Discover Your Next Obsession: The Best Romance Series for Young Adults

Hey everyone! If you're anything like me, you love getting lost in a good book, especially when there's a swoon-worthy romance involved. Lately, it feels like everyone is talking about fantasy romance, and honestly, it's got me hooked. Finding that next great series can be a quest in itself, so I've put together a list of some of the best romance series for young adults that I think you'll absolutely fall in love with. These stories have everything: magic, adventure, and of course, plenty of heart-fluttering moments. Get ready to discover your next obsession!

Key Takeaways

• Dive into the enchanting world of 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' for a magical journey with faeries and a Beauty and the Beast twist.

• Experience the intensity of 'Fourth Wing,' a gripping tale of dragon riders and forbidden romance.

• Explore the dark allure of vampires in 'The Serpent & The Wings of Night,' featuring a deadly competition and enemies-to-lovers tension.

• Uncover secrets and magic in 'Kingdom of the Wicked,' a series set in Italy with witches and a touch of demonology.

• Get swept away by the political intrigue and slow-burn romance of 'The Bridge Kingdom.'

1. A Court of Thorns and Roses

Okay, let's talk about Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses. If you're looking for a series that really pulls you in and doesn't let go, this is it. It's the kind of book that makes you forget you have other things to do, like laundry or, you know, sleeping. Maas has this incredible knack for building worlds that feel both magical and totally real, and her characters? They're the kind you'll find yourself thinking about long after you've closed the book.

This series is often a gateway into the fantasy romance genre for so many readers, and for good reason. It takes the familiar tale of Beauty and the Beast and spins it into something entirely new and captivating. We follow Feyre, a young woman who finds herself drawn into the dangerous and enchanting world of the Fae after a fateful encounter. What starts as a reluctant journey quickly blossoms into something much more complex, filled with political intrigue, ancient curses, and a simmering romance that will keep you hooked.

What sets A Court of Thorns and Roses apart is its ability to blend high-stakes adventure with deeply emotional character development. You'll witness Feyre's transformation, her growth, and her fight for survival and love in a world that's both breathtakingly beautiful and terrifyingly perilous. It’s a story about finding strength you never knew you had and discovering that love can bloom in the most unexpected places.

The series masterfully weaves together elements of fairy tales, epic quests, and passionate romance, creating an immersive experience that’s hard to put down. It’s a journey of self-discovery and courage.

If you're new to fantasy romance or a seasoned fan, this series offers a rich tapestry of magic, danger, and unforgettable relationships. It’s a testament to Maas's skill that she can create such a compelling narrative that appeals to so many. Seriously, if you haven't picked this one up yet, you're missing out on a truly special reading adventure. It’s a fantastic example of why fantasy romance is so popular right now.

2. Fourth Wing

Okay, let's talk about Fourth Wing. If you've been looking for a book that grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go, this is it. Rebecca Yarros has seriously outdone herself here, creating a world that feels both epic and incredibly intense. You're thrown into a dragon-riding military academy, which sounds cool enough, right? But it's so much more than that.

Our main character, Violet, is an underdog in the truest sense. She's not exactly built for this brutal training, and the odds are stacked against her from the get-go. Her own mother, a high-ranking general, basically forces her into this dangerous path. And if that wasn't enough, a bunch of her fellow cadets, including the seriously intimidating wingleader Xaden Riorson, want her dead. Talk about high stakes!

What makes Fourth Wing stand out is how it blends this thrilling, life-or-death competition with a simmering romance. The tension between Violet and Xaden is palpable, and their dynamic is just chef's kiss. It's got that perfect enemies-to-lovers vibe that keeps you hooked, wondering how these two are going to survive each other, let alone the deadly trials.

This series is a masterclass in building a world that feels dangerous and exciting, while also giving you characters you can't help but root for. It's the kind of book that makes you forget you have other things to do.

Seriously, Yarros has a gift for pacing and character development that makes this book fly by. You'll find yourself staying up way too late, just needing to know what happens next. It’s a wild ride, full of action, unexpected twists, and a romance that will definitely keep you on your toes. If you're looking for a fantasy series that's got it all – dragons, danger, and a love story that burns bright – you absolutely need to pick up Fourth Wing.

3. The Serpent & The Wings of Night

Okay, so if you're looking for a vampire story that's got a serious edge and a competition that will keep you on the edge of your seat, you have to check out Carissa Broadbent's "The Serpent & The Wings of Night." This book is seriously addictive. It throws you right into a world where vampires rule, and our main character, Oraya, is the adopted human daughter of the Vampire King. Talk about a complicated family tree!

What makes this series stand out is how it blends a deadly, high-stakes tournament with a really compelling enemies-to-lovers romance. Oraya decides to compete in this brutal trial, which is usually just for vampires, to try and change her own destiny. It’s a wild ride, and she ends up having to team up with one of her rivals, Raihn, just to survive. The tension between them? It's chef's kiss.

Broadbent really knows how to build a world that feels both dangerous and fascinating. The lore surrounding the vampires and the kingdom is super well-done, and the trials themselves are nail-biting. Plus, the slow burn between Oraya and Raihn is just chef's kiss.

Here's a little taste of what you're getting into:

• Vampire-centric world: Forget everything you thought you knew about vampires.

• Deadly competition: A trial where survival is not guaranteed.

• Enemies to Lovers: The slow-burn romance is worth the wait.

This book is a fantastic example of how to craft a gripping fantasy romance. It doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of its world while still delivering a romance that feels earned and exciting. It’s the kind of story that makes you stay up way too late, just needing to know what happens next.

Seriously, Carissa Broadbent has created something special here. If you're a fan of fantasy with a romantic twist and a good dose of danger, this is definitely one to add to your list. It’s a perfect pick if you’re looking for something that feels fresh and exciting in the romantasy genre.

4. Kingdom of the Wicked

Kerri Maniscalco really knows how to pull you into a story, and the Kingdom of the Wicked series is a perfect example. If you're looking for a fantasy romance that feels a bit more grown-up as it goes on, this is it. It starts off with a strong YA vibe, but trust me, it blossoms into something with a bit more spice and complexity, kind of like how Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass series evolved. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a series that ages with you.

This series throws you headfirst into a world of witches, demons, and a whole lot of mystery. We follow Emilia, a witch who's trying to live a quiet life, keeping her magic under wraps. But when her twin sister, Vittoria, is found dead, Emilia's world is turned upside down. She's determined to find out who's responsible, even if it means diving headfirst into the dangerous world of the Wicked Princes of Hell, beings she's been warned about her whole life. It’s a wild ride of revenge, forbidden magic, and uncovering dark secrets.

What makes this series stand out is its blend of a murder mystery with a rich fantasy setting. You've got the classic witchy elements, but Maniscalco adds in the intrigue of demonic politics and a quest for vengeance that keeps you hooked. The romance builds beautifully, becoming a central part of the story as Emilia gets entangled with one of the princes, adding a layer of tension and passion.

Here's a little taste of what you're getting into:

• Witches and Demons: Get ready for a world where magic is both a gift and a curse.

• A Vengeful Quest: Emilia's journey to find her sister's killer is intense and full of twists.

• Forbidden Romance: The sparks that fly between Emilia and a certain prince are absolutely captivating.

• Italian Inspiration: The setting adds a unique and atmospheric flavor to the story.

Maniscalco has a knack for creating worlds that feel both magical and grounded, with characters you can't help but root for, even when they're making questionable decisions. It's the kind of series that makes you stay up way too late, just needing to know what happens next.

5. The Bridge Kingdom

Get ready for some serious political intrigue and a romance that simmers with tension in Danielle L. Jensen's The Bridge Kingdom series. This isn't your typical fairy tale; it's a masterclass in enemies-to-lovers, packed with spies, assassins, and a princess who's been trained for a very specific, dangerous mission.

Lara, the main character, is sent to marry the King of a rival kingdom with the secret objective of undermining his power. But as she gets closer to her target, she starts to question everything she thought she knew. Jensen really knows how to build a world that feels both grand and dangerous, and the slow-burn romance is just chef's kiss. You'll be hooked from the first page, wondering if Lara will succeed in her mission or if her heart will get in the way.

What makes this series stand out is its intricate plot and the morally gray characters. It’s not just about romance; it’s about survival, duty, and the difficult choices people make when their kingdoms are at stake. Jensen crafts a story that keeps you guessing, with twists and turns that are genuinely surprising.

The political maneuvering in this series is top-notch, making you feel like you're right there in the war room, trying to figure out who to trust.

If you love a story with a strong female lead who's more than just a damsel in distress, and a romance that's earned through trust and shared danger, then The Bridge Kingdom is definitely for you. Jensen's writing is so engaging; she makes you care deeply about her characters and their struggles. It’s a series that will keep you up late, turning pages, and maybe even yelling at the book a little (in the best way possible, of course!).

6. Shatter Me

Okay, let's talk about the Shatter Me series by Tahereh Mafi. If you're looking for a dystopian romance that's got a little bit of everything – action, mystery, and a love story that will keep you guessing – then you absolutely need to pick this up. Mafi has this incredible way of writing that just pulls you right in. The main character, Juliette, is dealing with some seriously intense stuff, and watching her figure things out, especially when it comes to her powers and the people around her, is just so compelling.

What makes Shatter Me stand out is how it blends a high-stakes, world-saving plot with a really intricate and, let's be honest, sometimes frustratingly slow-burn romance. It’s not your typical damsel in distress story; Juliette is a survivor, and her journey is all about finding her strength. Plus, the writing style itself is super unique, with these really cool, almost poetic descriptions that make the whole experience feel super immersive.

Seriously, if you're a fan of stories where the characters have to overcome huge obstacles and find love in the most unexpected places, this series is for you. It's a wild ride, and Tahereh Mafi is a genius for creating such a captivating world and characters that you can't help but get invested in. It’s a great example of a dystopian romance that really delivers on both the action and the emotional fronts. You'll be hooked from the first page, I promise.

7. Vampire Academy

Okay, let's talk about Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead. If you're looking for a series that throws you headfirst into a world of vampires, but with a totally fresh take, this is it. Forget everything you think you know about vampire stories because Mead has crafted something special here.

This series is set in a boarding school for vampires, which sounds pretty cool on its own, right? But it's not just about fancy schools and sparkly creatures. We've got different kinds of vampires: the Moroi, who are living, breathing vampires with magic, and the Strigoi, who are the evil, immortal kind. And guess who's stuck in the middle? Our main character, Rose Hathaway, a Dhampir – half-human, half-vampire – who's training to be a bodyguard for her best friend, Lissa, a Moroi princess.

What makes Vampire Academy stand out is its blend of action, drama, and genuine friendship. Rose is such a relatable character; she's tough, sarcastic, and fiercely loyal. You'll find yourself rooting for her as she navigates dangerous training, deals with teenage drama (because even vampire schools have that!), and tries to protect Lissa from the constant threat of the Strigoi. The romance is there, but it's woven into the story in a way that feels earned and adds to the tension, rather than being the sole focus.

Mead really knows how to build a world that feels both familiar and completely new. The lore is intricate, the stakes are always high, and the characters feel like real people, even when they're dealing with supernatural problems. It's a series that keeps you guessing and makes you feel all the emotions.

If you're a fan of stories with strong female leads, intricate world-building, and a good dose of danger mixed with heartfelt moments, you absolutely need to pick up Vampire Academy. It’s a series that’s been around for a while, but it holds up incredibly well and offers a unique spin on the vampire genre that’s hard to resist.

8. The Mortal Instruments

Cassandra Clare really outdid herself with The Mortal Instruments series. It’s one of those series that just pulls you in from the very first page and doesn’t let go. If you’re looking for a world packed with action, mystery, and a seriously swoon-worthy romance, you’ve found it.

This series kicks off when Clary Fray, a seemingly ordinary teenager in Brooklyn, stumbles upon a hidden world. Suddenly, she’s thrust into the lives of Shadowhunters – half-angel, half-human warriors who protect the world from demons. It’s a wild ride, and Clary’s journey from normal girl to discovering her own extraordinary abilities is just fantastic.

What makes The Mortal Instruments stand out? Well, it’s the perfect blend of urban fantasy and romance. You’ve got demons, vampires, werewolves, and faeries all mixed together, plus a love triangle that will have you debating Team Alec or Team Jace for ages. Clare masterfully weaves together these supernatural elements with relatable teenage struggles, making the characters feel incredibly real, even when they’re fighting off monsters.

The series is a masterclass in world-building, creating a complex and fascinating hidden society within our own. You'll find yourself completely immersed in the lore and the intricate relationships between the characters.

Here’s why you’ll love diving into this series:

• A rich, intricate world: From the Institute to the magical city of Idris, the settings are vivid and unforgettable.

• Complex characters: You’ll find yourself rooting for Clary, Jace, Alec, and Isabelle as they navigate love, loss, and saving the world.

• A captivating plot: With twists and turns around every corner, you’ll be desperate to know what happens next.

The Mortal Instruments is a must-read for anyone who loves a story with heart, danger, and a touch of forbidden love. It’s a series that stays with you long after you’ve finished the last page, and it’s a brilliant entry point into the wider Shadowhunter universe. You can grab the first seven books to start your adventure.

9. The Plated Prisoner Series

Okay, let's talk about The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy. If you're looking for a fantasy romance that really digs deep, this is it. Kennedy has crafted a world that feels both enchanting and a little bit terrifying, all centered around Auren, a woman who's spent her entire life under the control of a king who claims to protect her. But as Auren starts to see the world outside her gilded cage, she uncovers some pretty heavy truths about her past and the people she thought she could trust.

What makes this series stand out is how it tackles themes of manipulation and finding your own strength. It's not just about a damsel in distress; it's about a woman slowly realizing her own power and fighting for her freedom. Kennedy's writing is so compelling; you'll find yourself completely invested in Auren's journey. The slow burn of her awakening and her relationships is incredibly satisfying.

This series is perfect if you enjoy:

• Dark fantasy elements

• Stories about overcoming trauma and finding self-worth

• Complex characters with hidden depths

• A romance that develops over time with real stakes

Kennedy really knows how to pull you in and keep you hooked. She doesn't shy away from the difficult stuff, but she balances it with moments of hope and fierce determination. It’s a series that stays with you long after you finish the last page, making you think about resilience and the true meaning of freedom. If you're ready for a fantasy read that's both emotionally gripping and wonderfully written, you should definitely check out The Plated Prisoner Series.

10. The Inheritance Cycle

Okay, so if you're looking for a fantasy series that really pulls you in and doesn't let go, you absolutely have to check out Christopher Paolini's The Inheritance Cycle. Seriously, this series is a classic for a reason. It's got everything: dragons, magic, epic quests, and a hero who starts out as just a regular farm boy but ends up being, well, way more than that.

What makes this series stand out is how Paolini built this whole world from the ground up. You've got the ancient language, the detailed history, and of course, the dragons themselves, who are practically characters in their own right. It feels so real, you'll find yourself wishing you could visit Alagaësia.

The journey of Eragon and his dragon Saphira is one of those stories that sticks with you long after you've finished the last page. It's about finding your strength, making tough choices, and the bond between a rider and their dragon, which is just chef's kiss.

This series is perfect if you love:

• Epic world-building that feels lived-in.

• A classic hero's journey with plenty of twists.

• The idea of a deep, unbreakable bond between humans and dragons.

• Magic systems that are both fascinating and easy to follow.

Paolini really poured his heart into this, and you can tell. It’s a series that grew with its readers, and it’s just a fantastic adventure from start to finish. If you haven't picked it up yet, you're missing out on a truly magical experience.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Alright, we've talked about a bunch of amazing romance series that are perfect for diving into. Whether you're looking for epic fantasy worlds, steamy encounters, or just a really good story with characters you'll actually care about, there's something here for everyone. Don't just sit there scrolling! Grab your next read, get comfy, and prepare to get hooked. Trust me, your TBR pile is begging for these. Happy reading, and may your next obsession be just a page-turn away!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these romance series so popular?

These books are loved because they mix exciting fantasy worlds with characters you can root for and romances that make your heart flutter. They often have magic, adventure, and characters facing big challenges, which keeps readers hooked.

Are these books suitable for younger readers?

While many of these series are called 'Young Adult' (YA), some, like 'A Court of Thorns and Roses,' get a bit more mature as they go on, leaning towards 'New Adult.' It's always a good idea to check the age recommendations or read reviews if you're unsure.

Do I need to have read other books by these authors?

Not at all! You can jump right into any of these series without having read anything else by the author. Each series is its own adventure, and authors like Sarah J. Maas or Rebecca Yarros have many amazing books to explore.

What if I don't usually read fantasy books?

These series are great for people who don't normally read fantasy! They focus a lot on the romance and characters, making them super engaging. Think of it as a great story with a bit of magic and adventure mixed in.

Where can I find more books like these?

If you enjoy these, you might love other books from publishers like INPress International, which offers classic and well-loved stories. Also, checking out authors like Alison Atkinson can lead you to more fantastic reads.

What's the best way to start reading a new series?

The best way is usually to start with the first book in the series. This lets you follow the story and characters from the beginning. Many of these series are available on platforms like Kindle Unlimited, which is a great way to try them out!