How To Get Your Next Bestselling Idea In As Little As 10 Genres

As a beginner writer, the pressure to come up with a brilliant, bestselling story idea can feel overwhelming. However, the key to unlocking your next literary masterpiece may lie in exploring the diverse world of genre fiction.

In this post, we’re diving into 10 exciting genres – from thrilling mysteries to sweeping fantasy realms. Each one has the power to ignite your creativity and kickstart your writing career, even if you’re just starting out.

Dive into the 10 Genres

1. Mystery
2. Romance
3. Fantasy
4. Young Adult
5. Memoir
6. Horror
7. Literary Fiction
8. Contemporary
9. Historical Fiction
10. Science Fiction

Mystery

Mysteries thrill readers with intricate plots and page-turning suspense.  To begin crafting an engaging mystery, you’ll want to introduce a compelling protagonist with a unique perspective and backstory. Then, throw them into a high-stakes investigation full of twists and turns. For instance, check out the psychological thriller “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn, which had readers racing to uncover the truth.

Romance

Next up, we have the romance genre, which sweeps readers off their feet by immersing them in stories of love and passion. To truly captivate your audience, focus on developing an authentic, deep connection between your lead characters as they navigate the ups and downs of relationships. And don’t be afraid to add a dash of drama, conflict, and even some steamy chemistry. For a great example, pick up “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne – a witty office romance that’s sure to make your heart flutter.

Fantasy

Now, let’s dive into the fantasy genre, which allows you to unleash your wildest imaginings. First and foremost, you’ll want to build a rich, immersive fantasy world with its own captivating rules and cultures. Then, introduce a protagonist who must navigate this realm, facing thrilling challenges and personal growth along the way. And don’t forget to get creative with your magic system – the more unique, the better. For inspiration, look no further than the beloved Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling.

Young Adult

Next, we have the young adult (YA) genre, which speaks directly to teenage readers by exploring the joys and struggles of coming of age. To craft a relatable YA story, you’ll want to develop a protagonist who is on the cusp of self-discovery. Tackle themes like relationships, mental health, and finding one’s place in the world. And be sure to infuse your story with plenty of drama, humor, and romance. For a great example, pick up “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green.

Memoir

Memoir writing invites readers into the author’s most intimate experiences, offering a window into the human condition. To craft a resonant memoir, you’ll need to unearth your most authentic, vulnerable self on the page. Reflect on the pivotal moments, relationships, and personal growth that have shaped your life, delving into the messy, complex emotions. Share your story with honesty and heart to inspire, enlighten, and leave a lasting impact. A powerful example is “Educated” by Tara Westover, a captivating coming-of-age memoir.

Horror

The horror genre thrives on primal emotions like fear, dread, and the unknown. To craft a chilling horror story, tap into your readers’ deepest anxieties and ratchet up the tension and suspense. Introduce a protagonist who must confront their darkest nightmares, whether supernatural, psychological, or rooted in real-world horrors. And get creative with your antagonists, from bone-chilling monsters to unsettling human villains. For a terrifying tale that exemplifies these horror elements, look no further than Stephen King’s “It.”

Literary Fiction

Literary fiction explores the complexities of human experience. To craft an engaging literary novel, develop rich, multifaceted characters who grapple with profound personal struggles and transformations. Use vivid, evocative language to paint a portrait of your characters’ inner lives and the world they inhabit. Tackle ambitious, thought-provoking themes that challenge readers to reflect on their own perspectives. For inspiration, read “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini, a poignant exploration of guilt, redemption, and the power of human connection.

Contemporary

Contemporary fiction reflects modern life. To write a compelling contemporary novel, create relatable characters navigating the joys, struggles, and complexities of 21st-century living. Weave in elements of realism, such as mental health, social issues, or nuanced relationships. And be sure to infuse your story with humor, heart, and unexpected twists. For an example, pick up “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman, a charming exploration of loneliness and self-discovery.

Historical Fiction

The historical fiction genre transports readers to the past. To craft an immersive historical novel, you’ll need to start with thorough research to ensure historical accuracy in your setting, characters, and events. Then, bring the past to life through emotionally resonant narratives. Don’t be afraid to tackle sweeping sagas or intimate personal stories. For inspiration, read “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah, a powerful tale of two sisters during World War II.

Science Fiction

Last but not least, science fiction pushes the boundaries of imagination. To write captivating sci-fi, envision a richly detailed, innovative world with its own rules and technologies. Introduce a protagonist who must navigate this realm, facing high-stakes challenges that explore the nature of humanity, the limits of science, and the relationship between technology and the human experience. Infuse your story with action, adventure, and thought-provoking twists. For inspiration, pick up “The Martian” by Andy Weir, a thrilling tale of survival and human ingenuity.