Bloomberg explores how the 'romantasy' genre combining romance and fantasy has become a nearly billion-dollar US book category with a highly engaged, largely female fandom. The piece highlights repeat purchases of special editions and merchandise, retailer and brand collaborations, and a cottage industry of events and dedicated bookstores. It also examines whether Hollywood adaptations from Amazon and Netflix can extend the genre's momentum despite expensive production challenges and rising AI-generated competition.
- Romantasy book sales reached almost $1 billion in the US in 2025.
- Fans buy multiple special editions, merchandise, event tickets and audiobooks.
- Retailers like Target and Barnes & Noble use exclusive editions with bonus chapters to drive repeat purchases.
- Amazon is making a major bet on a 'Fourth Wing' adaptation, while Netflix is adapting 'Quicksilver'.
- The industry faces reliance on hit authors and a recent drop-off in Romantasy sales.
- Hollywood sees opportunity in an underserved female audience but faces high production costs and AI-generated competition.