Best Fantasy Romance BookTok List
Fantasy Books to Read, Swoon Over, and Obsess About
If you’ve ever lost sleep over fae princes, fallen hard for morally gray heroes, or bookmarked BookTok videos faster than your kids can lose a library book—this post is for you.
Fantasy romance books (aka romantasy) have exploded on BookTok. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or just romantasy-curious, this list is full of viral favorites, spicy slow burns, and magical worlds you’ll want to escape to the second your little ones are asleep.
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What’s All the Hype?
Fantasy romance books blend rich, magical world-building with unforgettable love stories. On TikTok’s book-loving corner—aka BookTok—readers are swapping romantasy book recommendations faster than you can say “Rhysand.”
The BookTok algorithm isn’t just fueling TBRs—it’s transforming the publishing world. New authors are launching careers. Backlist books are hitting bestseller lists. And we readers? We’re living our best magical lives.
Need proof? Look no further than viral hits like:
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
These titles consistently top the charts in any list of Fantasy Books to Read—and for good reason.
What Makes a Fantasy Romance Go Viral?
Certain tropes + high stakes + swoony moments = BookTok gold. These are the ones we see everywhere:
Enemies to lovers (cue the slow burn angst)
Fae courts & politics
Morally gray love interests
Found families
Powerful heroines
Forbidden love
Add a dash of magic, a secret rebellion, or a steamy throne room scene—and you’ve got the next viral read.
Best Fantasy Romance BookTok List: Enemies-to-Lovers Edition
Let’s talk about the trope: enemies to lovers. If you're into tension, power dynamics, and that moment when hate flips into something deeper (this is by far my personal favorite)… these are for you:
From Blood and Ash Series by Jennifer L. Armentrout
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout follows Penellaphe "Poppy" Balfour, the Maiden—a veiled figure destined to ascend in service to the gods, stripped of autonomy and intimacy. When she meets Hawke—approaching as her guard—she begins to question her role, discovering secret magic, political oppression, and her own agency. As hidden truths unfold, Hawke is revealed to be Casteel, Atlantian prince, and the pair are drawn into a sweeping romance amid war, destiny, and rebellion.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Romantasy at its core: A high-stakes blend of epic fantasy, steamy romance, and worldbuilding—Poppy evolves from sheltered Maiden into a formidable heroine, while her relationship with Hawke/Casteel delivers addictive tension and emotional payoff. Jennifer L. Armentrout
Slow-burn enemies‑to‑lovers & forbidden love: Their forbidden relationship, layered secrets, and Hawke’s hidden identity keep fans invested in dramatic reveals.
Community drama and reaction: Reddit reactions are polarized—but reveal the intense engagement:
“It changes completely after the first book…” and “Pacing picks up… you’ll likely be hooked.” Reddit
“I remember my first reaction omg, the sense of betrayal was CRAZY…and I blew through this series
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
This series (and Rhysand, let’s be honest) basically built the romantasy genre as we know it. Fae courts, soul bonds, and enemies-to-lovers at its finest. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas follows Feyre Archeron, a mortal huntress who kills a wolf—only to discover it was a fae in disguise. As punishment, she’s taken to the magical and dangerous fae realm of Prythian. There, she encounters Tamlin, a powerful fae lord, and slowly falls into a complicated romance amid dark curses, political intrigue, and deadly trials. As secrets unravel, Feyre’s courage and heart reshape her fate—and the fate of two worlds.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Genre-defining romantasy: This series helped popularize “romantasy,” blending lush fantasy worldbuilding with swoony, slow-burn romance. Its mix of fairy-tale retelling and high stakes enchants readers. theguardian.com
Strong heroine & intense romance: Feyre’s growth from mortal to powerful fae heroine paired with her passionate relationship with Tamlin (and later Rhysand) hooks readers who crave emotional depth and sexy tension.
Epic scope with emotional resonance: The series’ mix of danger, magic, and heartfelt connections creates binge-worthy storytelling that fuels viral TikTok scenes, quotes, and fan theories.
Community & culture: Fans create endless fanart, ship wars, and cosplay inspired by the characters and world, helping the series maintain its place as a TikTok favorite.
The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen follows Lara, a warrior princess trained in isolation, who is sent to marry King Aren of Ithicana, a kingdom she believes is her enemy. Her mission is to infiltrate and weaken Ithicana from within. However, as she becomes entangled in the kingdom's politics and her feelings for Aren deepen, Lara faces a moral dilemma: remain loyal to her homeland or embrace her new life and love in Ithicana.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Enemies-to-Lovers Romance: The slow-burn romance between Lara and Aren captivates readers, offering a compelling journey from distrust to deep affection.
Strong Female Protagonist: Lara's transformation from a trained assassin to a queen grappling with loyalty and love resonates with fans who appreciate complex, empowered heroines.
Political Intrigue and World-Building: The series' rich world-building and intricate political dynamics add depth to the narrative, engaging readers who enjoy layered storytelling. Bookish Wayfarer
Community Engagement: The series has sparked widespread discussion on BookTok, with readers sharing their reactions and analyses, further fueling its popularity.
Trending Fae Fantasy Romance Books on BookTok
Fae are having a moment—and we’re all in. If Feyre made you fall for winged warriors, these fantasy romance books will keep you hooked:
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black follows Jude, a mortal girl raised in the treacherous fae court of Elfhame after her parents are murdered. Determined to earn power and respect among the fae who despise her, Jude gets caught in a web of court politics, betrayal, and a dangerously complicated relationship with the cruel Prince Cardan.
Why BookTok Loves It: BookTok is obsessed with the enemies-to-lovers tension, morally grey characters, and dark, twisty fae politics. Jude’s ruthless ambition and the toxic-but-irresistible dynamic with Cardan make for perfect dramatic edits and quote-worthy content.
These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan
In These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan, Abriella “Brie” Kincaid must infiltrate the Seelie Court by posing as a bride to rescue her sister from the Unseelie King. She’s tasked with stealing three magical relics while navigating dangerous alliances with two enchanting fae princes—Ronan and Finn—as political intrigue, betrayals, and a tangled love triangle intensify.
Why BookTok Loves It: BookTok gravitated toward this YA romantasy for its courtly fae drama, high-stakes mission, and competing princes fueling a slow-burn love triangle. Fans compare it to A Court of Thorns and Roses and The Cruel Prince, praising its fast pacing and dark ambiance that make it ideal for short, emotional TikToks—even if some readers found it trope-heavy.
To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo
To Kill a Kingdom by Alexandra Christo is a dark, standalone YA fantasy riffing on The Little Mermaid. It follows Princess Lira—the feared “Princes’ Bane” who collects human hearts—as she's transformed into a human by her ruthless Sea Queen. To reclaim her power, she must bring back the heart of Prince Elian, a legendary siren hunter. Forced into an uneasy alliance, Lira and Elian face betrayal, secrets, and an unexpected connection as they hunt a magical artifact that could rewrite their destinies.
Why BookTok (and YA fans) Love It:
It delivers enemies‑to‑lovers energy with sharp banter and evolving chemistry. “The pacing, the banter, the plot, the enemies to lovers, were all so good.”
The gritty, vivid prose immerses you in a sinister, blood‑soaked fairy tale—“a lyrical way of writing… almost like a siren song transcending off the pages” thebiblioshelf.com.
Lira and Elian are morally complex, prickly protagonists, not typical heroes—both carry burdens, secrets, and personal codes of survival.
It’s compact (standalone, fast‑paced), with dark siren lore, pirate adventure, a ticking deadline, and romantic tension—ideal for short, visually charged TikTok content.
The Bargainer Series by Laura Thalassa
The Bargainer series by Laura Thalassa follows Callypso “Callie” Lillis, a siren bound by a magical bracelet of IOUs to Desmond “the Bargainer”—a mysterious fae king of the Night realm. To repay her debt, she joins him to investigate a chilling pattern: fae women returned in glass caskets clutching babies, comatose. As they unravel the mystery of the Thief of Souls, attraction deepens into possessive, intense romance—with stakes that threaten both worlds.
Why BookTok & YA/New‑Adult Fans Love It:
Powerful enemies‑to‑lovers with deep tension & simmering romance—Callie and Desmond have a long‑past bond and irresistible chemistry.
Dark fae political intrigue and high-stakes mystery, with urgency and supernatural threat woven through the series She Reads Romance.
Villainous twists and addictive pacing, especially the Thief of Souls arc and fae disappearances, make it bingeable.
Desmond’s possessive, alpha MMC character fans cite as one of the most intense romantic leads in recent paranormal romance.
Dark Fantasy Romance BookTok Favorites
Ready for something darker? These books blend fantasy, danger, and deliciously wicked romance:
Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco
Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco centers on Emilia Di Carlo, a young Sicilian witch whose twin sister Vittoria is brutally murdered. Desperate for answers, Emilia unwittingly summons Wrath, a seductive and morally ambiguous Prince of Hell. As they form a reluctant alliance to solve the murders, Emilia's quest for vengeance leads her deeper into forbidden magic, prophecy, and an intoxicating enemies‑to‑lovers dynamic with Wrath.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Dark romantic suspense with rich atmosphere: Set in 19th‑century Sicily, the book weaves lush food descriptions, Italian folklore, and gothic mystery into a compelling backdrop. LoveMeStone
Enemies‑to‑lovers with sizzling chemistry: Emilia and Wrath’s banter, tension, and slow-burning connection make for viral TikTok snippets.
Spellbinding mystery meets romantic fantasy: Emilia’s revenge mission and the intrigue surrounding demonic princes keep readers hooked and eager to talk about plot twists.
Writing praised over typical romantasy: Fans highlight the strong prose, unpredictability, and emotional depth as standout qualities. Redditians say:
“plot that was constantly surprising me and catching me off guard” and “better writing” compared to similar YA fantasies.
The Plated Prisoner by Raven Kennedy
The Plated Prisoner series by Raven Kennedy follows Auren, a young woman gold-touched by King Midas and kept in a gilded cage as his prized possession. As the series unfolds—from Gild through Goldfinch—Auren finds escape, uncovers the truth behind her gilded prison, and navigates a slow‑burn, high‑stakes romance with the enigmatic fae warrior Slade. Together they confront vengeance, political intrigue, trauma, and magic as Auren discovers her own strength and identity.
Why BookTok Loves It:
It was a viral sensation with over a million copies sold, hailed as a dark fantasy TikTok hit and a Sunday Times bestseller.
Fans rave about its emotional rollercoaster: slow‑burn romance, poetic prose, heartbreak, and vengeance arcs that pay off powerfully.
Reddit readers repeatedly emphasize:
“This series will rip your heart out over and over then patch it up again… The writing is so freaking beautiful. Reddit
“The third book in this series is one of my top 5 favorite books ever.
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
In Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, Violet Sorrengail—fragile, reluctant, and destined to be a scribe—is forced by her mother to join the elite dragon-rider program at Basgiath War College. Despite her physical limitations, she unexpectedly bonds with two dragons and must survive deadly rivalries, assassination attempts, and harsh combat training. Along the way, she clashes with wing leader Xaden Riorson, who becomes her reluctant ally and love interest as political and magical mysteries unravel.
Why BookTok Loves It:
"Romantasy" done big: The steamy enemies-to-lovers arc between Violet and Xaden, set against dragon-rider training and high-stakes war, captivates fans with intense romantic fantasy.
Viral bestseller status: It broke sales records, stayed atop The New York Times list for 18 weeks, sold millions of copies, and won the 2024 TikTok Book of the Year.
Short-form drama-ready: High emotional stakes—betrayal, magic, sizzling tension, and dragon bonding—are tailor-made for one-minute edits and quote-heavy TikToks.
King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair
King of Battle & Blood by Scarlett St. Clair (Adrian × Isolde Book 1) follows Princess Isolde de Lara. Her kingdom endures years of war against the vampire Blood King, Adrian Aleksandr Vasiliev. To save her people, she agrees to marry him—but also plots to kill him. When her attempt fails, Adrian threatens to turn her into an undead slave. Despite their initial hostility, an undeniable attraction entangles them as Isolde navigates vampire politics, ancient magic, destiny, and shocking secrets about her own identity and heritage.
Why BookTok/Lux Romantasy Fans Love It:
Enemies-to-lovers setup with strong sexual chemistry and arranged marriage tropes make ideal TikTok edits. The tension between Isolde and Adrian hooks readers early. Just Bringing Books To Life
Vampire politics + magic + intrigue: Witch trials, vampire empires, personal betrayals, and ancient curses layer in supernatural drama.
Highly steamy romance: Explicit fantasy romance has a dedicated niche that sparks quick emotional engagement. Though some find it “gratuitous,” fans highlight its addictive pacing and romantic payoff.
Fast, escapist binge-read experience: Many booktokers describe it as a quick, satisfying read despite its flaws—perfect for short-form reaction videos.
Fantasy Romance Books with Strong Heroines
We love a heroine who takes names and falls in love. BookTok agrees. These leading ladies are smart, deadly, and absolutely unforgettable:
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas begins with Celaena Sardothien, a teenage assassin enslaved in the brutal salt mines of Endovier. She’s offered her freedom if she wins a deadly competition in the king’s glass palace. Trained by the stoic Captain Chaol and flirting with Prince Dorian amid palace intrigue, she uncovers sinister magic and a greater destiny—as the lost princess Aelin destined for much more.
Why BookTok (and Romantasy Fans) Adore It:
Foundational “romantasy” classic: This series helped launch the genre blending high-stakes fantasy and slow-burn romance. Sarah J. Maas’s success contributed to a huge surge in romantasy sales—over 161% growth for her publisher notably tied to Throne of Glass and ACOTAR.
Epic world-building and character growth: Fans praise the aesthetic palace setting, evolving magic system, and especially Celaena’s transformation from assassin to ruler. As one Redditor put it:
“The world building, the story, the characters… it’s just amazing.” Reddit
And:
“Celaena's inner transformation… weighing loyalty and justice… keeps readers engaged.”Bingeable saga with high emotional payoff: Readers often race through all eight books in mere weeks, fueled by increasingly intense stakes and complex alliances.
Iconic within BookTok: It remains a staple in BookTok trend lists, where fans rediscover it through memes, quotes, and debates—often preferring its balanced fantasy/romance over other Maas works.
The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller
In The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller, Alessandra Stathos is a cunning and ambitious young woman determined to seize power. Her plan is straightforward: woo the newly crowned Shadow King, marry him, and then kill him to take his throne. As she navigates court politics and her growing feelings for the king, Alessandra must balance her ruthless ambition with the complexities of love and trust.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Morally Grey Characters: Alessandra's unapologetic ambition and the Shadow King's enigmatic nature appeal to readers who enjoy complex, morally ambiguous protagonists.
Enemies-to-Lovers Dynamic: The evolving relationship between Alessandra and the Shadow King provides a compelling slow-burn romance that captivates fans of the trope.
Standalone Appeal: As a standalone novel, it offers a complete and satisfying story without the commitment of a series, making it accessible for readers seeking a quick yet engaging read. Goodreads
TikTok Virality: The book's themes of ambition, power, and romance have resonated with readers on TikTok, contributing to its popularity within the BookTok community.
Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller
Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller follows 17-year-old pirate captain Alosa—daughter of a legendary pirate king—who deliberately allows herself to be captured by a rival crew in order to search their ship for a fragment of a treasure map. Aboard the enemy vessel, she matches wits with the clever and handsome first mate, Riden, and sparks fly as she schemes to reclaim the map and return to her crew.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Fun, fierce enemies‑to‑lovers vibe: Alosa’s sharp wit and Riden’s playful rivalry result in abundant banter and slow-burn chemistry—making for ideal TikTok duets and quotes. PublishersWeekly.com
A badass heroine on a secret-undercover mission: Underestimated but resourceful, Alosa’s confident captain energy and siren magic speak to readers who crave empowered female leads.
High-seas adventure with action and romance: The nautical setting, treasure map quest, and light magic create a fast-paced, escapist fantasy that fits TikTok’s visual storytelling style.
Lighthearted and bingeable: Its concise duology form and satisfying pace make it perfect for readers looking for a quick, engaging romantic fantasy read.
Radiance by Grace Draven
In Radiance by Grace Draven, human noblewoman Ildiko marries Brishen, a Kai prince, as part of a political alliance. Though they initially find each other physically repulsive—due to stark cultural and species differences—their relationship blossoms from mutual respect and wit into a deep emotional bond. Rather than fiery lust, the romance grows gradually, rooted in friendship and understanding, set against a backdrop of court politics and emerging threats.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Slow‑burn, mature romance built on respect—not lust or instant‑attraction: Ildiko and Brishen’s love story develops through shared values, honest humor, and emotional trust. Fantasy Romance Novels
Cultural nuance & empathy: The novel tackles xenophobia and subjective beauty by highlighting how love can transcend physical differences and societal biases.
Comforting yet deep emotional payoff: TikTok fans often describe it as a "comfort read" with well-developed characters and a respectful dynamic rarely seen in fantasy romance.
Underrated Fantasy Romance Books Going Viral
Sometimes the quiet hits hit the hardest. These hidden gems are blowing up on BookTok:
Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson
In Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson, street-savvy thief Kazi is sent by the queen to infiltrate the powerful Ballenger dynasty and investigate wrongdoing. She encounters Jase, the cunning leader who inherited his clan's empire, and they embark on a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game of secrets, loyalties, and revenge. As they navigate political danger in the contested land of Hell’s Mouth, their mutual distrust slowly blossoms into fierce chemistry. Their truths—and betrayals—might cost them everything.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Enemies-to‑lovers tension fueled by dual perspectives and slow-burning “can I trust them?” stakes—perfect for dramatic TikTok edits.
Fierce, morally grey protagonists: Kazi is a principled former thief; Jase is a complex dynasty leader. Their conflicting goals and emotional armor make their chemistry crack with tension. feedyourfictionaddiction.com
Fantasy and romance blend: Rich world-building, political intrigue, and emotional depth weave a story that works for fans of both high fantasy and swoony romance.
Viral among YA fantasy lovers: Though some readers mention a slow start or pacing issues, many find it bingeable and immersive once the romance and tension kick in.
Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson
In Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson, Elisabeth Scrivener is an orphan raised in a Great Library where grimoires—living magical books—are guarded by wardens. When one book is sabotaged and transforms into a deadly Malefict, Elisabeth is framed. Escorting her to trial is Nathaniel Thorn, a sorcerer she was taught to despise. Forced into alliance, they uncover a decades‑long conspiracy threatening the kingdom—and their enemies‑to‑lovers chemistry sparkles as they grow in trust and power.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Enchanting magic and atmospheric setting: The idea of sentient, whispering grimoires and gothic Great Libraries captures the imagination—and makes vivid visuals for TikTok. exlibrisandrea.blogspot.com
Enemies-to‑lovers tension with humor and depth: Elisabeth and Thorn start hostile but gradually build respect, banter, and emotional intimacy—perfect for dramatic quote reels.
Fast‑paced standalone fantasy: Its crisp pacing, layered mystery, and satisfying resolution make it bingeable and accessible—no series commitment needed.
Beloved on Reddit and highly recommended: Fans called it “a beautiful story,” “cozy,” and a “real favorite.” One r/fantasy user said, > “Sorcery of Thorns is so underrated, I loved it!”
Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor
In Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor, Karou is a blue‑haired art student in Prague who leads a secret life as Brimstone’s errand girl—collecting magical teeth from around the world for wishes. When portals between worlds start burning, she meets Akiva, an angelic warrior whose mission pits him against her. As she investigates her past, Karou discovers she’s the reincarnation of a lost chimaera warrior, Madrigal. Her bond with Akiva—once star‑crossed lovers—resurfaces amid a brewing war between chimaera and seraphim.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Lyrical, cinematic prose: Laini Taylor’s world-building and emotion-rich language transport readers to Prague and fantastical realms with vivid detail and heartfelt stakes. Reddit fans praise it as “incredibly beautiful prose without sacrificing plot.” Reddit
Mythic enemies‑to‑lovers romance: The evolving connection between Karou and Akiva—rooted in ancient love, betrayal, and redemption—is character-driven, slow‑burn, and emotionally resonant.
Rich emotional themes and identity: Karou’s journey of self-discovery, grief, and belonging anchors the epic fantasy in deeply human questions about power, sacrifice, and fate.
A timeless cult favorite: Although it debuted in 2011, fans on Reddit still call it one of their favorite series ever, cherishing its immersive world and emotional depth.
The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec
The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec retells the life of Angrboda—the outlawed giantess and witch from Norse myth. After surviving multiple executions by Odin, she retreats into exile where Loki returns her severed heart. Their love blossoms, and together they raise three extraordinary children destined for prophecy. As Angrboda rebuilds her power, she must fight to protect her family from the encroaching gods and the fate of Ragnarok.
Why BookTok (and readers within mythology niches) Love It:
Empowering myth retelling centered on a powerful woman: It gives Angrboda her own narrative voice, flipping her from "Mother of Monsters" into a compelling heroine of loss, resilience, and agency.
“Angrboda has survived burning … she loves the shapechanger Loki … their union produces three unusual children…” Reddit
Lyrical, emotionally layered writing: Fans praise the prose as elegant yet grounded—invoking heartbreak, humor, and quiet strength. One review described the narration as wise and sarcastic, filled with emotional honesty and humor.
Deep themes of motherhood, trauma, and identity: The focus on Angrboda’s choices as a mother, outsider, and warrior anchors the fantasy in universal emotional stakes.
Rich mythology and inclusive nuance: The novel reimagines Norse legends through a modern lens—exploring gender, otherness, and identity with nuance and compassion around figures like Loki and Skadi.
New Fantasy Romance Releases BookTok Is Buzzing About
Keeping up with BookTok’s latest obsessions? Add these fantasy books to read next:
A River of Golden Bones by A.K. Mulford
A River of Golden Bones by A.K. Mulford introduces twins Calla and Briar, secret heirs to the vanished Golden Court cursed by the sorceress Sawyn. While Briar is destined for a political betrothal to Prince Grae to reclaim their kingdom, she falls under a sleeping curse. Calla—usually kept in the shadows—must step forward to rescue her sister, confront dark magic, and uncover her own identity in a world of wolf‑shifting royalty, monsters, and court intrigue.
Why It’s Gaining Buzz (among YA queer romantasy fans):
Identity & Queer Discovery: Calla’s personal journey explores gender fluidity and self‑acceptance, particularly as she grows into her true self beyond her sister’s shadow.
Emotional Fantasy with Steamy Romance: Calla and Grae’s romance unfolds amid battles, sleeping curses, and magical politics—blending action, emotional resonance, and found‑family themes.
Vivid World-Building: The Golden Court series delivers lush wolf‑shifter lore, opulent magical settings, and immersive visuals that image well in TikTok reels and dramatic edits.
House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas
House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas concludes the Crescent City trilogy, following Bryce Quinlan and her allies as they battle the Asteri—interstellar conquerors draining magic from worlds. Bryce unexpectedly lands in Prythian (the realm of A Court of Thorns and Roses), forging new alliances and uncovering hidden lore. With ancient weapons, multiverse revelations, emotional sacrifice, and a rescue mission weaving together characters across Maas’s fantasy worlds, she must unite forces to reclaim Midgard and face destiny.
Why BookTok Loves It:
Major Romantasy Crossover Moment: The novel bridges Maas’s multiverse—characters from ACOTAR and Throne of Glass make appearances—energizing viral fan content and hot theory threads.
Epic scale romance and emotional stakes: Bryce and Hunt’s relationship remains central, with other character romances layered throughout, pulling readers in with complex, slow‑burn dynamics.
Dramatic buildup and payoff: The final act delivers jaw‑dropping revelations and action, making for the kind of climactic scenes that fuel TikTok reactions. Realm of Reads
Heated community discussion: Fans are split—some celebrate the expansive character arcs and crossover lore, while others critique its length, fragmented POV shifts, and shifting tone, making it ripe for BookTok takes mixing praise and critique.
Sales and trend powerhouse: It was among the fastest‑selling fantasy novels, topping bestseller lists globally—Mas’s fans and BookTok buzz contributed heavily to publisher Bloomsbury’s record profits.
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
Divine Rivals (Letters of Enchantment #1) follows Iris Winnow, a young journalist in a war-torn realm where gods have awakened. As she searches for her missing brother and fights for a promotion at the Oath Gazette, her secret letters to her brother magically reach Roman Kitt—her arrogant rival at work. Their anonymous connection blossoms into a deep emotional bond, drawing them into the front lines of a divine war where love and fate are intertwined.
• Beautiful, lyrical prose & intricate world
Rebecca Ross crafts an immersive war-torn literary fantasy—typewriters whisper letters, gods clash, and magic breathes through the mundane. The elegant writing and poetic tone captivated readers early.
• Slow-burn enemies‑to‑lovers & forbidden connection: Iris and Roman’s rivalry transitions into intimacy through anonymous letter exchanges—creating emotional tension and chemistry without resorting to typical insta-love.
• War + romance blend that feels unique: The background of gods at war adds stakes and urgency to the romance, making the relationship feel weighty and poetic amid conflict.
• Reader reactions & TikTok buzz: Fans on Reddit praised its “beautiful story,” “perfect enemies-to-lovers,” and re-read value—even if the sequel didn’t stick the landing for everyone. Many BookTok users debated it wasn’t as viral as Fourth Wing, but still considered it a romantasy gem.
Ready to Find Your Next Fantasy Romance Obsession?
Whether you’re all in on fae courts or just dipping your toes into dark fantasy, BookTok is the ultimate treasure trove of fantasy romance books. Start with a trope you love (enemies to lovers, anyone?), pick a viral fave, and let yourself escape.
Need help choosing your next read? Check out our Fantasy Romance Favorites or our latest Spicy Book Lists.
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FAQ
What is BookTok?
A reader-powered corner of TikTok where books—especially fantasy romance—go viral through reviews, reactions, and a lot of fan edits.
Why are fantasy romance books so popular on BookTok?
They offer escapism, romance, and high-stakes storytelling. Plus, the drama? Chef’s kiss.
Which tropes go viral?
Enemies-to-lovers, fae royalty, slow burn, arranged marriages, found family.
Where should I start?
Try ACOTAR, From Blood and Ash, or Fourth Wing. Then thank BookTok later.