assassin must fight for her freedom and uncover dark secrets while navigating dangerous alliances.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Classic Entry Point
Main Romantic Trope: Adventure & Romance
Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
A witch and witch hunter are forced into a reluctant marriage—with plenty of tension and magic along the way.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Witches & Lighter Fantasy Elements
Main Romantic Trope: Enemies-to-Lovers
The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
A princess sent to spy on her enemy must choose between loyalty to her kingdom and her growing feelings for her husband.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Easy to Follow
Main Romantic Trope: Political Intrigue and Romance
These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan
A human girl must infiltrate a world of fae courts to rescue her sister, only to face betrayal and forbidden love.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Accessible Fae Fantasy
Main Romantic Trope: Love Triangle
Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco
A young witch teams up with a mysterious prince of Hell to solve her sister's murder.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Mystery and romance with fantasy vibes.
Main Romantic Trope: Enemies-to-Lovers, Forced Proximity, Slow-Burn Romance
Intermediate Romantasy Series
For readers ready for deeper plots, higher stakes, and more complex world-building.
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
A young woman destined to save her kingdom struggles with duty, love, and shocking truths.
Why it's perfect for beginners: High Stakes
Main Romantic Trope: Steamy Romance
A fragile but determined cadet trains to become a dragon rider while navigating deadly rivals and forbidden romance.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Dragons and war colleges
Main Romantic Trope: Enemies-to-Lovers and tension
A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross
A lyrical, enchanting tale of magic, music, and love set on a mysterious island.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Magical realism and lush worldbuilding
Main Romantic Trope: Enemies-to-lovers
Gild by Raven Kennedy
A dark reimagining of King Midas's myth, full of intrigue, romance, and empowerment.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Dark retelling with intense character growth.
Main Romantic Trope: Dark Romance
The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi
A group of misfits unravels secrets of ancient magic and forbidden love in a lush, historical fantasy setting.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Heists & Puzzles
Main Romantic Trope: Intricate Relationships
Epic Romantasy Sagas
For readers who want sweeping, intricate plots and sprawling fantasy worlds.
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
A mortal girl is drawn into the deadly politics of the fae after being taken to their magical realm.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Fae Courts
Main Romantic Trope: Slow-Burn Romance
Fallen Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes
Multiple kingdoms clash in a series full of twists, betrayals, and romance.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Multi-POV fantasy drama.
Main Romantic Trope: Enemies-to-lovers
Daughter of No Worlds by Carissa Broadbent
A former slave fights for freedom and love amidst a powerful magical rebellion.
Why it's perfect for beginners: Powerful magic and epic stakes.
Main Romantic Trope: Slow Burn and Grumpy/Sunshine
Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
The sequel to Fourth Wing, with even higher stakes and deeper world-building.
Why it's perfect for beginners: For fans who want a multi-book epic.
Main Romantic Trope: Enemies-to-lovers
The Alloy of Law by Brandon Sanderson
A masterful blend of heists, politics, and magic—with a slow-burn romance woven throughout.
Why it's perfect for beginners: For fantasy-first readers craving romance.
Main Romantic Trope: Marriage of Convenience
Tips for Choosing Your First Romantasy Series
Here are four simple tips to help you pick your first read:
Decide if you want a romance-heavy or fantasy-heavy story.
Start with a duology or trilogy so you don’t get overwhelmed.
Try audiobooks or buddy reads for extra motivation.
Join Bookstagram or BookTok communities to share recommendations and stay inspired.
Recommended Reading Path
Choose your starting point based on what you’re in the mood for:
Romance-heavy first: Serpent & Dove → Fourth Wing → ACOTAR
Fantasy-heavy first: Mistborn → Daughter of No Worlds → Throne of Glass
Balanced mix: The Bridge Kingdom → From Blood and Ash → A River Enchanted
Final Thoughts
Which romantasy series will you start with first? Drop your pick in the comments, and don’t forget to grab the free Romantasy Books Checklist to keep track of your reading progress!
No matter where you begin, these 15 series offer a perfect balance of magic and romance. Whether you’re a beginner or ready for an epic saga, there’s a fantastical world waiting for you.
For more romantasy reviews and recommendations, be sure to sign up for my newsletter and join our growing community of fantasy romance lovers!
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