Turn the Page: Romance Book Reviews & Spice Ratings
Your Go-To Blog for Romance Book Reviews, Tropes, and Spicy Reads
At Mom Needs a Chapter, I know how precious those reading moments are—whether it's five quiet minutes or a whole naptime window. Here you’ll find book reviews, curated book lists, themed cocktails to pair with your latest read, book club guides, and so much more. It’s your go-to space for romance recs, cozy content, and a little literary joy in the middle of real life. Scroll through and discover your next favorite chapter.
Book Review: Stolen Midnights by Katherine Quinn
If you love historical romance with a touch of magic and a forbidden love that makes your heart ache in the best way, Stolen Midnights by Katherine Quinn deserves a spot on your TBR. Told in dual POV between a high-society heroine and a streetwise thief, this lush romantasy blurs the line between YA and New Adult. With its swoony open-door romance, a world ruled by fate, and a hardcover edition that’s pure shelf candy. Stolen Midnights is a story that will steal more than just your midnight hours.
Indie Author Spotlight: Morgan Kielisch
Indie author Morgan Kielisch turned a Nyquil-fueled fever dream into a sweeping romantasy world—and readers can’t get enough. In this Indie Author Spotlight, we chat about her debut The Awakening of Gods, the journey behind the Astrellian Heirs series, and what’s next for this Wisconsin-based storyteller who’s redefining indie fantasy romance one book at a time.
Eleutheria: Review and Book Club Guide
From the very first page, Eleutheria by Ruth Cantu had me hooked. This indie romantasy delivers everything I love—an independent heroine, a broody prince, witty banter, and a world brimming with magic and danger. If you’re craving a slow-burn fantasy romance with heart, humor, and high stakes, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
Why I DNF’d Warrior Princess Assassin (Brigid Kemmerer) — A Thoughtful Look
I went into Warrior Princess Assassin expecting a sweeping romantasy filled with danger and desire—and while it delivered on world-building and tension, the romantic direction just wasn’t for me. Here’s why I DNF’d it, and who I think will love this steamy fantasy debut.
Book Review: The Awakening of Gods by Morgan Kielisch
Looking for your next epic fantasy read? Morgan Kielisch’s The Reckoning of Gods picks up right where The Awakening of Gods left off, plunging us deeper into a world of war, betrayal, and impossible choices. With Elana navigating dangerous politics, Aislinn fighting for survival behind enemy lines, and secrets hidden in ancient archives, this sequel delivers even higher stakes and heart-stopping twists. Perfect for fans of romantasy, political intrigue, and sibling bonds tested by war—this is one book you’ll want on your TBR.
Book Review: A Curse of Shadows and Ice
Looking for your next unputdownable romantasy read? ✨ A Curse of Shadows and Ice by Catharina Maura delivers everything we love: a cursed, broody emperor, a strong heroine with forbidden magic, and an enemies-to-lovers romance that burns slow and spicy. This Beauty and the Beast retelling had me hooked from the very first page — and I’m calling it now, it’s a must-read for fantasy romance fans.
Review: A Kiss of Hammer and Flame by Amy De La Force
If you’re searching for the best romantasy books of 2025, A Kiss of Hammer and Flame deserves a spot on your TBR. With its strong heroine, addictive slow-burn romance, and richly woven fantasy setting, this debut is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
Best Fantasy Romance BookTok List
If you love swoony love stories set in magical worlds, you’ve probably heard the buzz about fantasy romance books on BookTok. From fae courts to dark fantasy realms, the romantasy genre is exploding with unforgettable characters, steamy enemies-to-lovers, and epic adventures. In this post, I’m sharing the best fantasy romance book recommendations trending right now—perfect for your next reading obsession. Whether you’re new to romantasy or a die-hard fan, get ready to dive into worlds you won’t want to leave!
The Starlight Heir: A Must-Read Romantasy
I’ll admit it—I judged this book by its stunning cover. The dreamy, illustrated design had me expecting a sweet YA fantasy. Instead, I was swept into a slow-burn, star-powered romantasy with sharp edges, sizzling tension, and celestial stakes. If you're looking for your next obsession-worthy fantasy romance, The Starlight Heir absolutely delivers.
2025 Fantasy Romance Book Releases: Top Romantasy Picks
If you're already building your 2025 TBR, one genre you cannot skip is romantasy — the perfect blend of fantasy worldbuilding and heart-stopping romance. From dragon riders and cursed royals to enemies-turned-lovers and magic-fueled love stories, the upcoming romantasy releases are already setting BookTok and Goodreads on fire.
The Allure of Dark Fae Heroes in Modern Romantasy
Wings, shadows, and irresistible danger—dark fae heroes have taken over the romantasy world. From morally gray princes to seductive court schemers, these brooding love interests offer the perfect blend of power and passion. Here’s why we can’t stop falling for them.
60 Spellbinding Romantasy Book Series like ACOTAR
If A Court of Thorns and Roses left you spiraling into a romantasy obsession, you’re not alone—and you're in the right place. This ultimate list of 60 romantasy series is packed with fae intrigue, enemies-to-lovers tension, morally gray heartthrobs, and world-shattering magic. Whether you're hunting for the next Fourth Wing or craving underrated fantasy romance gems, prepare to seriously bulk up your TBR.
The Rise of Romantasy: From Niche to BookTok Sensation
Once a niche tucked into the fantasy romance shelves, romantasy is now dominating bestseller lists and BookTok feeds alike. In this post, we explore how the genre skyrocketed to popularity, the tropes readers can’t stop swooning over, and why moms are reaching for these magical, steamy escapes again and again.
10 Fantasy Romance Books You Won’t Be Able to Put Down
If you’ve spent any time on BookTok, you know the spicy fantasy romance genre has taken over. With swoony fae males, badass heroines, enemies-to-lovers tension, and worlds brimming with danger and desire, it’s impossible not to fall down the rabbit hole. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into romantasy or you're already elbows-deep in fan art and fantasy playlists, here’s your guide to 10 spicy fantasy romance reads—complete with steamy ratings.
About the Author
I’m a mom of two spirited girls and one oversized Saint Bernard. I have a degree in English from the University of Wisconsin. By day, I work in health care as a Health Literacy expert; by night, I’m off wandering swoony fictional worlds, chasing plot twists and happily-ever-afters. I’ve been in love with the romance genre for as long as I can remember—I've read thousands of love stories and even had my own meet-cute with my library director husband… in a bookstore, of course.
-Frances
Mom Needs A Chapter