Dragons, Demons, and Daemongirls - What's Trending in Fantasy Right Now

The world of fantasy is having a moment. We're seeing more dragons than ever, more diverse mythical creatures, and stories that are pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible in this genre.

Dragons are back, baby! They're not just fire-breathing beasts anymore. We're seeing intricate cultures, complex relationships, and fascinating backstories emerge. From the cunning and fierce dragons of Naomi Novik's Uprooted to the majestic, intelligent dragons of Tasha Suri's Burning Skies, these creatures are evolving beyond simple tropes.

But dragons aren't the only fantastical beasts claiming their place. Demons are taking center stage in many new novels, but not necessarily as terrifying villains. Madeline Miller's Circe gave us a fascinating glimpse into the life of a powerful, complex demoness, while Jennifer L. Armentrout's From Blood and Ash series explores a world where demons and humans co-exist in a complex power dynamic.

There's also a rising interest in lesser-known creatures. We're seeing more fae, kelpies, and djinn taking centre stage, adding fresh flavours and mythology to the fantasy landscape.

Diversity is another key trend. We're seeing authors from all walks of life bringing their unique perspectives to the genre, creating fantasy worlds that are more inclusive and representative of our own. From the captivating portrayal of West African mythology in Nnedi Okorafor's Binti to the exploration of Asian folklore in Leah Johnson's You Have a Match, this shift towards greater representation is incredibly exciting.

Beyond the creatures, fantasy novels are getting bolder in their themes. We're seeing exploration of complex social issues, political intrigue, and the human condition in ways never seen before.

The world of fantasy is always evolving, always surprising. What new trends will emerge next? What fantastical creatures will capture our imaginations? One thing is for sure – the journey will be thrilling.