21 Books Like A Court of Thorns and Roses
Looking for books like A Court of Thorns and Roses to add to your TBR?
There are A LOT of people who love the ACOTAR series, honestly, it reignited my passion for reading this year so I’m ever grateful for it. But once you’re done you can never read it again for the first time–and I get the feeling of wanting to read something just as good.
I’ve scoured through the book recommendations lists and even threw in a few of my favorites to compile a comprehensive list of the best books to read if you’re looking for something new.
Here’s what I recommend:
Books Like A Court of Thornes and Roses (Editor’s Top Picks)
1. The Serpent and the Wings of Nightby Carissa Broadbent 🌶️
I am fresh off the first book of the Crowns of Nyaxia series and I LOVED it. With this series, you trade fae for vampires–and while I’m not a vampire girly, it’s totally worth it.
This book most reminds me of the Hunger Games, though it could be comparable to the trials under the mountain in ACOTAR. It features a life-or-death competition, a broody king with a wayward daughter and a handsome Aladdin-type character.
I’ve heard many complaints about its slow start, and I completely understand where they’re coming from. A bit more worldbuilding needs to be done right at the beginning, but having just read it, I can say it’s worth it.
The reading order for the Crowns of Nyaxia series is:
- The Serpent and the Wings of Night (Amazon | Target)
- The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King (Amazon | Target)
- The Songbird and the Heart of Stone (Not released yet)
Important note: this is an unfinished series, if that’s not your vibe then you might want to skip it for now.
I think I enjoyed the writing of this series more than ACOTAR, it feels a bit older. But if you’re looking for fast spice, this is not where you’ll find it.
2. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros 🌶️
For anyone looking for a fresh blend of fantasy romance with high-stakes training, epic battles, and swoon-worthy characters, Fourth Wing is a perfect pick.
The story follows Violet Sorrengail, a determined young woman who must survive a brutal dragon-rider training academy. Here, she faces relentless tests, hidden dangers, and a dangerous attraction to her morally gray classmate, Xaden. Their relationship builds gradually, adding a touch of forbidden romance to the intense setting.
The reading order for the Fourth Wing series is:
Important note: this is an unfinished series, if that’s not your vibe then you might want to skip it for now.
This book has everything from action-packed scenes to a layered, complex romance that unfolds with a steady burn. The spice level is moderate but well-timed, and the dynamics are electric, with strong ACOTAR-like themes of powerful bonds and resilience.
If you enjoy tales of fierce female leads, dragon lore, and romance that hits with just the right amount of angst, Fourth Wing will keep you hooked and eagerly awaiting the next installment.
3. From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout 🌶️ (Lots of Spice)
Full disclosure: I tried reading From Blood and Ash a while back and couldn’t get into it, but I have recently picked it up again. But it’s on this list because I think life circumstances contributed more to why I was struggling with it than anything else.
From Blood and Ash comes highly recommended as a book to help you with your ACOTAR hangover. If you’re looking for a book boyfriend who somewhat resembles Rhysand, Hawke might work just for you.
This book gives you vampire-like creatures, weird zombie-esque villains, some strange gods and an overal cult-y like look and feel to the world. It’s VERY heavy in fantasy with some decent spice in it. But my favorite part is probably that features some humor, which is a real bonus for me.
The reading order for the Blood and Ash series is:
- From Blood and Ash (Amazon | Target)
- A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Amazon | Target)
- The Crown of Guilded Bones (Amazon | Target)
- The War of Two Queens (Amazon | Target)
- A Soul of Ash and Blood (Amazon | Target)
Important note: this is an unfinished series, if that’s you’re vibe then you might want to skip it for now.
4. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black (YA)
If you loved the political twists and intricate world of ACOTAR, The Cruel Prince brings similar court intrigue and suspense with a fae twist.
Jude, a mortal girl raised in the dangerous High Court of Faerie, doesn’t just want to survive – she wants power. And with that ambition, she faces enemies, including the insufferable Prince Cardan, who may either be her downfall or her unexpected ally.
The reading order for The Folk of the Air series is:
- The Cruel Prince (Amazon | Target)
- The Wicked King (Amazon | Target)
- The Queen of Nothing (Amazon | Target)
This book is heavy on mind games and the deliciously dark side of fae politics, which might be the closest thing to a magic-filled soap opera.
While this series leans more toward young adult than ACOTAR, it’s full of scheming characters, high-stakes betrayals, and a slow-burn romance with a bit of that enemies-to-lovers flair.
Other Books by Sarah J. Mass
If you LOVED the writing in ACOTAR and you want to dig more into it, there are two other series by the same author that you can check out. Full disclosure: I haven’t read either BUT I asked around for reviews from other readers.
5. Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Throne of Glass has a bit of an Assasins Creed (the video game) vibe. It follows Celeana, a ruthless assassin, who’s caught and enslaved for her crimes. This book takes place in the same universe as the ACOTAR series, and later on within some of the characters are mentioned or seen.
It’s worth noting that this series starts as more of a Young Adult fantasy series, but gets both more mature-feeling and spicy as it progresses.
The reading order for The Throne of Glass series is:
- Throne of Glass (Amazon | Target)
- Crown of Midnight (Amazon | Target)
- Heir of Fire (Amazon | Target)
- Queen of Shadows (Amazon | Target)
- Empire of Storms (Amazon | Target)
- Tower of Dawn (Amazon | Target)
- Kingdom of Ash (Amazon | Target)
There ARE spicy scenes in some of the later books, including Empire of Storms, Tower of Dawn, and Kingdom of Ash – with the first having the most explicit scenes. Many readers comment that this is NOT on level with the spice in ACOTAR, so you’ll be in this one for the plot, not the $ex.
6. Crescent City Series 🌶️ (Moderate to High Spice)
If you’re looking to sink into a massive urban fantasy world with all the signature twists and complex romance of ACOTAR, the Crescent City series is a fantastic pick.
The first book, House of Earth and Blood, introduces Bryce Quinlan, a party-loving half-fae who finds herself caught up in a deadly investigation after tragedy strikes her world.
With the help of Hunt, a tortured angel with a dangerous past, Bryce is thrown into a journey full of mysteries, hidden threats, and explosive chemistry.
The reading order for the Crescent City series is:
- House of Earth and Blood (Amazon | Target)
- House of Sky and Breath (Amazon | Target)
- House of Flame and Shadow (Amazon | Target)
Important note: this is an unfinished series, if that’s you’re vibe then you might want to skip it for now.
This series dives deep into an expansive fantasy world full of magic, modern touches, and morally gray characters. It’s got romance, a murder mystery, action, and some heavy emotional beats.
Plus, Sarah J. Maas really leans into the spicy scenes here, making it a step up for readers who want more mature themes and a bit of angst alongside a swoon-worthy storyline.
Young Adult Books Like ACOTAR
7. The Midnight Girls Alicia Jasinska
If you’re in the mood for a magical romp with a twisty enemies-to-lovers vibe, The Midnight Girls has you covered.
Set in a snowy, Eastern-European-inspired kingdom, this story follows two rival witches, Marynka and Zosia, who compete not only for power but increasingly for each other’s attention.
Both characters are unapologetically wicked, giving the story a unique spin where the main romance is between two villains — and it’s just as fun and whimsical as it sounds.
The book has a fairy-tale quality that’s cute and surprisingly fluffy, with all the charm of a classic YA fantasy. While the romance keeps you guessing, it’s still YA, so don’t expect smut. Instead, look forward to some delicious tension and dark humor.
If you’re looking for a story with “evil” protagonists that’s high on atmosphere and lovable villains, The Midnight Girls will deliver all the cozy yet mischievous vibes.
8. The Courts of Fate and Fear by Elizabeth S Trafalgar
The Courts of Fate and Fear brings all the political intrigue, tension, and forbidden romance vibes without leaning on fae.
This book introduces a world filled with other fascinating magical beings. The writing is engaging, and even though it’s a bit more YA, it’s crafted so well that it keeps you hooked.
This is a duet, the reading order is:
The story is fast-paced, and the world-building is impressive, balancing romance with adventure seamlessly.
While there isn’t the same level of spice as some adult fantasy romances, the tension and stakes are definitely there, making this a fun, well-written pick that delivers plenty of thrills, mystery, and magical charm.
9. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
If you’re looking for a dark, twist-filled fantasy with an underdog heroine, Red Queen is a solid pick.
Set in a divided world where people with silver blood possess powerful abilities and rule over the red-blooded, powerless masses, the story follows Mare Barrow, a scrappy, determined girl who discovers a power of her own.
Thrown into the world of the elite, Mare finds herself entangled in a game of deception, rebellion, and forbidden romance. This book offers high-stakes action, a touch of romance, and a whole lot of political drama — think Hunger Games meets The Selection, with a twist of magic.
The reading order for this series is:
- Red Queen (Amazon | Target)
- Glass Sword (Amazon | Target)
- King’s Cage (Amazon | Target)
- War Storm (Amazon | Target)
Red Queen is YA, so it’s not heavy on spice, but the suspense, intrigue, and enemies-to-allies relationships more than make up for it. If you’re into tales of rebellion, betrayal, and resilience with a powerful heroine at the center, Red Queen brings all that and more to the table.
10. Lightlark by Alex Aster
Lightlark is a blend of The Hunger Games tension with ACOTAR’s magic and court intrigue. In this world, every hundred years, rulers from various realms gather for the Centennial — a high-stakes event where each ruler fights to break a curse that haunts their lands.
Isla, the main character, enters this intense competition where alliances are crucial, but trust is nearly impossible. Her journey reveals she’s a bit naive, but there’s room for her to grow, especially as she navigates morally complex relationships and hidden agendas.
The male characters are deliciously morally gray, and while hints of a love triangle emerge, the story keeps you guessing about where loyalties truly lie. This first book in a series holds back on the spice, but it’s packed with rich world-building, dark secrets, and a touch of romance that make it a compelling start to a magical saga.
The reading order for this series is:
11. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
For fans of gritty worlds and complex characters, Six of Crows brings an intense blend of magic, crime, and high-stakes heist action.
Set in the Grishaverse, the story follows Kaz Brekker, a ruthless mastermind, and his crew of misfit criminals, each with their own dark pasts and deadly skills. Tasked with pulling off an impossible heist, Kaz and his crew have to trust each other — but everyone has their own agenda, and loyalty is hard to come by.
Six of Crows is heavy on the action, with layered, morally gray characters and plenty of tension, but it’s YA, so there’s less romance and spice than you’d find in ACOTAR. The thrill comes from the clever plotting, witty banter, and high-stakes situations that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
If you’re into stories where characters fight both enemies and their own personal demons, Six of Crows offers a deeply satisfying adventure. Follow it up with Crooked Kingdom.
12. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
Shatter Me is an intense enemies-to-lovers story set in a post-apocalyptic world where superhuman abilities are both a curse and a weapon.
The story follows Juliette, a girl with a lethal touch, as she struggles to survive in a broken world where she’s been kept isolated for her dangerous powers. Enter Warner, a complex antagonist with his own motives, and the story takes off with electric tension.
The reading order of this series is:
- Shatter Me (Amazon | Target)
- Unravel Me (Amazon | Target)
- Ignite Me (Amazon | Target)
- Restore Me (Amazon | Target)
- Defy Me (Amazon | Target)
- Imagine Me (Amazon | Target)
The series is known for its beautiful, poetic imagery that gives Juliette’s voice a unique depth. Note: there are also novellas you can read in between the books.
The romance is slow-burn but rewarding, with a love interest who evolves into a steady, supportive presence. There’s a hint of spice, though it’s more YA than full-on romance.
One thing to note: this series is extensive, so if you’re ready to commit to a multi-book saga, Shatter Me brings a gripping blend of action, heart, and a resilient heroine who grows stronger with every twist and turn.
Romantasy Books Like ACOTAR with Limited Spice
13. Caraval by Stephanie Garber
Caraval takes readers into a dazzling world of mystery, magic, and high-stakes games.
The story follows sisters Scarlett and Tella, who find themselves caught up in the enchanting yet dangerous world of Caraval — an immersive, once-a-year performance where nothing is quite as it seems.
With a mix of humans and magical beings, the story has a touch of enemies-to-lovers romance, especially as alliances shift and secrets are revealed.
The order of this series is:
- Caraval (Amazon | Target)
- Legendary (Amazon | Target)
- Finale (Amazon | Target)
- Spectacular (Amazon | Target)
The series shines with its witty adventure, strong female leads, and a plot that really picks up in the second book. The pairings add a satisfying romantic tension, though it’s a clean read with no spice.
The first book might feel a bit slow, but as the story unfolds, you’re drawn into an unpredictable world of deception and romance that’s beautifully crafted and fun to explore.
If you enjoy whimsical settings, strong characters, and a love story that keeps you guessing, Caraval is a magical ride.
14. The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller
Dubbed a “Slytherin romance,” The Shadows Between Us serves up a dark, seductive story where both main characters are as morally gray as they come.
Alessandra is a fierce, ambitious heroine with plans to seduce the Shadow King, marry him, and ultimately kill him to claim his throne. However, as she gets closer to him, their slow-burn romance reveals a complex dynamic built on mutual respect and charged, sensual tension.
The writing is compelling, with some sharp lines that add to the book’s sinister charm. Although it’s a clean read, the romance keeps you invested without leaning on smut.
The only drawback? The ending feels a little abrupt, but it wraps up satisfyingly. If you love unapologetically ambitious characters and a romance with plenty of power plays, The Shadows Between Us delivers a darkly entertaining tale.
15. Powerless by Lauren Roberts
For those who love a good mix of dark fantasy and complex characters, Powerless serves up an intriguing world where strength is survival.
The story follows a heroine who is surrounded by super-powered beings, yet is utterly powerless herself — an outlier in a world that thrives on dominance. This unique twist gives her character depth and resilience as she faces threats, makes alliances, and navigates the dangers around her.
The reading order for this series is:
The characters are morally gray, with layered backstories and plenty of tension in their interactions, especially as our protagonist forms close bonds (and perhaps more) along the way. It’s a slow-burn romance with just the right amount of build-up and intensity.
While Powerless is more focused on character development and intrigue than spice, the suspenseful plot and charged dynamics make it hard to put down. If you’re into slow-burn, powerful character arcs, and a world where power defines everything, Powerless is a fresh and gripping read.
16. The Foxglove King by Hannah Whitten
The Foxglove King weaves together magic, intrigue, and forbidden love in a lush fantasy world.
The story follows Lore, a young woman who has the rare ability to commune with death itself, a skill that brings her to the attention of both royal and religious authorities.
Pulled into a dangerous web of secrets and political tension, Lore must navigate power struggles and hidden agendas while forming unlikely alliances that may either protect or destroy her.
The reading order of The Nightshade Crown series is:
- The Foxglove King (Amazon | Target)
- The Hemlock Queen (Amazon | Target)
- The Nightshade God (Amazon | Target)
With morally gray characters and plenty of dark, charged moments, this story combines a slow-burn romance with vivid, atmospheric writing that’s rich in detail. The character dynamics are intense, with love interests who are as complex as the protagonist herself.
While it’s more focused on world-building and suspense than spice, The Foxglove King captivates with its haunting beauty and intricate plot twists, making it a must-read for those who crave dark fantasy with high stakes and layered romance.
Spicy Romantasy Books Like ACOTAR
17. A Kingdom of Stars and Shadows by Holly Renee 🌶️ (Short & Sweet)
I’ll be the first to admit that A Kingdom of Stars and Shadows is NOT the most well-penned book out there, but I enjoyed reading it regardless.
This story follows Adara, the Starblessed, who’s betrothed (against her will) to the fae prince. It’s said that her marriage to the prince will determine the fate of the kingdoms, but it’s not that particular price she gets the hots for.
This isn’t the most creatively steamy book out there (if you’re a BDSM or dark romance lover, it’s probably going to be boring for you) but it does get spicy pretty fast.
This book doesn’t go as far into worldbuilding as some of the other ones on this list. If you’re looking to test the fantasy waters without getting knee-deep into a 16-book series that has 800 pages a book, this is a great pick. It’s quick, cute and easy to understand.
The reading order for the Stars and Shadows series is:
- A Kingdom of Stars and Shadows (Amazon)
- A Kingdom of Blood and Betrayal (Amazon)
- A Kingdom of Venom and Vows (Amazon)
- A Kingdom of Fire and Fate (Amazon)
This bad boy got me through a reading slump and I’ll be forever grateful. I think that was because unlike most romantasy books, it’s short, quick and to the point. It doesn’t take long to get to the meat of the issue and each book took me about a day to finish (which included a full 10 hours of work in between readings!).
I have yet to read the forth book in this series, it’s about two different characters than the couple in the first three books. While I’m sure it’ll be just as good, I needed a break before I continued.
18. What Lies Beyond the Veil by Harper L. Woods 🌶️ (High Spice)
For readers craving another dose of ACOTAR-esque romance with a dark edge, What Lies Beyond the Veil has it all — fae realms, morally gray characters, and intense romantic tension. Not to mention the book cover is GORGEOUS!
The male lead will definitely remind you of that favorite brooding, powerful love interest, but with a sharper edge. Possessive and deeply complex, he’s the kind of character that’s both a protector and a mystery, and the chemistry he shares with the heroine is fiery and, let’s just say, very spicy.
This book packs all the familiar themes: tortured souls, hidden realms, and a forbidden attraction that pulls the characters together despite the odds.
If you love a romance that dives deep into smutty territory while keeping you hooked with its dark, fae-driven world, What Lies Beyond the Veil is a top recommendation. It’s a new addition but it already feels like a perfect follow-up for ACOTAR fans craving high-stakes passion.
19. Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen 🌶️ (Moderate Spice)
The Bridge Kingdom has all the hallmarks of an epic enemies-to-lovers story with an intense slow-burn romance.
In this ACOTAR-adjacent world, Lara, a fierce princess trained in espionage, is married off to her kingdom’s enemy as part of a strategic treaty. But her mission to take down her new husband’s kingdom gets complicated as her feelings begin to blur the line between loyalty and love.
The reading order for the Bridge Kingdom series is:
- The Bridge Kingdom (Amazon | Target)
- The Traitor Queen (Amazon | Target)
- The Inadequate Heir (Amazon | Target)
- The Endless War (Amazon | Target)
While there are no fae, the story is rich with political intrigue, dark secrets, and heart-stopping tension. The romance unfolds at just the right pace, and the smut is tastefully woven in, adding to the intensity of the plot without overtaking it.
For fans of slow-burn, high-stakes romance where alliances shift and loyalties are tested, The Bridge Kingdom delivers an addictive story that’s both emotionally charged and thrillingly romantic.
20. The Bargainer by Laura Thalassa 🌶️ (Moderate Spice)
For fans of fae and friends-to-lovers romances with a dark twist, The Bargainer series hits all the right notes.
The story follows Callie, a powerful siren with a troubled past, and her mysterious, morally gray fae friend-turned-love-interest, Desmond Flynn (aka “The Bargainer”). With flashbacks that delve into their shared history, the series brings a unique depth to their bond, making for a compelling slow-burn romance with rich character development.
The reading order for The Bargainer series is:
- Rhapsodic (Amazon | Target)
- A Strange Hymn (Amazon | Target)
- The Emperor of Evening Stars (Amazon | Target)
- Dark Harmony (Amazon | Target)
Despite the heavy content and occasionally youthful character portrayals, the storyline is immersive and filled with familiar themes like magic, forbidden desires, and morally complex characters.
The romance is charged, with plenty of spice that complements the intense, fantasy-driven plot. If you enjoy tales where powerful protagonists clash and connect amid dark secrets, The Bargainer will keep you hooked from the first to the last book.
21. The Plated Prisoner by Raven Kennedy 🌶️ (High Spice starting in Book 3)
For a fantasy read with the same addictive slow-burn romance and character growth as ACOTAR, The Plated Prisoner series delivers in spades.
This story follows Auren, a young woman stepping into her own power, and her journey from a controlled, gilded life to one filled with dangerous possibilities and a deeply protective, misunderstood love interest.
The series builds slowly, with tension rising across the first few books until the spice really kicks in by Book 3 — and it’s worth the wait. The reading order for The Plated Prisoner series is:
- Gild (Amazon | Target)
- Glint (Amazon | Target)
- Gleam (Amazon | Target)
- Glow (Amazon | Target)
- Gold (Amazon | Target)
With fae, dark secrets, and an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, The Plated Prisoner has a similar vibe to the transition from ACOTAR to ACOMAF, with Auren’s growth and empowerment taking center stage.
If you’re a fan of powerful love interests, high-stakes romance, and world-building that pulls you into a web of political intrigue and magical realms, this series is as captivating as it is smoldering.
Final Thoughts: Books Like a Court of Thorns and Roses
There are plenty of awesome books like a Court of Thorns and Roses, which one you should read next depends on what exactly you’re looking for.
From sexy vampires to fabulous fae, there’s a book on this list for everyone. Which are you adding to your TBR?
