What is Romantasy?
Romantasy—a mashup of “romance” and “fantasy”—is exactly what it sounds like: a blend of sweeping love stories and epic fantasy elements. It’s the perfect genre for anyone who wants all the heart-fluttering romance of a love story, but with magic, mythical creatures, kingdoms at war, and high-stakes adventures thrown into the mix.
If you’ve ever read a book where a fearless warrior falls for a mysterious sorcerer, or a princess gets tangled up in a forbidden love while trying to save her kingdom, congratulations—you’ve already dabbled in romantasy!
What Makes Romantasy Different?
At its core, romantasy is a mix of romance and fantasy, but not necessarily in equal parts. Some stories lean more toward the fantasy side, where the romance is just one part of a grand, magical adventure (think epic world-building, political intrigue, and legendary quests). Others focus heavily on the romance, with magic or fantasy elements simply adding to the vibe.
Unlike paranormal romance, which is typically set in our world with supernatural elements (like vampires or witches hiding among us), romantasy usually takes place in completely different worlds. These are places with their own histories, magic systems, and often a touch of medieval or high-fantasy vibes. Think of castles, enchanted forests, ancient prophecies, and badass warrior queens.
Key Elements of Romantasy
- A Strong Romantic Plotline
The romance is front and center. While there’s plenty of fantasy action happening—battles, magic, maybe even a prophecy—the love story is crucial. Whether it’s enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, or fated mates, you can expect serious tension and swoon-worthy moments. - Epic Fantasy Worlds
Unlike a standard romance, these stories take place in rich, immersive worlds filled with magic, mythical creatures, and often some kind of war or political drama. These settings give the romance more depth, making it feel grand and legendary. - High Stakes & Adventure
The romance doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The characters are usually dealing with big, world-changing events—overthrowing a corrupt ruler, breaking an ancient curse, or saving their people from destruction. Their love story unfolds while they navigate these challenges. - Magic & Mythology
Whether it’s elemental magic, divine powers, or ancient magical artifacts, there’s always something mystical happening. Some romantasy books even pull from real-world mythology, adding a deeper layer to the world-building.
Popular Romantasy Tropes
Some tropes show up in romantasy all the time—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way:
- Enemies-to-Lovers – Two rivals forced to work together, sparks flying along the way (A Court of Thorns and Roses vibes).
- Forbidden Love – A romance that shouldn’t happen due to politics, magic, or rival factions.
- Fated Mates – A soul-deep connection that neither character can deny, even if they want to.
- Royalty & Power Struggles – One or both love interests are royalty, caught in a battle for the throne.
- Slow-Burn Romance – The kind of love story that builds over time, making every little touch or glance feel earth-shattering.
Popular Romantasy Books
If you’re new to the genre, here are some great starting points:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
- From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
- The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
- The Serpent & the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
- Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Why is Romantasy So Popular?
Because it gives the best of both worlds! You get a breathtaking love story, but also magic, adventure, and legendary battles. It’s romance that feels BIGGER—where love isn’t just about two people but about fate, destiny, and changing the world. Whether you love steamy tension, magical kingdoms, or warrior queens and their brooding lovers, romantasy delivers it all.