Are you experiencing a profound book hangover after finishing A Court of Thorns and Roses book series by Sarah J Maas? Yeah, we know…the struggle is real after finishing ACOTAR! What do you read next?!
But no worries, fellow ACOTAR enthusiasts! I’ve got your back with a curated list of 20 of the best fantasy series to dive into after bidding farewell to Feyre and Rhysand (for now!). Whether you’re yearning for more intricate worlds, kickass protagonists, or just a dash of that fae magic, this list is your book hangover cure.
From epic quests to magical realms and characters that will walk away with a piece of your heart, these fantasy series promise to be the perfect antidote for your Court of Thorn and Roses withdrawal.
So grab your favorite drink, cuddle up with a cozy blanket, and let’s dive into a new adventure! Because let’s be honest, reality is overrated compared to the allure of fantastic realms and unforgettable characters (and a little bit of spice doesn’t hurt!).
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The Folk of the Air Series by Holly Black
The Folk of the Air series by Holly Black is a dark and enchanting journey into the treacherous realms of Elfhame. The narrative revolves around Jude Duarte, a mortal girl who, along with her twin sister Taryn, is swept into the tumultuous world of the fae when their parents are murdered. Raised amidst political intrigue and power struggles, Jude faces the constant threat of betrayal and danger.
The series excels in its portrayal of complex characters, particularly Jude, who is fierce, cunning, and unyielding in her pursuit of power in a realm where mortals are viewed as inferior. The court dynamics, filled with deceit, alliances, and magical machinations, add layers of tension to the plot. Black masterfully weaves themes of power, ambition, and the blurred lines between good and evil. What sets the series apart is its refusal to romanticize the fae; instead, it delves into the darker, more unpredictable aspects of their nature. With intricate world-building and morally ambiguous characters, the Folk of the Air series immerses readers in a spellbinding tale of survival and ambition within the enchanting, perilous lands of Elfhame.
Graceling Realm by Kristin Cashore
The Graceling series by Kristin Cashore unfolds in a fantastical world where certain individuals, known as Gracelings, possess extraordinary skills or Graces. The narrative explores the adventures of uniquely gifted individuals across the Seven Kingdoms. At the heart of the series is the concept of Graces, abilities that range from combat prowess to mind-reading, marking their bearers with mismatched eyes.
The series doesn’t follow a linear timeline but interconnects characters and stories across the books. The protagonists face challenges, political intrigue, and moral dilemmas in their respective journeys, contributing to a rich and immersive tapestry. One of the central characters is Katsa, a Graced warrior, and her complex relationship with Prince Po. The books are not just about fantastical abilities but delve into themes of power, agency, and personal identity.
What makes the Graceling series unique is Cashore’s exploration of the societal implications of these extraordinary abilities, questioning the role of power and the responsibility that comes with it. The world-building is intricate, with diverse landscapes and cultures, making the Seven Kingdoms a vibrant backdrop for these interconnected tales of adventure, romance, and self-discovery.
The Cursebreaker Series by Brigid Kemmerer
The Cursebreaker series by Brigid Kemmerer presents a gripping modern-day fairy tale set in the fictional kingdom of Emberfall. The narrative follows Prince Rhen, cursed to relive the same season repeatedly until he breaks the spell. The curse transforms him into a monstrous creature at the end of each autumn, and the only way to break the cycle is for someone to fall in love with him.
What makes the series stand out is the dynamic interplay between Rhen and Harper, a fiercely independent young woman from Washington, DC, who stumbles into Emberfall. Harper’s resilience and unwillingness to conform to the fairy-tale mold challenges Rhen’s perspective and becomes a driving force in their quest to break the curse.
The series explores themes of identity, love, and the consequences of power while navigating a world filled with political intrigue and magical elements. Kemmerer’s storytelling is character-driven and emotionally charged, adding depth to the familiar fairy-tale framework. The Cursebreaker series captivates readers with its blend of contemporary realism and fantastical elements, providing a fresh take on classic fairy-tale motifs within a richly imagined kingdom fraught with both enchantment and peril.
Blood and Ash Series by Jennifer L. Armentrout
The Blood and Ash series by Jennifer L. Armentrout unfolds in a meticulously crafted fantasy world where the Maiden, Poppy, is chosen to usher in a new era. However, her life is anything but ordinary, entangled in a prophecy that restricts her from experiencing pleasure and dictates her destiny. The kingdom of Atlantia, forsaken by gods and feared by mortals, becomes the backdrop for a riveting narrative of betrayal, power struggles, and an unexpected love story.
Poppy’s journey is marked by a betrayal that shatters her beliefs, leading her to confront Casteel Da’Neer, the enigmatic Prince of Atlantia. Their complex relationship forms the heart of the series, which masterfully combines romance, fantasy, and political intrigue. What sets Blood and Ash apart is Armentrout’s skill in crafting a high-stakes narrative with well-developed characters and a richly imagined world. Poppy’s internal struggles, the unfolding of dark secrets, and the looming threat of war create a compelling atmosphere that keeps readers hooked. The series beautifully weaves together themes of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of unveiling hidden truths, making it a captivating and emotionally resonant fantasy saga.
Serpent and Dove Series by Shelby Mahurin
The Serpent and Dove series by Shelby Mahurin is a spellbinding fantasy trilogy set in a world where witches are hunted and magic is both feared and coveted. The story revolves around Louise le Blanc, a witch in hiding, and Reid Diggory, a devout witch hunter. Their unexpected alliance becomes a focal point in the escalating conflict between witches and the Church, which seeks to eradicate magic.
Set in a richly detailed alternative France, the series explores themes of prejudice, love, and the moral complexities of power. What makes the series truly unique is the intricate dance between the characters, each harboring secrets and navigating a world filled with political intrigue. Mahurin’s lush prose and complex character dynamics create a narrative that delves into the shades of gray between good and evil, blurring the lines of morality.
The series doesn’t shy away from the consequences of choices and the personal sacrifices characters make for the greater good. With a gripping plot, well-developed characters, and a morally ambiguous landscape, the Serpent and Dove series stands out as a captivating exploration of magic, love, and the thin line between ally and enemy in a world divided by deeply rooted beliefs.
The Zodiac Academy Series by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti
The Zodiac Academy series by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti is a spellbinding urban fantasy that unfolds in a world where ancient zodiac signs wield extraordinary powers. At the heart of the narrative is Arianna Spero, born without a zodiac sign and considered an anomaly. When she’s thrust into the prestigious Zodiac Academy, tensions rise as she navigates the cutthroat world of elite students, each embodying a zodiac power. The academy, governed by political intrigue and dark secrets, becomes a battleground for power and survival.
Arianna, with her unparalleled abilities, becomes a focal point in a web of alliances and rivalries. The series delves into themes of identity, destiny, and the consequences of defying societal norms. What sets Zodiac Academy apart is its intricate exploration of the zodiac lore, blending mythology with a contemporary setting. The authors craft a vivid and immersive world, infusing the narrative with suspense, romance, and unexpected twists. As friendships form and betrayals unfold, Arianna’s journey becomes a captivating exploration of self-discovery amidst a backdrop of magic and mystery, making the Zodiac Academy series a uniquely enchanting and addictive read.
Zodiac Academy 2: Ruthless Fae
Zodiac Academy 3: The Reckoning
Zodiac Academy 4: Shadow Princess
Zodiac Academy 5: Cursed Fates
Zodiac Academy 6: Fated Throne
Zodiac Academy 7: Heartless Sky
Zodiac Academy 8: Sorrow and Starlight
Of Flesh and Bones Series by Harper L. Woods
Once, we’d worshipped them as Gods.
For nearly 400 years, the Veil has protected us from the Fae of Alfheimr. In their absence, our lives have shifted from decadence and sin to survival and virtue under the guidance of the New Gods. I’ve spent my entire life tending to the gardens next to the boundary between our worlds, drawn to the shimmering magic like a moth to the flame.
Then, we died on their swords.
All of that changes the day the Veil shatters, unleashing the fae upon our world once again. The magic of faerie marks those of us they mean to take, but the Mist Guard protecting Nothrek will kill us all before they let the fae have us. There’s no choice but to flee everything I’ve ever known, not if I want to live to see my twenty-first birthday as a free woman.
Now, they’ll claim what’s theirs.
But before they capture me, Caelum saves me from the Wild Hunt. Fae-marked and on the run, he is able to fight back in ways I only dream of. From tentative alliance to all-consuming passion, our bond strengthens as the fae close in and evil lurks ever nearer. With my life on the line, he is everything I shouldn’t dare to want and a distraction I can’t afford. I can’t seem to stay away, not even with something greater on the line.
My heart.
The Plated Prisoner Series by Raven Kennedy
The fae abandoned this world to us. And the ones with power rule.
Gold. Gold floors, gold walls, gold furniture, gold clothes. In Highbell, in the castle built into the frozen mountains, everything is made of gold. Even me.
King Midas rescued me. Dug me out of the slums and placed me on a pedestal. I’m called his precious. His favored. I’m the woman he Gold-Touched to show everyone that I belong to him. To show how powerful he is. He gave me protection, and I gave him my heart. And even though I don’t leave the confines of the palace, I’m safe.
Until war comes to the kingdom and a deal is struck. Suddenly, my trust is broken. My love is challenged. And I realize that everything I thought I knew about Midas might be wrong. Because these bars I’m kept in, no matter how gilded, are still just a cage. But the monsters on the other side might make me wish I’d never left.
The myth of King Midas reimagined. This compelling adult fantasy series is as addictive as it is unexpected. With romance, intrigue, and danger, the gilded world of Orea will grip you from the very first page.
The Bargainer Series by Laura Thalassa
The Bargainer series by Laura Thalassa is a captivating blend of paranormal romance and fantasy that revolves around Callie, a siren, and Desmond Flynn, the mysterious and powerful Bargainer. As Callie and the Bargainer form an intricate connection through Faerie deals, the series unfolds with secrets, magic, and intense romance. Callie navigates a world filled with supernatural beings, dark forces, and complex relationships, all while discovering the truth about her own abilities. The Bargainer, with his enigmatic charm, bargains and deals with both mortals and fae, adding layers of intrigue to the narrative. Thalassa weaves a spellbinding tale with a unique fae mythology, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of making deals with otherworldly entities. The series is distinguished by its rich world-building, dynamic characters, and the magnetic allure of the Bargainer, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience for fans of fantasy and romance.
The Bridge Kingdom Series by Danielle L. Jensen
A warrior princess trained in isolation, Lara is driven by two certainties. The first is that King Aren of the Bridge Kingdom is her enemy. And the second is that she’ll be the one to bring him to his knees.
The only route through a storm-ravaged world, the Bridge Kingdom enriches itself and deprives its rivals, including Lara’s homeland. So when she’s sent as a bride under the guise of peace, Lara is prepared to do whatever it takes to fracture its impenetrable defenses. And the defenses of its king.
Yet as she infiltrates her new home and gains a deeper understanding of the war to possess the bridge, Lara begins to question whether she’s the hero or the villain. And as her feelings for Aren transform from frosty hostility to fierce passion, Lara must choose which kingdom she’ll save… and which kingdom she’ll destroy.
The Old Kingdom Series by Garth Nix
Another one of my absolute favorite series that often gets overlooked! The Old Kingdom series by Garth Nix is a captivating fantasy epic set in a world divided between Ancelstierre and the Old Kingdom, where magic and necromancy reign. The series revolves around Sabriel, a young woman with inherited abilities to combat the undead. As Sabriel discovers her destiny as the Abhorsen, a guardian against dark forces, she allies with the enigmatic Charter Mage Touchstone and the Free Magic creature Mogget. Together, they navigate a world threatened by the malevolent Dead and the sinister necromancer Kerrigor.
What sets the series apart is Nix’s innovative magic system, involving Charter Marks and the intricate world of the Old Kingdom. The Abhorsen’s duty to guide souls and confront Free Magic entities adds depth to the narrative. With rich lore, diverse landscapes, and compelling characters, including the necromancer Hedge and the mysterious Disreputable Dog, the series explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the balance between life and death. Nix’s meticulous world-building, combining elements of high fantasy and horror, creates a unique and immersive reading experience, making the Old Kingdom series a classic in the realm of young adult fantasy.
Kingdom of the Wicked Trilogy by Kerri Maniscalco
“Kingdom of the Wicked” by Kerri Maniscalco follows the dark and enchanting tale of Emilia and her quest for justice in a world of witchcraft and demons. Set in 19th-century Sicily, Emilia and her twin sister, Vittoria, stumble upon a gruesome murder that connects them to a secret world of dark magic. When Vittoria is brutally murdered, Emilia seeks vengeance and teams up with a mysterious demon named Wrath. Together, they unravel a web of secrets, encountering witches, demons, and a shadowy organization.
Emilia’s character is a blend of determination, courage, and a sprinkle of rebellion. The series delves into themes of grief, vengeance, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Maniscalco crafts a vivid world filled with atmospheric descriptions, ancient curses, and rituals. The unique incorporation of Italian folklore, deliciously described food, and the allure of forbidden romance add layers of richness to the narrative. The series is characterized by its atmospheric setting, a strong-willed protagonist, and the unpredictable dance between the mortal and supernatural realms, making it a captivating journey through a dark and magical Sicilian landscape.
The Kingmaker Chronicles by Amanda Bouchet
Cat Fisa isn’t who she pretends to be. She’s perfectly content living disguised as a soothsayer in a traveling circus, avoiding the destiny the Gods—and her dangerous family—have saddled her with. As far as she’s concerned, the magic humming within her blood can live and die with her. She won’t be a pawn in anyone’s game.
But then she locks eyes with an ambitious warlord from the magic-deprived south and her illusion of safety is shattered forever.
Griffin knows Cat is the Kingmaker—the woman who divines truth through lies—and he wants her to be a powerful weapon for his newly conquered realm. Kidnapping her off the street is simple enough, but keeping her by his side is infuriatingly tough. Cat fights him at every turn, showing a ferocity of spirit that burns hot…and leaves him desperate for more. But can he ever hope to prove to his once-captive that he wants her there by his side as his equal, his companion…and maybe someday, his Queen?
The Saint of Steel Series by T. Kingfisher
When a god dies, who gets left behind?
The paladins of the Saint of Steel were the holiest of killers, berserkers sworn to the service of their god. When the Saint of Steel died, the order ran mad, their minds broken by the loss. Years later, the surviving paladins of the order struggle to piece together new lives, new loves, and find their place in a world that will never quite trust them again…
Paladin’s Strength
Paladin’s Hope
Paladin’s Faith
The War of Lost Hearts Series by Carissa Broadbent
Her life for freedom. Her blood for love. Her soul for vengeance.
Ripped from a forgotten homeland as a child, Tisaanah learned how to survive with nothing but a sharp wit and a touch of magic. But the night she tries to buy her freedom, she barely escapes with her life. Desperate to save the best friend she left behind, Tisaanah journeys to the Orders, the most powerful organizations of magic Wielders in the world.
But to join their ranks, she must complete an apprenticeship with Maxantarius Farlione, a handsome and reclusive fire wielder who despises the Orders. The Orders’ intentions are cryptic, and Tisaanah must prove herself under the threat of looming war. But even more dangerous are her growing feelings for Maxantarius.
The bloody past he wants to forget may be the key to her future… or the downfall of them both. But Tisaanah will stop at nothing to save those she abandoned. Even if it means gambling in the Orders’ deadly games. Even if it means sacrificing her heart.Even if it means wielding death itself.
The Air Awakens Series by Elise Kova
The Air Awakens series by Elise Kova is an enthralling fantasy saga set in the magical realm of Solaris, where elemental magic is harnessed by those attuned to one of the classical elements. The central plot follows Vhalla Yarl, a librarian with no apparent magical affinity, who discovers an untapped power over the element of air. As she grapples with newfound abilities, Vhalla becomes embroiled in the political machinations of the Solaris Court, where elemental affinities carry profound consequences.
Set against the backdrop of a world on the brink of war, the series explores themes of power, identity, and the choices that shape destinies. Kova’s world-building is rich and immersive, seamlessly blending magic with political intrigue. What makes the Air Awakens series stand out is the meticulous development of characters, especially Vhalla, whose journey from a bookish protagonist to a formidable wielder of magic is both captivating and empowering. The series intricately weaves together romance, adventure, and the complexities of navigating a society where magic is both a gift and a burden, creating a spellbinding narrative that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.
The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin is a groundbreaking epic fantasy series that defies conventions and reshapes the genre. Set in the world of the Hundred Thousand Kingdoms, the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of intricate power dynamics, divine struggles, and a society shaped by enslaved gods.
The series follows the protagonist Yeine Darr, who is unexpectedly thrust into a deadly power struggle for the throne of the Arameri family. Yeine discovers dark family secrets and grapples with her newfound divine heritage, challenging the oppressive order that binds gods and mortals. Jemisin’s world-building is awe-inspiring, featuring a pantheon of enslaved gods, shifting celestial realms, and a society built on exploitation.
What sets the Inheritance Trilogy apart is its exploration of themes like power, oppression, and the consequences of deicide. Jemisin’s narrative voice is bold and unapologetic, offering a fresh perspective on fantasy storytelling. The characters are complex, their relationships are nuanced, and the series deftly tackles issues of identity and agency in a world where gods walk among mortals. The Inheritance Trilogy is a masterful blend of myth, magic, and social commentary, pushing the boundaries of fantasy literature.
Kushiel’s Legacy: Phedre Trilogy by Jacqueline Carey
The Kushiel’s Legacy: Phèdre Trilogy by Jacqueline Carey is a lush and intricately woven fantasy series set in the captivating world of Terre d’Ange. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Phèdre nó Delaunay, a courtesan born with a unique scarlet mote in her eye, marking her as chosen by the angel Kushiel. Phèdre’s journey takes her from the glittering courts of Terre d’Ange to the perilous realms of political intrigue, espionage, and forbidden love.
Set against a backdrop of a meticulously crafted world inspired by medieval Europe, the series explores themes of love, duty, and the consequences of navigating a society shaped by divine intervention. What makes the trilogy stand out is its sensual prose, intricate world-building, and the deft interweaving of political machinations with Phèdre’s personal journey. Carey’s ability to blend elements of romance, espionage, and high fantasy creates a narrative that is both immersive and intellectually stimulating. The characters, including the indomitable Phèdre, are richly developed, and the series is notable for its exploration of complex relationships, both romantic and political. The Kushiel’s Legacy: Phèdre Trilogy is a unique and compelling contribution to the fantasy genre, celebrated for its rich storytelling and mature themes.
Crescent City Series by Sarah J. Maas
Bryce Quinlan had the perfect life-working hard all day and partying all night-until a demon murdered her closest friends, leaving her bereft, wounded, and alone. When the accused is behind bars but the crimes start up again, Bryce finds herself at the heart of the investigation. She’ll do whatever it takes to avenge their deaths.
Hunt Athalar is a notorious Fallen angel, now enslaved to the Archangels he once attempted to overthrow. His brutal skills and incredible strength have been set to one purpose-to assassinate his boss’s enemies, no questions asked. But with a demon wreaking havoc in the city, he’s offered an irresistible deal: help Bryce find the murderer, and his freedom will be within reach.
As Bryce and Hunt dig deep into Crescent City’s underbelly, they discover a dark power that threatens everything and everyone they hold dear, and they find, in each other, a blazing passion-one that could set them both free, if they’d only let it.
With unforgettable characters, sizzling romance, and page-turning suspense, this richly inventive new fantasy series by #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas delves into the heartache of loss, the price of freedom-and the power of love.
Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Maas
The Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas is a captivating and expansive high fantasy saga that follows the journey of Celaena Sardothien, a renowned assassin serving a life sentence in the salt mines. When the Crown Prince Dorian offers her a chance at freedom, Celaena must compete in a deadly tournament to become the king’s champion. Set against the backdrop of the richly detailed world of Erilea, the series explores themes of magic, political intrigue, and the struggle for freedom.
As the narrative unfolds, Celaena’s story expands beyond the confines of the tournament, encompassing ancient powers, mythical creatures, and the fate of kingdoms. The series is known for its complex characters, including Celaena, whose resilience and growth anchor the sprawling plot. What sets Throne of Glass apart is its unpredictable twists, blending elements of romance, friendship, and dark magic. Maas seamlessly integrates diverse mythologies, creating a world teeming with both danger and wonder. The series is celebrated for its blend of epic fantasy, character-driven storytelling, and a relentless pace that keeps readers eagerly anticipating each installment.