Elements of a fantasy story that defines it as fantasy

[Sabine]

Hi, all. I'm the fantasy author of The Black Orb, but first and foremost, I'm a fantasy reader.

I was wondering what are the elements of fantasy that different readers like.

I've been reading fantasy for a long time, and am so particular about certain elements of fantasy. For me a fantasy story is not really fantasy until it contains magic, wizards and witches, a super quest and a talisman.

What are your favourite elements in a fantasy novel?