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In a world where birth order determines your fate, Firstborn soldier Bryn Ruelle must survive the Long Night by proving she can kill—or face exile. But when she uncovers a plot to kidnap the Lastborn, including her younger sister, Bryn must risk everything to uncover the truth. Forced to work with an alluring traitor-born enemy, she finds dangerous desire igniting as loyalties unravel. Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and Fourth Wing, this deluxe hardcover features stenciled edges, two full-color custom maps, and a foil cover.
Although the term romantasy may be new, the combination of fantasy with romance isn’t. Fantasy and romance are two of the most popular genres separately, and recently, they’re often blended as romantasy. The line between romantasy and fantasy with romance in it can be blurry. In romantasy, the relationship is central to the story, and the ending is usually happy, at least temporarily. That’s why I’ve included a few YA fantasy rom-coms. They focus on relationships more than fantasy worldbuilding.
YA protagonists are still discovering who they are, in terms of their identities, values, and friends. They often have strong voices and beliefs and find ways to change the world. The stress of saving the world as teens can affect protagonists even a decade later, as in the adult romantasy Til Quest Do Us Part by Ivelisse Housman, expected Dec. 1, 2026.
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Teens deal with danger and depression every day. I appreciate that many YA authors now include content warnings and notes that say apparent anachronisms are intentional. Even in fantastical settings with magic, escapism, and mythical creatures, the characters’ emotions are realistic. Readers who are unfamiliar with age categories sometimes mistake New Adult for YA and even censor NA as inappropriate for kids.
Also, no one author invented fairy courts, dragons, or enemies to lovers. They’re found across cultures and centuries. Authors have their own variations and interpretations of them. New YA romantasy is being published all the time, and these six titles from 2026 are diverse and engaging.
New YA Romantasy for 2026
Wings of Reverie by Anna Bright
This is the second book in the Wings of Pixie Hollow series. It’s set in Disney’s version of Never Land, as shown in the 2000s Pixie Hollow game and Tinker Bell movies. Centuries after Wings of Starlight by Allison Saft, Tinker Bell’s twin sister, Periwinkle, discovers a piece of forbidden magic. Unlike most fairies in Never Land, she can dream. She meets a dream weaver, who teaches her how to harness her dreams and save her home. This is a magical world with high stakes and gentle, whimsical magic and relationships.
The Swan’s Daughter: A Possibly Doomed Love Story by Roshani Chokshi
Magic can easily turn into a curse, and that’s the threat facing Prince Arris. If he doesn’t choose the right bride, she could kill him or transform him into a tree and steal his kingdom. Demelza, the daughter of a swan and a malevolent wizard, offers to use her magic to detect the suitors’ intentions. This book has unique worldbuilding, an original premise, and beautiful, immersive writing.
Until the Clock Strikes Midnight by Alechia Dow
In this unique novel inspired by Cinderella, immortals are like guardian angels or fairy godmothers and help humans reach their destinies. Darling and Calam both help a human named Lucy, but disagree about what kind of help she needs. This novel has LGBTQIA and mental health representation, characters with vivid narrative voices, and lots of whimsy and humor.
Cursed Ever After by Andy C. Naranjo
In this witty debut novel set in the magical, superstitious town of Barrow, Risa has been cursed since childhood. Her town unfairly blames her for things that go wrong. She starts to fall for the prince when she gets an opportunity to travel with him to his own wedding. Small, close-knit communities can be prejudiced, but a swashbuckling adventure can help Risa escape from her town.
The Last Best Quest Ever by F.T. Lukens
Ellinore feels like an impostor—because she is. Despite her reputation, all her storied quests have been fake. She must prove herself to save her brother and work with her biggest rival. This fast-paced, queer, rivals to lovers adventure is full of vivid characters, humor, and magical creatures.
Bridget & Gabe Are Not Okay (The Camelot Disasters, Book 2)
This is the sequel to Gwen & Art Are Not in Love. It’s set in an alternate history, fantasy version of England. The young adult characters are descendants of King Arthur, Guinevere, and the Knights of the Round Table. Bridget the knight and King Gabriel are finally together. Gabriel is depressed and under pressure after his father has died and Gabe’s arm was amputated. This book has banter and found family with queer and disability representation.
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Try fantasy books with forbidden romance and more must-read YA romantasy.
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