Oxford's Newest Bookstore Sells Only Romantasy Books

Oxford's newest bookstore exclusively sells romantasy books, a genre blending fantasy and romance. The store is owned by Starlin Marot, who discussed the venture with NPR's Danielle Kurtzleben. Marot's inventory is entirely dedicated to romantasy novels, making them her best and only sellers. The bookstore's focus on this niche genre reflects the growing popularity of romantasy literature. The interview covered topics such as unicorns and dragons, which are common elements in romantasy stories. The store's unique business model highlights the commercial viability of genre-specific bookshops. The opening of this bookstore in Oxford, a city renowned for its literary heritage, marks a notable development in the retail book industry. The store caters to a dedicated readership that has embraced the romantasy genre, which has seen a surge in recent years. The interview was broadcast on NPR, with the audio available via an embedded player. The segment aired on August 16, 2026, and was part of NPR's ongoing coverage of cultural trends.