We talked about the 10 top Romantasy novels of 2025. It gave us unforgettable worlds, emotionally damaging romances, and characters we’re still not over. 2026 is about to raise the stakes even higher.
From dragon riders to dark magic, these are the three books I absolutely can’t stop thinking about. The return of one of the most iconic fantasy series of all time adds to their allure.
And yes… my TBR is already emotionally preparing.
Read more: 3 Romantasy Books Coming in 2026 That Will Emotionally Ruin You (In the Best Way)Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of the links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. This comes at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep this blog running, and I genuinely appreciate it. 🤍
Rites of the Starling by Devney Perry
Shield of Sparrows series, #2
✨ Why I’m excited
If Book 1 pulled you in, this sequel is expected to go even deeper into the emotional tension and world-building that made the 1st installment so addictive.
Devney Perry has a way of blending romance, atmosphere, and character-driven storytelling that feels immersive without being overwhelming. This series is shaping up to be one of those hidden gems I won’t stop recommending.
✨ Book description
If you haven’t read Shield of Sparrows, PLEASE STOP HERE, and check out the first installment of this series.
Source: Amazon
RITES OF THE STARLING is the epic, heart-pounding sequel to Devney Perry’s #1 New York Times bestselling SHIELD OF SPARROWS. A princess journeys across a cursed realm to find the truth about her family, only to discover her quest intertwines with the fate of a lost warrior. Love, danger, and magic collide in a captivating romantasy perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros.
Calandra’s five kingdoms are on the verge of destruction. The crux migration is coming. And in the wake of a devastating attack, I’ve been separated from the man who owns my heart.
I’m lost. Terrified. Homesick. Hunted by monsters, driven to exhaustion, and kidnapped by a powerful priest, the only thing keeping me going is the little girl counting on me to keep her safe.
It’s my turn to become the Guardian.
Our lives change one fateful night. A night of death. A night of monsters. A night of truths. That night, I learn the real meaning of fear―and the depth of my own strength.
Everyone wants me to be something I’m not―a queen, a spy, a sacrifice. But what if I embrace my crown? What if the secrets I uncover save our realm?
What if my sacrifice means salvation for the man I love?
For too long, I’ve feared the monsters we make.
It’s time to discover the monster within.
✨ Why it’s on my must-read list
Because I’m fully invested—and I need to know what happens next. The first book was such a great read. I’m truly excited to know what comes next for my favorite characters. April 7 cannot come fast enough.
Fury Bound by Sable Sorensen
Wolves of Ruin series, #2
✨ Why I’m excited
After the chaos, tension, and addictive energy of Book 1, Fury Bound promises to deliver more action. It offers more emotional damage. It also provides more of that wild romantasy energy we all secretly crave.
This series is so far one of my favorites. In this book, you can expect:
- Fierce heroines and dangerous bonds
- Fourth Wing vibes
- High-stakes fantasy worlds
✨ Book description
If you haven’t read Dire Bound, PLEASE STOP HERE, and check out the first installment of this series.
Source: Amazon
Revenge demands sacrifice. Don’t miss this action-packed, jaw-dropping, dark and romantic sequel to Dire Bound.
CROWNED BY DESTINY. CONSUMED BY VENGEANCE.
Against all odds, Meryn Cooper has inherited the crown—and a deadly war. As the Kingdom of Nocturna splinters under the weight of generations of lies, it is up to Meryn, her bonded direwolf Anassa, and their allies to bring the country back from the brink.
But the commoners, the Bonded, and the nobles are distrustful of their new queen and Meryn is caught in a deadly game of politics. Meanwhile, Meryn’s beloved younger sister, Saela, is more at risk than ever.
Confusingly, the one person Meryn can trust is Stark Therion—the dark, dangerous Alpha she thought hated her as much as she loathed him. Yet, his loyalty is unshakeable. His presence is intoxicating. And with his guidance, Meryn can seize an unthinkable level of power.
With enemies closing in and shadows stirring in her dreams, Meryn stands to lose her kingdom—and her heart.
Blood will spill. Bonds will break. Fate will be tested.
Perfect for fans of:
- Vampires vs. wolves!
- Slow-burn romance
- Forbidden romance
- Found family
- Morally gray characters
- Touch her and die
- Who did this to you
- Enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
✨ Why it’s on my must-read list
Because Book 1 left me needing answers—and I already know this sequel is going to hurt in the best way. This beauty will be released on May 5, 2026, and I’m so excited for this new adventure.
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ACOTAR #6 by Sarah J. Maas
A Court of Thorns and Roses series, #6
✨ Why I’m excited
Do I even need an explanation? I mean, if you haven’t started this series, please do yourself a big favor and read it. I will say I really got addicted to this series after book 2. Though, I enjoyed the first book. That said, book 2 is the one that messed with my mind (and heart) in the best possible way. As I’m writing this post, we don’t yet have an official title or book cover. So, once my stalking of Bloomsbury Publishing and the author’s social media pages becomes fruitful, a new blog post will be posted. 😂 One thing to note is that book 7 in the series will be published in 2027.
Let’s be honest, ACOTAR 6 (and 7) is easily one of the most anticipated fantasy releases of the decade. Whether we’re getting new perspectives, unresolved storylines, or deeper dives into beloved characters… expectations are sky-high.
And we’re all showing up.
✨ Book description
Source: Amazon
We’ll have to be patient for the book description, but in the meantime, here is what you need to know:
Sarah J. Maas, the #1 bestselling author of the Court of Thorns and Roses series, returns to the courts of Prythian . . .
Romance, danger, and intrigue await you in the stunning new installment.
The full Court of Thorns and Roses series includes:
1) A Court of Thorns and Roses
2) A Court of Mist and Fury
3) A Court of Wings and Ruin
4) A Court of Frost and Starlight
5) A Court of Silver Flames
Also, available from Sarah J. Maas are two bestselling series. One is the Crescent City series, beginning with House of Earth and Blood. The other is the Throne of Glass series, starting with Throne of Glass.
✨ Why it’s on my must-read list
Because ACOTAR isn’t just a series—it’s an experience.
Conclusion
2026 is shaping up to be a year of:
- emotionally intense sequels
- unforgettable characters
- and stories that will absolutely wreck us (again)
And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way. Which 2026 release are you most excited for? Share your pick in the comments or on Instagram at @L.M.Durand.