Must-Read Adult Romantasy Books for 2024

If you're a fan of adult romantasy, you're in for a treat in 2024. Combining romance with the excitement of fantasy worlds, this genre has captivated readers worldwide. Whether you're on TikTok, Instagram, or just a lover of good books, you'll find these must-read titles irresistible:

• Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
• The Serpent & the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
• From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
• Divine Rivals: A Novel by Rebecca Ross
• Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco

2024 promises to be an exceptional year for adult romantasy. You'll love the magical trips, complex characters, and swoon-worthy romances that define the genre.

Writing from Minneapolis, I have a deep connection to both the art of storytelling and the enchantment of fantasy. My background in Studio Art and English Literature has given me the tools to explore and enjoy the finest elements of adult romantasy.

Top 10 Adult Romantasy Books for 2024

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros is the first book in the Empyrean series. This novel blends fantasy and romance seamlessly. It's a favorite on BookTok, with high ratings and rave reviews. Readers are captivated by its magical world and thrilling love story.

The Serpent & the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent

Carissa Broadbent's The Serpent & the Wings of Night is another must-read. This book offers a dark, character-driven fantasy with a gripping romance. It's perfect for fans looking for intense personal quests and supernatural challenges.

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout is a highly-rated bestseller. This book combines elements of romance and fantasy, featuring a strong heroine and intricate world-building. It's a staple in the adult romantasy genre.

Divine Rivals: A Novel by Rebecca Ross

Rebecca Ross's Divine Rivals is a new release that has quickly gained popularity. This novel offers a unique blend of romance and fantasy, with compelling characters and an immersive setting. It's a must-read for 2024.

Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco

Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco is a highly-rated romantasy book. This novel features a dark, magical world and a captivating romance. It's perfect for readers who enjoy intricate plots and morally gray characters.

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass remains a top pick in the romantasy genre. This series starter features a resilient heroine, epic journeys, and a slow-burn romance. Its popularity continues to soar, especially on social media.

The Book of Azrael: Book 1, Gods & Monsters Series by Amber V. Nicole

The Book of Azrael by Amber V. Nicole is a new release that's making waves. This book combines romance and fantasy elements in a richly detailed world. It's a great addition to any romantasy reading list.

Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber

Stephanie Garber's Once Upon a Broken Heart is a highly-rated romantasy book. This novel offers a magical trip and a heartwarming romance. It's perfect for readers who enjoy fairy-tale elements in their fantasy.

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas is a bestseller that's beloved by fans. This book features a strong heroine, intricate world-building, and a captivating romance. It's a must-read for any romantasy enthusiast.

The Wrath & the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh

Renée Ahdieh's The Wrath & the Dawn is a highly-rated romantasy novel. This book offers a unique blend of romance and fantasy, with a compelling story and richly detailed setting. It's a standout in the genre for 2024.

Why Adult Romantasy is Trending in 2024

Adult romantasy is having a major moment in 2024, and there are several reasons why this genre is capturing readers' hearts and imaginations.

TikTok and BookTok Trends

Platforms like TikTok, particularly the reader-centric corner known as BookTok, have played a massive role in popularizing adult romantasy. Videos featuring book recommendations, dramatic readings, and emotional reactions to plot twists have gone viral, introducing millions to the genre.

Sarah J. Maas, a staple in adult romantasy, has seen her books soar in popularity thanks to BookTok. Her A Court of Thorns and Roses series, for example, has consistently topped bestseller lists, with fans sharing their love for the intricate world-building and romantic drama.

Genre Popularity

The blend of romance and fantasy offers the best of both worlds: the escapism of fantasy with the emotional depth of romance. This combination has struck a chord with readers looking for both trip and heartfelt connections.

Books like Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros and From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout have gained immense popularity, offering compelling narratives that keep readers hooked.

New Adult Genre

The new adult genre, which targets readers in their late teens to early 20s, has also contributed to the rise of adult romantasy. This demographic is looking for stories that are more mature than young adult fiction but still relatable.

Divine Rivals: A Novel by Rebecca Ross and Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco are prime examples of new adult romantasy books that have resonated with this audience, blending mature themes with fantastical elements.

The Influence of Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas is arguably the queen of adult romantasy. Her books have set a high standard for the genre, with their rich world-building, complex characters, and steamy romances. Maas's success has paved the way for other authors and brought more attention to the genre.

Her influence is evident in the continued success of her Throne of Glass series and the anticipation for new releases. Maas's ability to create immersive worlds and unforgettable characters has made her a benchmark in the genre.

Conclusion

The convergence of social media trends, the appeal of the new adult genre, and the influence of key authors like Sarah J. Maas have all contributed to the booming popularity of adult romantasy in 2024. Whether you're new to the genre or a long-time fan, there's never been a better time to dive into these magical, romantic worlds.

Essential Elements of a Great Adult Romantasy

Worldbuilding

Worldbuilding is the backbone of any great adult romantasy. It creates the setting where the story unfolds, making the world feel real and immersive. Consider The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch, known for its intricate and detailed world that captivates readers.

A well-built world should have:

• Consistent rules: Magic systems, political structures, and cultural norms should be logical and consistent.
• Rich detail: Descriptions that make the world vivid and believable.
• History and lore: Background stories and legends that add depth.

Romance

Romance is central to the romantasy genre. It’s not just about love stories but how these relationships drive the plot and character development. For example, Radiance by Grace Draven showcases a romance that evolves naturally, influencing the characters and their decisions.

Key aspects of romance in romantasy:

• Emotional depth: The relationship should feel genuine and evoke strong emotions.
• Conflict and growth: Challenges that test and strengthen the relationship.
• Balance: Romance should complement, not overshadow, the fantasy elements.

Fantasy Elements

Fantasy elements are what make this genre magical. They include anything from mythical creatures to enchanted objects. A Taste of Gold and Iron by Alexandra Rowland is praised for its inventive magic system and unique fantasy elements.

Important fantasy elements include:

• Innovative magic systems: Unique and well-explained magic that fits the world’s logic.
• Mythical creatures: Dragons, fae, or other beings that add wonder and excitement.
• Epic quests: Trips that take characters on transformative journeys.

Character Development

Strong character development is crucial. Readers need to connect with and care about the characters. The Serpent & the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent is a good example, with characters who grow and evolve through their experiences.

Elements of strong character development:

• Complex personalities: Characters with strengths, flaws, and relatable traits.
• Growth arcs: Characters should change and develop in response to the story’s events.
• Relatable motivations: Understandable and compelling reasons for their actions.

Multiple POVs

Multiple points of view can add depth and richness to a story. They allow readers to see the world from different perspectives and understand various characters’ motivations. The Queens Thief series is notable for its effective use of multiple POVs.

Benefits of multiple POVs:

• Diverse perspectives: Different viewpoints offer a fuller picture of the story.
• Improved tension: Alternating perspectives can build suspense and intrigue.
• Character insight: Deeper understanding of multiple characters’ thoughts and feelings.

By blending these essential elements—worldbuilding, romance, fantasy elements, character development, and multiple POVs—adult romantasy creates compelling and immersive stories that captivate readers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Adult Romantasy

How spicy is "From Blood and Ash"?

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout is known for its explicit content and high spiciness level. The romance intensity in this book is quite strong, featuring detailed and passionate scenes that are essential to the story's emotional depth.

Readers who enjoy steamy romance will find this book satisfying, but those who prefer a more subtle approach may find it too intense. It’s important to note that the explicit scenes are well-integrated into the plot, enhancing the characters' relationships and personal growth.

What makes a good adult romantasy book?

A good adult romantasy book combines several key elements:

• Worldbuilding: The setting should be immersive and detailed, allowing readers to feel like they are part of the world. Books like The Lies of Locke Lamora are praised for their intricate and functional worldbuilding.

• Romance: The romantic subplot should be well-developed and integral to the story. It should add emotional depth and drive character motivations.

• Character Arcs: Strong character development is crucial. Characters should grow and change in believable ways. For instance, The Queens Thief series is known for its complex and evolving characters.

• Fantasy Elements: Incorporating unique and imaginative fantasy elements, such as magic systems or mythical creatures, adds to the allure of the genre.

• Multiple POVs: Using multiple points of view can improve the story by offering diverse perspectives and building tension. This technique is effectively used in books like Swordspoint by Ellen Kushner.

Are there any new adult romantasy books with strong worldbuilding?

Yes, there are several recent releases with impressive worldbuilding:

• Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros: This book features a well-thought-out world of dragon riders and a war college, making it a must-read for fans of intricate settings.

• A Taste of Gold and Iron by Alexandra Rowland: Known for its detailed settings and functional worldbuilding, this book offers a rich and engaging environment for readers.

• Reign and Ruin by J.D. Evans: The first book in the Mages of the Wheel series, it presents a unique magic system and a world inspired by the Levant, showcasing the author's attention to detail.

These books demonstrate that recent adult romantasy releases can still offer the kind of careful and enjoyable worldbuilding that fans of the genre crave.

Conclusion

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Happy reading! May your journeys through adult romantasy be filled with wonder and enchantment.