What in the World Why romantasy books are having a moment
Dec 30, 2025
Join BBC journalist Maia Davies as she delves into the electrifying world of romantasy—a genre fusing romance and fantasy with sweeping plots and beloved tropes. Maia breaks down why titles like ACOTAR are trending on BookTok, revealing the genre's explosive sales growth and commercial significance. She also explores the appeal of female-centric narratives that promise justice and happy endings, while fans share their love for the escapism these stories provide. Get ready to dive into the magic of romantasy!
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Big Titles Drive The Boom
- A Court of Thorns and Roses acts as a BookTok gateway and sustained bestseller, showing long-term cultural impact.
- Romantasy's sales helped push UK fiction revenue past a billion pounds and set record fantasy and romance years.
Young Women Fuel Market Growth
- Young women under 35 are the primary buyers, making up over half of romantasy sales and driving market demand.
- Their consumption patterns (multiple formats and editions) make the genre extremely commercially attractive.
A Fan Recounted Why She Returned To Reading
- Ashvini from Toronto said romantasy pulled her back into reading by offering escapist worlds and high-stakes romance.
- She highlighted settings without modern distractions as part of the genre's appeal.