If you thought 2024 was an incredible year for fantasy books, get ready—2025 is about to blow your mind! With epic new releases from bestselling authors and fresh debuts set to shake up the genre, this year’s lineup is unreal. Whether you're craving romantasy, dark fantasy, high-stakes political intrigue, or mythology-infused sagas, these books are guaranteed to make your TBR explode. If you're unsure which genre suits you best, explore my guides Part I & Part II, to help you navigate the vast universe of books!
We’ve scoured author announcements, publishing schedules, and sneak peeks to bring you the most anticipated fantasy book releases of 2025. So grab your pre-order lists and reading journals, because here are the books you won’t want to miss!
1. Onyx Storm – Rebecca Yarros
Release Date: January 21, 2025
What’s it about?
The third installment in the Empyrean series, following Fourth Wing and Iron Flame. Expect more dragon battles, sizzling romance, shocking betrayals, and a plot that will break your heart into a million pieces (again).
Why You’ll Love It:
Dragons. Lots of dragons.
Xaden & Violet’s angst-filled, enemies-to-lovers romance
High-stakes battles and plot twists that leave you screaming
Source: Wikipedia
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2. The Devils – Joe Abercrombie
Release Date: May 13, 2025
What’s it about?
Joe Abercrombie’s latest novel dives into dark magic, morally gray characters, and brutal conflict. If you love The First Law trilogy, this one’s for you.
Why You’ll Love It:
Gritty, violent, and packed with betrayals
A dark, immersive world you wouldn’t survive five minutes in
Signature Abercrombie wit & sharp dialogue
Source: GrimdarkMAGAZINE
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3. House of Blight – Maxym M. Martineau
Release Date: April 8, 2025
What’s it about?
A gothic romantasy duology set in a world of dark magic, secrets, and doomed love. Think Crescent City meets The Shadows Between Us.
Why You’ll Love It:
Gothic dark fantasy vibes
Forbidden magic + high-stakes romance
Twists that will leave you speechless
Source: goodreads
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4. Katabasis – R.F. Kuang
Release Date: August 2025
What’s it about?
R.F. Kuang (author of The Poppy War and Babel) is back with Katabasis, a mythology-infused fantasy novel about transformation, descent, and power. Expect morally gray characters and absolute devastation.
Why You’ll Love It:
Brutal storytelling with a historical edge
Complex character arcs that emotionally wreck you
Dark, mythological themes
Source: Time Magazine
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5. Firebird – Juliette Cross
Release Date: April, 8, 2025
What’s it about?
A highly anticipated romantasy from Juliette Cross, featuring a fiery, magic-infused world, dangerous love, and high-stakes adventure. Possibly a phoenix-inspired heroine? 👀
Why You’ll Love It:
Romantic tension that BURNS
Fantasy world-building with rich lore
Fated mates? Enemies-to-lovers? Forbidden love? We’ll probably get it all.
Source: Juliette Cross
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6. The Ragpicker King – Cassandra Clare
Release Date: March 4, 2025
What’s it about?
The sequel to Sword Catcher, set in the dazzling yet treacherous world of Castellane. Expect political intrigue, betrayals, and ancient magic as Kel and Lin navigate shifting allegiances and deadly secrets.
Why You’ll Love It:
Rich world-building with a Mediterranean-inspired setting
Complex, morally gray characters
Secret identities, court politics, and deadly betrayals
Source: Penguin Random House
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7. Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales – Heather Fawcett
📅 Release Date: October 17, 2025
📖 What’s it about?
The third book in the Emily Wilde series, where folklore professor Emily Wilde continues her quest to uncover lost faerie tales and their impact on history. Expect mythical creatures, dark secrets, and whimsical adventures.
Why You’ll Love It:
Scholarly adventures meet magical discoveries
Cozy fantasy vibes perfect for lovers of The Starless Sea
A mix of academia, fae lore, and light romance
Source: Barnes & Noble
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8. A Curse Carved in Bone – Danielle L. Jensen
Release Date: May 13, 2025
What’s it about?
In the second installment of the Saga of the Unfated, Danielle L. Jensen weaves a tale of dark magic, forbidden love, and epic battles. As ancient curses resurface, protagonists must confront their destinies, challenging fate and forging their paths in a world where every choice has profound consequences.
Why You’ll Love It:
High-stakes action combined with deep emotional arcs.
Complex magic systems that add depth and intrigue to the narrative.
Romantic subplots that enhance character development and plot progression.
Source: Danielle L. Jensen
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9. Her Soul for a Crown – Alysha Rameera
Release Date: August 12, 2025
What’s it about?
Drawing inspiration from Sri Lankan mythology, Alysha Rameera's debut novel introduces us to Anula Ramanayake, an orphaned woman skilled in poisons. On a quest to avenge her family and claim the throne as the first-ever Raejina, Anula enters a perilous pact with Reeri, a powerful Yakka god. Their intertwined fates lead them through a world of gods, assassins, and power-hungry rulers, challenging their ambitions and desires.
Why You’ll Love It:
Rich cultural backdrop that offers a fresh perspective in the fantasy genre.
A strong, determined heroine facing moral dilemmas and dangerous foes.
An intense, slow-burn romance entwined with themes of power and destiny.
Source: Entertainment Weekly
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Final Thoughts: 2025 is a Dream for Fantasy Readers!
With so many epic, romantic, and dark fantasy books hitting shelves this year, 2025 is THE year for fantasy lovers. Whether you're after fire-breathing dragons, morally gray antiheroes, or fae-filled folklore, there's something for everyone in this lineup.
Which of these books are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!
Looking for more recommendations? Check out “10 Books like ACOTAR” for even more bookish goodness!
Don’t forget to pre-order your favorites and support these amazing authors!
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