Looking for your next romantic fantasy read? We here at Romantic Fantasy Shelf have put together a list of our favorites and the most promising candidates from our TBRs, in no particular order, just for you! To help those of you supporting indie authors, we’ve gone ahead and marked those with #indie. Enjoy!
1. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
“A dazzling world, complex characters and sizzling romance. Feyre is a charming heroine with a perfect amount of flaws and strengths, and her chemistry with Tamlin is wonderfully tangible.” –Top Pick, RT Book Reviews
2. Daughter of the Forest (The Sevenwaters Series Book 1) by Juliet Marillier
“It is dark, painful and horrifying at times but it is also balanced with extreme love, devotion and hope. So even though it breaks your heart DoF will do its best to patch it up again.” — Amazon Reviewer
3. Kushiel’s Dart (Kushiel’s Legacy Book 1) by Jacqueline Carey
“The story is rich and complex, the characters deep and conflicted, and the setting is full of grace. There’s love & betrayal, for sure, but also sword fights, brilliant escapes, brutal warlords, torture, a good deal of kindness unlooked for, poetry, royalty teetering on the brink of collapse, and so much more.” –Amazon Reviewer
4. Blood Oath (The Darkest Drae Book 1) by Raye Wagner & Kelly St. Clare #indie
“This book has everything you could possibly want: action, love, hysterical inner monologue, the answers to the questions and predictions that eat away at you while reading, and leaves you wanting more.” –Amazon Reviewer
5. Fantasy of Frost (The Tainted Accords Book 1) by Kelly St. Clare #indie
“Olina is a very interesting character and you’ll quickly be drawn into her story and be anxious to learn more. There is adventure, a little romance, interesting world building, and fun and interesting characters that play into this series well.” –Amazon Reviewer
6. Air Awakens (Air Awakens Series Book 1) by Elise Kova #indie
“I love Air Awakens! It’s Phantom of the Opera meets Cinderella in a wonderfully crafted world created by debut author Elise Kova.” –Michelle Madow
7. Blade & Rose (Blade and Rose Book 1) by Miranda Honfleur #indie
“…[M]ultiple threads of a complex plot, forbidden romance, manipulative villains, and marvelous writing.” –Fantasy-Faction.com
8. Mother of Shadows (The Chosen Book 1) by Meg Anne #indie
“I’m completely shocked that this is a debut novel… It’s executed flawlessly, the storyline is decadent, full of magic, love, heat and deceit. I literally felt like I was stepping into a different world, I didn’t want to put the book down, I just had to know what was going to happen next!” –Amazon Reviewer
9. Stolen Songbird: Malediction Trilogy Book One by Danielle L. Jensen #indie
“Stolen Songbird is an absolutely wonderful addition to the fantasy genre. The book is full of magic, adventure, outlandish creatures, and at its heart is one of the most touching love stories I have ever read…” –Avid Reviews
10. The Priestess and the Dragon (Dragon Saga Book 1) by Nicolette Andrews #indie
“This story has it all, action adventure, mystery, touch of romance, humor, excellent visual word pictures, and the deepest, full-bodied characters.” –Amazon Reviewer
11. Phoenix Unbound (The Fallen Empire Book 1) by Grace Draven
“Grace Draven’s exciting romantic fantasy features characters who are fresh and original. Their problems and triumphs will keep you reading into the night.”—Charlaine Harris, #1 New York Times bestselling author
12. Mermaid Bride by J.M. Butler #indie
“I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s prose is very strong, with beautiful imagery that captures all the senses and a strong plot of conflictual romance, loyalty, and integrity.” –Amazon Reviewer
13. Oath Taker: Kingdom of Runes Book 1 by Audrey Grey #indie
“A lyrical, sweeping fantasy that will take you on a beautiful adventure in a world where danger and romance lurk at every corner.” ~ Olivia Wildenstein, USA Today Bestselling author of A PACK OF BLOOD AND LIES
14. A Thief & a Gentlewoman (Counterfeit Contessa Book 1) by Clare Sager #indie
“There’s romance, deception, magic, palace intrigue, murder, sword fights, a couple of cross country races against time and best of all, a selection of characters (not just two) I want to read more about.” –Amazon Reviewer
15. Fortune Favors the Cruel (Dark Maji Book 1) by Kel Carpenter & Lucinda Dark #indie
“If you love dark fantasy, anti-heroines and sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance, prepare to be tired, because you won’t be able to put this puppy down.” –Katherine Bogle, author
16. Betrayed (Magi Rising Book 1) by Raye Wagner #indie
“Brutal yet compelling, BETRAYED brings me back to why I fell in love with dark fantasy. The lush jungle kingdom of Qrali is as vibrant as it is dangerous, and the chemistry between Disa and Rune is mind blowing. Full of magic, intrigue, and plenty of mystery–this tantalizing tale will keep you glued to the book until the very last page.” ~ Kel Carpenter, USA Today Bestselling Author of Fortune Favors the Cruel
17. Waters of Salt and Sin (Uncommon World Book 1) by Alisha Klapheke #indie
“I give this book a 5/5, not only for the stellar world building, kickass heroine, and sexy love interest, but for the hungover longing for more I’m experiencing days after. Klapheke is one to watch out for!” ~Katherine Bogle, author of Savages
18. Summernight (Bridge of Legends Book 1) by Sarah K. L. Wilson #indie
“Marielle & Tamerlan’s lives intertwine with the hope and fear of their fates, and it’s an amazing ride. The question of who will succeed and who will die flows throughout the entire novel, leaving me on the edge of my seat until the very end.” –Amazon Reviewer
19. Empire of Sand (The Books of Ambha Book 1) by Tasha Suri
“The magic system is fascinating, and it is seamlessly integrated into both plot and character development. I adored the romance.” –Amazon Reviewer
20. Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
“A brilliant debut, full of everything I love: a sparkling and fully realized heroine, an intricate and deadly system of magic, and a searing romance that kept me reading long into the night. Serpent & Dove is an absolute gem of a book.” —Sarah J. Maas
21. A Bond of Venom and Magic (The Goddess and the Guardians Book 1) by Karen Tomlinson #indie
“A swoon worthy page-turner. Tomlinson finds the perfect balance of adventure and romance. I can’t wait for the next book! I loved it…!” — Kelly Oram, Bestselling Author of Cinder & Ella
22. Feast of the Mother (Witch of the Lake Book 1) by Miranda Honfleur & Nicolette Andrews #indie
“Steeped in rich and dark folklore, Feast of the Mother is young-adult fantasy at its best. Honfleur and Andrews take witches, murder, and romance, twist and weave them together with an imaginative and mysterious backdrop of medieval grievances. The result is a page-turning tale that will keep you riveted from the first page until the very last.” ~Raye Wagner, USA Today bestselling author of Magi Rising series
23. The City of Brass: A Novel (The Daevabad Trilogy) by S. A. Chakraborty
“THE CITY OF BRASS has some of the best fantasy world building I’ve ever read, along with compelling characters, an intriguing mystery, a dash of swoon-worthy romance, and roots in cultures that don’t normally take center stage in fantasy.” –Amazon Reviewer
24. To Claim a King (Age of Gold Book 1) by May Sage #indie
“This is the first book I have read by this author and will not be the last. There was drama, action, fantasy and romance.” –Amazon Reviewer
25. Seas of Crimson Silk (Burning Empire Book 1) by Emma Hamm #indie
“…this is a slow burn of romance, that is definitely apparent in all the most deliciously antagonizing of ways. Everything from their physical chemistry to their verbal interactions was definitely melt worthy.” –Amazon Reviewer
26. Sarya’s Song by Kyra Halland #indie
“This was a very enjoyable read, a perfect blend of well-thought-out fantasy with a satisfying romance. I loved the ingenious and cleverly implemented concept of music as a form of magic. Highly recommended.” –Amazon Reviewer
27. Kill the Queen (A Crown of Shards Novel Book 1) by Jennifer Estep
“Kill the Queen rocked my world! With court intrigue, a cast of fantastic characters, epic political sweep, and a slow-burn romance to die for, this book had me rapt. I only regret I devoured it so fast. And that I didn’t write it. More please!” –Jeffe Kennedy, RITA® Award winning author of The Pages of the Mind
28. The Rose Crown by Catharine Glen #indie
“No word is out of place and each sentence is balanced. It reminds us of a long-forgotten melody, of which you can only remember when you hear it aloud, and it warms the cockles of your heart.” –Fantasiareviews.com (Best Writing of the Year, 2016)
29. The Shadow and The Sun (A Militess and Mage Novel Book 1) by Monica Enderle Pierce #indie
“I love this story so much. The characters are fully realized without the author needing to go into detailed back stories. Their actions and reactions MAKE SENSE! It’s so refreshing to have not one but both of the main characters be likable and rooting for both of them. I understand where they are both coming from and the tidbits of detail into their live before they collided are so juicy and raw. I really love this book and highly recommend it if you’re at all a romance, fantasy, or action/adventure fan.” –Amazon Reviewer
30. Heart of Dragons (Chronicles of Pelenor Book 1) by Meg Cowley #indie
“I loved the characters, the storyline, the murkiness of the relationships and how the characters have to work through it. I also happen to love elves 🧝♀️ And dragons! I highly recommend this book” –Amazon Reviewer
31. Beneath the Mists (Of Astral and Umbral Book 1) by Bonnie L. Price #indie
“The romance isn’t overdone, it doesn’t detract from the plot but instead enhances the character’s development.” –Amazon Reviewer
32. Diviner’s Prophecy (Diviner’s Trilogy Book 1) by Nicolette Andrews #indie
“I won’t give too much away, but the cast of characters Ms. Andrews has assembled leave the reader guessing as to their true intentions, while also managing to pull them under their spell. Will NOT disappoint true romantic fantasy fans!” –Amazon Reviewer
33. Tree of Ages (The Tree of Ages Series Book 1) by Sara C. Roethle #indie
“I had the craving for a good epic fantasy, and this world provided it. There is action, a quest, the potential for a slow-burn romance, family drama, an unknown past, the the looming threat of potential war on the horizon. I enjoyed watching the character development of Finn as she slowly becomes more human” –Amazon Reviewer
34. Dragon Storm (Heritage of Power Book 1) by Lindsay Buroker #indie
“Another new series with typical Buroker flair of impossible mission, funny verbal banter, romantic attraction, and solid storytelling.” –Amazon Reviewer
35. Witch Song by Amber Argyle #indie
“Witch Song is a debut with an engrossing world full of magic, adventure and romance. It’s a story that fascinated me with its unique witch lore and rich world building, and introduced me to some great in-depth characters.” ~Katie, Mundie Moms
36. Identity Revealed (The Tue-Rah Chronicles) by J.M. Butler #indie
“I fell in love, hate, despair with all the characters. The relationships in the story are highly relatable.” –Amazon Reviewer
37. Frostbound Throne: Song of Night (Court of Sin Book 1) by May Sage #indie
“I loved this book! If you enjoy fantasy, adventure and romance you will love it as much as I did.” –Amazon Reviewer
38. Daughter of the Blood (Black Jewels, Book 1) by Anne Bishop
“So good, I read it twice years apart and can’t wait until I read it a third time in a few years. Magic, romance, loyalty beyond measure and a great story.” –Amazon Reviewer
39. Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson
“If you are looking for magic you will find it inside this book. Sorcery of Thorns is a bewitching gem, full of slow burning romance, loyal friendships, and extraordinary world building. I absolutely loved every moment of this story.” —Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Caraval series
40. The Cruel Prince (The Folk of the Air Book 1) by Holly Black
“Heart-in-throat action, deadly romance, double-crossing, moral complexity-this is one heck of a ride.” –Booklist (starred review)
41. Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass series Book 1) by Sarah J. Maas
“I loved the sarcasm, the romance, the mystery and the action that this story has. I loved how well developed was the love, the hatred and the friendship throughout the story.” –Amazon Reviewer
42. Sky Keeper (The Drowning Empire Book 1) by S.M. Gaither #indie
“Rich world building, fast-paced adventure, a dash of romance and a wondrous quest make this a book to get lost in and wish for the continuation as soon as the last page is done.” –Amazon Reviewer
43. Balanced on the Blade’s Edge (Dragon Blood Book 1) by Lindsay Buroker #indie
“I found myself wanting more of the book and not wanting to put it down. It had great airship action, romance was very exciting, and I find myself genuinely caring for the characters and wanting more at the end of it.” –Amazon Reviewer
44. Destiny (Experimental Heart Book 1) by Shannon Pemrick #indie
“The suspense, the wonder of romance, the different types of mythical creatures was so interesting it hooks you right in.” –Amazon Reviewer
45. Kingdom of Exiles (The Beast Charmer Book 1) by Maxym M. Martineau
“With Kingdom of Exiles, Maxym M. Martineau launches a fresh new romantic fantasy series that has all the lush world-building and intoxicating magic of the Harry Potter universe edged with something altogether more adult… Martineau’s writing bursts with humor, heart, and an exquisite burst of magic that declare her a new voice as powerful (and charming!) as one of her irresistible characters.” – Entertainment Weekly
46. The Mark of the Tala (The Twelve Kingdoms Book 1) by Jeffe Kennedy
“It’s a solid first book and I enjoyed the author’s world-building and writing. If you like fantasy with a little romance thrown in then this book is for you.” –Amazon Reviewer
47. Beneath the Canyons (Daughter of the Wildings Book 1) by Kyra Halland #indie
“This book had me from page one. It has fantasy, mystery, and western with a great romance plot throughout. The intrigue kept me turning the page, and the well-developed characters made me care about what would happen next.” –Amazon Reviewer
48. Eye of Truth (Agents of the Crown Book 1) by Lindsay Buroker #indie
“You’ve got adventure, mystery, romance, lovable leads and quirky supporting characters. It’s all there. Heck yeah!” –Amazon Reviewer
49. Ishtar’s Blade (Ishtar’s Legacy Book 1) by Lisa Blackwood #indie
“I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good fantasy with romance and intrigue.” –Amazon Reviewer
50. Torn (The Unraveled Kingdom Book 1) by Rowenna Miller
“This book has romance, intrigue, betrayal and magic sewn all though it. Very well done!” –Amazon Reviewer
51. Striking Midnight (Fairy Tale Lies, Spies, and Assassins Book 1) by Jennifer Ellision #indie
“Cyn is not your average damsel, she is a kick a$$ leader with a brilliant mind. Loved the story.” –Amazon Reviewer
52. Prisoner of Silk: A Dark Fairy Tale Retelling (Queen of the Sun Palace Book 1) by Lidiya Foxglove #indie
“…it was definitely compelling and erotic but different from the usual romantic fantasy!” –Amazon Reviewer
53. Trial by Fae (Dragon’s Gift: The Dark Fae Book 1) by Linsey Hall #indie
“I loved the action, adventure, romance, and getting to know Mari.” –Amazon Reviewer
54. Shadows for a Princess (Trials of Terraina, Book 1) by Vivienne Savage and Dominique Kristine #indie
“The authors have penned a story line keeps you intrigued with a hint of romance to take your heart for a ride in the best of ways.” –Amazon Reviewer
55. Marked by Dragon’s Blood (Return of the Dragonborn Book 1) by N.M. Howell #indie
“I would recommend this book to all who like light romance with HEA and, of course, Dragons.” –Amazon Reviewer
56. The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms (The Inheritance Trilogy Book 1) by N.K. Jemisin
“Multifaceted characters struggle with their individual burdens and desires, creating a complex, edge-of-your-seat story with plenty of funny, scary, and bittersweet twists.” –Publishers Weekly
57. Star of the Morning (A Novel of the Nine Kingdoms Book 1) by Lynn Kurland
“I love the fact that the heroine truly is a strong person in her own right. There’s great world-building, an interesting magic system, great characterization, and the romance element builds rather than being some crazed instalove.” –Amazon Reviewer
58. Red Winter (The Red Winter Trilogy Book 1) by Annette Marie
“An enchanting tale of fantastical magic, supernatural creatures, mysterious heroes, and forbidden romance, [set] against a wildly gorgeous and exotic backdrop.” – FLYLeF Reviews
Which of these have you read? Which others would you recommend?
