Romance Novel Subgenres

By Carla Trueheart 

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we thought it might be a good idea to visit some romance novel subgenres for all of you romance novelists out there. Romance novels require a different narrative structure than many other genres, including a cute meet and two protagonists who normally act as each other’s antagonist. The genre itself may also include a broad spectrum of outside literary genres. For example, while Twilight and The Notebook are both romance-based, you would hardly say they had the same subgenres or were similar in any way. To that end, we’re happy to present a list of romance novel subgenres that should not only aid you in placing your own novel, but also perhaps inspire you to start a new one. 

Traditional/Contemporary Romance

This subgenre of romance novels normally takes place in a modern era, with protagonists who  use cellphones and other electronic devices. There is a focus on falling in love in a new era, highlighting the modern female and her own specific goals in the twenty-first century. You’ll want to consider careers, family plans, and relationship roles with this subgenre. If writing from a male perspective, you’ll want to consider the modern male as well—how are they dealing with their new age woman?

Paranormal Romance

Paranormal romance focuses on supernatural beings and mystical powers and might include vampires, werewolves, shape-shifters, ghosts, fairies, witches, and other types of monsters or mythological beings. The popularity of this genre grew with the Twilight series, and continues to be a fan favorite. Consider careful weaving of the plot, love story, and supernatural elements for a perfect balance of romance and magic.

Romantic Mystery

This type of romance novel is your standard mystery, but with a love story attached. You might consider a whodunit here, or a detective romance, or perhaps even a dark and stormy night novel infused with romance and intrigue. Consider a careful balance of mystery and romance here, as one story may be too powerful and overtake the other.

Inspirational Romance

The inspirational romance novel might include religion, particularly Christianity, or it might be a story about overcoming a personal obstacle. Traditionally it’s clean with little suggestion of intimacy, and sweet, with the focus more on a cute or spiritual relationship rather than a sexual one. That doesn’t mean this type of novel has to be boring or won’t sell! Consider the work of Debbie Macomber who writes contemporary and inspirational romance novels that have been adapted into television series. There is always a readership for inspirational novels.

Historical Romance

Hugely popular as of late, this subgenre includes any story set in the past, from Medieval Times to the Colonial era to the turn of the century. The story here will revolve around protagonists falling in love in another time period, and the setting should enhance the love story. Be aware of time period and make sure to research language, food, transportation, and dress/style. 

Erotica/Sizzle

Another popular subgenre of romance, coming off the success of 50 Shades of Grey. Erotica novels will include a love story based around a sexual relationship, with many details of that type of togetherness. Consider that readers will expect a lot of sizzle, and don’t disappoint them, but also keep the plot in mind so the novel is not one-note.

LGBT

Again, this subgenre is growing in popularity as readers embrace LGBT issues and stories. These novels will include LGBT teens or adults finding each other out there in the new world, and will highlight their relationship and struggles just as any romance novel would. Consider fan base (be authentic) and reaching readers who might be new to reading this type of story. 

Category/Harlequin

These publications normally focus on series romance, much like a soap opera on television runs new “episodes” week to week. The novels are generally a bit shorter than the average novel, and readers will expect a traditional romance, normally contemporary. When publishing, you’ll want to look for publishers of specific series, such as Harlequin.

Romantic Suspense/Thriller

These romance novels usually include high action and even elements of horror. The readers of this genre expect a thrill ride, with anything from kidnappings to murders to psychological twists in the plot. Romantic suspense tends to be fast-paced with heart-stopping moments, breathless love scenes, and strong active protagonists. Consider that a slow, frightening thriller might work as well—try something new!

Fantasy/Sci-Fi

Similar to paranormal, but with a different-world element. Maybe your love story takes place on another planet or an imaginary land. Maybe the protagonists are not even human. Consider the elements of fantasy or sci-fi here, noting the world-building of fantasy and the science that may be involved in a sci-fi setting. Time travel novels would also fit into this category. 

Gothic Romance

These novels aren’t as popular nowadays, but if you’d like to try your writing hand at penning one, the plot would revolve around mood and atmosphere mainly, with possible dark settings and brooding protagonists. There is also a psychological element in gothic romance, and like the thriller, these novels are suspense-driven and may also include horror. Consider stories like Dracula and Frankenstein and classic authors like Edgar Allan Poe. 

YA/NA Romance

YA (young adult) novels focus on teen readers, while NA (new adult) focuses on college-aged readers. Both age groups will normally enjoy a good romance novel, as this is a time when many of these readers will be starting up romantic relationships. Consider the age group you’re writing for, especially when it comes to intimate scenes, and strive for authenticity in voice and narration. 

We hope this list helps you as you write your romance novels on Valentine’s Day or any other time of the year! Please let us know if you think of other subgenres, and happy writing!