Searching for Love? Try Romantasy for All Your Relationship Goals!

Hey there, fellow book lovers and hopeless romantics! Are you tired of swiping left and right in the dating app jungle? Finding a consistent relationship can feel like hunting for unicorns in a time loop! But before you throw in the towel and adopt a horde of houseplants, I’ve got a spicy suggestion: grab a book off Powell’s fiction bestsellers shelf and dive headfirst into the alluring realm of romantasy. Yep, it’s official—this enchanting genre might just have the romance you’re searching for!

What on Earth is Romantasy?

Before you roll your eyes, let me break it down for you!

Romantasy is the glittery mash-up of romance and fantasy, and it’s been blowing up like a dragon on fire! With spectacular world-building and ahem steamy relationship tropes that’ll make your heart race faster than a hero on a quest, this genre is the total package.

• Think epic battles, forbidden love, and those swoon-worthy moments that make you gasp audibly in public!

Major Shout-Out!

Let’s raise our goblets to Sarah J. Maas—the queen who kicked off this whole romantasy revolution with her mind-bending series, A Court of Thorns and Roses. Like a fine wine, her work gets better with age!

From the Shadows to Center Stage

Remember back when romance books were shrinking faster than your motivation to hit the gym in January? Bry Hoeg, the fabulous general manager of Powell’s City of Books, confirmed that the rising popularity of romantasy really gained traction during the pandemic. Is anyone else raising their hand in agreement?

• Pre-COVID: Romance section nearly in a coffin!
• Post-COVID: Romance section on steroids!

Apparently, a little isolation made everyone crave escapism like never before. And who wouldn’t want to escape to a faraway land filled with magic, mythical creatures, and just a dash of romantic turmoil?

Thank You, BookTok!

Oh, let’s not forget our beloved BookTok! If you haven’t scrolled through this mesmerizing TikTok side of the internet, are you even living? BookTok is like the can’t-stop-won’t-stop party where lovers of fantasy and romance collide! It’s helped adolescents discover each other in the most delightful way, much like meeting a soulmate at a masquerade ball.

The Powell’s Glow-Up

Thanks to the romantic resurgence, Powell’s has decided to roll out the red carpet and give the romantasy genre some serious showcase space. We’re talking about a Gold Room—yes, it sounds as fancy as it is!

• New Location Memories: Moved up to the second floor and about twice the size. Yes, please!

You can now stroll through romance and fantasy, hand in hand (or should I say, book in hand).

Inclusivity Is the Name of the Game

What’s truly magical about romantasy is its fabulous inclusivity. It’s the one genre that welcomes anyone and everyone—regardless of gender, orientation, or how much you scream at romantic comedies.

• Readers from all walks of life are vibing with this genre, and it’s here to stay!

Bry Hoeg puts it perfectly: “Readers are still really being driven toward escapism.” And let’s face it, who doesn’t want to get lost in a world where you can have deep conversations with fairies over tea?

Final Thoughts

So, if you’re searching for love or just want to indulge in an escapade that involves fierce battles and fiery passion (seriously, A Court of Thorns and Roses instantly becomes your new Netflix special), dive into romantasy!

Whether you’re looking for book recommendations or just a break from your relationship struggles, this genre is calling your name.

Now, get out there and grab that book—your next adventure awaits!