Though I feel removed from the acotar universe these days, this is one of my favorite books in the world and I will always attribute it to my head first dive into the world of romantic fantasy/romantasy.
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
Go into this blind. Trust me. One of the most incredible endings.
Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang
This book has had the most profound effect on me since my first read. Very dark and kind of hopeless tho - don’t let anyone make you believe this is a romance
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
Applauding. Confused a little. Fantastic read.
The Will of the Many (Hierarchy, #1) by James Islington
I don’t read too many young adult books, but this cover really pulled me in and it did not disappoint. So beautifully written and profoundly sad.
Don't Let the Forest In by C.G. Drews
While this is categorized as a psychological thriller, I found it more deeply sad than anything. I was captivated from the jump by the beautiful writing and layered, interesting characters.
The Quiet Tenant by Clémence Michallon
I’ve read this a couple times and listened to the graphic audio more than I can count. I find new incredible details every time. I love this book more than words could provide (don’t worry I’ve linked the copy with bonus chapters)
Fourth Wing (The Empyrean, #1) by Rebecca Yarros
Hot take but Iron Flame is a masterpiece. It is multilayered and there is so much going on. Violet’s PTSD and isolation. The rockiness with Xaden that’s hard to resolve due to their distance. Everything people don’t like about this book are the thing...
Iron Flame (Standard Edition) - Yarros
I read this in a day. When I tried to sleep I dreamt about it. It was simply brilliant. The unraveling of inquiries brought about in book one, this slow exploration of the world, the deep complex emotions. The sadness. The rawness.
Onyx Storm (Wing and Claw Collection, 3)
I loved everything about this. I think this may be the first “romantic fantasy” I’ve read where I care about the story more than the romance
