Romantasy – a portmanteau of romance and fantasy – is a booming literary genre, topping bestseller lists and filling the hands of readers everywhere. The appeal, it seems, lies in its mix of fierce female protagonists, smouldering love interests, action-packed plots and the pure escapism of imaginary worlds far removed from our own. Authors such as Sarah J.
Maas and Rebecca Yarros have become rock stars of the publishing world, launching books at midnight events to legions of screaming fans. Maas, a prolific author who penned the Court of Thorns and Roses series, has sold more than 50 million books worldwide. New York Times No.
1 bestselling writer Sarah J. Maas has sold millions of books. Credit: Beowulf Sheehan Genevieve Nelsson at Bloomsbury, which publishes Maas, suggests the books provide a welcome alternative to bingeable TV by offering the same level of propulsive blockbuster entertainment.
“Romantasy is the ultimate escapism,” she says. “The good titles are fast-paced, with characters and sexual tension that will keep you invested all the way through. They combine the best of fantasy world-building and plot with swoon-worthy romantic fantasy.
What’s not to like?” Propelled by BookTok – a corner of the internet where TikTok creators share their love of reading – the popularity of this genre knows no bounds, with many books written as a series to keep devoted fans hungry for more. Here are some of the best magical realms to get lost in. A Court of Thorn.
