In the earlier days of publishing, fiction was divided into a few broad genres. These days, the divisions are more clearly defined and each genre contains a number of categories or sub-genres. Bookshops use these divisions when displaying books so that readers can find groups of work that appeal to them.
Romance Genre
This is one of the most recognized genres and encompasses books that focus on a love relationship between a man and a woman. Their love is normally frustrated by circumstances and personality differences but the situation resolves by the end of the book. Categories include:
- Historical romance
- Inspirational/Christian romance
- Contemporary romance
- Medical romance
Mysteries, Thrillers and Adventures
These stories are all characterized by fast-moving plots, intrigue, action and accurate detail. In one word, they must be page-turners. This is a popular genre and has many sub-genres that appeal to a wide variety of readers.
- Detective stories
- Cozy mysteries
- Legal
- Christian
- Forensic
- Historical
- Thriller
- Horror
- Medical
- Suspense
- Police
- Spy
Historical Fiction
These cover myriad time periods and settings and need to be backed by valid historical information. They are often educational as well as entertaining. Categories include:
- Romance
- Drama
- Family sagas
- Detective
- Adventure
Science Fiction
This is a futuristic genre which often portrays a high-tech world with power struggles between man and machine. To add credibility, these stories are often grounded on scientific principles with a large dose of imagination added in.
- Apocalypse
- Comedy
- Colonization
- Time travel
- Alien encounters
Fantasy Genre of Writing
These stories contain myths and legends, fairytale creatures and magic in various forms. The main character is often a human who has been thrust into this strange world through circumstances. Many fantasy stories include a journey to find an object of great value, or a quest to achieve something extraordinary.
- Heroic fantasy
- Science fantasy
- Role playing games
- Urban fantasy
- Dark fantasy
General Fiction Genre
This group encompasses books that don’t really fit into other genres. They may contain certain elements such as romance, mystery or adventure, but not enough to classify them in these genres. Some categories that fall under general fiction are:
- Chick lit
- Sporting stories
- Domestic drama
- Humor
- War stories
Genre is an important fact to consider when setting out to write a book and understanding the sub-genres in the modern publishing world can help a writer focus his work in the right direction. With a correct focus, the plot, storyline and action of a book can be targeted to reach a ready-made audience.
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