How to Choose Your Next Fantasy Book by Tropes
October 20, 2025
Not sure what fantasy book to read next? Learn how to choose your next fantasy novel by tropes, from found family and chosen one to enemies to lovers and epic quests.
Choosing your next fantasy book can feel overwhelming. With thousands of novels spanning epic worlds, magic systems, and character arcs, it’s easy to get stuck endlessly scrolling.
That’s where tropes come in.
Tropes help you identify how a story feels, not just what it’s about - making them one of the most effective tools for discovering your next great fantasy read.
What Are Fantasy Tropes?
In fantasy, tropes are recurring story elements that appear across different books, worlds, and authors.
Examples include:
Rather than spoiling a story, tropes provide a framework for understanding its emotional and narrative appeal.
Why Choosing by Tropes Works
Genres tell you the setting. Tropes tell you the experience.
Reading by tropes helps you:
Match books to your current mood
Avoid story elements you’re not enjoying right now
Find similar reads after finishing a favourite book or series
Explore new authors without risk
If you loved how a story unfolded, chances are you’ll love another book using similar tropes.
Start With Your Reading Mood
Before choosing a book, ask yourself how you want the story to feel.
Want Emotional Character Bonds?
Look for tropes like:
These stories focus on relationships, growth, and connection.
Want Romance-Driven Fantasy?
Try tropes such as:
These often blend fantasy stakes with strong emotional tension.
Want High-Stakes Adventure?
These books lean into action, danger, and large-scale storytelling.
Want Dark or Gritty Fantasy?
Consider:
Perfect for readers who prefer complex characters and tough choices.
Using Tropes to Find Similar Books
One of the easiest ways to choose your next fantasy read is to work backwards.
Think of a fantasy book you loved
Identify one or two tropes that stood out
Search for books that share those tropes
For example:
Loved the friendships in The Stormlight Archive? Look for found family
Enjoyed the romance arc in A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR)? Try slow burn romance or enemies to lovers
Hooked by training arcs? Search magical academy or power progression
Mixing Tropes for More Precise Matches
Most fantasy books use multiple tropes at once.
Combining tropes helps you narrow your search:
Found Family + Epic Quest
Enemies to Lovers + Political Intrigue
Magical School + Hidden Power
Trope Trove allows you to explore books that overlap themes, making discovery more targeted and more rewarding.
Tropes Are Guides, Not Rules
It’s important to remember:
Tropes don’t define quality
Execution matters more than labels
Subversions can be just as satisfying
A familiar trope can feel completely fresh in the right hands.
Discover Fantasy Through Tropes on Trope Trove
Trope Trove is built to help readers:
Explore fantasy books by shared tropes
Discover new authors organically
Find stories that match their mood, not just a genre label
Whether you’re craving epic adventure, emotional depth, or romantic tension, tropes help point you in the right direction.
Find Your Next Fantasy Read
If you’re unsure what to read next, don’t start with a bestseller list - start with what you love about stories.
Your next favourite fantasy book is waiting. You just need the right trope to lead you there.