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Top 10 Fantasy Books with a Love Triangle
I have to admit, there is something enticing about a well-crafted love triangle. It’s a plot device that’s ripe with drama and heartbreak, and as a reader, I’m often swept up in the emotional whirlwind that accompanies it. The tug-of-war for a character’s heart, the relentless struggle between two or more potential lovers, and the conflicting emotions that leave us torn between rooting for one side or another—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that pulls our heartstrings in multiple directions like nothing else can.
There’s an almost addictive quality to the love triangle trope that keeps me coming back for more. And when it’s combined with the fantastical worlds of magic, mythical creatures, and epic battles, the stakes are raised to new heights, making the ride all the more exhilarating. I can’t wait to share my top 10 fantasy books featuring a love triangle that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
From stories set in the realm of Fae and ruthless assassins vying for the throne to descendants of powerful legacies trying to master their abilities, this list has it all. We’ll explore tales of ordinary teens thrown into life-or-death games and protagonists who find themselves entangled in the webs of ancient societies and supernatural beings. As we venture into the world of steampunk, we’ll encounter fierce heroines and lovable characters facing heart-wrenching decisions that defy time constraints.
So, let’s dive headfirst into worlds filled with enchantment, passion, and the ever-present tension of a love triangle that will leave us guessing until the final pages. As we explore the complexities of emotion and the delicate balance of relationships, we’ll revel in the transformative power of love and the undeniable excitement that comes from navigating the stormy waters of romantic entanglements.
Throne of Glass
By Sarah J. Maas
Throne of Glass follows Celaena Sardothien, a notorious assassin who is offered a chance at freedom when she is summoned to the tyrannical ruler’s court to compete in a deadly tournament. Fighting against thieves, warriors, and other skilled assassins, Celaena must prove herself as the ultimate champion to gain her liberty.
Celaena finds herself torn between two captivating men: the dashing and loyal Crown Prince Dorian Havilliard and the enigmatic and stoic Captain of the Guard, Chaol Westfall. As Celaena navigates the challenges of the tournament and the court’s deadly politics, she must also guide her feelings for these two intriguing characters. Maas expertly weaves a complex and heart-wrenching love triangle throughout the narrative, leaving uncertainty about whom Celaena will ultimately choose.
Legendborn
By Tracy Deonn
In Legendborn, we meet Bree Matthews, a driven 16-year-old dealing with her mother’s tragic death while attending a prestigious college program. Bree’s life is upended when she discovers the Legendborn, a secret society battling dangerous magical creatures. As Bree uncovers her powers, she confronts her grief and the truth about her mother while unearthing a dangerous conspiracy.
Bree finds herself caught between two compelling young men: the alluring and enigmatic Legendborn leader, Selwyn Kane, and the kind-hearted and fiercely loyal Nick Davis. As she grapples with her newfound powers and the truth about her past, Bree must also navigate her feelings for these two contrasting characters. Deonn masterfully crafts a love triangle that adds depth and nuance to the story, creating an emotionally resonant subplot that will leave readers eager to know whom Bree will ultimately choose.
Daughter of the Moon Goddess
By Sue Lynn Tan
Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan is a mesmerizing debut that weaves Chinese mythology, romance, and adventure. The tale follows Xingyin, the Moon Goddess’s daughter, who is exiled to Earth and discovers her powers while trying to save her mother from the Celestial Emperor.
A captivating love triangle unfolds as Xingyin navigates her relationships with the celestial prince and another character. This romantic subplot contributes emotional depth to her perilous journey, making it an enchanting read for fantasy and romance enthusiasts alike.
The Hunger Games
By Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games is a gripping dystopian novel that transports readers into the brutal world of Panem. We follow 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen as she enters the deadly Hunger Games, navigating the perils of the arena while confronting the oppressive society that governs her world.
A riveting love triangle emerges between Katniss, her childhood friend Gale Hawthorne, and fellow tribute Peeta Mellark. As Katniss grapples with her feelings, Gale symbolizes her past, while Peeta embodies hope for a brighter future. This beautifully crafted romantic subplot adds emotional depth, leaving readers wondering not only about Katniss’s survival but also which (if either) suitor she will ultimately choose.
The Infernal Devices Series
By Cassandra Clare
In Cassandra Clare’s captivating Infernal Devices series, a prequel to the bestselling Mortal Instruments, Tessa Gray uncovers her supernatural powers in Victorian London. Thrust into the world of demon-fighting Shadowhunters, Tessa seeks the truth about her abilities and contends with The Pandemonium Club’s sinister plot. Adventure, mystery, and romance abound in this urban fantasy.
Central to the series is an intense love triangle involving Tessa, brooding artist Jem Carstairs, and passionate William “Will” Herondale. Amidst shadowy threats, Tessa navigates her feelings for both Shadowhunters. The complex relationships and emotional turmoil captivate readers, who eagerly anticipate the romantic outcome.
City of Brass
By S.A. Chakraborty
City of Brass is a mesmerizing fantasy novel inspired by Middle Eastern folklore. It follows Nahri, a Cairo con artist, who inadvertently summons a djinn warrior, Dara, and embarks on a journey to the magical city of Daevabad. Amidst enchanting creatures and political intrigue, Nahri discovers her mysterious heritage.
The story features a compelling love triangle between Nahri, enigmatic Dara, and compassionate Prince Alizayd. As Nahri navigates romance, loyalty, and Daevabad’s politics, the love triangle adds emotional depth and complexity, making City of Brass a compelling read for fantasy and romance enthusiasts alike.
Shadow and Bone
By Leigh Bardugo
Shadow and Bone is a mesmerizing fantasy tale set in the enchanting Grisha realm, where certain individuals wield extraordinary powers. The story centers on Alina Starkov, a seemingly ordinary girl who uncovers her hidden Grisha abilities while facing deadly creatures called Volcra. Consequently, Alina is thrust into the royal court to train as a Grisha and refine her newfound powers under the enigmatic Darkling’s supervision.
The novel features an enthralling love triangle, as Alina finds herself torn between her loyal childhood friend, soldier Mal Oretsev, and the intriguing, powerful Darkling. As she grapples with her destiny, Alina’s heart wavers between Mal’s unwavering devotion and the Darkling’s captivating allure. Bardugo expertly weaves this romantic subplot, keeping readers enthralled as they await the fate of this passionate love triangle.
The Inheritance Games
By Jennifer Lynn Barnes
The Inheritance Games follows Avery Grambs, an ordinary student who inherits a fortune from billionaire Tobias Hawthorne and moves into the mysterious Hawthorne House. As she delves deeper into the enigma of Tobias Hawthorne, Avery realizes that there is more to her inheritance than meets the eye. She must solve the puzzles he left behind to understand the reason behind her newfound fortune.
The Inheritance Games is an engaging mystery and features a thrilling love triangle that adds depth to the story. Avery finds herself at the center of a complicated romantic entanglement involving two of Tobias Hawthorne’s grandsons, Jameson and Grayson. As Avery tries to unravel the mysteries of the Hawthorne family, her heart becomes increasingly divided between the two charming brothers, creating a love triangle that adds tension and intrigue to the novel.
Shatter Me
By Tahereh Mafi
Shatter Me is a beloved young adult dystopian novel that follows Juliette Ferrars, who has a deadly touch that has led to her being isolated and tortured for three years. But when she’s released, she’s recruited by a rebel group to fight against a corrupt government that has left the world unrecognizable. As Juliette struggles to embrace her powers and destiny, she’s also forced to confront her complicated past and decide her fate.
Juliette is torn between Adam Kent, her friend with secrets of his own, and Warner, the charming yet ruthless leader of the government’s army. As Juliette fights for her freedom and the fate of her world, she must also navigate her complicated relationships with these two men. Mafi’s writing style brings the intensity of the characters’ emotions to life, making the love triangle a standout element of the novel.
Iron Widow
By Xiran Jay Zhao
Iron Widow is an enthralling young adult novel set in an alternate history China where powerful mecha robots called Chrysalises are piloted by elite warriors known as Pilots. Wu Zetian, a teenage girl determined to avenge her sister’s death, overcomes gender discrimination and societal pressure to train as a Pilot. But, her desire for revenge becomes complicated when she falls in love with her co-pilot, Li Shimin, and uncovers the truth about her sister’s death.
The captivating love triangle in Iron Widow adds extra tension and complexity to the plot. Wu Zetian is torn between her feelings for Li Shimin and the mysterious and dangerous Pilot, Shen Jinyang. As Wu Zetian battles the Huaxia Empire and navigates her own heart, readers are left wondering whom she will ultimately choose. Zhao expertly crafts a romantic subplot that explores love, loyalty, and sacrifice themes.