Is 60,000 Words a Suitable Length for a Romance Novel?
When it comes to writing a romance novel, one of the most common questions new authors ask is about the right word count. Is 60,000 words a sufficient length to tell a complete and engaging story? This article delves into the nuances of this question and provides valuable insights for aspiring romance novelists.
Understanding the Broad Range of Romance Novels
Romance novels, much like other literary forms, come in various lengths. Traditionally, the sweet spot for a contemporary romance novel lies between 50,000 to 100,000 words, with many falling within the 70,000 to 80,000-word range. This wide range allows for a diverse set of narratives, from quick, light reads to detailed, character-driven stories that explore complex emotional journeys.
The Case for 60,000 Words
A 60,000-word romance novel strikes a balance between offering a substantial reading experience and maintaining a manageable length. It allows authors to delve deeply into character development, plot progression, and emotional depth while keeping the story engaging and accessible to a broad audience.
Subgenre and Target Audience Considerations
While general guidelines suggest a word count range, the ideal length can also depend on the specific subgenre and the target audience. For instance, a contemporary romance targeted at young adult readers may benefit from a shorter word count, whereas a historical romance with complex narrative and detailed settings might warrant a longer word count.
Accepted Word Counts by Publishers
Publishers often have specific guidelines regarding word counts. For example, some publishing houses may accept works up to 55,000 words, while others cap the length at 70,000. It's essential to check these guidelines to ensure your manuscript meets the expectations of the specific publisher. According to industry standards, a 60,000-word novel generally falls within the acceptable range, making it a solid choice for most romance genres.
Harlequin Guidelines and Career Prospects
Harlequin, a well-known publisher in the romance genre, has specific word counts for their different series. Novels of 100,000 words or more are typically reserved for more intricate, serious romance novels meant for mainstream audiences. Authors can start their careers with Harlequin, given that many successful contemporary romance writers began with this publisher.
Best Practices for Authors
No matter the route you choose—traditional publishing or self-publishing—it's advisable to adhere to industry standards. This not only helps in aligning your work with readers' expectations but also ensures that your manuscript is taken seriously by agents and editors. Even if you decide to self-publish, striving for a word count that matches industry standards can increase your chances of success.
Ultimately, whether 60,000 words is a good length for a romance novel depends on the story you want to tell and the audience you want to reach. By understanding the guidelines and best practices, you can create a compelling and successful romance novel that resonates with readers.