Genre

Compiled by Antoinette Bronson (1995)

Within the Romance genre of fiction, there are many terms which can befuddle the new author. The following brief descriptions of the different categories within the Romance genre are an overview and not an all-inclusive list.

Category - A novel published under a particular publisher's imprint of a series or line.

Contemporary - A novel set within the present time.

Genre - A specific field of writing: Romance, Mystery, Science Fiction, Western

Glitz & Glamour - Contemporary fiction or romance with an emphasis on wealthy people and famous characters.

Gothic - Either historical or contemporary novel with mysterious events and featuring a secretive, troubled hero.

Historical - These stories range in time from 1200-1900 for their time setting and rely on the events of the era as part of their plot.

Mainstream - General fiction which is not part of a specific genre.

Paranormal - A Romance which features supernatural elements: time travel, ghosts, vampires, werewolves, psychics, etc.

Regency - (See: Regency Topic)

Romantic Suspense - A blend of romance and mystery with the heroine in danger. (Also see the Romantic Suspense Topic)

Single Title - A novel that is not released as part of a line.

Traditional - A contemporary romance without consummated lovemaking. Traditionals are sweet, innocent books. (Also see Sweet vs. Sensual Topic)

Young Adult - Contemporary story written for readers between 11-15 years old.