10 Secrets to Creating a Romantasy Book That Captivates Readers

10 Secrets to Creating a Romantasy Book That Captivates Readers

Romantasy, a mix of romance and fantasy, is a genre that has captured so much attention with its original ability to combine heart-pound love stories with magical worlds. From sweeping tales to epic adventures with mythical creatures, the genre is endless, and writing a romantasy can be both thrilling and arduous at the same time, especially when bringing together romance and fantastical components. 

Here are 10 absolute tips to help you move through crafting your romantasy masterpiece:

Build an Engaging World

A well-crafted fantasy world is the backbone of any romantasy. Whether it’s a kingdom shrouded in eternal night or a city floating among the clouds, your setting should feel immersive and unique. Readers need to believe in the magic, politics, and cultures you create. Incorporate sensory details, like the sound of enchanted rivers or the taste of otherworldly fruits, to make your world come alive.

For example, Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs is set in contemporary Washington, this series incorporates shapeshifters, witches, and werewolves, creating a vibrant urban fantasy landscape that supports the romance between characters like Mercy Thompson and Adam Hauptman.

Develop Multi-dimensional Characters

The readers need to care about your protagonists’ journey, and your romantic leads must be deep enough for that. They should have good backstories, motivations, and personal flaws. Consider a morally gray prince, a rebellious sorceress, or an ordinary farmer caught in a magical prophecy. Their personalities should clash and complement each other over time.

For example, in the book ‘A Court of Mist and Fury’ by Sarah J. Maas, the character Feyre Archeron evolves from a vulnerable mortal to a powerful figure, wrestling with her trauma and identity throughout the series. Her complex relationship with Rhysand showcases how their personal growth intertwines.

Seamlessly integrate Romance and Fantasy

A romantasy is something in which neither the romance nor the fantasy should overpower the other. The two should blend together organically, perhaps with a romantic couple bonding through fighting the same enemy or together exploring magical realms. Their growth into each other should be part of the plot as much as their quest or adventure.

For example, in The Cruel Prince by Holly Black, Jude and Cardan’s relationship evolves amidst political intrigue and betrayal in the Faerie realm. Their shared struggles against external threats enhance their romantic tension.

Create Realistic Romantic Tension

Romantasy thrives on the slow burn of romantic tension. Whether it is a forbidden love, an enemies-to-lovers situation, or unspoken feelings simmering beneath the surface, make your readers root for the couple. Build that connection through stolen glances, charged dialogue, and moments of vulnerability.

Avoid common tropes—or Reinvent them!

While tropes like “the chosen one” or “star-crossed lovers” have their place in romantasy, using them without a twist of fresh air gets stale. Make the damsel in distress the hero of her own story. Defy expectations while still paying homage to the genre.

Add Layers of Conflict

Conflict drives every story, and a romantasy offers opportunities for layered challenges. Both can be internal-possibly clashing ideologies-or well-hidden secrets-and external-such as another kingdom or a forbidden curse. Bring such obstacles to bear on your romance so that their eventual love feels earned.

For example, in ‘An Ember in the Ashes’ by Sabaa Tahir, Laia’s fight against an oppressive regime intertwines with her complex feelings for Elias. Their struggles against external forces mirror their internal conflicts about loyalty and love.

Inject Purpose into Magic

Magic cannot be just an adornment for a romantasy; it has to mean something to your story. It might represent the emotional maturation of your characters, create their troubles, or maybe even determine the direction the plot is going to take. For instance, the only way the character can save the person he loves is if he gives up his powers.

Use Subplots to Enrich the Story

Subplots can raise the stakes for your romantasy. Maybe the protagonist has to deal with palace politics, or they have to unravel an ancient prophecy. They might be forming strange alliances with magical creatures. In all cases, subplots shouldn’t overshadow the central romance; they should complement and deepen the main storyline.

For example, in ‘Shadow and Bone’ by Leigh Bardugo, the character Alina’s journey through Grisha politics adds depth to her romance with Mal while also exploring themes of power and identity.

The Romance Must Pay off Emotionally 

A romantasy isn’t complete without a satisfying emotional resolution. Whether it’s a tearful reunion, a climactic confession of love, or a bittersweet farewell, the ending should resonate with readers. Even if the couple doesn’t get a traditional happily-ever-after, their journey should feel meaningful and complete.

For example, in ‘The Song of Achilles’ by Madeline Miller, the poignant ending encapsulates the emotional journey of Achilles and Patroclus, leaving readers with a powerful sense of love and loss.

Stay Focused on Your Dreams 

With so much creativity, don’t be bound by trends or expectations. Whether your story is dark and brooding or whimsical and lighthearted, let your unique voice shine through. Writing authentically will help your novel stand out in a crowded genre. 

Summary 

Writing a romantasy novel is like being transported into an enchanting adventure: the best of two worlds. Emphasizing world-building, character development, and emotional depth, you can develop a tale that will remain with readers for years after they turn that final page. Following these tips, you’re set to pen your romantasy, lacing love and magic into a story that no one will forget.

FAQs:

How to write a good romantasy book?

A good romantasy book blends a compelling romance with an immersive fantasy world. Focus on creating multi-dimensional characters, building rich settings, and weaving tension-filled plots. Ensure that the romance and fantasy elements complement each other and drive the story forward while delivering emotional payoff.

What are the romantasy conventions of writing?

Romantasy conventions include a strong romance intertwined with magical or fantastical elements. Common themes involve forbidden love, love triangles, epic quests, or battles between good and evil. World-building is crucial, and characters often face personal growth while navigating complex relationships and magical worlds.

What makes a romantasy book?

A romantasy book combines the emotional depth of romance with the imaginative possibilities of fantasy. It typically features characters who fall in love while dealing with magical conflicts, magical creatures, or supernatural forces. The blend of heartwarming romance and thrilling adventure creates a captivating narrative.

How long should a romantasy book be?

A romantasy book typically ranges between 80,000 to 120,000 words. This length allows room for world-building, character development, and plot intricacies while maintaining pacing and engagement. However, length can vary based on the complexity of the fantasy world and the depth of the romance.

Why is romantasy so popular?

Romantasy combines two highly popular genres: romance and fantasy. It appeals to readers seeking emotional depth and escapism. The allure of magical worlds and epic love stories offers a sense of wonder, adventure, and emotional fulfillment, making it an irresistible genre for fans of both fantasy and romance.

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