Romantasy Reigns: Genre’s Rise in Literature and Hearts
Romantasy, a fusion of romance and fantasy, is captivating readers worldwide, dominating bookshelves and sparking a cultural phenomenon. This genre’s popularity is evident in the millions of books sold and the fervent communities that have sprung up around it.
The Romantasy World Unveiled
Romantasy fiction typically features human heroines transported into fantastical realms, where they encounter magical creatures and navigate blossoming love amidst thrilling circumstances. These stories often involve a suitor who is older or immortal. The heroines are commonly depicted as beautiful and capable.
“It’s wish fulfilment,”
—Mila Taylor, Librarian
The genre’s appeal extends beyond just romance; it also emphasizes friendships, loyalty, and community. It’s gaining popularity even among those who don’t usually read, incorporating elements of folklore to blend old and new worlds seamlessly.
A Growing Literary Movement
Several authors, including Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros, are at the forefront of this genre, achieving enormous sales. Rebecca Yarros‘s novel, *Onyx Storm*, sold 2.7 million copies in its first week. The trend has also captured the attention of Irish authors, with names like Catherine Doyle and Sarah Rees Brennan signing deals for their own romantasy novels.
Chloe Horgan, 16, from Dublin, observes that the genre is extremely popular among her peers, adding layers and easy-to-read stories. Bookshops around the country are carving out specific sections for romantasy, recognizing its increasing demand.
Why This Genre Resonates
Molly O’Neill, a bookseller, notes that publishers are actively promoting romantasy titles. Catherine Doyle suggests the genre’s success is because it draws on beloved fairytale tropes, making them more accessible to contemporary readers. She states that escapist literature is becoming more popular.
This genre has gained a significant following among women aged 20–40, and also teenagers. The simplicity of these stories may be a strength, creating a community and binding readers together. This genre’s appeal has led to the formation of book clubs and gatherings. Book sales in this genre have grown by over 20% in the past year (Statista 2024), demonstrating its enduring appeal.
Mila Taylor found solace in fiction while adjusting to life in Ireland and now founded the Wisteria book club to foster community. She defends the romantasy genre against criticism and believes it offers readers a fulfilling experience.
“Fiction helps you develop empathy,” Taylor mentions. “It helps you look at things from a different point of view. Romantasy has that extra something to it that makes it more wish fulfilment, but also fun. It’s already becoming mainstream and hopefully more accepted.”
Nikki Shields, a member of the book club, appreciates the genre’s escapism, while recognizing its tendency towards formulaic writing. For those in the genre, literary gatherings provide invaluable connections in a digital world.