So in this first post in my “So You Want to be a Author” series, I want to discuss the different types of novels.
Maybe you’ve already started or finished writing your or perhaps you’re looking for a place to begin. Most likely, you’re wondering how to categorize your or what to write.
When I first started writing, I had a defined idea of what I wanted – that’s because I reading novels too! I knew my stories would have werewolves in them, so I immediately knew I would be writing a .
But, if you’re not sure where to start, let’s take a look at the different kinds of books by .
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There are so many books out there. People can read and learn something. Or they can set out to read for pleasure and to be entertained by reading .
When a cover has a man and a woman gazing longingly into each other’s eyes, or the is about forbidden , we can instantly recognize each . The hallmark of a is a central and a satisfying happy ever after ending. Like any other , the has many different kinds of stories for the . Each the creates does not fall into one general that is classified as .
In fact, there are at least six . And each could probably be classified even more if you want to really dial down into the nitty-gritty of .
Now onto the kinds of stories create with their audience in mind.
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A is set before the 1950s and can also qualify as . The is based on an actual event or set at a point in time in the past. One of its popular subgenres is the set in the early 19th century (the 1800s), think the Bridgerton . The must do extensive research and makes sure the and the characters are living in their time and not in the readers.
Officially is set in the 1950s and later, though some would argue it starts in the 1970s. It is considered the most “real” since it tackles modern issues and themes.
This kind of has lots of and sex between the and her interest as a way to show the development of a relationship. It is often confused with erotica, but erotica is about a character’s sexual journey that is not linked to a progression of a .
Back to – a can be graphic but it isn’t included in the just to titillate. There is a happily ever after component that must be fulfilled between the main characters.
is a that has paranormal characters like shapeshifters, witches, elves, vampires, or characters with psychic or magical abilities. These stories can have a slant though they must have a arc. The paranormal elements are an essential part of the and will not work without it.
The stories are set in the real world and not in an alternate universe. If the has extensive world-building full of supernatural phenomena, fairies, or magical creatures that are considered a .
Popular authors of the are , JR Ward, Christine Feehan, Sarah J. Maas, and, of course, Stephanie Meyer of Twilight fame.
Alien or
Recently, Alien Romances have become quite popular too, featuring some out-of-this-world heroes. Think, Star Trek but these hot alien men are searching their galaxies for their one true mate (or queen, or mother of their children).
Like the typical , the romantic variety involves a crime, a bad guy, a mystery, or detective work, but with a central to the . A is a where the battles scary ordeals but ultimately ends up with the person she loves.
When a romantic is intertwined with the spiritual journey of the character, it is an or with spiritual elements. It is also called Christian and the audience expects that the author will exclude profanity, violence, and overt sexuality in the . There may not be any sex but there is plenty of romantic tension to push the along. If there are no inspirational or religious themes, these books are also referred to as Clean Romances.
novel by age group
have a target audience and their books fall into broad divided by the age of the main characters.
Age Categories
- (12-17 years old)
- New adult (18-29 years old)
- Adult (30 and older)
or deals with coming-of-age stories, first , sexuality, and family relationships.
New Adult
New Adult is for a who loves books about career choices, independence, and sexuality.
Adult
The in this are all the familiar trademarks of and – , heartbreak, and sex.
How else are novels categorized?
I should mention that aside from the subgenres, books are classified as or single-title. is a series with each related to each other and released at regular intervals. This is mostly what I do – my books are usually five books in a series and each is published every two months. Single-title books are one-offs and do not follow the journey of a set of characters.
I honestly like writing more. I like exploring a world (like my Blackstone Mountain series) and following a family or group of people.
Although I wrote a few contemporary romances, I didn’t find my own stride until I shifted (get it!?) into with the True Mates Series. So, don’t worry if the first you pick or want to write might not suit you. What’s important is that you find something you enjoy writing first and foremost. I personally believe that readers are very smart, and they know when an author is obviously phoning it in.
Got any questions about writing or about the different kinds of novels? Leave it in the comments!
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