Last week, I had what we’ll call an informative rant about HEAs and the difference between genre conventions and reader expectations.

Today, we start our deep dive into the subgenres, beginning with contemporary romance. Let’s take a quick refresher on subgenres, how they differ from genres, and how a genre becomes a subgenre. 

I promise this makes sense.

Genres are broad categories that classify literature based on shared characteristics and themes. Each genre has its own set of conventions, tropes, and reader expectations.

Subgenres are more specific categories within a genre that focus on particular themes, settings, or styles. They help to narrow down the type of story and its unique elements, making it easier for readers to find exactly what they're in the mood for.

The key difference between genres and subgenres lies in their scope. Scope refers to the breadth and focus of the subject matter, themes, settings, and elements that the category covers.

Genres have a broad scope because they encompass a wide range of stories that share general characteristics and themes. The scope of a genre is wide enough to include many different types of stories within its general framework. Subgenres, on the other hand, have a narrower scope. They focus on specific themes, settings, or styles within the broader genre. Subgenres refine and specialize the elements of their parent genre. The scope of a subgenre is more limited and specific, honing in on particular aspects of the broader genre to create a more defined reading experience.

Understanding the scope of genres and subgenres helps readers and writers categorize and identify the types of stories they enjoy or wish to create. It clarifies what to expect from a book or story, ensuring that it meets the specific interests or themes that a reader is looking for. For writers, it helps craft stories that fit well within certain expectations and guidelines, making their work more marketable to the intended audience.

A genre typically becomes a subgenre when it branches out from a broader category and establishes its own set of distinct characteristics. This often happens when a particular type of story gains popularity and develops a consistent pattern of themes, settings, and tropes. Here’s how it works:

1. Popularity and Demand: As readers develop a taste for a particular type of story, writers produce more of these stories, creating a recognizable pattern.

2. Distinct Elements: Over time, these stories begin to share unique elements that set them apart from the broader genre.

3. Reader Expectations: Readers start to expect certain features and themes in these stories, solidifying the subgenre's identity.

Understanding the distinction between genres and subgenres helps you know how to sell your finished manuscript to readers. It also makes it easier for readers to find stories that match their interests and expectations more precisely. 

When a category falls under a larger subgenre, it’s typically called a subcategory rather than a subgenre. This is because it represents an even more specific niche within an already specialized area.

Ex: Tessa Bailey’s It Happened One Summer

The story follows Piper Bellinger, a fashionable and influential socialite exiled to a small town in the Pacific Northwest by her stepfather. There, she meets Brendan, a gruff, no-nonsense sea captain. The book combines the charm of small-town life with laugh-out-loud moments and sizzling romance, making it a perfect fit for your description.

- Genre: Romance

- Subgenre: Contemporary Romance

- Subcategory: Romantic Comedy

- Subcategory: Small-Town Romance

Each level gets more specific, helping readers narrow down their preferences and expectations even further. So, when a category falls under a larger subgenre, it’s best described as a subcategory.

Why Do We Love Contemporary Romance?

First off, it's incredibly relatable. When you read about a character struggling with work-life balance or navigating online dating, it feels like you're reading about your own life or someone you know. This connection makes the love stories even more compelling because they feel real and attainable. You'll find love stories that unfold in bustling cities, cozy small towns, and everything in between. The backdrop is familiar and comforting, making it easy to immerse yourself in the story. Plus, contemporary romances often tackle current issues like mental health, social justice, and the impact of technology on relationships. These themes add depth and relevance, making the stories entertaining and meaningful.

And let’s face it…Who doesn't love a good emotional rollercoaster? Characters in contemporary romances experience the highs and lows of love in a way that feels authentic and deeply moving. Readers get to laugh, cry, and cheer alongside the characters, creating a powerful emotional connection that keeps them hooked.

While this subgenre is grounded in reality, it also offers an escape from everyday life. It's the perfect blend of realism and fantasy—showing that love can be extraordinary, even in the most ordinary settings. These stories remind us that happy endings are possible and that love can bloom in unexpected places. It's a comforting thought that adds a touch of magic to our day-to-day lives.

Another great aspect of contemporary romance is its diversity. These stories feature characters from all walks of life, reflecting the rich tapestry of modern society. Whether it's different cultures, sexual orientations, or life experiences, contemporary romance embraces diversity and inclusivity. This makes the genre more accessible and relatable to a wider audience, allowing readers to see themselves in the stories and feel represented.

Basically, people read contemporary romance because it offers a perfect mix of realism, emotional depth, and escapism. These stories reflect our modern lives, tackle current issues, and feature diverse characters, making them incredibly relatable and engaging and something for everyone. 

Where Does It Take Place?

Where a story takes place can make all the difference, and in contemporary romance, the backdrop is like an extra character, adding flavor and depth to the love story. So, where exactly do these love stories unfold? The answer is pretty much anywhere! That’s one of the coolest things about contemporary romance. 

Urban Cities: Urban settings are perfect for stories filled with career-driven characters, chance encounters in coffee shops, and romantic walks through bustling streets. Think New York City with its iconic skyline or Los Angeles with its blend of glamour and grit. City settings bring a sense of energy and possibility, making every interaction feel like it could change your life.

Small Towns: Ah, small towns—where everyone knows your name and secrets don’t stay hidden for long. These settings are cozy and charming, often with quirky characters and tight-knit communities. Imagine a quaint village with a town square or a coastal town with a bustling harbor. Small towns are great for stories about rediscovering love, reconnecting with old flames, or finding new beginnings in a familiar place.

Vacation Spots: Who doesn’t love a good getaway? Vacation settings offer a chance to escape the every day and fall in love in an exotic locale. From tropical beaches to mountain retreats, these settings are all about romance in paradise. They bring an element of fantasy and adventure, perfect for whirlwind romances and steamy encounters far from home.

Suburbs: The suburbs might not seem glamorous, but they’re incredibly relatable. These settings capture the everyday reality of many readers—balancing work, family, and love in a familiar environment. Suburban settings can bring a sense of normalcy and comfort, making the love story feel grounded and real.

The beauty of contemporary romance lies in its ability to reflect the world we live in. Familiar and realistic settings help readers connect with the story on a deeper level. When you read about a character navigating love in a place that feels real, it’s easier to imagine yourself in their shoes. These settings also add authenticity to the narrative. A well-described cityscape or a vividly painted small town can make the story come alive, pulling readers into the world the author has created. It’s not just about the love story; it’s about the whole experience—the sights, sounds, and even the smells of the setting.

Who is the Target Reader?

The beauty of contemporary romance is that its target audience is incredibly diverse. These stories have something for everyone, making them appealing to a wide range of readers. Let's break down why contemporary romance resonates with so many different people. This subgenre doesn't discriminate. It welcomes readers of all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life. 

For younger readers, contemporary romance offers stories that feel relevant and immediate. They can see themselves in the characters' struggles with first love, college life, and finding their place in the world. Middle-aged readers like that these novels often explore the balancing act between work, family, and romance. They delve into second chances at love, navigating relationships post-divorce, or the challenges of blended families. Senior readers can find a lot to love in contemporary romance, with stories about rediscovering love later in life, dealing with the loss of a partner, or finding companionship in unexpected places. To be honest, we need more romances in this category. 

For Aspiring Writers

Writing a good contemporary romance involves creating relatable characters, believable settings, and a love story that feels real and heartfelt. It’s also about striking a balance between reader preference and genre conventions to write a story that is true to your authorial voice and tells the tale you want to tell!

1. Think About the Setting: Contemporary romance is all about the here and now, so your story should reflect that. Choose a setting that feels real and vibrant. Whether it's a bustling city, a cozy small town, or an exotic vacation spot, make sure to paint a vivid picture. Describe the sights, sounds, and smells. Use specific details to make the place come alive. Your setting should be a place where readers can imagine themselves living and falling in love.

2. Create Realistic Characters: Your protagonists should have strengths, flaws, dreams, and fears. Think about their backgrounds and experiences. What has shaped them into the people they are today? Give them goals and motivations that drive their actions. Let them grow and change throughout the story. Readers should be able to see themselves in your characters and root for their success.

3. Use Authentic Dialogue: Nothing pulls a reader out of a story faster than dialogue that feels stilted or unrealistic. Listen to how people talk in real life. Capture that natural rhythm in your writing. Each character should have their own voice, influenced by their background, personality, and experiences. Avoid clichés and overly formal language. Keep it natural and authentic to each character.

4. Address Current Issues: Contemporary romance is powerful because it can tackle real-life challenges and themes. Consider weaving in issues like work-life balance, mental health, social justice, or the impact of technology on relationships. These elements add depth and relevance to your story. They make it more than just a love story but a reflection of the world we live in today.

5. Focus on Emotional Depth: A good romance makes readers feel the highs and lows of love right along with the characters. Explore the messy, complicated emotions that come with relationships. Let your characters experience joy, heartbreak, confusion, and everything in between. Show their vulnerabilities and strengths. This emotional journey keeps readers invested and makes the romance feel real.

6. Build Romantic Tension: The push and pull between characters is what makes a romance exciting. Create situations that bring your characters closer together, then pull them apart. Use misunderstandings, external conflicts, and personal insecurities to build tension. The eventual resolution should feel earned and satisfying. The more you make your readers yearn for the characters to be together, the more impactful the resolution will be.

7. Infuse Your Story with a Modern Writing Style: Contemporary romance tends to have a straightforward and accessible style. Use humor, wit, and a conversational tone to engage your readers. Avoid overly complex sentences and jargon. Make your writing clear and evocative. Use modern language and references that resonate with today’s readers. Your style should make readers feel like they’re part of the story.

Spicy or not?

Writing sex scenes can be a bit tricky—finding the right balance between too much and too little detail is key. In contemporary romance, the level of explicitness varies, and it’s important to tailor it to fit the subgenre, audience expectations, and the overall story. So, how detailed do those steamy scenes need to be? 

It all comes down to a few important factors:

As previously stated, subgenres and subcategories are specific categories within a broader genre that focus on particular themes, settings, or styles. 

Those expectations lead to readers’ anticipation and preference for certain types of content, tone, and style of a book within a specific subgenre. 

Fade to Black or Closed door Romance: In these romances, the focus is on the emotional and romantic connection between the characters rather than the physical aspects of their relationship. Readers of this subgenre expect little to no explicit content. The intimacy is usually implied, with the story concentrating on the characters’ emotional journeys. Think of it as romance that keeps things chaste and leaves more to the imagination.

Contemporary Romance: This is where things can vary significantly. Contemporary romance covers a broad spectrum, and the level of explicitness can range from mild to quite detailed. Some contemporary romances might have just a few steamy scenes that are more about the emotional connection, while others might delve into more graphic descriptions. Readers in this category enjoy a mix of physical and emotional intimacy balanced in a way that enhances the story and character development.

Erotic Contemporary Romance: Here, explicit and detailed sex scenes are a central element. Readers of erotic romance expect the physical aspect of the relationship to be a major focus, with graphic descriptions that explore the characters’ sexual chemistry and adventures. The intimacy in these stories is not just a part of the plot but a driving force that deeply explores the characters' desires and relationships.

Understanding the subgenre and what your readers expect helps you ensure that your story resonates with the audience and delivers what they are looking for in a romance novel. If you’re writing a sweet romance, you’ll want to focus more on the emotional buildup and less on explicit scenes. For contemporary romance, finding the right balance between emotion and physicality is key. And if you’re diving into erotic romance, don’t shy away from detailed descriptions that explore the characters' sexual dynamics.

However, meeting reader expectations is not a requirement. It doesn’t mean you can’t add your unique twist. Genre conventions, however, provide a framework to ensure your story aligns with what fans of the subgenre love. So, whether you’re keeping things sweet and subtle or turning up the heat, understanding these expectations will help you craft a romance that feels just right for your audience.

Character and Relationship Development: Sex scenes should contribute to character development and the progression of the relationship. They should reveal something about the characters, their feelings, and their connection. If the scene doesn't add to the story, it might be better to keep it less detailed or implied.

Tone and Style: Consider the overall tone and style of your book. If your writing style is more poetic or focused on emotional depth, your sex scenes might be more suggestive and less graphic. If your style is straightforward and candid, more explicit scenes might fit better.

Audience Preferences: Think about your target audience's preferences. Some readers enjoy detailed descriptions and find them essential to the romance, while others might prefer more subtlety. Understanding your audience can help you strike the right balance.

Comfort Level: Write what you’re comfortable with. Authenticity is key, and if you're not comfortable writing explicit scenes, it will likely show in your writing. It's perfectly fine to keep scenes more suggestive and focus on the emotions and connections.

Purpose in the Story: Ensure that the sex scenes serve a purpose. They should move the plot forward, deepen the characters' relationship, or reveal something significant about the characters. Gratuitous scenes that don't serve a purpose can detract from the story and lead to skimming.

Ultimately, the level of detail in sex scenes should fit naturally within the story you’re telling. Whether you choose to be subtle or explicit, ensure that each scene enhances the narrative, deepens the characters' relationship, and aligns with the overall tone of your book. This approach will help you create a satisfying and engaging contemporary romance that resonates with your readers.

About those HEAs:

As I mentioned in my previous article, the subgenre can influence the type of HEA the couple gets. While contemporary romance often includes textbook and sometimes patriarchal epilogues, there's a variety of ways to wrap up these love stories.

Classic Happy Ending: The protagonists overcome all obstacles and end up together, often with a clear commitment such as a marriage proposal, wedding, or simply a mutual declaration of lasting love. Ex: The couple gets married in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by friends and family, symbolizing their commitment and future together.

Happy For Now (HFN): The couple is together and happy at the story’s end, but without a long-term commitment like marriage. This type of ending suggests a promising future but acknowledges that the relationship is still evolving. Ex: The protagonists decide to move in together and see where their relationship takes them, leaving the door open for further growth.

Reunited Lovers: Characters who were previously separated, either by circumstances or misunderstandings, find their way back to each other. This ending emphasizes the power of love and reconciliation. Ex: After years apart, the couple reunites, having resolved their past issues and grown as individuals, ready to start anew.

Personal Growth and Partnership: The protagonists not only find love but also achieve significant personal growth. Their relationship is part of a larger journey of self-discovery and fulfillment. Ex: Both characters achieve their personal goals and dreams, and their relationship is stronger because they’ve become better versions of themselves.

Family and Community: The HEA extends beyond just the couple, showcasing a broader sense of happiness that includes family and community. This type often highlights the support system around the couple. Ex: The story ends with the couple celebrating their love surrounded by supportive family and friends, indicating a bright future within a loving community.

Overcoming External Challenges: The couple faces and overcomes significant external challenges, such as career obstacles, health issues, or social pressures, and their triumph strengthens their bond. Ex: After overcoming a major external threat, like a legal battle or illness, the couple emerges stronger and more united.

Blended Family or Second Chances: The protagonists might come from previous relationships, and their HEA involves creating a new family dynamic or giving love a second chance. Ex: A single parent finds love again, and the story concludes with the formation of a happy blended family, accepting and loving each other fully.

Adventure and New Beginnings: The couple decides to embark on a new adventure together, symbolizing a fresh start and an exciting future ahead. Ex: The protagonists quit their jobs to travel the world together, embracing the unknown with confidence in their partnership.

These types of HEAs cater to different reader preferences, providing closure and satisfaction in ways that feel authentic to the characters and their journeys. However, they are fairly common. The best way to end a story is in a way that respects the characters and world you’ve built. That doesn’t mean there needs to be a classic marriage proposal, a promise of future adventures, or a simple acknowledgment of lasting love. There are other ways to demonstrate these characters have either achieved their happily ever after or are on their way to one. If you want to end your contemporary romance in a less traditional way, consider the stages of love. 

Here’s a list of the 7 stages:

1. Attraction

2. Infatuation

3. Building Trust

4. Developing Intimacy

5. Commitment

6. Deep Attachment

7. Partnership and Growth

Romances often focus on the stages of attraction and infatuation. Attraction is that initial pull, the flutter in your stomach when you see someone for the first time. It’s all about physical chemistry and that unexplainable draw to another person. This stage is filled with those first glances, stolen smiles, and the electric feeling of possibility. Think of it as the moment your protagonists lock eyes across a crowded room or bump into each other in a charmingly awkward situation. It’s the stuff meet-cutes are made of. 

Infatuation takes that initial spark and turns it up a notch. This is where the characters can’t stop thinking about each other. Every interaction is charged with excitement, and their thoughts are consumed by the new person in their life. It’s passionate, intense, and all-consuming. This stage is perfect for those swoon-worthy moments, like staying up all night talking, sharing secrets, or experiencing that first kiss that leaves them both breathless.

These stages make for page-turning reads. Readers love the anticipation, the tension, and the blossoming romance. It’s where love feels fresh and exhilarating, and every interaction is filled with promise. However, the remaining stages of a relationship offer rich material for a meaningful and satisfying HEA and definitely work well for epilogues. 

Here’s how you can explore these stages:

1. Building Trust: Show how your characters have built a solid foundation of trust. Maybe they’ve faced challenges together and come out stronger, demonstrating that their love is more than just physical attraction.

2. Developing Intimacy: Highlight the deep emotional connection they’ve formed. This could be through sharing their vulnerabilities, supporting each other’s dreams, or simply enjoying life’s quiet moments together.

3. Commitment: Illustrate their commitment to each other. This doesn’t have to be a wedding (though it can be!). It could be moving in together, adopting a pet, or making future plans that signify their dedication.

4. Deep Attachment: Emphasize the secure, deep attachment they share. Show how they’ve become each other’s rock, providing unwavering support and love through thick and thin.

5. Partnership and Growth: Focus on how they continue to grow both individually and as a couple. Maybe they’ve started a business together, taken on a big project, or simply evolved into better versions of themselves because of their relationship.

By weaving these stages into your HEA, you can give readers a glimpse of what happens after the initial whirlwind of romance. This shows that true love isn’t just about sparks and butterflies. It’s also about building a life together, facing challenges, and growing as partners. This approach not only adds depth to your story but also leaves your readers with a sense of fulfillment and hope for the characters' future.

So, while the attraction and infatuation stages make for a thrilling start, don’t forget to explore the richness of the later stages. It’s the perfect way to round out your contemporary romance and give your characters the happily-ever-after they deserve, and it makes your ending feel more authentic and reflective of real-life relationships. 

Understanding contemporary romance and its subgenres helps both readers and writers navigate the diverse landscape of romantic literature. These stories often focus on the thrilling stages of attraction and infatuation, creating an irresistible pull for readers. However, the depth of a contemporary romance can be truly captured by exploring the later stages of love in the epilogue. Highlighting the growth, trust, and deep emotional connections between characters provides a satisfying and authentic conclusion. Whether you're writing or reading, delving into the full journey of love ensures a rich and rewarding experience.

See You Next Tuesday!

xo, Tasha 

Recommended Craft Books:

- Romancing the Beat: Story Structure for Romance Novels by Gwen Hayes

- On Writing Romance: How to Craft a Novel That Sells by Leigh Michaels

-Writing the Romantic Comedy by Billy Mernit

- The Romance Writer's Handbook by Rebecca Vinyard

- Romance Writing: How to Craft a Romance Novel That Sells by Lesley Lawson Botez