If you tore through A Court of Thorns and Roses and immediately needed more—more tension, more magic, more morally grey love interests—you’re not alone. The “romantasy” genre has exploded, and in 2026 there’s no shortage of books that capture that same addictive blend of romance, danger, and fantasy world-building made famous by Sarah J. Maas.
Below are 15 of the best reads to pick up next—whether you’re here for the slow burns, the spice, or the fae-filled chaos.
1. From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
If you want that ACOTAR-level obsession, this is your next stop. Expect a sheltered heroine, a dangerous guard, and a romance that quickly turns intense. It leans heavily into steamy territory while still delivering twists and lore.
2. The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
Think deadly trials, vampires, and a fierce human heroine forced to compete in a brutal tournament. The romance is sharp, slow-burning, and emotionally charged—very reminiscent of Feyre and Rhysand dynamics.
3. Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco
Dark magic, demon princes, and a growing enemies-to-lovers arc. The tension builds across the series, with increasingly steamy moments as the story progresses.
4. The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
A politically driven fantasy with a spy heroine sent to seduce—and ultimately betray—a king. The romance is intense, layered, and full of emotional stakes.
5. A Shadow in the Ember by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Set in the same world as From Blood and Ash, this prequel series dives even deeper into gods, destiny, and forbidden attraction—with plenty of heat.
6. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Dragons, a brutal war college, and a dangerously compelling love interest. This one blends high-stakes training with strong romantic tension and explosive chemistry.
7. House of Beating Wings by Olivia Wildenstein
Fae politics, hidden identity, and a heroine caught between worlds. It leans into classic ACOTAR vibes with a modern romantasy twist.
8. These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan
A human girl pulled into the fae realm and caught between two powerful courts—and two very different love interests. Expect familiar tropes done in a fresh, addictive way.
9. To Bleed a Crystal Bloom by Sarah A. Parker
A darker, more atmospheric romantasy with a slow-burn relationship and a haunting tone. Perfect if you liked the more emotional and introspective parts of ACOTAR.
10. Daughter of No Worlds by Carissa Broadbent
Less spice than some others on this list, but incredible character development and a deeply emotional romance that builds over time.
11. What Lies Beyond the Veil by Harper L. Woods
A human woman crosses into a forbidden fae land and meets a mysterious, dangerous guide. Strong ACOTAR parallels, especially in tone and romance.
12. The Witch Collector by Charissa Weaks
A mute heroine, a feared collector, and a slow-burning romance that evolves into something much deeper. Rich world-building meets emotional payoff.
13. Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa
A bargain-bound heroine and a mysterious fae king known as “The Bargainer.” If you loved Rhysand, this book will feel very familiar—in the best way.
14. Court of Blood and Bindings by Lisette Marshall
Fae courts, magical bargains, and a powerful, brooding male lead. This one leans heavily into romance and tension, making it perfect for ACOTAR fans.
15. Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha J. Tuli
A mortal woman enters a deadly competition run by gods. Expect trials, secrets, and a romance that builds under pressure.
What Makes a Book “Like ACOTAR”?
If you’re chasing that same feeling, here’s what these books tend to share:
- A strong romantic core (often enemies-to-lovers or slow burn)
- High-stakes fantasy settings (fae, vampires, magic courts)
- Emotionally intense character arcs
- At least some level of spice
- A powerful, often morally grey love interest
Not every book hits all of these—but each delivers enough of the magic to scratch that ACOTAR itch.
Where Should You Start?
If you want something very close in tone, start with From Blood and Ash or The Serpent and the Wings of Night.
If you’re here for dragons and action, go with Fourth Wing.
If you prefer slower, deeper emotional builds, try Daughter of No Worlds or To Bleed a Crystal Bloom.
Final Thoughts
The romantasy genre isn’t slowing down anytime soon—and honestly, that’s great news. What Sarah J. Maas helped popularise has now grown into a full ecosystem of stories that deliver just as much tension, magic, and emotional payoff.
So whether you’re chasing your next book boyfriend or just want to fall into another immersive world, there’s plenty here to keep your TBR stacked well into 2026.