For avid readers and casual bookworms alike, the quest for the next captivating read is an ongoing journey. With an endless array of literary choices, discerning a truly immersive and rewarding experience can often prove challenging, especially within the expansive genres of fantasy and romance. Fortunately, a guiding light has emerged from the literary world: Scarlett St. Clair, a New York Times bestselling author celebrated for her enthralling sagas.

Scarlett St. Clair, renowned for her unique blend of mythical narratives and passionate storytelling, has generously shared her personal top five book recommendations. This curated reading list offers a diverse selection of fantasy books with prominent elements of romance fiction, promising to lead readers into vividly imagined worlds brimming with unforgettable characters and intricate plots. Her own works, like the Hades X Persephone and Adrian X Isolde series, exemplify her mastery, making her recommendations particularly valuable.

First on St. Clair’s list is C.L. Wilson’s “Master of Crows.” This compelling narrative introduces Martise, a character with an extraordinarily enchanting voice, tasked with spying on Silhara of Neith. Silhara, known as the Master of Crows, battles the formidable Corruption, a god intent on world domination through him. St. Clair praises the book for its relatable main characters, who, despite the magical backdrop, navigate everyday challenges with endearing realism. Silhara’s grumpiness paired with Martise’s saintly patience creates a frustratingly entertaining dynamic as their relationship unfolds.

Another stellar recommendation is C.L. Wilson’s “The Winter King,” the inaugural book in the Weathermages of Mystral Series. While the series remains unfinished, each installment functions as a standalone novel. This particular story introduces Wynter Atrialan, who, after conquering Summerlea, is cunningly compelled into marriage with Princess Khamsin Coruscate. Khamsin’s potent storm magic ignites intense scenes and passionate encounters, embedding a vibrant and chilly fantasy world within a core romance fiction narrative, replete with intentional thematic puns.

Alysha Speer’s “Her Soul for a Crown” shifts the balance, leaning more heavily into the fantasy genre than romance, though it still features a compelling slow-burn romance. The narrative propels its protagonist into making a desperate offering to Reeri, the Blood Yakka, a divine entity with his own grand designs, after her plans go awry. Inspired by a real Sri Lankan queen who famously poisoned six husbands for the throne, St. Clair highlights Speer’s masterful and meticulous world-building, deeming it a must-read particularly for those drawn to rich, immersive settings. This novel, a true literary gem, promises to captivate readers upon its August 12th release.

Amalie Howard’s “The Starlight Heir” earns its place through its unique inspiration from Persian and Indian mythology. Having been captivated by Howard’s earlier regency romance, “The Beast of Beswick,” St. Clair eagerly anticipated this romantasy offering. “The Starlight Heir” follows Suraya Saab, a bladesmith whose aspirations far exceed the confines of her small forge, weaving a rich tapestry of fantasy with romantic undertones, making it a noteworthy addition to any reading list for fans of diverse mythological inspirations.

Completing the esteemed lineup is Jenny Hickman’s “For Ever,” which St. Clair describes as being in a “cosy fantasy era.” This charming tale centers on a young woman named Kerris, whose primary quest is to find a husband, but more significantly, to discover love. This recommendation underscores St. Clair’s appreciation for stories that balance lightheartedness with profound emotional journeys, offering a delightful entry for those seeking warmth and romance within their fantasy books.

These book recommendations from bestselling author Scarlett St. Clair offer a valuable compass for navigating the vast sea of fantasy books and romance fiction. Each selection is a testament to the power of storytelling, inviting readers to explore new worlds, fall in love with complex characters, and perhaps even discover their next all-time favorite read. Her insights truly provide a curated reading list that caters to discerning tastes.