Choosing Fiction Genres and Sub-genres: What's Your Specialty?
As a fiction author, how do you decide on a genre and/or sub-genre? And, if you're a new writer, are you familiar with these terms?
In the world of fiction writing, there are many genres and sub-genres you can write in, and it can be a daunting task to figure out which one or ones are your specialty--especially for those who are just starting out.
Remember, you don't have to limit yourself to one genre only. (Though many writers do usually have that one particular genre that they are most passionate about)
Where to Start
The best place to start is always at the beginning, of course! When you're just starting out in the world of fiction writing, whether its just as a hobby or as a paid venture, you should definitely start out in the genre you are most passionate about.
Do you enjoy romance? Science-fiction/fantasy? What about Suspense/Thrillers? Or perhaps Horror? Maybe you're a poet who would like to share your poetry with the world? These are some of the most popular fiction genres on the market today, and most of the more popular sub-genres fall into one of these categories.
A lot of writers write in the genre(s) that they most enjoy reading, actually. If you're an avid reader (and many writers are) you would likely do well to write in the genre you read the most.
Romance
Romance is one of the largest genres in the world, and lots of sub-genres and tropes fall into this category.Here is a brief list of some of the most common and popular romance sub-genres and tropes.
Contemporary Romance- this sub-genre can include billionaire romance, interracial romance, urban romance parnormal romance and sci-fi/fantasy romance
Historical Romance- this sub-genre can include Western/Cowboy romance, Scottish romance, Regency romance and Victorian romance
Erotica- this sub-genre can include more taboo topics, like BDSM erotica, MMF erotica, FMF erotica, etc...
Inspirational Romance- this sub-genre can include Clean romance, Christian romance, Amish romance, etc...
LGBTQ Romance- this sub-genre can include MM romance, FF romance, and MFM or FMF romance
Again, this is just a very basic list to give you an general idea of the genres and sub-genres that are out there. Feel free to comment and add some of your own favorite romance sub-genres if you'd like to!
Combining Genres, Subgenres and Tropes
A lot of writers combine different genres, subgenres and tropes in order to create more unique and innovative stories. It can be both interesting and fun to mix and match different elements and craft your own unique fictional tale. Here are a few examples of ways to accomplish this feat:
An interracial billionaire BBW romance- the MMC (main male character) is a billionaire and the MFC (main female character) is a BBW from a different race (This is often a black woman and a white male)
An urban Christian inspirational romance - the main characters are usually African-American in urban romance, add a Christian element and throw in an inspirational trope
A paranormal historical western 2nd Chance romance- paranormal elements in a historical western romance with a second-chance trope added to the mix
Again, these are just some examples of mixing, meshing and combining genres, elements, tropes and sub-genres. There are countless ways to come up with your own original storylines and plot ideas. I'd love to hear some of your ideas and/or actual combinations, so feel free to share in the comments section anytime!