The Rise of Anthony Palmini in the Romantasy Audiobook Genre

Anthony Palmini, a Bronx native and audiobook narrator, has emerged as a prominent figure in the romantasy genre, which combines elements of romance and fantasy. His deep, resonant voice has captivated fans, particularly through his roles in popular series such as Sarah J. Maas's "A Court of Thorns and Roses" and Callie Hart's "Fae & Alchemy." Despite facing challenges, including a recent illness that threatened his recording schedule, Palmini's career is on an upward trajectory, with expectations to record 60 new books by August 2026.

NPR

Romantasy is one of the fastest-growing literary genres, with U.S. book sales reaching 33.1 million in 2025, a 3% increase from the previous year. The genre has seen double-digit growth in prior years, driven by a surge in audiobook sales, which topped $2.22 million in 2024. The Audio Publishers Association noted significant gains in romance and science fiction/fantasy categories, with romantasy leading the charge.

NPR

Palmini's path to success began with a serendipitous voiceover job in 2015 while working as a show editor for MTV. His passion for storytelling and vocal performance was nurtured by his father, who encouraged him to explore his vocal range. Over the years, Palmini honed his craft, transitioning from acting to audiobook narration, where he found his niche as a voice for beloved male characters in romantasy.

NPR

The romantasy genre resonates with a diverse audience, particularly women, due to its themes of justice and the heroine's quest for order. Jasmine Bina, a brand strategist, suggests that the genre's appeal lies not only in its fantastical elements but also in its exploration of deeper emotional narratives. This complexity enhances the listening experience, as noted by fans who appreciate Palmini's ability to elevate audiobook narration.

NPR

Palmini expressed gratitude for the support from romantasy fans, stating, "It's a great time to be in the genre." He acknowledges the growing interest in romantasy adaptations for film and television, likening it to the comic-book craze that dominated the entertainment industry. This shift could present new opportunities for him and others in the genre.

NPR

Despite his success, Palmini faces the inherent pressures of audiobook narration, particularly when recording intimate scenes. He candidly shares his initial embarrassment but emphasizes the importance of sincerity in portraying complex characters. This balance between vulnerability and professionalism is a recurring theme in his work.

NPR

• “But when he was sick, he said: "I had all these projects ready to go and my voice was gone for two weeks.” — Anthony Palmini, Audiobook Narrator

NPR

• “This man has completely stolen my heart. I will never be the same,” — Nicole Holleman, Fan and Podcast Host

NPR

• “It's a great time to be in the genre.” — Anthony Palmini, Audiobook Narrator

NPR

As Palmini continues to record an increasing number of titles, he anticipates the romantasy genre will expand further into mainstream media. His commitment to authenticity and storytelling positions him well for future projects, potentially leading to adaptations that could broaden the genre's reach and influence.

NPR