Scarlett St. Clair has named five of her favourite romantasy books of all time (Image: Getty)
Nothing beats unwinding after a long day with a good book. But choosing your next read can sometimes prove tricky – should you go for the latest bestseller, follow a friend’s recommendation, or simply take a chance on something random? For fans of the fantasy or romantasy genres, the decision becomes even more daunting given the endless stream of suggestions flooding TikTok.
Fortunately, New York Times number one bestselling author Scarlett St. Clair has shared five of her personal favourites, perfect for any romantasy enthusiast. Scarlett’s own catalogue features the Hades X Persephone Saga, the Hades Saga, and the Adrian X Isolde series, while her newest release, Terror at the Gates, offers a feminist reimagining of Lilith’s tale. Here are Scarlett’s top five picks.
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1. Master of Crows by Grace Draven
Master of Crows by Grace Draven (Image: Amazon)
“Grace Draven was writing romantasy before it had a name and let me tell you, she is a QUEEN. I was honestly torn between Master of Crows and Radiance for this list, but Master of Crows was my first romantasy and is, therefore, sentimental.
“The book follows Martise, a woman with an orgasmic voice (my words but we all know the MC is thinking it), who is sent to spy on Silhara of Neith. Silhara, Master of Crows, is under attack from Corruption, a god with immense power who wishes to use Silhara as a vessel to take over the world.
“I think I loved this book so much because there is nothing extraordinary about these two main characters. Despite magic, they feel like normal people struggling with everyday challenges. Silhara is grumpy… and Martise has the patience of a saint. Watching them fall for each other is frustratingly entertaining.”
You can buy Master of Crows on Amazon.
2. The Winter King by C. L. Wilson
The Winter King by C.L. Wilson (Image: Amazon)
“The Winter King by C.L. Wilson is the first in the Weathermages of Mystral Series. It’s unfinished, but each book can be read as a standalone.
“In The Winter King, we are introduced to Wynter Atrialan who has just conquered the land of Summerlea and is tricked into marrying one of its princesses, the fierce Khamsin Coruscate whose storm magic makes for some tense scenes and passionate encounters. At its heart, this book is a romance set in a vibrant and chilly fantasy world-and, yes, the puns are intended.”
You can buy The Winter King from Waterstones or Amazon.
3. Her Soul for a Crown by Alysha Rameera
Her Soul for a Crown by Alysha Rameera (Image: Amazon)
“Her Soul for a Crown is a debut romantasy by Alysha Rameera. Inspired by Sri Lankan mythology, this tale follows Anula, a fierce and determined heroine who has every intention of marrying the raja who destroyed her kingdom-all so she can poison him and take this throne.
“When things don’t exactly go as planned, she’s forced to make an offering to Reeri, the Blood Yakka, a divine being who has goals of his own. Her Soul for a Crown was inspired by one line Alysha read in a book about a Sri Lankan queen who poisons six of her husbands for the throne.
“Unlike my previous two recommendations, I’d say Her Soul for a Crown leans heavier on fantasy than romance, though the slow burn is burning for sure. My favourite thing about Alysha’s writing is her vibrant and meticulous world-building. This one is a must read and out August 12!”
You can pre-order Her Soul for a Crown from Waterstones or Amazon.
4. The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard
The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard (Image: Amazon)
“Amalie Howard wrote one of my favourite regency romances, The Beast of Beswick, so when she announced a romantasy inspired by Persian and Indian mythology, I said gimme! The Starlight Heir follows Suraya Saab, a bladesmith with dreams bigger than her small forge.
“When she receives an invitation to participate in a set of trials to become the prince’s bride, she sees it as a chance at adventure. The only issue is the prince isn’t actually looking for a bride, he’s looking for the Starkeeper, a girl with the magic of stars in her blood.
“Amalie manages to weave a fast-paced plot with a slow burn romance that leaves you breathless and yearning for more. If you are looking for something familiar and fantastical, this one is for you!”
You can buy The Starlight Heir from Waterstones or Amazon.
5. For Ever by Jenny Hickman
For Ever by Jenny Hickman (Image: Amazon)
“Jenny Hickman is in her cosy fantasy era and I am obsessed. For Ever is about a young woman named Kerris who is on the hunt for a husband, but most importantly, love.
“She has no lack of potential suitors-among them, the Prince of Rosehill-but all of these handsome Seelie men are sidelined when Kerris lays eyes on Everett Gathin, a brutally sweet Unseelie warrior. What follows is a whimsical tale of forbidden love best enjoyed with a cup of tea, a soft blanket, and a roaring fire.”
You can buy For Ever from Waterstones or Amazon.
Terror at the Gates by Scarlett St. Clair is out now (Bloom Books, £18.99 hardcover)