Ten Tropes That Define Romantasy
Romantasy—where sweeping romance meets epic fantasy—has taken the literary world by storm. Whether you’re a reader who swoons over magical soul bonds or a writer crafting your next enchanted love story, there’s something undeniably addictive about the tropes that define this genre.
Tropes aren’t clichés when done right—they’re familiar beats that readers love to revisit, each time with a fresh twist. Here are ten of the most beloved Romantasy tropes that keep us turning pages late into the night.
Nothing fuels tension like two characters who start off on opposite sides—whether it’s a war, a prophecy, or a throne. The slow burn, the banter, the betrayal, and the eventual surrender to love? Pure magic.
Think: Feyre and Rhysand in Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses.
And from my very own Queenmakers Saga, The Lord and the Mermaid.
2. Fated Mates
A mystical bond that ties two souls together—often before they even meet. This trope adds instant emotional stakes and often explores themes of destiny vs. choice.
Popular in stories with fae, shifters, or ancient magic.
Story example: Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J. Maas
3. The Chosen One (with a Twist)
Our hero is destined to save the world—but love complicates everything. Whether they embrace or reject their fate, romance adds depth to their journey. And it takes a special kind of trust to pursue your destiny, hoping the love of your life will still be there when you succeed – or if you fail.
Bonus points if their love interest is the one meant to stop them.
Story example: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
4. Forbidden Love
Perfect for high-stakes drama and emotional payoff.
This is one of my favorites and Princess Avenger, the first book in the Queenmakers Saga is a good example. Of course, that story also harbors court intrigue, a protective warrior and hidden identity.
5. Magical Bonding
Soul bonds, shared dreams, linked powers—magic that forces intimacy and vulnerability. It’s a shortcut to emotional depth and often leads to some of the most tender moments.
Also great for forced proximity and mutual pining.
Story example: The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
One character is a fierce fighter who would burn the world to protect their love. Often emotionally guarded, they reveal their soft side only to their beloved.
Think: the gruff bodyguard or the battle-scarred general.
Example: The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller or The King’s Blade, book 10 in The Queenmakers Saga
7. Court Intrigue and Slow-Burn Romance
Set in palaces, magical courts, or political arenas, this trope weaves romance into a web of betrayal, ambition, and power plays. My favorite setting for court intrigue is the ballroom – ideal for gorgeous costumes, masquerade, poisoning and stepping on toes!
Ideal for lovers who must outwit enemies—and sometimes each other.
Book Example: An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
8. Hidden Identity
A prince in disguise. A spy among rebels. A witch hiding her powers. When secrets unravel, so does the tension—and the romance.
Great for dramatic reveals and trust issues.
Story Example: The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
9. Grumpy/Sunshine
A fan-favorite for good reason.
Story Example: The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
OR The Elf King’s Lady, book 5 in The Queenmakers Saga.
10. Resurrection or Second Chance
Love that defies death or time. Whether it’s a past-life connection or a lover returned from the dead, this trope is all about enduring love and emotional catharsis.
Prepare for tears—and triumph.
Book example: Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber
Final Thoughts
Romantasy thrives on emotional intensity, magical stakes, and the timeless pull of love. These tropes are more than storytelling tools—they’re the heartbeats of the genre.
Which tropes do you love? Are there any you’d like to see turned on their head? Share your favorites in the comments—or tell me which ones you’re writing right now!