2026 is shaping up to be another fantastic year for romantasy novels, with several upcoming releases already generating buzz and potential for film or TV adaptations. The genre saw a surge in popularity in 2025 thanks to hits like Onyx Storm and Brimstone, proving the demand for stories that combine fantasy and romance. While adaptations of The Empyrean and Fae & Alchemy are already in development, fans are hoping even more romantasy books will be brought to life on screen.
The best romantasy stories combine imaginative worlds and exciting plots with compelling characters and plenty of suspense. While many recent books already deliver on this, several promising releases planned for 2026 also seem to have everything it takes to become successful adaptations. If these books live up to the hype, Hollywood should definitely take notice.
3) Verity Guild by Mai Corland
Mai Corland, known for her Broken Blades series, has a new romantasy novel coming out in 2026 called Verity Guild. She’s described it on Instagram as a “romantasy murder mystery” with “Ancient Roman vibes,” which sounds perfect for a TV or streaming adaptation. Given the current popularity of fantasy and mystery-thriller shows, this story seems like a great fit for the market, and hopefully a studio will recognize that potential after the book’s release on May 5th.
“Verity Guild” is a thrilling mystery centered around High Priestess Kerasea Vestal, who finds herself a suspect in a murder, and her rival, Torren Morvan. They’re forced to work together to solve the crime, despite their long-standing conflict. As they investigate, they’ll uncover dangerous prophecies and hidden family secrets. Expect a story full of suspense and unexpected turns – author Corland is known for delivering both. Her books are so captivating, they would make fantastic, binge-worthy television, and streaming services should definitely consider adapting this series.
2) Mayhem and the Mortal by Shanora Williams
Entangled Publishing is promoting Shanora Williams’ Mayhem and the Mortal by comparing it to a blend of Dungeons & Dragons and The Wizard of Oz – both popular choices for film and television. Considering the success of recent shows like Stranger Things and the upcoming Wicked, there’s clearly an audience for this type of fantasy story. Beyond those comparisons, the book’s detailed plot suggests it would translate well to the screen. We’ll find out if it’s a good fit on March 17th.
Williams’ upcoming 2026 novel centers on a woman determined to break a terrible curse affecting her sister. The story, filled with a dangerous quest, takes place in a vividly terrifying world—a ruined landscape of unstable paths and deadly creatures. Adding to the intrigue, the heroine is forced to team up with a reluctant ally: a sorcerer and assassin she doesn’t trust. With a cast of quirky characters and hidden secrets, the book promises a thrilling, action-filled, and often funny adventure, making it a strong candidate for a film or television adaptation.
1) A Stage Set for Villains by Shannon J. Spann
Shannon J. Spann’s first novel, A Stage Set for Villains, is quickly gaining popularity, starting with its beautiful cover. However, it’s the story itself that’s really captivating readers and generating buzz as a promising book for 2026 and a possible movie or TV adaptation. The romantasy novel is set in a world where performers at a place called the Playhouse are treated like gods – but they are flawed and incredibly powerful. The story centers on a heroine who has been cursed and is desperately trying to survive by entering a competition where the winner gets to become immortal like the Players.
Beyond being a great premise for a TV show or movie, A Stage Set for Villains offers a compelling story with unique elements. It features an unlikely partnership and deal with one of the key characters, and cleverly flips the typical hero-villain dynamic. With audiences increasingly drawn to complex, morally ambiguous characters, this story has strong potential. Plus, the theatrical setting makes it even more appealing for a visual medium. Hopefully, it will catch the eye of Hollywood producers. A Stage Set for Villains will be available on February 3rd.
What 2026 romantasy books are you excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments and discuss them with others in the ComicBook Forum!
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2026-01-19 02:11