Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree is often referred to as the trailblazer for the rise of cozy fantasy as a genre (though, like romantasy, I’m sure cozy fantasy has been around before the recent increase in popularity). It, and basically all cozy fantasy novels, are known for their low stakes plot in a high fantasy world. But I think such a description is missing a big element of what makes these books so comforting.
What is cozy fantasy?
Cozy fantasy is – surprise surprise – a subgenre of fantasy. Isabella Peralta, who wrote an article on the subgenre for Reedsy, says cozy fantasy “focuses on comforting, low-stakes storytelling.”
Most of these stories are second world fantasy, set in a world that is not our own with magic and mythical creatures. There is often humour and comedic moments and, like the romance genre, it must have a happy ending (tragedy isn’t cozy… unless you’re in the mood to have your emotions shredded to pieces).
All of this is true. They’re features all the popular cozy fantasy novels, like Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree, The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst, and Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea by Rebecca Thorne have in spades.
After reading Legends & Lattes, though, I realised there is something bigger at the heart of the stories that truly makes it comforting.
The thing that makes cozy fantasy comforting isn’t solely the low stakes plot; it’s the characters.
When I think of “cozy”, I think of warm fuzzies. Things that make my chest squeeze in delight, that make me feel joyous an kick my feet. And it’s not the low stakes world or plots that do that (though, some of those adorable creatures do make me squeal. I want plushies of them all).
No, it’s the cast of characters that make this genre feel like a tight, comforting hug.
Cozy fantasy highlights found family at it’s best
The characters alone aren’t what’s comforting. It’s how they interact with each other. The way they support each other, help one another grow, and provide a welcoming and accepting place for those they call friends.
Interestingly, in all three cozy fantasy novels I’ve read (which are only those popular ones mentioned above… for now), this place is a shop in a new town. But back to the main point:
Cozy fantasy talks to our desire to belong. To be accepted and cherished in a community.
The sense of belonging extends beyond the primary and secondary characters. Often the entire town or community outside is involved in some way, coming together to help the main characters on their journey of self discovery and healing as they strive to achieve their goal.
It’s why we love cozy games like Stardew Valley and Tiny Bookshop. Without the interactions with and support of the NPCs, those games would get boring and repetitive fast.
Why do you love cozy fantasy?
Let me know in the comments.
Also, please drop some recommendations – I need to branch out from the well-known cozy fantasy titles. Give me those underrated recs! I beg you!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cozy Fantasy
Is cozy fantasy still popular?
At the time of posting article, cozy fantasy is still a very popular genre! Maybe not as popular as 1-2 years ago (before the subsequent rise of romantasy) but still popular nonetheless.
What is the most popular fantasy genre?
There are several popular fantasy subgenres, including cozy fantasy, romantasy (aka fantasy romance), high fantasy, epic fantasy, and more.
Is T Kingfisher cozy fantasy?
T. Kingfisher writes across multiple genres. Some of Kingfisher’s books are cozy fantasy, some are darker fantasy, and others are horror.
Is Studio Ghibli cozy fantasy?
It depends on what film. Some, like qsaWQ, based on the novel by Dianna Wynne Jones, could be considered cozy fantasy. Others are more tragedy or other, less-happy genres.
Does cozy fantasy include happy endings?
In my opinion, a cozy fantasy should include a happy ending. Sad endings kind of destroy the comforting aspects of a story.
Is there any action in cozy fantasy?
Cozy is not synonymous with lack of action. Cozy fantasy may have lower stakes, but there can still be action sequences, mystery, and intrigue.