9 Must-Read Fantasy Books for 2025 — Gothic, Romantic & Magical Picks

Fantasy Book Picks from Forever Book Lover

Escape into nine fantasy picks—gothic chills, epic romances, and magical worlds—with quick blurbs and easy links to shop.

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Atmospheric and chilling, Mexican Gothic takes readers into a crumbling mansion steeped in secrets. With its gothic glamour and eerie suspense, it’s perfect if you like fantasy that leans into horror and lush, unsettling vibes.

9 Must-Read Fantasy Books for 2025

Book cover of Rose in Chains by Julie Soto — dark fantasy romance novel

Rose in Chains by Julie Soto

Julie Soto blends dark fantasy and romance in Rose in Chains, a story that feels both dangerous and irresistible. With morally gray heroes, haunting magic, and a slow-burn intensity, this is a must for fantasy romance fans who like their stories bold and unforgettable.

Cover of The Magician of Tiger Castle by Louis Sachar

The Magician of Tiger Castle by Louis Sachar

This one promises rich world-building and a magical castle at the center of mystery and power. If you enjoy stories where intrigue mixes with enchantment, The Magician of Tiger Castle is a fresh, imaginative choice for your fantasy shelf.

Cover of The Fallen & the Kiss of Dusk by Carissa Broadbent

The Fallen & the Kiss of Dusk by Carissa Broadbent

Romantic and adventurous, this tale brings together forbidden love, danger, and a setting touched by magic. A great pick if you crave both swoon-worthy moments and high-stakes twists.

Cover of The River Has Roots by Amal El-Mohtar

The River Has Roots by Amal El-Mohtar

A fantasy that explores destiny, identity, and resilience with sweeping themes and lyrical touches. Perfect for readers who love character-driven journeys set against magical stakes.

Cover of The Veins of the Drowning by Kalie Cassidy

The Veins of the Drowning by Kalie Cassidy

This fantasy dives deep into myth and atmosphere, weaving together water, memory, and haunting emotion. A striking choice for readers drawn to lyrical prose and worlds that linger.

Cover of Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by Jesmyn Ward

Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by Jesmyn Ward

Blending folklore and fantasy, this pick promises a dark yet beautiful journey. If you’re looking for atmosphere and resonance, add it to your TBR.

The Knight and The Moth by Rachel Gillig

The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig

A deeply emotional fantasy where identity, devotion, and sacrifice collide in beautifully tense prose.

Cover of Behooved by M. Stevenson

Behooved by M. Stevenson

Behooved offers a fresh twist on fantasy, blending mythic atmosphere with a sharp, modern edge. It promises magic, intrigue, and a journey into the unexpected — perfect if you’re hunting for something imaginative and off the beaten path.

🖤 Love Gothic Fantasy?

If you enjoy gothic fantasy with a romantic twist, you won’t want to miss my review of Immortal by Morning — a dark, seductive Argeneau vampire story full of danger and undeniable chemistry.

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Your turn: Which of these fantasy reads are on your list? Share your favorite magical worlds in the comments — let’s chat books!
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