Picture this: you’re deep into a book where magic crackles, and, oh yeah, people are falling in love too. That’s the heart of what we’re talking about today. So, what’s up with the labels romantasy and fantasy romance? Honestly, they’re pretty much the same cool mix of magic and makeouts, just wrapped up in a different bow for the bookstore shelf. Stick around as we dive into why this genre’s got everyone hooked and why the name game might not be as complicated as it seems.
This post contains affiliate links. That means we receive a small commission at no cost to you from any purchases you make through these links.
What Is Romantasy? A Guide for the Uninitiated
You’ve probably heard romantasy tossed around lately, especially with heavy-hitters like Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout redefining what we expect from our fantasy adventures—yeah, I’m talking more romance, more heartbreak, and yes, a good dose of steaminess. But here’s the kicker: romantasy isn’t a new genre breaking into the scene; it’s good ol’ fantasy romance sporting a trendy new label. This genre mash-up has been hooking readers with its blend of expansive world-building and deep, emotional connections. So why the new tag? It’s all about catching the eye of a generation hungry for epic love stories set against a backdrop of magic and mayhem.
Introduction to Romantasy
Definition of the romantasy term
Romantasy is that sweet spot where fantasy and romance novels meet, party together, and decide they’re kind of perfect for each other. It’s not a new genre; rather, it’s a fresh take on fantasy romance that’s been around but has recently been spotlighted thanks to some blockbuster books. Imagine all the world-building, epic quests, and magical systems you love in fantasy, then throw in the character-driven stories, emotional depth, and, yes, the steamy scenes typical of romance novels. That’s romantasy. It’s the label slapped on books where you’re as likely to get a scene of spellcasting as you are a heart-stopping kiss.
We have a full guide where you can learn more about fantasy romance.
The place of romantasy in the broader romance and fantasy genres
Romantasy serves as a crucial bridge for readers venturing beyond their comfort zones, whether they’re moving from young adult fantasy to more adult themes found in fantasy romance, before considering a leap into paranormal romance. It’s like that friend who knows you’re ready for something more but gets you to ease into it. For those who’ve feasted on YA fantasy, romantasy introduces adult complexities and relationships without losing the magic and adventure you love. On the flip side, if you’re rooted in romance—be it contemporary, historical, or otherwise—and you’re curious about fantasy, romantasy is the welcoming committee. It invites you to explore new worlds where love’s challenges aren’t just about miscommunications or societal norms but include battling dark forces or uncovering ancient magic. This genre acknowledges the growth of its readers, offering a path from the familiar into uncharted territory, making it less intimidating to branch out from beloved genres into new literary landscapes.
Romantasy vs Fantasy Romance
Common misconceptions
One of the biggest mix-ups in the book world is between what’s considered romantasy, fantasy romance, and just plain old fantasy with a sprinkle of romance. Here’s the scoop: while all these genres live in the same neighborhood, they’ve got different vibes. New readers sometimes grab a fantasy book, spot a romantic subplot, and think, “Ah, this must be fantasy romance,” but there’s a bit more to it. True fantasy romance, or romantasy as it’s affectionately known, doesn’t just flirt with romance; it commits to it, making the love story central to the plot. On the other hand, a fantasy novel with romantic elements, like Jacqueline Carey’s Kushiel’s Dart, might weave in a stronger thread of romance than others but still focuses primarily on broader themes and world-building. This distinction is key for readers navigating the genre.
Clarifying the terms
Let’s lay it out simply: the line between romantasy (or fantasy romance) and fantasy with romantic elements isn’t drawn in the sand with a magic wand—it’s actually quite straightforward when you think about it. Here’s a quick test to see where a book might fall: If you were to magically extract the romance from the story, would you still have a complete, stand-alone plot on your hands? If yes, then you’re likely holding a fantasy novel that just happens to have a dash of romance. This means the book’s main course is its fantasy world, quests, and conflicts, with romance as the cherry on top.
On the flip side, if removing the romantic elements would leave the story feeling like a shadow of its former self, thin on plot and character development, then congratulations, you’ve ventured into fantasy romance territory. In these tales, the love story is so integral that without it, you’d lose the heart of the narrative. The romance isn’t just a subplot; it’s the driving force that, woven with fantastical elements, creates a rich, immersive experience. This distinction isn’t about placing one genre above the other but helping readers find the kind of story they’re in the mood for.
Why the distinction matters (or doesn’t)
In the grand scheme, whether you’re a fan of romantasy, fantasy romance, or fantasy with romantic elements, what truly matters is your love for stories that marry the wonder of fantasy with the allure of romance. The distinction between these labels helps readers hone in on the exact mix they’re craving. But at the core, it’s the blend of otherworldly escapades and the exploration of love that captivates and keeps us turning the pages.
Labels do matter to fulfill readers expectations when they pick up a book. And for the romance reader who loves to mood read or binge read books that are similar sometimes to others, this can be essential to whether they enjoy a book or not.
Pin this for later
The appeal of Romantasy
Why readers love romantasy?
So, why are people getting hooked on romantasy? It’s simple: it’s like the ultimate two-for-one deal. Imagine diving into a book where you get to explore new, incredible worlds filled with magic and mystery, and at the same time, you’re rooting for a love story that feels like it could be your own. Romantasy combines the best parts of escaping reality with the deep, sometimes messy journey of finding love. It’s the thrill of the adventure plus the warmth of finding someone who gets you, even if one of you has wings or can cast spells. This mix of excitement and relatability is exactly why readers can’t seem to get enough.
Trends and evolution in romantasy
Romantasy isn’t just sitting static; it’s constantly changing its game. It started with stories that mixed a bit of love into epic quests, but now, it’s all about pushing boundaries, featuring diverse characters, and flipping old tropes on their heads. We’re seeing more stories where anyone can be the hero, love interests aren’t always who you’d expect, and the magic comes in all shapes and sizes. This shift is making romantasy more inclusive and a lot more interesting. It’s like the genre is growing up with its audience, giving them the complex, rich stories they crave that reflect a broader view of the world.
Getting started with romantasy
Thinking of jumping into romantasy? It’s like deciding to try a new flavor of ice cream—you’re pretty sure you’re going to like it; you just need to take that first bite. These books have kind of set the stage for what is expected of romantasy today: big, bold stories where the romance is as crucial as any spell or sword fight. They’re the perfect intro for anyone curious about this genre, showing off just how fun it is when you mix a little (or a lot) of love into your fantasy. Ready to dive in?
Must read romantasy books
Today’s Popular Sensations
YA SENSATION
MUST READ AUTHOR
EMOTIONAL
If you’re aiming to hit the bullseye with the most popular and somewhat predictable heavy-hitters of romantasy, look no further than A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. These titles are your ticket to realms where faerie curses tangle with human resilience, forbidden desires shake the foundations of society, and emotional journeys unfold with the turn of every page.
If you like those
STEAMY
POLYAMOROUS
SACRIFICE
Craving more after devouring the crowd-pleasers? If the allure of forbidden magic, battles for power, and intoxicating romances is what your heart desires, then let’s turn the page to some alternatives. Dive into A Fate of Wrath & Flame by K.A. Tucker for a dose of curses and kingdoms in turmoil, where destiny is not just a word but a path filled with danger and desire. Next, King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair beckons with its promise of enemies-to-lovers tension, political intrigue, and the undeniable pull of dark, vampiric allure. And don’t overlook Court of the Vampire Queen by Katee Robert, where the lines between ruler and ruled blur in a seductive dance of power and passion. These titles are your next adventure, weaving together the threads of destiny, dark secrets, and the kind of love that might just tip the scales of power.
Underrated romantasy books
ISLAND PRISON
LABYRINTH-INSPIRED
REVENGE & MAGIC
Thirsty for romantasy that’s flown under the radar? Check out Make Me Burn by Tiffany Roberts, Of Goblins and Gold by Emma Hamm, and The Turncoat King by Michelle Diener. These aren’t your typical picks. They’ve got everything from elemental magic and goblin deals to royal intrigue without the usual fanfare. If you’re into stories where love doesn’t play by the rules and every page turns up the heat or the danger (sometimes both), these books are your next move. Great for diving into worlds that feel new and characters ready to surprise you.
Romantasy authors to follow
Besides the blockbuster names we’ve already mentioned, the romantasy world is brimming with authors who can take you on unforgettable journeys. Raven Kennedy, Holly Renee, Laura Thalassa, Carissa Broadbent, Elise Kova, Eva Chase, Harper L. Woods, Lana Pecherczyk, Nisha J. Tuli, and H.R. Moore are just a few you should definitely have on your radar. These authors have a knack for crafting worlds you’ll want to escape into, with stories of love that defy the odds, magic that captivates, and characters that feel like old friends (or foes turned lovers, because we all love a bit of that drama). Whether you’re into tales of gods and mortals, magic that’s as wild as the love stories, or adventures that keep you on the edge of your seat, these authors deliver. Dive into their work and get ready to add some new favorites to your shelf.
WANT MORE BOOK RECS?
Get Access to Our Full Book Database
When you join the Under the Covers Community you’ll get access to our release calendar and trope database. Guaranteed to find your next read!
Join the Under the Covers Community
- Book Release Calendar
- Book Tropes Book Database
- Reading Under the Covers: Extra Bite – Exclusive Bonus Podcast Feed
- Additional recommendation lists
- Reading wrap-ups and our Bookish Brunch weekly behind the scenes newsletter
- Free downloads (activities, templates and more)
- And much more!
I’ve ventured a few times into fantasy romance, but its not a strong go-to for me other than a few authors like Grace Draven or Amanda Bouchet, but I’ve recently been really drawn to Martha Wells’ fantasy. I tried YA fantasy romance, but it didn’t do it for me. I enjoyed reading your post to understand the differences and similarities. I think my line must be closer to fantasy with romantic elements. I’ve been meaning to try Jacqueline Carey’s series.
That’s an excellent one! Also look at Anne Bishop (Black Jewels series). Elizabeth Vaughn Warprize.