Looking for young adult romance books that deliver all the emotional tension and magical worldbuilding without the spice? Whether you’re a teen reader, a parent, or just someone who enjoys clean stories with rich fantasy and heart-fluttering romance, this list is for you. These books feature sweet love stories, strong characters, and immersive plots—often set in enchanted lands or built around fairy tale twists. Perfect for fans of slow-burn romance, noble quests, and tender moments that don’t cross into mature territory.
1. An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson
This standalone fantasy romance follows Isobel, a mortal artist renowned for painting portraits of the fae. When she paints human sorrow in the eyes of a powerful fae prince, she’s swept into his world—a land where danger lurks behind every beautiful façade. As they journey through the treacherous fae realm, a slow, subtle romance develops. The world is lush and immersive, with a strong heroine and an emphasis on art, beauty, and emotional depth.
2. Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson
In a world where magical grimoires whisper and writhe, Elisabeth has been raised in one of the Great Libraries. When a sabotage leads to chaos, she teams up with a sorcerer named Nathaniel to uncover a conspiracy. What begins as an uneasy alliance turns into a charming and gentle romance. The story is full of magic, danger, and banter, with no explicit content—perfect for fans of magical libraries and enemies-to-allies love stories.
3. The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald
A timeless classic with fairy tale elements, this story follows Princess Irene and a miner boy named Curdie as they face strange and shadowy goblins. Though the romance is incredibly subtle and innocent, there’s a sweet undercurrent of affection and loyalty between the characters. This book leans more toward fantasy and adventure, but its warm, hopeful tone makes it a great pick for younger or more sensitive readers.
4. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
A delightful twist on the Cinderella tale, Ella Enchanted follows a strong-willed girl cursed with obedience. Determined to break her curse, she embarks on a journey filled with humor, magic, and growth. The romance between Ella and Prince Char is slow, respectful, and full of charm. It’s a classic for a reason—full of heart, courage, and clever writing.
5. The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale
Based on a Grimm fairy tale, this is the story of Princess Ani, who must claim her identity after she’s betrayed and forced into hiding. Along the way, she discovers a magical ability to communicate with animals and finds quiet strength in herself. The romance is soft, subtle, and emotionally satisfying, woven into a beautifully crafted world with deep themes of identity and trust.
6. Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith
A lesser-known gem, this duology (usually published in one volume) follows Meliara, a feisty noblewoman fighting against a corrupt king. The first half is full of political intrigue and rebellion; the second half is more introspective, focusing on court life and a very slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance. The love story is clean but full of emotional payoff, making it a rewarding read for those who enjoy clever characters and gradual trust-building.
7. Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
When the girls of a remote mountain village are selected to train at a princess academy, Miri, small but smart, finds herself questioning everything she’s been taught. The book has themes of friendship, learning, and self-worth, with a light and innocent romance that blooms naturally. The setting is unique and the writing lyrical—perfect for those who love empowering stories with just a touch of romance.
8. Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow by Jessica Day George
A retelling of the Nordic fairy tale East of the Sun and West of the Moon, this story follows a brave young woman who journeys to a mysterious palace and faces magical trials to save a prince cursed by an evil enchantment. The romance grows slowly through acts of loyalty and sacrifice, all wrapped in a richly described fantasy world. There’s a strong fairy tale atmosphere and a sweet, clean love story at its core.
9. Entwined by Heather Dixon
This darkly whimsical retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses follows Azalea, the eldest of twelve sisters, who discovers a magical passage in their mourning palace that leads to nightly dances—and darker secrets. As the danger grows, so does her connection to a steady, quietly heroic figure. The romance is tender and restrained, with a strong emphasis on family, duty, and healing from grief.
10. To Best the Boys by Mary Weber
In a town where girls are expected to follow traditional roles, Rhen Whitlock disguises herself as a boy to enter a deadly competition meant for young men. The book combines mystery, science, and a dash of fantasy, with a strong feminist message and a clean romance that blooms through mutual respect. The love interest is kind, supportive, and a true partner—making the romance both refreshing and empowering.