If your reading life has been craving sweeping fantasy worlds, slow-burn tension, and romances that feel just as epic as the magic itself, this season is delivering in a big way.
From deluxe collector editions to cozy romantasy comfort reads, the upcoming releases prove that fantasy and romance, especially when blended, are very much having their moment.
And I’m all about this vibe, and love all of what it offers us as readers.
Kicking things off is "A Monsoon Rising" by Thea Guanzon (Harper Voyager), which returns readers to the lush, politically charged world of "The Hurricane Wars."
This installment raises the stakes as Talasyn finds herself bound in a marriage forged by necessity rather than trust, while ancient magic and a looming darkness threaten everything she’s fought to protect.
Releasing in early January, the deluxe paperback edition is a dream for book lovers, complete with stenciled edges, special jacket effects, and an exclusive excerpt from the third and final book in the trilogy, making it as much a collectible as it is must-read.
Mythology-inspired fantasy also shines this season. "The Witch Without Memory" by Maithree Wijesekara (Harper Voyager) continues a richly layered series filled with political intrigue, lost memories, and dangerous magic.
With an empire teetering on the brink and characters forced to confront the consequences of their past choices, this sequel balances emotional depth with high stakes worldbuilding.
Equally immersive is "The Rise of the Celestials" by Kritika H. Rao (Harper Voyager), which expands its myth-forward universe with celestial beings, cosmic power struggles, and a world where destiny and desire are constantly at odds.
Romantasy readers looking for something playful, yet swoon-worthy will want to keep "Heartsong" by S.E. Wendel (Berkley) firmly on their radar. Fans of Ruby Dixon should feel right at home here, thanks to its slow-burn romance, heartfelt connection, and a gargoyle MMC who, yes, wears grey sweatpants. Sometimes a single detail tells you exactly what kind of book you’re getting, and in this case, it’s pure, joyful escapism.
For readers who prefer their magic on the cozy side, E.B. Asher returns to her whimsical world with "This Will Be Interesting" (Avon), a new romantasy brimming with charm, humor, and magical misadventures.
Set in the same universe as "This Will Be Fun," the story offers comforting vibes, laugh-out-loud moments, and just enough romance to make it an ideal curl-up-and-escape read.
Historical romance lovers also have plenty to anticipate.
"The Scoundrel and the Siren" by Christy Carlyle (Avon)pairs a legendary treasure hunter with a fierce local woman as they clash over a Viking hoard, blending adventure, banter, and undeniable chemistry. And Lenora Bell continues her Thunderbolt Club series with "Can’t Get Enough of the Duke" (Avon), featuring a grumpy, scarred duke and a bubbly heroine caught in a marriage of convenience.
From epic fantasy and mythology-driven worlds to cozy magic and sweeping love stories, this season’s releases offer something for every reader.
Whether you’re in the mood for political intrigue, celestial drama, or a romance that makes you smile before you even realize it, your next favorite book is waiting, and it’s probably already calling your name.
Which one do you plan to pick up next? It’s hard to choose, but we got this! Happy Reading!
