Genre helps readers understand what kind of experience a book offers. It also helps publishers assess where a manuscript might fit within a catalogue.
Start with the story's central engine. Is the main focus romance, mystery, fantasy, horror or another form of storytelling? Then consider the elements that shape its identity. A fantasy romance might also include court intrigue, supernatural conflict or historical-inspired worldbuilding.
Avoid adding every possible label. Too many categories can make the book difficult to position. Choose the terms that best describe the central reading experience and the audience most likely to enjoy it.
Think about reader expectations. Someone looking for contemporary sports romance may approach a book differently from someone seeking dark fantasy. Accurate genre labels help readers make informed choices.
If you are unsure, compare your manuscript with books that share its structure, tone and audience. The goal is not to copy those titles, but to understand how readers and publishers describe similar work.
