Romantasy, the genre that blends fantasy elements with adult romance plots, is currently dominating the book market. According to Circana BookScan, romantasy is the top-selling genre, with 1.9 million books sold since the beginning of the year. This genre has seen a significant surge in popularity, with readers flocking to platforms like BookTok to discover new romances.
The rise of romantasy can be traced back to popular series like Twilight and The Hunger Games, which introduced millennials to the idea of romantic subplots in fantasy settings. Now, as adults, many readers are seeking out more mature content in their romance novels. Sarah J Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series has been a particular standout, becoming one of the most checked out books at libraries.
For many women, especially mothers, diving into the romantasy genre has become a way to reconnect with themselves and escape the monotony of everyday life. Author and mother-of-three, Mel Robbins, describes her experience listening to ACOTAR as an audiobook, noting the intense romantic scenes that made her blush. The immersive nature of audiobooks allows readers to escape into fantastical worlds, like flying through the skies of Prythian with Rhysand.
The popularity of romantasy proves the old adage that “sex sells,” but for many readers, it’s about more than just steamy scenes. Romantasy offers a chance to explore new worlds, experience thrilling adventures, and indulge in the timeless appeal of romance. With its growing popularity and dedicated fan base, romantasy shows no signs of slowing down, captivating readers with its blend of magic, passion, and love.
