7 Fantasy Romance Books You Must Read In 2025

In the vast universe of literature, fantasy romance occupies a special place, weaving together the magic of otherworldly realms with the intensity of love stories that linger long after the final page. For readers seeking adventure, enchantment, and emotional depth, this genre offers a perfect escape. Below is a list of 7 fantasy romance books you must read in 2025. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy fan or just dipping your toes into mystical waters, these books promise to captivate, inspire, and ignite your imagination.

1. Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco

Kerri Maniscalco’s Kingdom of the Wicked is a dark, gothic fantasy steeped in mystery and romance. Emilia, a witch determined to avenge her sister’s death, finds herself entangled with Wrath, a charming yet deadly prince of demons. Their relationship is fiery, tension-filled, and morally complex, blending forbidden attraction with dangerous stakes. Maniscalco’s writing excels in evocative world-building, intricate magical lore, and gripping suspense, pulling readers into a realm where secrets and desire collide. Themes of vengeance, trust, and self-discovery enrich the story, making it a must-read for fans of dark fantasy romance with a captivating, slow-burn love story.

2. A Promise of Fire by Amanda Bouchet

Amanda Bouchet’s A Promise of Fire delivers a heroic fantasy adventure paired with sizzling romance. Cat, a cunning and resourceful heroine, rescues Griffin, a powerful warrior, from his own past and embarks on a journey to reclaim a stolen kingdom. The romance is steamy, emotional, and deeply connected, growing alongside character development and high-stakes adventure. Bouchet’s writing balances humor, action, and passion, creating an immersive story with vivid landscapes and magical intrigue. Themes of courage, loyalty, and trust permeate the narrative, making this book perfect for readers seeking an epic fantasy romance with strong characters and thrilling plot twists.

3. Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Kristin Cashore’s Graceling is a classic tale of adventure, empowerment, and romance. Katsa, born with a rare killing grace, struggles against a corrupt king while discovering her own moral compass. Along the way, she meets Po, a skilled and compassionate prince, and their relationship develops with mutual respect, trust, and emotional depth. Cashore expertly blends fantasy, political intrigue, and romance, creating a story where love enhances rather than overshadows character growth. Themes of self-discovery, ethical dilemmas, and empowerment make this novel timeless. Graceling is perfect for readers who want a strong heroine and a romance built on shared values and trust.

4. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

Holly Black’s The Cruel Prince immerses readers in a dark, seductive world of Faerie, where danger lurks at every corner. Jude, a mortal girl living among Fae nobility, must navigate political machinations, betrayal, and deadly power struggles. Amid the tension, the novel presents a subtle and complex romance, as attraction and rivalry intertwine, particularly between Jude and Prince Cardan. Black excels in crafting morally gray characters and morally intricate plots, keeping readers guessing about motives and alliances. Themes of ambition, resilience, and trust shine through, making this book a must-read for fantasy romance lovers who enjoy intrigue, tension, and morally complex relationships.

5. Wicked Saints by Emily A. Duncan

Emily A. Duncan’s Wicked Saints blends dark fantasy, war, and forbidden romance seamlessly. Nadya, a cleric with hidden powers, must navigate a kingdom embroiled in war, while Serefin, a mysterious prince, challenges her loyalties. Their romance is intense, fraught with secrecy and uncertainty, reflecting the moral complexity of the world around them. Duncan’s writing is immersive, atmospheric, and emotionally resonant, with layered political intrigue, magical battles, and personal stakes. The story explores themes of faith, loyalty, sacrifice, and love under pressure.

6. These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan

Lexi Ryan’s These Hollow Vows delivers a dark, seductive fantasy romance full of secrets, danger, and forbidden desire. The story follows Violet, a determined heroine navigating a world of Fae politics, power struggles, and deadly bargains. Her romance with the brooding and mysterious Fae prince is slow-burning, emotionally charged, and fraught with tension, perfectly complementing the novel’s suspenseful plot. Ryan’s writing excels in world-building, intrigue, and creating morally complex characters, immersing readers in a dangerous yet captivating fantasy realm. This book is perfect for fans of steamy, atmospheric fantasy romance with high stakes and irresistible tension.

7. The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller

Tricia Levenseller’s The Shadows Between Us is a cunning, seductive fantasy romance about ambition, power, and desire. Alessandra plans to marry, seduce, and kill the Shadow King, but her calculated scheme is complicated when genuine feelings emerge. The novel excels in slow-burn romance, witty dialogue, and tension-filled intrigue, balancing political maneuvering with emotional depth. Levenseller creates a heroine with agency, intelligence, and charm, giving readers a protagonist who drives both the plot and her own romantic destiny. For those who enjoy a romance intertwined with scheming, ambition, and empowerment, this book is both satisfying and thrilling.

Conclusion

Fantasy romance is more than just escapism—it’s a journey into worlds where love and magic intertwine, where characters grow and confront challenges that mirror our own desires and fears.

For readers seeking passion, adventure, and unforgettable characters, these 7 fantasy romance books are essential additions to your library. Dive in, let the magic envelop you, and discover love stories that transcend worlds.