Why Are Book Club Picks Always So Heavy? How About Some Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Romantasy Instead!

Book clubs bring people together to talk about stories that move us, challenge us, and sometimes even change us. But let’s be real—why do so many book club picks lean toward the deep, heavy, and sometimes downright depressing? Where’s the genre fiction? The fantasy, the sci-fi, the romance—heck, where’s the romantasy? These are the books that so many of us devour late into the night, whispering to ourselves, “Just one more chapter.”

Now, don’t get me wrong. I love a thought-provoking literary novel. But I believe that genre fiction has just as much depth and just as many big, important themes. The best fantasy and sci-fi books explore deeply human questions:

– How do you stay true to yourself while also protecting the people you love?
– What happens when you have to do the wrong thing for the right reason?
– How does your past shape your present—and can you ever really escape it?

These are universal themes, just wrapped in worlds filled with magic, intergalactic intrigue, or sweeping love stories. So why aren’t we talking about those books in book club? Well, that changes now! Here at Book Club Babble, we’re diving into the genre fiction that keeps us up at night, starting with three incredible reads.

Upcoming Book Club Features

The Bone Shard Daughter by Andrea Stewart

A stunning mix of epic fantasy and mystery, The Bone Shard Daughter introduces us to Lin, the emperor’s daughter, who is fighting to prove her worth in a world where bone fragments tithed to the Emperor fuel magic. With a unique magic system, political intrigue, and multiple perspectives weaving together a rich, compelling story, this one will keep you guessing. Plus, it asks some big questions: What does it mean to truly have power? And what are you willing to sacrifice for the greater good?

The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem

If you love stories of lost heirs, hidden magic, and courtly drama, this one is for you. The last heir of a fallen kingdom, Sylvia, has spent her life in hiding—until an enemy prince recognizes her power and forces her into a deadly game. As she navigates secrets, betrayals, and the dangerous pull of her own magic, Sylvia has to decide: Will she risk everything to reclaim her birthright? This book has tension, slow-burn romance, and political stakes.

Murtagh by Christopher Paolini

For fans of Eragon and the enchanting world of Alagaësia, Murtagh brings a long-awaited return to the series, offering us a glimpse into one of the most intricate characters from the original saga. As he navigates his haunted past and searches for his own path in a world that often sees him as the enemy, Murtagh’s journey unfolds as a powerful tale of redemption, identity, and the tough choices he must face. If you’re a fan of character-driven fantasy filled with deep emotional stakes, this book is an absolute must-read!

Join the Conversation!

If you’ve ever wanted your book club to feature stories that make your heart race just as much as they make you think, you’re in the right place. We’ll be diving deep into these books with discussion questions, themes to explore, and plenty of space to share your thoughts.

So, all you fantasy, sci-fi, and romantasy lovers—stay tuned! We’ve got you covered here at Book Club Babble, where every great story gets the attention it deserves. Let’s read, discuss, and celebrate the books that keep us up all night.

What’s the last genre book you couldn’t put down? Drop your recommendations in the comments!