---
title: "Best Romantasy Books to Read in 2026"
description: "The romantasy books I've actually read and reviewed — fae courts, dragon riders and slow-burn magic — ranked honestly, with where to start if the genre is new to you."
canonical: "https://bellabugsbooks.com/guides/romantasy-books"
url: "https://bellabugsbooks.com/guides/romantasy-books.md"
author: "Amy — Bella Bugs Books"
locale: "en-IE"
type: "guide"
date_modified: "2026-09-15"
---

# Romantasy books worth your time

Romantasy is romance plus fantasy where neither side is decoration. Every book below is one I've read and reviewed on this site, so there's a full review behind each pick.

## Frequently asked questions

### What does romantasy mean?

Romantasy is fantasy where the romance carries equal weight with the magic and plot. Take the love story out and the book falls apart — that's the test.

### What's the best romantasy book for a beginner?

A Court of Thorns and Roses or Fourth Wing. Both are fast, high-stakes and don't ask you to learn a hundred names in chapter one.

### Is romantasy the same as YA fantasy?

No. Plenty of romantasy is adult, with explicit scenes and darker themes. Check the spice rating before you gift one.

---

_Every book recommended here is read in full and reviewed by Amy. No sponsorships, no gifted-book obligations, spoilers always marked._

## Related

- [Dark romance books, reviewed honestly](https://bellabugsbooks.com/guides/dark-romance-books.md)
- [Enemies to lovers books that earn the turn](https://bellabugsbooks.com/guides/enemies-to-lovers-books.md)
- [Books like ACOTAR](https://bellabugsbooks.com/guides/books-like-acotar.md)
- [What to read after Fourth Wing](https://bellabugsbooks.com/guides/what-to-read-after-fourth-wing.md)
- [All reading guides](https://bellabugsbooks.com/guides.md)
- [Build a personalised parcel](https://bellabugsbooks.com/packages/build.md)