Fantasy literature is experiencing one of its most transformative periods in decades. The genre that once centered predominantly on epic quests, chosen ones, and battles between good and evil has expanded into a vibrant, multifaceted landscape that reflects our contemporary world in ways never before imagined. How fantasy books are evolving today can be seen in the explosive rise of romantasy, the growing demand for diverse voices, and the embrace of inclusive storytelling—showing how the genre continues to meet the needs of a new generation of readers while honoring the traditions that made it beloved in the first place.
The Romantasy Revolution
Perhaps no trend has reshaped fantasy publishing more dramatically than the rise of romantasy—the fusion of romance and fantasy elements. Sales of science fiction and fantasy books have increased significantly in recent years, with romantasy playing a major role in this surge. This phenomenon has been fueled largely by BookTok, the book-loving community on TikTok, where romantasy titles have become viral sensations. The platform has matured beyond simple book recommendations into a sophisticated ecosystem featuring micro-niches within romantasy—from dark romantasy and historical romantasy to urban romantasy—each with dedicated influencer networks. Publishers have taken notice, with many now prioritizing acquisitions in this commercially appealing genre.
What makes romantasy so compelling is its ability to offer the emotional depth of romance intertwined with the immersive world-building of fantasy. These stories create environments where love and relationships are central to the narrative while maintaining the magical elements, epic stakes, and fantastical settings that fantasy readers crave.
The Cozy Fantasy Movement
On the opposite end of the spectrum from grimdark intensity lies the burgeoning cozy fantasy trend. Instead of grand battles and dark lords, cozy fantasy offers gentle, low-stakes tales set in magical worlds where community and comfort take center stage. Titles featuring magical businesses like coffee shops capture readers’ imaginations by focusing on kindness, friendship, and the simple pleasures of daily life infused with magic. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift toward “comfort reads” in challenging times. Readers increasingly seek escapism that soothes rather than stresses, making cozy fantasy a soothing alternative expected to continue its dominance.
Progression Fantasy and LitRPG Gain Ground
Progression fantasy and LitRPG (Literary Role-Playing Game) have emerged as rapidly growing subgenres, particularly popular among readers looking for fast-paced, level-up stories with clear stakes and character growth. These stories feature protagonists who systematically increase their power through defined mechanisms—whether magical cultivation, skill trees, or game-like systems.
The appeal of progression fantasy lies in its focus on tangible achievement and growth. Readers can track a character’s development through explicit power levels, skills acquired, and challenges overcome. This subgenre often attracts fans of video games and anime, who appreciate the structured approach to character development and the satisfaction of watching protagonists overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles through hard work and strategic thinking.
Hard Magic vs. Soft Magic: The Ongoing Debate
The fantasy community continues to grapple with the distinction between hard and soft magic systems, a dichotomy popularized by author Brandon Sanderson. Hard magic systems feature clearly defined rules, explicit limitations, and logical consequences. Soft magic systems, by contrast, remain mysterious and fluid, evoking wonder and awe without extensive explanation.
Recent years have seen increased interest in hard magic systems, partly due to the success and influence of authors who codify the mechanics of magic in their worlds. Readers appreciate the strategic depth these systems provide, allowing them to anticipate how magic will be used and to appreciate the creativity characters employ in working within established constraints. However, soft magic retains its devoted following, particularly among readers who value the sense of mystery and the mythic quality it brings to storytelling.
Diversity and Representation Take Center Stage
Modern fantasy has undergone a profound transformation in terms of diversity and representation. The genre is increasingly embracing characters and authors from varied backgrounds, cultures, and identities. This shift goes beyond simple tokenism—contemporary fantasy is exploring diverse mythologies, drawing inspiration from African, Asian, Indigenous, and other non-Western cultures to create rich, authentic worlds.
Authors exemplifying this trend create stories inspired by traditions from around the globe, moving away from the European medieval settings that once dominated. Fantasy is no longer confined to traditional tropes but instead expands to include stories rooted in pre-colonial Africa, ancient China, Indigenous American cultures, and many others. LGBTQ+ representation has also expanded significantly, with more fantasy novels featuring queer protagonists, non-binary characters, and diverse relationships as central rather than peripheral elements. Similarly, disability representation is growing, with characters whose disabilities are integral to their identities and stories rather than obstacles to be overcome.
The Grimdark Evolution
Grimdark fantasy—characterized by morally ambiguous characters, brutal realism, and bleak worlds—has established itself as a legitimate subgenre since gaining prominence in the 1990s and 2000s. Popularized by authors like Joe Abercrombie and George R.R. Martin, grimdark challenges traditional fantasy’s clear moral boundaries and destined heroes.
However, the genre is evolving beyond simple cynicism. Modern grimdark explores philosophical questions about power, corruption, and survival while maintaining compelling character development. Major adaptations like “Game of Thrones” brought grimdark to mainstream audiences, demonstrating that readers were hungry for fantasy that reflected life’s moral complexities.
Hopepunk: The Optimistic Response
In response to grimdark’s bleakness, hopepunk has emerged as a counter-movement emphasizing optimism, resilience, and radical kindness—even in challenging worlds. These stories feature characters fighting for positive change with community spirit and hope, presenting futures where humanity rebuilds and thrives after catastrophe rather than succumbing to endless misery.
Hopepunk reflects a collective craving for reassurance that the future can be bright. Stories of “rebuilding and resilience” stand out by showing humanity’s better nature shining through adversity, offering a hopeful alternative in fantasy literature.
Climate Fiction (Cli-Fi) Enters Fantasy
As environmental concerns dominate global discourse, climate fiction has surged into the fantasy spotlight. Authors are weaving environmental themes into their worldbuilding, imagining futures shaped by climate change—from flooded cities and superstorms to communities adapting innovatively. Some cli-fi novels serve as cautionary dystopias showing the dire consequences of inaction, while others lean toward hopeful scenarios where technology and social change create sustainable futures.
The Impact of Cross-Media Adaptations
Fantasy’s evolution is significantly influenced by its success in visual media. Major streaming platforms have invested heavily in fantasy adaptations, introducing fantasy worlds to broader audiences. This cross-pollination between literature and screen has influenced how fantasy books are written, with some authors adopting more cinematic storytelling styles.
The Self-Publishing Revolution
The self-publishing landscape has fundamentally changed fantasy publishing. Initiatives like well-known self-published fantasy competitions have helped indie authors gain recognition and legitimacy. Success stories abound, with authors beginning independently before securing traditional publishing deals or achieving bestseller status on their own.
Self-publishing has lowered barriers to entry, allowing diverse voices and experimental stories that might not fit traditional publishing molds to reach audiences.
BookTok and Social Media Influence
BookTok has emerged as a powerful force shaping which books become bestsellers. Bookstores feature dedicated “BookTok Recommended” displays, and publishers actively collaborate with content creators. While BookTok tends to favor romantasy and young adult fantasy with high emotional stakes, BookTube maintains a broader range of fantasy discussions, including epic fantasy and classic series.
This youth-dominated platform has introduced countless young readers to fantasy, potentially creating lifelong fans of the genre.
The Audiobook Boom
Audiobook sales have experienced explosive growth, with revenue reaching all-time highs. Fantasy and science fiction audiobooks saw particularly strong gains. The convenience of audiobooks appeals to busy readers who can enjoy fantasy epics during commutes, workouts, or household chores.
Professional narration and celebrity voices enhance the storytelling experience, making audiobooks particularly appealing. The format’s success has prompted many authors to prioritize audio releases, with some exploring interactive sound elements to create immersive experiences.
