Like any genre, there is a lengthy list of popular romance subgenres and crossovers, including contemporary romance, regency romance, fantasy romance, and my personal favorite, romantic comedy. If you can find a way to combine two genres, there you have it.
To better understand the order your genre and subgenre should be listed in, read my Tips for Writers article titled Define Your Genre.
Most Popular Romance Subgenres
A Note from Your Editor: This list is simply some of the most popular subgenres in romance, while the actual list is truly endless. The specific nuances and details of your book can vary largely from these generic descriptions—the sky’s the limit!
Billionaire Romance
One of the main characters is rich/famous while the other is not. Often explores the fish-out-of-water trope for one or both characters as they adapt to each other’s worlds.
Christian Romance
Spirituality mixed with wholesome love.
Contemporary Romance
Modern setting, themes, problems, etc.
Erotic Romance
While sex is a big part of this subgenre, it is used as part of the greater plot, where intimacy is a fundamental part of the development of the relationship and the building of the overall plot.
Gothic Romance
Macabre settings and haunted characters. Can be set in the Middle Ages or modern times and includes elements of horror, mystery, and gore with curses, ghosts, and dark secrets.
Historical Romance
Set in the past (think medieval, western, Victorian era, etc.).
LGBTQ+ Romance
The characters in these novels are outside the traditional male/female relationships.
Medical Romance
Centered around the lives of doctors, nurses, or other healthcare providers. Often explores the balance needed for high-demand careers while still maintaining a love life.
Paranormal Romance
Features otherworldly characters such as vampires/werewolves, angels/demons, ghosts, etc. The story may also take place on another planet, with magical elements, or with technological aspects.
Regency Romance
Includes a king/queen/kingdom setting and usually takes place in the past.
Romantic Comedy
Light and heartwarming with lots of awkward and funny moments.
Romantic Suspense
Drugs, murder, or kidnapping are often involved with the relationship still at the core of the plot.
Western Romance
At least one of the characters is a cowboy/cowgirl or works on a ranch, or the story is set in the Old West.
Young Adult Romance
Teenagers to young adults dealing with awkward and confusing feelings of first love.
Additional Resources
- Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes
- More Tips for Writers articles in my Writing Romance series
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