5 fantasy books that aren’t fourth wing or ACOTAR

Hey fantasy lovers! It's awesome to see so many of you looking for your next epic read beyond the usual suspects. I totally get it – while ACOTAR and Fourth Wing are great, there's a whole world of magic out there waiting to be discovered. If you're like me and constantly on the hunt for those hidden gems, or perhaps looking for something a bit different, then you're in the right place! I've noticed some of you are specifically searching for 'clean fantasy books' or 'fantasy adventure romance books,' and even "books with characters" that truly stick with you, similar to the depth found in non-fantasy hits. Let me share a bit more and add some extra recommendations to broaden your horizons! First off, let's dive back into some of the fantastic picks I mentioned. If you're craving that 'grumpy sarcastic SPICY AF mmc' and a delicious 'slow burn' with high stakes, When the Moon Hatched is an absolute must-read. It’s got all the tension and intrigue you could ask for! And for those who adore a classic 'enemies to lovers' trope with a 'bad@ss fmc' who truly holds her own, The Cruel Prince delivers a captivating fae world and a heroine you'll root for, even when she 'tries to kill him'! Once Upon a Broken Heart takes 'enemies to injured trope lovers' to a whimsical new level with its unique magic system and enchanting prose, perfect for another 'slow burn' journey. And for a unique 'reverse grumpy x sunshine' dynamic with plenty of 'twist and turns', Powerless is a book that will keep you guessing. Lastly, if you're into a juicy 'love triangle' and another compelling 'enemies to lovers' dynamic, Lightlark offers a fascinating world to get lost in. Now, for those of you specifically seeking 'clean fantasy romance books' or 'clean fantasy novels' – I hear you loud and clear! While some of the books above delve into spicier territory, there are so many incredible options that focus purely on adventure, magic, and character-driven plots without explicit scenes. For a truly immersive experience with rich world-building and heartwarming relationships, I highly recommend checking out books by authors like T. Kingfisher (e.g., Paladin's Grace series – it has romance, but it's generally closed-door and focuses on the emotional journey) or Naomi Novik (e.g., Uprooted or Spinning Silver for beautiful standalone fantasies with folkloric vibes). They offer powerful narratives and deep character development, making you feel every emotion alongside the protagonists, which I think addresses the 'books with characters' intent wonderfully. Another great option for clean fantasy would be Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi, which is an epic adventure with fantastic world-building and minimal romance, perfect for those who want a strong plot focus. If you’re looking for 'fantasy adventure romance books' that aren't overly spicy, consider Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass series (especially the earlier books, which are less explicit than ACOTAR), or Jennifer L. Armentrout's From Blood and Ash series which starts off with more subtle spice before ramping up later. These are known for their compelling heroines, intense action, and evolving romantic plotlines that keep you hooked. Ultimately, whether you're after a 'spicy' read like *When the Moon Hatched*, or a 'clean fantasy book' that sweeps you away on an epic adventure, the world of fantasy is vast and diverse. Don't be afraid to step outside the most popular recommendations and discover your own 'best fantasy books' or 'top fantasy romance books' that truly resonate with you. Happy reading!