If you've been anywhere near BookTok or the fantasy book community, you've likely seen Alex Aster's The Lightlark Saga dominating recommendation lists. This dark fantasy romance series has captured readers worldwide with its deadly games, cursed rulers, and slow-burn romance that will keep you turning pages well past midnight. Whether you're searching for your next romantasy obsession or looking for books similar to A Court of Thorns and Roses, The Lightlark Saga deserves a spot on your reading list.
The series currently consists of four main novels:
Lightlark (2022)
Nightbane (2023)
Skyshade (2024)
Crowntide (2025)
Plus companion novellas told from the perspectives of the two leading men. Each instalment builds upon a richly imagined world where six realms exist under devastating curses, and only one ruler's sacrifice during the Centennial competition might break them free.
Lightlark (Book 1) – Spoiler-Free Overview
Lightlark introduces us to Isla Crown, ruler of the Wildling realm, who has spent her entire life hiding a deadly secret. Every hundred years, the six cursed realms of Lightlark send their rulers to compete in the Centennial – a deadly game where only one can survive, and the winner might finally break the curses that have plagued their people for centuries.
Isla arrives on the mysterious island of Lightlark prepared for betrayal, political scheming, and dangerous alliances. What she doesn't expect is to become entangled with two powerful rulers: the cold and calculating Grim, king of Nightshade, and the golden-hearted Oro, king of Sunling. As the competition unfolds, Isla must navigate deadly challenges, uncover ancient secrets, and decide whom she can trust – all whilst hiding her own dark truth.
Alex Aster crafts a world brimming with elemental magic, political intrigue, and a slow-burn romance that will have readers absolutely hooked. The novel blends elements of competition fantasy like The Hunger Games with the romantic tension of Sarah J. Maas's beloved series.
Why You'll Love Lightlark
Deadly competition fantasy: If you love books with high-stakes games, political alliances, and survival elements, Lightlark delivers all of this in spades
Love triangle done right: The romance features two compelling love interests with distinct personalities, creating genuine tension about whom Isla should choose
Morally grey characters: Every ruler has secrets and hidden agendas, keeping readers guessing about true allegiances throughout
Fast-paced plot with shocking twists: Alex Aster packs the story with reveals that will genuinely surprise you
Unique magic system: Six distinct realms each possess different elemental powers, from Starlings who wield the stars to Wildlings connected to nature
Perfect for ACOTAR fans: The combination of fae-adjacent fantasy, romantic tension, and strong female protagonist will appeal to Sarah J. Maas readers
BookTok sensation: Join millions of readers who've fallen in love with this viral fantasy series
Nightbane (Book 2) – Spoiler-Free Overview
Following the earth-shattering revelations of Lightlark, Nightbane continues Isla's story as she grapples with the consequences of the Centennial. Everything she thought she knew has been turned upside down, and the choices she made have altered the fate of all six realms.
In this darker sequel, Isla must confront new threats, deeper betrayals, and the growing conflict between light and darkness – both in her world and within herself. The romantic tension intensifies as relationships are tested and new alliances form. Readers can expect more of the twists and emotional gut-punches that made the first book so compelling, alongside expanded world building that delves deeper into the history and magic of Lightlark.
Why You'll Love Nightbane
Darker themes and higher stakes: The sequel raises the intensity with more complex conflicts and emotional depth
Character development: Watch Isla evolve as she faces impossible choices and discovers new facets of her power
Expanded world building: Learn more about the six realms, their histories, and the origins of the curses
Intensified romance: The slow-burn continues to build with swoon-worthy moments and heartbreaking tension
Plot twists galore: Alex Aster continues to subvert expectations with shocking revelations
Fan-favourite instalment: Many readers consider Nightbane the strongest book in the series
Skyshade (Book 3) – Spoiler-Free Overview
Skyshade raises the stakes even higher as Isla faces her greatest challenges yet. After the devastating events of Nightbane, she must navigate an increasingly dangerous world where nothing is as it seems and trust becomes the ultimate currency.
This third instalment expands the universe beyond Lightlark itself, introducing new realms and ancient threats that put everything Isla loves at risk. The love triangle reaches a critical point, and readers are left on the edge of their seats as the battle between light and darkness intensifies.
Why You'll Love Skyshade
Expanded universe: Discover new realms and dimensions beyond the island of Lightlark
Rising tensions: The romantic conflict reaches new heights as Isla confronts her feelings
New villains: Ancient enemies emerge that threaten everything the characters have fought for
Cliffhanger ending: Prepare yourself for an ending that will leave you desperate for the next book
Action-packed: Non-stop adventure and high-stakes confrontations throughout
Crowntide (Book 4) – Spoiler-Free Overview
Released in December 2025, Crowntide continues The Lightlark Saga with even higher stakes. After the shocking conclusion of Skyshade, Isla Crown finds herself in Skyshade – a realm unlike anything she's encountered before – facing her most insidious ancestor, Lark.
Meanwhile, Grim and Oro must put aside their rivalry to work together in their desperate quest to bring Isla home. Old wounds are reopened, new alliances are forged, and the fate of every realm hangs in the balance. Crowntide delivers the long-awaited moment where Isla finally makes her choice – but nothing in Lightlark comes without consequences.
Why You'll Love Crowntide
The choice is made: Isla finally chooses between Grim and Oro – the moment fans have been waiting for
Grim and Oro team up: Watch the two rivals work together, leading to compelling character dynamics
New antagonists: Fresh villains bring new threats that raise the stakes even higher
Emotional payoffs: Character arcs develop in satisfying and heart-wrenching ways
Sets up the finale: Crowntide builds towards an epic conclusion in the upcoming fifth book
Grim and Oro: The Companion Novellas
Released in September 2025, Grim and Oro: Dueling Crowns Edition is a stunning companion volume containing two novellas told from the perspectives of the series' leading men. Available as a premium collector's edition with a dual-sided design, stencilled edges, and exclusive artwork, this book gives readers unprecedented insight into both love interests.
Oro's novella covers key moments from Lightlark through his eyes, revealing his backstory, his friendship with Grim before the curses, and his growing feelings for Isla. Grim's novella retells events from Nightbane from his perspective, diving deep into his obsessive love for Isla and revealing the dark history that shaped him into the ruler he is today. The novellas are also available separately for those who want to read just one perspective.
Why You'll Love Grim and Oro
Dual perspectives: Experience the story through both Grim and Oro's eyes
Backstory reveals: Learn about the friendship between Grim and Oro before the curses tore them apart
The yearning: Swoon-worthy romantic tension from both perspectives
Beautiful collector's edition: Gorgeous packaging with sprayed edges and exclusive illustrations
Essential for Crowntide: Context from these novellas is referenced in Book 4
Will There Be More Lightlark Books?
Yes! The Lightlark Saga is confirmed to continue with a fifth book. Based on the ending of Crowntide, there is still more story to tell, and fans are eagerly anticipating what many believe will be the final instalment. Speculation suggests the fifth book may be titled Heartblade, though this hasn't been officially confirmed by Alex Aster or her publisher.
Alex Aster remains active on social media, particularly TikTok, where she frequently engages with fans and teases upcoming content. Given the series' massive popularity and dedicated fanbase, readers can expect announcements about the fifth book in the coming months. Follow Alex Aster's accounts for the latest updates on release dates and cover reveals.
The Lightlark Saga Reading Order
For the best reading experience, follow this order:
Lightlark (Book 1, 2022)
Nightbane (Book 2, 2023)
Skyshade (Book 3, 2024)
Grim and Oro (Companion novellas, September 2025) – Read before Crowntide for best context
Crowntide (Book 4, December 2025)
Final Thoughts: Is The Lightlark Saga Worth Reading?
The Lightlark Saga has earned its place as one of the most talked-about fantasy romance series in recent years for good reason. Alex Aster has created an immersive world filled with complex characters, satisfying romance, and a plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. Whether you're a longtime fantasy reader or new to the romantasy genre, this series offers everything that makes the genre so beloved: escapism, romance, magic, and characters you'll genuinely root for.
With four main novels now available and a fifth on the way, there's never been a better time to dive into the cursed world of Lightlark. Whether you're Team Grim or Team Oro, one thing's for certain – Isla Crown's story will capture your heart. Grab your copy, settle in for a binge-read, and prepare to fall in love with this viral fantasy phenomenon.
Books Like The Lightlark Saga: What to Read Next
If you've devoured The Lightlark Saga and need your next romantasy fix, these similar books should be at the top of your reading list:
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas – The quintessential romantasy series featuring fae realms, slow-burn romance, and a fierce female protagonist. If you loved the romantic tension in Lightlark, ACOTAR is essential reading.
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros – A dragon rider academy fantasy with enemies-to-lovers romance and deadly stakes. This BookTok phenomenon shares Lightlark's blend of action, romance, and political intrigue.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins – For readers who loved the deadly competition elements of the Centennial, this classic dystopian series delivers high-stakes survival games and complex political rebellion.
Caraval by Stephanie Garber – A magical game where nothing is as it seems, featuring sisters, secrets, and romantic intrigue. The mysterious, game-based plot will appeal to Lightlark fans.
Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco – Dark fantasy romance featuring witches, demons, and morally grey love interests. Perfect for readers who enjoyed the darker elements and romantic tension in The Lightlark Saga.
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black – A mortal girl in a dangerous fae court, scheming royals, and an enemies-to-lovers romance. Fans of political intrigue and complex relationships will love this series.
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross – An epistolary romantasy with a god-war backdrop, featuring slow-burn romance and beautiful prose. Ideal for readers who appreciate the romantic elements of Lightlark.
Powerless by Lauren Roberts – A Hunger Games-meets-romantasy tale with deadly trials, forbidden romance, and twists that will keep you guessing. Another BookTok favourite that shares Lightlark's appeal.
Books Featured in This Article
Lightlark
by Alex Aster
THREE MILLION SERIES COPIES SOLD! An instant #1 national bestseller--soon to be a major motion picture. #BookTok phenomenon and award-winning author Alex Aster delivers readers a masterfully written, utterly gripping YA fantasy novel Welcome to the Centennial. Every 100 years, the island of Lightlark appears to host the Centennial, a deadly game that only the rulers of six realms are invited to play. The invitation is a summons--a call to embrace victory and ruin, baubles and blood. The Centennial offers the six rulers one final chance to break the curses that have plagued their realms for centuries. Each ruler has something to hide. Each realm's curse is uniquely wicked. To destroy the curses, one ruler must die. Isla Crown is the young ruler of Wildling--a realm of temptresses cursed to kill anyone they fall in love with. They are feared and despised, and are counting on Isla to end their suffering by succeeding at the Centennial. To survive, Isla must lie, cheat, and betray...even as love complicates everything. Filled with secrets, deception, romance, and twists worthy of the darkest thrillers, Lightlark is a must-read for fans of legendary fantasy writers Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo.
Nightbane
by Alex Aster
THREE MILLION SERIES COPIES SOLD! The seductive and action-packed follow-up to Alex Aster's instant #1 New York Times, #1 Wall Street Journal, and internationally bestselling novel, Lightlark Isla Crown has secured the love of two powerful rulers and broken the curses that plagued the six realms for centuries, but few know the true origins of her powers. Now, in the wake of a crushing betrayal, Isla finds herself hungry for distraction, preferring to frequent Lightlark's seductive haunts instead of embracing her duties as the newly crowned leader of two separate realms. Worse, her fellow rulers haven't ceded victory quietly, and there are others in Isla's midst who don't believe her ascent to power was earned. As certain death races toward Lightlark and secrets from the past begin to unravel, Isla must weigh her responsibility to her people against the whims of the most dangerous traitor of all: her heart. Alex Aster's intricate world expands after the riveting culmination of the Centennial games, delving more deeply into Isla's memories of her past, as her future hurtles toward two possible fates. Filled with secrets, deception, romance, and twists worthy of the darkest thrillers, The Lightlark Sagais a must-read for fans of legendary fantasy writers Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo.
Skyshade
by Alex Aster
THREE MILLION SERIES COPIES SOLD! The pulse-pounding third novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling series The Lightlark Saga, by acclaimed author and #BookTok sensation Alex Aster Love kills kingdoms... Back in Grim's castle on Nightshade, Isla is reeling in the wake of a brutal battle and the devastating truths it exposed. Her future--and the fate of the world--now hinge on a heart split in two. Past Isla, who fell in love with the ruler of Nightshade, fights to resist feelings she considers treasonous. The Isla of the present, who has seen the ruin her powers can cause, will do anything to save Lightlark and its king. As the line between enemy and friend is tested, Isla is more desperate than ever to understand the oracle's final prophecy and change her heartrending fate. But a storm is coming. And with it, a long-buried evil greater than anything the realms have faced before. With the clock ticking on her destiny and the survival of two warring kingdoms hinging on her own shattered heart, Isla Crown will either save the world--or destroy it. Filled with secrets, deception, romance, and twists worthy of the darkest thrillers, The Lightlark Sagais a must-read for fans of legendary fantasy writers Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo.
Crowntide
by Alex Aster
THREE MILLION SERIES COPIES SOLD! The highly anticipated fourth novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling Lightlark Saga, by acclaimed author and #BookTok sensation Alex Aster Some worlds deserve to be destroyed . . . Isla Crown has charted a new destiny and leapt into the unknown, determined to defeat her insidious ancestor, Lark, no matter the cost. But Skyshade is nothing like she anticipated, and she'll have to use all of her skills just to survive, let alone end Lark for good. Meanwhile, Grim and Oro would sooner set fire to their own kingdoms than leave Isla stranded on a path toward certain death. But getting her back will involve forging an alliance--if they can find a way to forgive their long history of betrayals. The key to Isla's return--and the fate of the realms--lies close to her heart. But in the face of her most powerful enemy yet, will Isla be able to reconcile her past in order to carve a future of her own making? Filled with secrets, deception, romance, and twists worthy of the darkest thrillers, The Lightlark Saga is a must-read for fans of legendary fantasy writers Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo.
Grim and Oro: Dueling Crowns Edition (a Lightlark Saga)
by Alex Aster
Two brand-new romantasy novels bound into one deluxe volume written from the perspectives of Grim and Oro, from #1 New York Times-bestselling author and #BookTok sensation Alex Aster True love knows no bounds. This premium, dual-sided volume includes two complete novels bound together to create one can't-miss collector's item. The first novel--told from Grim's perspective--gives readers insight into his past: the motivations and events that cemented his fate as Isla's eventual love interest. The second is narrated by Oro and offers a window into his complex identity: that of a king torn between desire for justice and passion for the woman he loves more than anything. Grim and Oro: Dueling Crowns Edition includes key moments from the rulers' love stories with Isla, expanded upon in their own voices. This gorgeous dual-sided Lightlark companion book from #1 New York Times bestselling author Alex Aster contains two full novels bound together in one breathtaking package that boasts a suite of premium features: Dual-sided slipcase with two unique cover designs Die cuts and foil stamping in two colors on both sides of slipcase Full-color case with illustrations on both sides Full-color, stenciled edges Full-color endpapers with never-before-seen illustrations Grim and Oro is certain to thrill readers and test allegiances, leaving new and longtime fans second-guessing who they're rooting for in the breathtaking battle for Isla's heart.