Adventures await in April
Whether it’s daring escapades, emotional journeys, or just plain wanderings, April is the month for adventure! Let’s embrace the thrill of the unknown with our top 5 book picks that celebrate the call to adventure. So, grab your fanciest cape, sign that contract (don’t be lame and late like Bilbo), and dive into these enchanting reads. Have you heard your call yet? Don’t worry, these characters sure have!
Gild
The Plated prisoner series
by Raven kennedy
Tropes: Enemies to lovers, captive to love, strong female lead
Spice Level: Moderate to High — this tale isn’t shy about exploring the steamy aspects of love and tension!
Six Crimson Cranes
by Elizabeth Lim
Tropes: Forbidden/hidden magic, forced proximity, family loyalty
In a spellbinding tale that wonderfully blends fairy tale magic with a coming-of-age story, Shiori, the princess, must flee for her life after her jealous stepmother curses her, turning her brothers into cranes. Armed with determination and a bit of wit, she seeks to break the curse and reclaim her kingdom, all while journeying through lush landscapes and charming encounters with a certain betrothed. Will she manage to break the spell without talking about it or will she risk her brothers’ paying the price?
Spice Level: None — it’s a sweet tale fit for all ages, focusing on love and family rather than romance.
Given
Bitten and Bound series
By Amy Pennza
Tropes: Enemies to lovers, MMF, hidden powers
When Given, the sister of the human king, is pledged as a blood slave to King Laurent of the vampire kingdom of Nor Doru, her survival means surrendering herself to both Laurent and his ruthless general, Varick. As she navigates the treachery of the vampire court, she discovers dark secrets and her own hidden abilities while caught between two powerful men. Will she become a pawn in the game of politics, or seize this moment to take control of her own destiny?
Spice Level: Moderate to High — expect steamy encounters and intense tension!
The Warrior Midwife
By E.P. Bali
Tropes: Enemies to lovers, girl disguised as boy, slow burn, who did this to you
When princess and midwife, Saraya, escapes an arranged marriage to the Dark Fae Prince, she uses her secret magic to help the women of her city. But everything changes when she’s forced to disguise herself as a male and attend a fae warrior academy alongside her arrogant fiancé. As she navigates this dangerous new world, she is slowly realizing that it is she who holds the power to shift the balance of fate. Join her quest to discover if she is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for her people.
Spice Level: Mild to Moderate — enjoy the tension and delightful moments as relationships grow!
Shadow and bone
by Leigh bardugo
Tropes: Love triangle, friends to lovers, chosen one
Step into the dangerous and enchanting world of Ravka, where Alina Starkov discovers her latent magical powers amidst the menacing threat of the haunting Shadow Fold. With an intriguing mix of magic, political intrigue, and a brooding love triangle, Alina’s adventure is one of self-discovery as she is torn between ambition and loyalty, temptation and familiarity. Will she surrender to the allure of lust and power, or stay true to the friend she’s always known?
Spice Level: Mild — there’s tantalizing tension, with moments that will have you fanning yourself, but it keeps things mostly on the PG side.
April is the perfect time for new adventures and self-discovery! Whether you’re traversing magical kingdoms or exploring the intricacies of the heart, these reads promise to whisk you away on amazing voyages. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up one (or all) of these grand tales and let your adventures begin!
Rose Ozüm
Content & Editorial Specialist
Rose is our talented content & editorial specalist and currently a graduate literature student at Utrecht University with a deep passion for all things Romantasy. She has a particular fondness for dragons and winged anti-heroes and loves discussing books over a nice cup of tea.