10 Romantic Fantasy YA Books to Read for Every Dreamy Heart
When life feels a bit too routine, I always find that a good romance book stirs my heart and ignites my imagination. There's something so nostalgic and all-consuming about young adult romance novels—they take us back to that rawness of first love, yearning, and finding courage to face the unknown. Here are some of my absolute favorite YA romance books that have left me either sighing in awe or longing for a sequel. Dive into these stories and let your heart run wild!
1. A Far Wilder Magic by Allison Saft
In A Far Wilder Magic, Allison Saft crafts a world as haunting as it is beautiful, where alchemy and ancient magic intersect with the hopes of two unlikely allies. Reading this book felt like stepping into a dream. The chemistry between Maggie and Weston is so richly painted that you can’t help but root for them through every twist. If you're looking for a slow-burn romance that’ll keep you up at night, this one’s for you.
2. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
An Ember in the Ashes is more than just a love story—it's an epic saga. Sabaa Tahir doesn’t hold back in crafting a brutal yet deeply moving world, where love blossoms against the odds. I was drawn to the fierce loyalty between Laia and Elias, who are each fighting their own battles. Their love story is as courageous as it is tender, and this is a must-read for those who crave romance laced with intense adventure.
3. The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski
If you’ve ever felt the pull of love and the heartbreak of conflicting loyalties, The Winner’s Curse will speak to your soul. Kestrel and Arin are such deeply flawed yet relatable characters, and their connection is as tantalizing as it is complicated. Rutkoski weaves political intrigue with romance effortlessly, making it impossible to put down. This book makes you question how much of love is sacrifice.
4. The Wrath and the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh
Inspired by A Thousand and One Nights, The Wrath and the Dawn is a tale of revenge, mystery, and unexpected romance. Renée Ahdieh writes with such lush prose, and the intensity between Shahrzad and Khalid is magnetic. Their love grows amid dark secrets, leaving you breathless as each chapter unravels. This book reminded me how love can transform even the hardest of hearts.
5. An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson
This is a romance of wonder and whimsy, set in a world where fairies and mortals collide. Isobel and Rook’s story is equal parts enchanting and bittersweet, with Margaret Rogerson’s lyrical writing drawing you deeper into their world. There’s a charm to this book that feels timeless, perfect for those who believe in the magic of love against all odds.
6. The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Few authors can blend romance and mythology as seamlessly as Maggie Stiefvater. The Scorpio Races is set against a backdrop of wild, untamed landscapes and dangerous water horses. Puck and Sean’s love story is as raw and windswept as the island they inhabit. This book is a testament to the power of quiet strength and loyalty, and it’s one of those stories you’ll think about long after you turn the last page.
7. Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch
For a sweet escape into sunlit Italy, Love & Gelato is the perfect pick. This story follows Lina as she navigates love and loss on a whirlwind adventure through Tuscany. It’s light-hearted yet poignant, and reading it felt like taking a mini-vacation. Plus, the romance is as charming as a summer night in Italy, making it a perfect read for anyone craving warmth and laughter.
8. Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett
This one’s a bit of a magical twist on romance, featuring a curious and academically inclined heroine, Emily, who has little patience for distractions—especially romantic ones. But when a mysterious man enters her world, sparks fly in unexpected ways. Heather Fawcett gives us a delightful blend of fantasy and romance that feels fresh and endearing. Perfect for readers who love a blend of whimsy and romance with a dash of magic.
9. Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
In Divine Rivals, Rebecca Ross delivers a gripping story that explores love through letters exchanged during wartime. There’s something so beautifully timeless about the connection that forms between Iris and her mysterious pen-pal. The romance here is subtle yet profound, blossoming through words and courage. This story is perfect for those who enjoy emotional depth and poetic prose.
10. Uprooted and Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik
Naomi Novik’s Uprooted and Spinning Silver are technically two separate novels, but they share a common thread of fairytale romance. Uprooted is a captivating story of magic and unlikely love between a young woman and a wizard, while Spinning Silver reimagines the Rumpelstiltskin tale with layers of depth and romance. Both books feature fiercely independent heroines and romances that feel earned and real. They’re ideal for those who crave a blend of fantasy, folklore, and heartfelt connections.
These are just a few YA romance novels that bring all the feels, from heartache to joy to the thrill of first love. If you're like me, each of these stories will remind you why we return to love stories, again and again, to feel the magic of connection.
