After the announcement of these two new adaptations, I know which of theromantasyseries BookTok is obsessed with should be turned into a movie or show next.The romantasy genre continues to stay strong on BookTok in 2025, withAmazon’s Best Romantasy Books of 2025 listshowcasing just how quickly the genre is growing through highlighting the key new arrivals and continuations that have taken the platform by storm. That rise has not just been on BookTok, as several studios have now begun to dive deep into the genre to make adaptations of various popular romantasy series.
Amazon started the trend through its announcement of itsFourth Wingshow in 2023, but the romantasy genre has truly come into the spotlight outside of BookTok through the announcement ofDivine Rival’sandPowerless’adaptationsin June 2025. This will likely allow other BookTok staples that have some of those same traits, from magical creatures tounique magic systems, to also get their chance to shine onscreen, demonstrating the versatility of the genre. One specific romantasy BookTok series, though, would be a perfect follow-up to these latest entries in the adaptation race:The Shepherd Kingduology by Rachel Gillig.
The Shepherd King Duology Needs An Adaptation After Divine Rivals & Powerless
Divine Rival’s Adaptation Proves That Duologies Are Just As Desired By Studios
Gillig’s romantasy duology needs an adaptation afterDivine RivalsandPowerlessnow that studios have showcased an interest in smaller completed series.PowerlessandDivine Rival’s adaptationscame shortly afterPowerlesscompleted its story inFearless,joining Rebecca Ross' work in the finished series sphere of BookTok. ThoughDivine Rivalsis set to get a prequel in September,both announcements break the current trend of adaptations that solely focus on ongoing series or series that get a lot of attention on book platformslikeFourth WingandA Court of Thorns & Roses.
The Shepherd Kingduology could, then, easily be picked up for an adaptation next as its completed story could complement a movie format like Paramount’sDivine Rivalsproject.Gillig’s popularity could also help push this, as her new duology,The Knight and The Moth,has gotten the attention of audiences who may find her earlier worksand reignite interest in them. Combined with these two is the fact thatThe Shepherd Kingduology has both well-known romantasy tropes and unique aspects that would make it just as viable an option for the screen as other BookTok picks.
Why Rachel Gillig’s Romantasy Duology Is Perfect For The Screen
The Shepherd King’s Magic System & Aesthetics Set It Apart From Other Series
The Shepherd Kingduology’s magic system, gothic atmosphere, and male protagonists make this romantasy series the perfect next BookTok project to put onscreen.The Shepherd King’s magic system, unlike other series, does not rely on inherent magic or bonding with other creatures.Rather, magic comes from the Providence cards, each one having its own unique use that both aids and debilitates its userafter too much exposure. Those obstacles and the race to obtain the cards are a fascinating and easily adaptable central point of the story, as it tells of a new kind of magical drama.
The Shepherd Kingduology’s second and final book,Two Twisted Crowns,was published in October 2023.
The series' gothic atmosphere would also be a big draw for audiences, especially as it is able to take the more conventional ideas from the romantasy genre and twist them in fun ways. Much like other romantasy series,Gillig’s works have a vaguely medieval feel, but the misty atmosphere and creeping monsters add a new layerto the otherwise conventional alternate setting. This twist would really let the series stand apart through the striking visuals within the story while still giving audiences who may not be as well-versed in the romantasy genre something familiar.
That charm, when paired with the series' darker twists, would truly help sell this romantasy adaptation, giving this hauntingly beautiful story the chance it deserves to come out from the dark.
Of course, a romantasy story is only as strong as its romance, and bothRavyn Yew and Elm Rowan fromThe Shepherd Kingduologywould very likely deliver on that aspect. Both characters carry a similar charm to other book boyfriends as well as popular male leads already on the screen,such as the three eldest Bridgerton brothersfrom the Netflix show. That charm, when paired with the series' darker twists, would truly help sell thisromantasyadaptation, giving this hauntingly beautiful story the chance it deserves to come out from the dark.
