Romantasy: Where Magic and Romance Collide

Romantasy. It might be a term that you've heard recently in regard to books. But what really is it? Well, that's pretty simple – think dragons, magic, dynamic battles, heroes, villains, and an epic romance that can span across centuries. Think of books like Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarrows, Quicksilver by Callie Hart, Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross, and A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas. Basically, romantasy is a sub-genre that is equal parts fantasy and romance. 

The fantasy genre typically has a heavy focus on world-building – creating a complex history, developing a detailed magic system, and sometimes sprinkling in romance on the side. 

Romance, on the other hand, is all about the love interest, focusing on the perfect meet-cute, the third-act breakup, and then the grand gesture that always ends in a happily ever after. There is some focus on creating the world, especially in a series, but not nearly as detailed as a fantasy novel. 

It may seem that romantasy is a newer concept, but readers have been enjoying fantasy romance for decades. Books like Sabriel by Garth Nix, The Queen's Thief by Megan Whalen Turner, and The Dragonriders of Pern by Anne McCraffery are great examples. Even the term romantasy isn't a new one. According to the Urban Dictionary, the term was created all the way back in 2008. However, it didn't really gain widespread popularity until 2023, thanks to BookTok (bookish TikTok) and other social media platforms. 

If you're a fantasy or romance reader but haven't tried the other, or even if you're not a fan of either, give one of these books a try. You might be surprised! Plus, who doesn't love to read about high fae kings, winged warriors, and strong female leads?!