Three fantasy and romantasy titles recognized across seven award categories!
September 14, 2026 — City Owl Press is thrilled to announce that three of its authors and their books have earned a combined seven nominations in Romantasy Illustrated’s “Best Of” Awards.
The nominated titles and categories are:
The Kingdom of the Owl by Christine Drummond
Best Release of the Year
Claimed by Darkness by S.R. Hartley
Best of Romantasy
Best of Touch Her & Die
Labyrinthine by CJ Holmes
Best Fantasy
Best Romantasy
Best Retelling
Best Why Choose
“We are incredibly proud to see Christine Drummond, S.R. Hartley, and CJ Holmes recognized by Romantasy Illustrated,” said Tina Moss, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of City Owl Press. “Each of these authors has created a vivid, immersive story filled with unforgettable characters, powerful romance, and the kind of imaginative worldbuilding that keeps readers turning pages. Seven nominations across three books is an extraordinary honor, and we are so excited to celebrate this moment with them.”
The nominations reflect the range of romantic fantasy published by City Owl Press—from sweeping fantasy worlds and inventive re-tellings to fiercely devoted love interests and compelling why-choose romance.
About the Nominated Books
The Kingdom of the Owl by Christine Drummond
Nominated for Best Release of the Year, The Kingdom of the Owl delivers an immersive fantasy experience filled with romance, intrigue, and a richly imagined world.
Claimed by Darkness by S.R. Hartley
Nominated for Best of Romantasy and Best of Touch Her & Die, Claimed by Darkness combines dark fantasy, intense romance, and a dangerously devoted love interest.
Labyrinthine by CJ Holmes
With four nominations—including Best Fantasy, Best Romantasy, Best Retelling, and Best Why Choose—Labyrinthine offers readers an imaginative reimagining filled with magic, romance, and unforgettable relationships.
About City Owl Press
Founded in 2014, City Owl Press is an independent publisher dedicated to helping readers escape their world and get lost in ours. Publishing romance and speculative fiction, City Owl Press is committed to championing exceptional storytelling while building lasting partnerships with authors. Through innovative publishing, community engagement, and a passion for great books, City Owl Press continues to connect readers with unforgettable stories.
Escape Your World, Get Lost in Ours.
Media Contact:
City Owl Press
Email: info@cityowlpress.com
Website: https://cityowlpress.com