An Overview of Romance Sub-Genres
According to the Romance Writer’s Association (RWA), a romance should have these two elements: “a central love story and an emotionally satisfying and optimistic ending.” As long as you have that covered, the love story can be dressed up however you please: Space Cowboy romance, Underwater Court romance, Celebrity Sports romance—whatever your heart desires.
That being said, I wanted to take the time to go over various sub-genres within romance. This is far from a complete, comprehensive list. There is so much out there to explore! What are some of your favorite, niche romance sub-genres? Share down below in the comments!
Contemporary Romance
Contemporary Romances are set in the time period the author is writing in (their present day) and explores modern issues and challenges. So, although many consider Pride and Prejudice to be a historical romance, by definition it would be a contemporary since Jane Austen wrote of her current time period. But anyway, I digress.
In Contemporary Romances, you’ll find topics ranging from e-sports to Hollywood glamour, floral shop businesses to figure skating, diving to dog shows. The list goes on. And that’s the beauty of it. This sub-genre encompasses a vast amount of various subjects and niches so you’re sure to find one that’ll tickle your heart.
Examples: How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang, Unsteady by Peyton Corinne, and Big Fan by Alexandra Romanoff
Historical Romance
These love stories are set against a vibrant historical backdrop, ranging anywhere from the Viking Age to Late Victorian, Tudor to Western. But something to note. Just because the story is historical, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are always historically accurate. (Think Renaissance Faire. Everyone’s dressed up in colorful and whimsical costumes of their own concoction and there to have a good time. No one’s concerned with the accuracy of their clothing.) Personally for me when I’m reading this sub-genre, the more accurate the better; I like to be fully immersed in the era. Sometimes, the anachronisms within the romance novel are intentional with the purpose of drawing in a modern crowd who simply enjoy the vibe and aesthetics of the time setting.
Examples: The Belle of Belgrave Square by Mimi Matthews, The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, Bombshell by Sarah Maclean
Paranormal Romance
Or Supernatural Romance. I’m grouping them together for simplicity though there is a slight difference. Anyway. It’s an after party of aliens, vampires, werewolves, witches, ghosts, and other spirits. The love stories of this sub-genre involve the characters navigating the supernatural realm and overcoming its differences and challenges. With elements of magic, fantasy, and otherworldly forces—and delicious angst—I’m always drawn to these during the start of the chilly season. 👻
Examples: City of Bones by Cassandra Clare, Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor, Inheritance by Nora Roberts
Erotic Romance
Unlike the other sub-genres, the sex isn’t just an additional detail but an integral aspect to the story. The sexual interaction plays a big role in the development of the romantic relationship. So, expect lots of explicit and detailed scenes. Steamy, spicy, full of chiles.
Examples: Keep Me by Sara Cate, Wicked Ties by Shayla Black, The Duke I tempted by Scarlett Peckham
Suspense Romance
A mystery or thriller plot underlines the romance in this sub-genre with the tension of growing attraction and of the suspense going hand in hand.
Examples: Blood Moon by Sandra Brown, NightShade by Autumn Woods, The Blonde Who Came in From the Cold by Ally Carter
Romance Fantasy (Romantasy)
(Romantasy was what got me really into reading at a young age!) A blend of romance and fantasy, this sub-genre currently dominates the romance genre and honestly, no surprise there. Thanks to social media, Romantasy finally got the spotlight it deserves. This package deal includes world-building, magic and myths, tangles of intrigue, and monstrous heirs—what’s not to love?
Examples: Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier, Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater, From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
I hope you found this helpful. If you have any questions about the sub-genres of romance or why it is important to know which category your writing falls into, feel free to leave them in the comments. Happy reading! 🧚♀️✨
