A shift is emerging in the genres. Some readers are seeking stories that prioritise comfort over conflict, seeking an escape, they say, from real-world stress – something they don’t get from tension-driven narratives.

Do the rise of cosy romance, the cosy mystery or the cosy fantasy suggest a trend? Are “no or low conflict” stories even possible? Are these requests for ‘no conflict’ prompted by something else?

Or is the term “conflict” the actual issue?

Maybe readers are looking for lower stakes, with conflicts which, while real, aren’t life-altering.

Readers are reporting being frustrated by traditional storytelling that ‘demands’ escalating tension and a third act crisis. This form of reader dissatisfaction might explain why “low conflict” is gaining a following. Think about it. perhaps writing a ‘low conflict’ story doesn’t require getting rid of every challenge a character faces. Perhaps writing a cosy does require the writer avoiding predictable and inorganic problems. Perhaps, ticking the boxes is not enough, especially if done carelessly.

Many readers equate the term, ‘conflict’, with high-stakes drama, acts of betrayal, that third-act ‘dark night of the soul’. But does that automatically mean our readers reject all forms of tension? Or are they rejecting characters suffering unfounded foreboding or baseless differences of opinion?

How many times can you recognise a trope unfolding without thinking: Not this again!

The Appeal of Low Stakes

Low stakes stories seem to opt for greater emotional resonance and a character-driven storytelling rather than plot twists. The stories focus on small, everyday moments. For readers who prefer comfort reads, the appeal is obvious.

Characters face challenges that feel proportionate and authentic rather than contrived or catastrophic.

At the same time, cozy mysteries still contain suspense, although it’s lighthearted. Cozy fantasy prioritises atmosphere over high-stakes adventure – hobbits’ hairy feet and elderberry wine rather than a clash of swords. Or of hearts.

A Story Without Conflict? Nah.

The biggest challenge for writers thinking to embrace the cosy has to be maintaining their balance.

Conflict remains the engine of storytelling—it’s what makes readers turn the page. Even low-stakes needs questions to create narrative momentum.  If every problem resolves too early, what is there to keep the story going?

A teacher once asked if beautiful language wasn’t enough for me to enjoy our study book. And the language truly was beautiful. My reply was that words without a story say nothing.

“Conflict-free” stories risk feeling aimless. Characters meet half way through chapter one. After couple of chapters of mild social jockeying they become friends. They buy a pub together a couple of chapters later and in their spare time go on occasional hikes in the hills! This will be a pleasant experience for some. Others will find it dull.

You can’t get no Satisfaction?

The truth about trends, particularly this one, is obvious.

Some readers crave tension, excitement, while others seek warmth. Dark stories full of righteous anger, betrayal, and redemption remain popular, proving many readers continue to relish conflicted characters. And an occasional clash of swords. At the same time, cozy, slice-of-life mystery, romance and fantasy are flourishing, offering a different kind of satisfaction.

Trends are like fashion—some stick around, while others are best forgotten as quickly as last year’s miso soup craze. But if the thought of snuggling into “cosy” vibes does tickle your fancy, then aim to spice up your characterisation. Turn that bland setting into a plush wonderland that even a cat would envy! Remember to sprinkle in some atmosphere. I mean who doesn’t love lounging in their pajamas while engaging in daily rituals like 12-hour streaming binges?

Aim less for ‘what happens next’ and more towards ‘I am never leaving this world’.