In the literary world, trends come and go, but one genre has been growing with remarkable speed in 2024: Romantasy. A blend of romance and fantasy, this genre has emerged as the go-to escape for readers seeking not just thrilling adventures and enchanting worlds, but also complex, diverse, and multi-dimensional queer characters. Combining sweeping epic narratives with heartfelt romantic arcs, Romantasy offers a refreshing departure from more traditional fantasy tropes. I was inspired by the current cultural climate to set my own debut fantasy novel, Dohva – The Land Within, in a queer-normal world. But what is it about Romantasy that’s captured the imagination of both straight and LGBTQ+ readers, and why does it feel so timely?
A celebration of Queer diversity
One of the main draws of Romantasy is its emphasis on LGBTQ+ characters. Where traditional fantasy often sidelines or erases queer identities, Romantasy makes them central. Characters are not simply tokenised or marginalised but are fully realised individuals with complex personalities, desires, and stories. This inclusivity feels like a direct response to the ongoing demand for better representation in books across all genres – and perhaps in response to the news of book bans across libraries, schools and bookstores. Romantasy invites readers to experience worlds where being queer is not exceptional, but the norm—a subtle but profound shift that challenges old narratives and creates new possibilities for storytelling.
What distinguishes Romantasy from typical romance or fantasy genres is that it doesn’t just include queer characters; it celebrates them. The protagonists of these novels are often not only navigating romantic relationships but also grappling with their own identities, exploring themes of self-discovery, belonging, and acceptance. These characters are multi-dimensional, layered with complexity, and rarely fit neatly into a single label or trope. This is where Romantasy excels: its worlds are diverse and multi-faceted, filled with characters who defy expectations and offer readers a chance to see themselves reflected in ways that are often missing from mainstream fantasy or romance.
An epic journey with heart
Romantasy is also the perfect genre for readers who crave both adventure and emotion. While the fantasy component provides an expansive, world-building narrative filled with magical creatures, complex political systems, and grand quests, it’s the romance that often serves as the emotional core. The romance is not merely a subplot; it’s woven seamlessly into the story, providing readers with the emotional stakes that make the journey feel meaningful. It’s not about a simple love story; it’s about exploring what it means to love and be loved in a world that’s full of challenges, danger, and transformation.
This balance of heart and adventure allows readers to experience the full spectrum of human emotions: joy, longing, grief, and triumph. But the addition of queer characters adds even more depth to the experience. These characters’ romantic relationships aren’t just a backdrop to the plot—they are integral to the narrative itself. Their struggles with societal expectations, family dynamics, and personal insecurities make their victories that much sweeter and their losses more devastating.
The novels in this genre often feature relationships that are built on mutual respect, growth, and communication—qualities that resonate with readers who crave authentic depictions of love. It’s not just about love at first sight; it’s about the journey of two people (or more) learning to navigate their differences, challenge each other, and ultimately build a life together.
In my writing, queerness is simply a part of the world I create—natural and unremarkable—allowing the story to transcend typical LGBTQ+ tropes. I wanted to focus on relationships that are multi-dimensional, whether romantic or platonic, and treat them with equal weight and significance. The characters’ diverse identities are not defined by their queerness but are integral to their personal growth and the unfolding narrative.
Why Romantasy matters to LGBTQ+ readers
Romantasy’s explosion in popularity speaks to a broader shift in how readers are engaging with stories. In an era where representation and inclusivity are more important than ever, Romantasy offers a unique space where readers can see themselves reflected in a genre that’s often been dominated by traditional heterosexual narratives. In this sense, Romantasy represents not just a literary trend but a cultural shift toward a more inclusive, accepting, and diverse vision of love and heroism.
Moreover, in a world that often feels fractured and uncertain, Romantasy offers an escape—one that not only transports readers to magical realms but also provides a sense of hope and possibility. The idea that love, in all its forms, can conquer adversity and shape the future is an incredibly powerful message. The genre is helping to redefine what it means to be a hero—and what it means to love.
Dohva: The Land Within by Sophie Haeder is available from all good bookstores: https://www.sophiehaeder.com/buy-it-here
