What's Your Choice?

 

This year marks my 25^th anniversary as a published author (signed my first contract in December of 2001, released my first book the following Spring). I’ve been publicizing this with interviews and a lot of book signings. One question I’m often asked is “Why did you choose the genre you write?” For those who don’t know, my primary focus is contemporary mystery/thrillers, with some romance between the lead characters. I chose this genre because it’s what I like to read.

 

I originally became a fan of pulp fiction mysteries from watching private eye shows and classic film noirs on TV. I’d see something like “Double Indemnity,” “The Maltese Falcon” or “The Big Sleep,” then seek out the book at the library. If I liked it, I’d make my way through everything written by these authors. Came a point where I thought “I’d like to write one of these myself someday.” This was followed by the mental challenge “Either write the damn thing or stop talking about it!”

 

I conducted a survey with members of a local writer’s group, and asked them the genre question. The majority consensus was pretty much the same reason I had. Some responses included “Been dreaming about being a mermaid since I was a kid” (from a fantasy romance author), “I like challenges” (romantic mystery writer), and “After I read and re-read ‘The Mystery of Camp Laughing Water’” (mystery/suspense writer). Some people made an unusual confession—“It chose me!”         

 

Of all the genres on the market, romance seems to have sprouted the most branches. Popular sub-genres include fantasy, gothic, Christian, historical, paranormal, western, suspense (crime, mystery), and science fiction. Category romances still comprise the biggest portion of the market, and fit into specific niches that readers feel comfortable with (medical, billionaire, bodyguard, military, cowboy, etc.). They have a distinct standard style, involving similar characters, levels of sensuality, or types of conflict. People obviously like to stay in their comfort zone.   

    

The writing community is always quick to cash in on current trends or hot-button topics, which explains the rise of some subgenres. I think it’s fair to say that recent political rhetoric is responsible for focusing the spotlight on certain subjects, along with an increase in book banning. These actions have heightened the awareness of so-called “forbidden books” and topics, and increased the public’s interest in them. I remember that old advice—“If you want someone to try something, warn them to stay away from it.” LGBTQ has been a fast-growing example, especially with social media opening doors that were previously closed, along with more online discussion. 

 

A local indie bookstore I work with sells used and collectable books, along with new releases. It’s a comfortable old-style neighborhood store, and I love doing signings there. One of the attractions is that the owner actively supports and sells banned books. She makes no secret of it, and proudly displays them up front so people will see them when they walk in. So far, no one has boycotted the store or threatened her livelihood.     

 

One of my side hustles is editing books for a select clientele (translation: starving writers who need professional editing on a budget). Most of the books I edit lean heavily on romance, but the sub-genres are varied. Paranormal romance involving shape-shifters and spirits (including one series about a shaman who uses their powers to solve crimes), to vampire and futuristic romance are the themes of choice. I like what I read for the most part, even though they aren’t what I would choose for leisure reading. It’s taught me to appreciate the talents of others. I’m especially pleased that some of the books I’ve worked on became popular.  

 

The rise of e-readers made erotic romance one of the fastest-growing trends. What helped was anonymity—if it’s on your Kindle or phone, it’s easier to conceal what you’re reading when someone walks up on you. This practice coined the unfortunate term “mommy porn.” Novels that blended romance and erotica, characterized by strong sexual content and frank language suddenly became popular—as long as you didn’t tell anyone you liked reading “those books”!   

 

Author Tess Gerritsen has stated "We read romances because we want to feel good about love." To that end, never sacrifice your story to conform to the market, or trade originality to fit a trend. The best stories set new trends, and what matters is that YOU like your story. Experimentation and spreading your creative wings is a good thing, but ultimately, you should write what you want. Period. 

 

What’s your favorite genre, either reading or writing?

 

Tim Smith is an award-winning, bestselling author of mystery/thrillers and contemporary erotic romance. His novels featuring former CIA agent Nick Seven have garnered several awards and international critical praise. He is also a freelance writer, blogger, editor and photographer. His author site is Tim Smith, AllAuthor.