The literary landscape is constantly evolving. New genres are emerging and capturing the hearts of readers. But lately, there's been a distinct shift. A world where fantastical creatures brush shoulders with passionate love stories. Vampires and dystopian wastelands are set aside for the moment while books like Yarros’s Fourth Wing take BookTok by storm. But what exactly is it about these fantastical love stories? Why do they resonate so deeply with modern readers?
The allure of escape
Let's be honest, the real world can be a relentless cycle. Deadlines, commutes, the ever-present anxieties of modern life. Romantasy offers an enticing escape hatch. It transports readers to richly imagined worlds brimming with magic, mythical creatures, and breathtaking landscapes. Imagine soaring through starlit skies on the back of a majestic dragon alongside a daring warrior. Or traversing enchanted forests alongside a band of mischievous fae. These fantastical settings provide a welcome break from the ordinary. They allow us to lose ourselves in a world where the extraordinary is commonplace. The lines between reality and fiction blur. We navigate alongside the characters, experiencing the thrill of the unknown. Our minds are filled with the awe-inspiring beauty of these fantastical realms.
Empowered heroines and steamy romance
Gone are the days of damsels in distress waiting passively for a prince charming to save the day. Romantasy heroines are a breath of fresh air. They’re strong, independent women who take charge of their destinies. They wield powerful magic, command fierce loyalty, and don't shy away from a good fight. Think Sarah J. Maas' Feyre Archeron, defying a tyrannical Fae Lord, or Jennifer Armentrout's Poppy Bowman, a heroine forged in war who challenges societal expectations. This portrayal of female empowerment is a refreshing change from traditional romance tropes. It resonates with readers who crave heroines. Those who can save themselves (and maybe even the world) while still finding passionate love.
The romance in Romantasy isn't simply a subplot. It's a central force that drives the narrative. These love stories are passionate, often forbidden, and filled with electrifying tension. There's a healthy dose of sensuality, offering a satisfying blend of emotional connection and physical attraction. For example, the slow burn of a fire-wielding heroine and a brooding vampire prince, as in Sylvia Day's Crossfire series.
And finally, the book that’s gone viral for the enemies-to-lovers plot within its pages. Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing has a slow-burn romance between two dragon riders that are meant to be sworn enemies. Through the trials and tribulations of training, the pair gain respect for each other, while a conspiracy within the fantasy universe of the book is unravelling.
These romances feel earned. They’re developed amidst shared adventures and battles fought side-by-side. This makes the eventual happily ever after all the more satisfying.
A smorgasbord of influences
The beauty of Romantasy lies in its versatility. There’s something for everyone. For a high-octane adventure with a dash of forbidden love, look no further than Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse series. Alina Starkov, a young woman with a hidden power, embarks on a thrilling quest to save her war-torn kingdom.
For a heart-wrenching tale of star-crossed lovers amidst a political coup, read Alexandra Bracken's Passions of the Game series. A young woman with a mysterious past finds herself entangled in a dangerous game of love and power.
This genre seamlessly blends elements from fantasy, romance, and even historical fiction. This creates a narrative rich enough to satisfy a wide range of reader preferences.
Beyond the escape
Romantasy isn't just about escaping reality. It can also be a powerful tool for exploring deeper themes relevant to us. The fantastical elements often serve as metaphors for real-world struggles. They allow authors to tackle issues like societal pressures, self-acceptance, and the complexities of love and loss. For example, the prejudice faced by a half-human, half-Fae heroine in Sarah J. Maas' A Court of Thorns and Roses series can be seen as a reflection of the challenges faced by marginalised groups. The isolation and inner demons a siren grapples with in P.C. Cast's House of Night series can resonate with readers struggling with self-doubt and mental health issues.
A cultural phenomenon
The influence of Romantasy extends beyond the pages of a book. We see it reflected in popular television shows like SHADOW AND BONE and OUTLANDER. Both of these have captivated audiences with their epic stories and strong female leads.
The fashion industry has also taken note. Designers are incorporating elements like flowing gowns and intricate jewellery in their collections. This is reminiscent of fantastical realms. Even the theme of the Met Gala this year was around fairytale and fantasy. This widespread cultural impact speaks to the power of Romantasy and its ability to capture the imagination of a global audience.
A gateway for further reading
For many readers, Romantasy can serve as a gateway to exploring other genres. The fantastical elements might initially draw them in, but the underlying themes and character development can ignite a passion for reading that extends beyond the borders of Romantasy.
Readers who find themselves captivated by the world-building in a Romantasy novel might find themselves drawn to explore classic works of high fantasy or delve into science fiction epics. Similarly, the emotional core of a Romantasy love story might inspire readers to explore contemporary romance or historical fiction.
The future of Romantasy
Romantasy is here to stay. Readers love its ability to offer escapism, empowerment, and a healthy dose of happily ever after. As authors continue to push the boundaries of this genre, we can expect even more innovative and captivating stories. From the rise of diverse representation - with LGBTQ+ characters and heroes of colour taking centre stage - to the exploration of complex moral dilemmas within fantastical settings, Romantasy shows no signs of slowing down.
The rise of online communities dedicated to the genre, like BookTok and subreddit groups, further solidifies its place in the literary world. These online spaces foster a sense of community among readers, allowing them to discuss their favourite books, share recommendations, and celebrate the shared love for all things Romantasy.
