In the fantasy genre, one often finds oneself immersed in a series of novels, sweeping epic tales full of intrigue and romance. But maybe after you’ve binged ACOTAR, Blood & Ash, and the Empyrean series (not to mention countless others), you might feel a little burnt out.
The best cure for this feeling is often a nice, neat, standalone story. Standalone romantasy books have their tales wrapped up in the course of one single novel, with no need to wait for future installments or get fatigued from reading multiple entries one after another.
In spite of what you may be thinking, there are in fact a number of standalone romantasy books out there, ripe for your consumption. Peruse our list, and let these epic fantasy adventures pull you out of that book hangover you’re suffering from.
10. Master of Salt & Bones by Keri Lake
Fans of Keri Lake are already aware of her proclivity for dark, gothic fantasy romances, and Master of Salt & Bones is no exception to her atmospheric tales. When 19-year-old Isadora Quinn accepts a job for the reclusive, mysterious Lucian Blackthorne at his estate, she is searching for an escape from a life that has never shown her any kindness.
As she cares for his mother and the pair grow closer, Isa discovers jaw-dropping secrets lurking within the walls of Blackthorne estate, and she’ll uncover mysteries that are decades in the making.
Why we recommend it: Featuring a creepy gothic atmosphere, a sweeping estate setting, and a brooding, deeply scarred MMC, this story blends romantasy with elements of mystery and psychological thriller for anyone searching for a reprieve from typical, more lighthearted fantasy fare.
9. The Scattered Bones by Nicole Scarano
Sellah has been tasked with an impossible mission. She must find and collect the scattered bones of her lost love, Kaid, in order to resurrect him. The journey is a difficult one, but Sellah will stop at nothing in order to restore Kaid’s life and reunite them.
Told in dual timelines, readers follow Sellah’s arduous journey in the present day, as well as flashbacks to her original meeting with Kaid and the progression of their love story.
Why we recommend it: Dripping with epic fantasy and forbidden romance, this story is sure to tug at the heartstrings of readers, who will be desperate to see Sellah reunited with her true love.
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8. The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
For years, the Farrow women of Jasper, North Carolina, have been cursed. Every one of them eventually goes mad, experiencing what appears to be a delusion in which they exist in multiple times and places.
When June Farrow begins experiencing signs of the curse manifesting itself within her, she becomes determined to break the curse no matter the cost to herself. She sets off on a perilous journey, following clues left behind by previous family members and ultimately unraveling a decades-long mystery within her very being.
Why we recommend it: A beautiful blending of fantasy, romance, science fiction, and mystery, The Unmaking of June Farrow provides readers with an epic journey about love, family, and self-identity.
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Subscribe to our weekly newsletter7. A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft
Niamh is a dressmaker with an incredibly unique ability: she can stitch emotions and memories into the garments she makes. However, her magic comes at a severe cost and is slowly draining her life force. Aware that she doesn’t have much time left, Niamh accepts a job designing the entire wardrobe for a royal wedding taking place in a neighboring kingdom.
She soon finds herself at odds with the grumpy groom-to-be, Prince Kit, whose surly disposition immediately irks her. As they spend time together, their relationship gradually shifts into something more. Niamh will question everything she has worked for, and what she’ll be giving up if she goes through with this last job.
Why we recommend it: A compelling romantasy tale featuring an enemies-to-lovers arc, with a hefty dose of magic and a Lady Whistledown style mystery, this story is perfect for anyone searching for some cozy with their fantasy.
6. Lucy Undying by Kiersten White
Brimming with gothic fantasy and longing, Kiersten White’s sapphic tale reimagines characters from Bram Stoker’s iconic vampire novel Dracula. The plot follows Lucy Westerna as she escapes the clutches of the bloodsucking count and embarks on her new life as a vampire over many centuries.
Her story takes a turn when she encounters a woman named Iris, and their blossoming connection will send both women on a journey of discovery and acceptance.
Why we recommend it: A heaping of forbidden romance and plenty of plot twists bring new life to an oft-forgotten character from Dracula, and Lucy Westerna is allowed to shine in a way that will enchant readers.
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5. The Wicked Bargain by Gabe Cole Novoa
An epic pirate fantasy for the lovers of the high seas. Mar León-de la Rosa receives a visit from el Diablo on their 16th birthday. Mar’s father made a deadly bargain years prior, and now his as well as his entire crew’s souls are at stake. Mar embarks on a dangerous adventure with a ragtag band of pirates to defeat el Diablo, and harness their own magic while they’re at it.
Why we recommend it: An epic swashbuckling adventure, this novel features a diverse cast of LGBTQ+ characters, and fantastical elemental magic to thrill fantasy lovers everywhere.
4. Uprooted by Naomi Novik
In a quiet village, the residents are offered protection against the dark and deadly Wood by a terrifying wizard known as the Dragon. But his protection comes at a terrible cost: every 10 years, the Dragon takes a girl from the village to serve him. The girls return unharmed, but they are different, refined, and educated in a way that they weren’t before.
When Agnieszka is unexpectedly chosen during his latest selection, she’ll begin a journey into the discovery of her own magics, and she learns that the world is more vast than she ever imagined.
Why we recommend it: Uprooted takes readers on a journey into Eastern European folklore, and circumvents many of the traditional fairytale tropes to deliver an engaging and original tale that’s sure to hold people’s attention.
3. The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh
Korean mythology takes center stage in this tale of fate versus free will. In a village ravaged by deadly storms, the villagers attempt to end the wrath of the Sea God by casting a beautiful maiden into the sea each year in order to find him his “true bride”.
When protagonist Mina chooses to sacrifice herself in order to save her brothers’ beloved, she discovers the true reason for the alleged curse of this great God, and will set off to right wrongs and put an end to the curse once and for all to save her village, with the aid of a handsome and mysterious young man named Shin.
Why we recommend it: An engaging and fast paced romantasy read with a sweet enemies-to-lovers arc, this is the perfect tale for fans of Studio Ghibli properties like Spirited Away.
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2. Potions, Poisons, and Policies by Courtney Thorne
When a widespread love potion infects Forestbriar Academy, it’s up to dedicated student Henri to track down its source and find a solution to restore her lovesick classmates to their right minds. She’ll have to team up with her hated school rival, Noah Lawrence, to find the source of the potion and prevent anything worse from happening to the residents of Forestbriar.
Hijinks and plenty of banter ensue as the former enemies race against time to put things back in order before it’s too late.
Why we recommend it: Featuring the kinds of tropes you want in a romantasy novel (enemies-to-lovers, he falls first, forced proximity), this lighthearted story is the perfect escape for folks coming off of a more involved fantasy series with heavy worldbuilding and high stakes.
1. Flowerheart by Catherine Bakewell
For Clara, magic has often been a source of fear. Her own is wild, untamed, and potentially disastrous. When a grave error causes her father to be grievously injured, Clara will need to seek help from her former best friend Xavier, once sweet and shy, now distant and cold. As their connection blooms anew, Clara will uncover secrets about the Queendom around her, her friend, and most of all herself.
Why we recommend it: Perfect for lovers of cottagecore aesthetics and sweet romance, Flowerheart is the perfect palate cleanser for lovers of all things fantasy romance.
Romantasy series may dominate the genre, but it’s comforting to know that there are still a number of standalones out there to choose from when you’re in the mood for a single read. Hopefully, these additions to your TBR will be perfect for the fantasy lover in you.
