‘Wicker’ Has the Internet Thirsting: These BookTok-Favorites Will Hold You Over Until Its Theatrical Release

Alexander Skarsgård’s role in the upcoming film ‘Wicker’ has ignited widespread curiosity and discussion online, particularly on platforms like TikTok. The movie centers on an extraordinary character—a man crafted entirely from wicker—who arrives in a small village, stirring fascination and complex emotional responses among its inhabitants.

In ‘Wicker,’ Skarsgård portrays a husband created for a lonely fisherwoman, played by Olivia Colman, by a local basketmaker, portrayed by Peter Dinklage. This fantastical setup unfolds into a narrative exploring themes of desire, jealousy, and the nature of attraction, set against a rural backdrop. Since premiering at Sundance earlier this year, the film has gained traction with wider audiences following the release of its trailer.

The trailer has garnered millions of views, drawing attention not only for its originality but also for the peculiar questions it raises about the physicality of a wicker man. This has led to a wave of humorous online content speculating on the logistics of such a character, further amplifying anticipation for the film’s theatrical debut.

As viewers await ‘Wicker,’ many are turning to the literary world to find their next captivating romantic fantasy. BookTok, a vibrant community on TikTok dedicated to book discussions, has spotlighted several beloved fantastical romantic leads who share thematic ties with the film’s otherworldly concept.

Among the standout mentions is Sarah J. Maas’ ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ series, where the romantic focal points evolve beyond the initial love interests introduced. The series enjoys immense popularity for its complex characters who embody the allure of mythical and enigmatic men, echoing the intrigue surrounding the wicker husband.

This affinity for unconventional heroes extends across various fantasy novels embraced by BookTok. From the morally ambiguous and dragon-riding suitors in Maas’ ‘Throne of Glass’ series to the intense and layered romances in Rebecca Yarros’ ‘Fourth Wing,’ these stories offer readers a spectrum of romantic figures that challenge traditional archetypes.

Other notable titles enriching the romantasy genre include Caroline Peckham’s ‘Zodiac Academy: The Awakening,’ which introduces fae heirs and magical rivalries, and Sarah J. Maas’ ‘Crescent City,’ featuring a sharp-witted fallen angel navigating both love and peril. These narratives share a common thread: the blend of myth, romance, and complex character dynamics that resonate deeply with fans.

Additionally, works like Callie Hart’s ‘Quicksilver’ and Devney Perry’s ‘Shield of Sparrows’ incorporate powerful supernatural elements and intense romantic tension. Norse mythology and forbidden love also play central roles in books like ‘A Fate Inked in Blood,’ highlighting the diverse inspirations fueling readers' fascination with fantastical relationships.

Meanwhile, ‘The Bridge Kingdom’ explores a politically charged marriage where duty and desire conflict, illustrating the genre’s capacity to intertwine romance with intricate storytelling.

‘Wicker’ itself draws from Ursula Wills-Jones’ short story ‘The Wicker Husband,’ offering a literary foundation that predates its viral rise. Although this source material is not widely accessible, it has inspired a cinematic exploration of themes that captivate audiences seeking romantic escapism through the lens of fantasy.

As the film’s release approaches, the growing enthusiasm reflects a broader cultural appetite for stories that challenge conventional romance, inviting viewers and readers alike to engage with narratives that feature enigmatic, magical, and unconventional partners. Whether through cinema or literature, this trend underscores a shifting landscape where fantasy romances continue to evolve and inspire.