Baby Names Inspired By Romantasy Books For Parents Who Are Avid Readers

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When thinking about naming your baby, it's natural to draw inspiration from things you hold close to your heart. That might mean perusing your family tree or looking at baby names inspired by legendary '60s models if you have an idol you looked up to. While Jean Shrimpton and Peggy Moffitt both have classic first names, you may want something a bit more whimsical and romantic. That's where romantasy books come in, and if you're a fan of the genre, you know there are some uncommon choices.

Many authors of the romantasy genre, which is a blend of romance and fantasy, create lyrical-sounding names, which means you won't find many other kids with the same first moniker. "The Baby Name Wizard" author, Laura Wattenberg, shared with NPR, "Over the past two generations, there's been a revolution in the way American parents name their children. It used to be about fitting in, so most parents would choose a name from a fairly limited set of typical baby names." She continued, "Today, the culture is more about standing out instead of fitting in, and the options are limitless. Everyone is pushing to be unique, to be creative." There's nothing more creative than pulling ideas from a fantastical, made-up realm, so if you're looking for an unusual name for your child, here are some romantasy-inspired options.

Romantasy readers everywhere have devoured "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros since its launch in 2023, and it remains one of the most popular books in the genre. With its long list of characters, there's no shortage of names to choose from, including the protagonist, Violet. The name can be associated with the flower or the color purple, which has royal roots. If you want to go that route, you can also choose from gorgeous baby girl names inspired by real-life princesses. Violet's mother Lilith is also a pretty pick and invokes a feeling of girl power, as does the name Rhiannon — a famous song of the same name by Fleetwood Mac about a free-spirited woman.

Xaden, Violet's love interest, could be a super strong contender for a boy's name, as it has an unusual spelling. According to Nameberry, its popularity grew in 2024, which was probably thanks to many romantasy book lovers. Dain is another unconventional name and a fun take on the more traditional spelling, "Dane." And, if you want to honor your Irish roots, Brennan and Liam are solid choices, with the latter being the most popular name in the United States in 2026.

Sarah J. Mass' 2015 novel "A Court of Thorns and Roses" takes place in the fairy world, so naturally, the names have to sound ethereal. The main character's name, Feyre (pronounced fay-ruh), is a derivative of the word "fairy," and could be a nice alternative to the more mainstream Farrah. Tamlin is a gender-neutral name you won't find too often, so that's also a unique route, as well as Lucien, which can be spelled "Lucienne" if you're having a girl.

If you want to make a statement, Rhysand is such a noble-sounding name of Welsh origin that means "enthusiasm" and "passion," which is perfect if you have a very active baby in your belly. For a less flowery version, Rhys is nice and succinct, but still holds a lot of power in one syllable. "A Court of Thorns and Roses" doesn't just have mystical names. Sprinkled in with the other characters are Alis and Elain, each different versions of vintage baby names you can make feel fresh.

2020 had a lot of great romantasy hits, with "From Blood and Ash" by Jennifer L. Armentrout being on the top of that list. The book, which takes place in an otherworldly realm, provides much inspo for fantasy-themed baby names. The protagonist, Penellaphe, is a fun switch-up from Penelope, with her nickname being Poppy, so that's an option aside from Penny. Her love interest Hawke has a very cool distinct name that means "wild," and it would be fitting if you're anticipating a boisterous boy.

While Casteel is usually a last name, the Prince of Atlantia's moniker is pretty majestic, as is Vikter, who was a guardian and father figure to Penellaphe. Another stately boy name in the book is Kieran, which has Irish roots and means "little dark one." It's gone up in popularity since 2024, so if you want to go with something more conventional, that's a great nod to Armentrout's novel.

Lovers of classic literature can totally look to Kaylie Smith's 2024 romantasy book "Phantasma" for baby name inspiration. For one, the main character's name is Ophelia, the same as the famous noblewoman in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Although her life ends in tragedy, she also symbolizes beauty and innocence. In "Phantasma," Ophelia is a strong female lead who uses her strengths and wit to save her sister, but is vulnerable enough to fall in love and have her happily ever after. Another literary reference bookworms may have noted is Ophelia's ghost cat, Poe, which is likely a nod to Edgar Allen Poe. While Poe may not be at the top of your list for a first name, we think Edgar or Allen are clever ways to celebrate the late poet.

Ophelia's sister Genevieve has such a romantic name that would be lovely for a girl. It also has roots in literature, as the name shows up in Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem "Love." If it's a mouthful for a young child, you can call her Gen, Jinny, or Evie. As with any novel, there has to be a villain, and that would be Sinclair, so if you love a bit of macabre in your life with a name that has ties to literary greats Upton Sinclair and Sinclair Lewis, that can be an option for a boy or a girl.