10+ Best Fantasy Romance Books for 12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect blend of magic and heart-fluttering tales for a young reader? Look no further! Our curated selection of Fantasy Romance Books for 12-Year-Olds offers enchanting stories that are just right for tweens eager to dive into worlds of adventure and affection. Whether they're long-time fans or just beginning their journey into this captivating genre, we've got something that will spark their imagination and keep their hearts racing. Keep reading to discover our top picks!

Fun Fantasy Romance Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: This novel reimagines the Cinderella tale, featuring Ella who is cursed with the "gift" of obedience. She embarks on a quest to find her fairy godmother and break the curse.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a charming and empowering read that promotes themes of self-reliance and courage. The fantasy elements are fun and imaginative, making it a great gateway into the genre.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love fairy tales with a twist and strong female protagonists.

• The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Two best friends, Sophie and Agatha, find themselves on opposite sides of a battle when they are taken to an enchanted school where heroes and villains are trained.
  • Why we recommend this book: It flips traditional fairy tale tropes on their heads and explores the gray areas between good and evil, making it a thought-provoking and engaging read.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy stories about friendship, magic schools, and challenging the status quo.

• Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: Miri lives on a mountain where, for generations, her ancestors have quarried stone. When the king's priests decree that her small village is the home of the future princess, all eligible girls must attend a newly created academy to prepare for royal life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of classic fairy tales with modern themes of education and empowerment. Plus, it's a great example of how determination and learning can change one's destiny.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are drawn to stories of unexpected adventure and self-discovery.

• Fairest by Gail Carson Levine
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: In the kingdom of Ayortha, Aza, the adopted daughter of innkeepers, longs to be beautiful but instead she is endowed with an amazing voice. Her singing captures the attention of a prince and a dangerous new queen.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches important lessons about inner beauty and self-acceptance in a world obsessed with appearances. Aza's journey is filled with music and challenges that keep the pages turning.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about overcoming adversity and finding one's voice literally and metaphorically.

• The Two Princesses of Bamarre by Gail Carson Levine
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Romance
  • Synopsis: Princess Addie is fearful and shy. Her sister Meryl is brave and daring. When Meryl falls ill to a terrible plague, Addie must embark on a perilous quest to find a cure and save her sister.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a tale of courage and sisterly love, packed with adventure and fantasy elements that make it a thrilling read.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love stories about quests and the bonds between siblings.

Educational Fantasy Romance Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: This enchanting story follows a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally infused with moon magic as a baby. Raised by a witch, a tiny dragon, and a mysterious swamp monster, Luna must learn to control her powers as she grows up.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, empathy, understanding of complex narratives
  • Why we recommend this book: It's beautifully written and combines magic with deep emotional themes, making it both captivating and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love magical stories and strong, complex characters.

• The Wide-Awake Princess by E.D. Baker
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: In this twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty tale, Princess Annie is immune to magic and must save her magically sleeping sister with the help of a charming prince.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, creativity, understanding of fairy tale adaptations
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fresh take on traditional fairy tales with a proactive heroine and a plot full of adventures.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy retellings of classic stories with a twist.

• Frogkisser! by Garth Nix
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: Princess Anya goes on a quest to find the ingredients for a magical lip balm needed to kiss a frog prince back into human form, encountering numerous quirky characters along the way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Literary analysis, understanding of satire and humor, narrative skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous adventure that cleverly subverts fairy tale tropes while delivering a fun and heartwarming story.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate humor mixed with fantasy and romance.

• Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: Tired of traditional princess duties, Princess Cimorene volunteers to work for a dragon, finding adventure and true companionship in the process.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Independence, strategic thinking, genre understanding
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an empowering story that breaks stereotypes and features a strong, intelligent female lead.
  • Perfect for: Those who like their fantasy with a dose of feminism and wit.

• Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: In this middle-grade novel, Mattie, an eighth grader, navigates the complexities of school drama and a crush on a girl while starring in a school production of Romeo and Juliet.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, understanding of relationships, literary appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the drama of middle school with the timeless themes of Shakespeare, all wrapped in a sweet story of young love.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are exploring their identity and enjoy theatrical settings.

Challenging Fantasy Romance Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Seraphina by Rachel Hartman
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: In a world where dragons and humans coexist in an uneasy peace, Seraphina Dombegh, a gifted musician, hides a dangerous secret concerning her dragon heritage. She becomes embroiled in a royal murder mystery that threatens to reignite long-standing hostilities.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex political intrigue and a sophisticated take on identity and diversity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a deep, thoughtful narrative with a unique twist on dragon lore, encouraging readers to think critically about prejudice and reconciliation.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy intricate world-building and morally complex characters.

• The Perilous Gard by Elizabeth Marie Pope
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
  • Synopsis: In 1558 England, Kate Sutton is banished to a remote castle known as the Perilous Gard, where she encounters mysterious rites and the presence of the Fairy Folk. Her courage and intelligence are tested in ways she never imagined.
  • Why this book is challenging: It blends historical detail with complex themes of sacrifice and survival.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a gripping blend of history and fantasy that challenges perceptions of heroism and villainy.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a strong female lead and a richly woven tapestry of folklore and history.

• Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Marillier
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: Five sisters who visit a magical realm through a portal in their room must navigate the challenges that arise when one of them falls in love with a creature of the Other Kingdom, leading to consequences in both worlds.
  • Why this book is challenging: It incorporates elements of traditional folklore and complex character dynamics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a magical escape with strong themes of sisterhood and loyalty interwoven with romance.
  • Perfect for: Those who love enchanting tales with a strong sense of familial bonds and mystical adventures.

• The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Romance
  • Synopsis: Nathaniel, a young magician's apprentice, summons the powerful djinni Bartimaeus to aid him in a risky revenge plot against a ruthless magician, but their partnership proves dangerous and complex.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features a sophisticated plot with political intrigue and a detailed magical system.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure with witty dialogue and a dynamic relationship between characters that captivates and entertains.
  • Perfect for: Young readers looking for a mix of humor, magic, and a touch of romance in a densely plotted fantasy.

• Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: Young countess Meliara swears to her dying father that she and her brother will defend their people from the greedy king. The battle leads her into adventures that involve espionage, a potential romance, and endless danger.
  • Why this book is challenging: It combines a complex plot of rebellion with nuanced character development.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling tale of courage and resistance, with a strong female protagonist who grows significantly throughout the story.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a blend of action, strategy, and evolving romantic elements.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the magical world of fantasy romance books, you're in for a treat. But how can you make the most out of your reading experience, especially when you're just 12 years old? Here are some fun exercises to help you develop good reading habits while enjoying your fantasy romance adventures.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Keeps you consistent and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and makes your reading time special.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and retention of the story.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book evokes in you.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Draw a map or timeline of the events in the story.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the setting and sequence of events, enhancing comprehension.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to mark important events or characters.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Guess what might happen next after a chapter ends.
  • How it helps: Encourages active thinking and engagement with the story.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check them as you read to see if you were right.

• Character Connection
  • What it is: Choose a character you relate to and write about why.
  • How it helps: Deepens your connection to the story and enhances empathy.
  • Tips: Consider how their experiences or feelings are similar or different from yours.

• Book Review Blog
  • What it is: Start a blog to write reviews of the books you read.
  • How it helps: Helps with critical thinking and expressing your opinions clearly.
  • Tips: Include both what you liked and didn’t like about the book.

These exercises aren't just about improving your reading skills; they're about making your journey through each book more enjoyable and immersive. Remember, the key is to have fun with it. So, grab your book, find your cozy corner, and let the adventure begin!