The Rise of Romantasy Novels: Sarah J. Maas and the Blurring of Genres

Over 500 pages into A Court of Mist and Fury, the second book in Sarah J. Maas’s wildly successful ACOTAR series, the protagonist Feyre finally embarks on a passionate encounter with Rhysand, an ancient Fae lord with captivating wings. Their intimate moment, set against a backdrop of art supplies and a tub filled with pine-tar scented soap, might seem strange when taken out of context. However, within the broader narrative of the series, it symbolizes Feyre’s journey of self-discovery and transformation. After initially being in love with Tamlin, a protective but possessive faerie, Feyre realizes that her true happiness lies with Rhysand, an enigmatic figure with dark magic and profound emotional scars.

Maas has been a prominent figure in the fantasy genre for over a decade, with her first novel, Throne of Glass, published in 2012. However, it is her ACOTAR series that has propelled her to new heights of popularity. These books, filled with fantastical world-building, a slower pace, and a hint of Beauty and the Beast inspiration, have caught the attention of readers on Goodreads and BookTok, leading to vast social media discussions and YouTube analyses. With millions of copies sold, Maas has cemented her position as a regular No. 1 New York Times best-selling author.

While both the Throne of Glass and ACOTAR series fall under the young adult fantasy genre, they defy typical expectations with their explicit sexual content and mature themes. The romance and fantasy elements intertwine seamlessly, forming a new genre often referred to as “romantasy.” This burgeoning genre, which is gaining traction as fantasy novels become blockbusters in the entertainment industry, is primarily dominated by white female authors. From dragons to vampires, these stories offer happily-ever-after endings within fantastical worlds, placing equal importance on the romance and the fantasy plot.

Maas brings her own innovations to this romantasy hybrid, most notably the inclusion of trauma as a central plot point. Trauma and its integration into the character’s psyche are as vital to the story as the battle against evil or the pursuit of magical destiny. This emphasis on trauma resonates with contemporary readers who are familiar with its effects. Maas skillfully weaves trauma narratives into her books, making it a language that her characters and readers can understand. Her protagonists, like Aelin in Throne of Glass or Feyre in ACOTAR, navigate their painful pasts, which fuel their personal growth and romantic awakening. In her latest series, Crescent City, the protagonist Bryce grapples with the murder of her best friend while unraveling a corrupt city and falling in love with her angelic, winged investigative partner.

These deeply emotional and transformative storylines have been a lifelong pursuit for Maas, who started writing Harry Potter fanfiction as a teenager. Influenced by shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Sailor Moon, she was drawn to unlikely heroines who transitioned from ordinary girls to powerful warriors while embracing their femininity. Maas captured that essence in her writing, delivering relatable yet fierce female characters who face extraordinary challenges and triumph.

The success of Maas’s novels is a testament to the enduring appeal of both romance and fantasy genres. Her intricate narratives, combining intense romance, captivating world-building, and themes of trauma and empowerment, have captivated millions of readers around the world. As romantasy cements its place in popular culture, Sarah J. Maas remains at the forefront, pushing boundaries and enchanting readers with her imaginative storytelling.