As a writer, I'm often asked, “What’s your favorite genre to write in?” To which my response is, “Why choose just one?” The world of literature is a vast and varied landscape, and each genre is a unique destination, offering its own wonders and challenges. We actually just talked about this very thing on our weekly Zoom meeting with our VIP Club members. I branched out into different genres in order to learn new things and stretch myself. And it’s been a hell of a journey.
- The Timeless Appeal of Fantasy:
Fantasy has always been my first love. It’s what started me reading, as well as writing. It is the realm of boundless imagination, where the ordinary becomes the extraordinary, and the impossible is just a breath away. Or, in my case, a click of the keyboard. I’m drawn to fantasy for its limitless creative potential, the ability to build entire worlds from scratch, and the exploration of universal themes through fantastical settings.
Book/Author Recommendations: I’d recommend delving into Terry Brooks’ “Sword of Shannara” or J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” for epic high fantasy, or Neil Gaiman’s “American Gods” for contemporary urban fantasy.
- The Allure of Mystery and Suspense:
Mystery and suspense novels are a thrilling puzzle waiting to be solved, and who doesn’t love a good mystery. The intricate plots, enigmatic characters, and the suspenseful atmosphere keep me hooked. I’m fascinated by the intricate web of clues and the satisfaction of the big reveal. Add to that the thrill of keeping readers on the edge of their seats and you can see why I would be drawn to this genre.
Book/Author Recommendations: Dive into the world of classic mystery with Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes series or explore psychological suspense with Gillian Flynn’s “Gone Girl.”
- Science Fiction’s Glimpse into Tomorrow:
Science fiction allows us to explore the “what-ifs” of the future, from technological advancements to extraterrestrial encounters. I’m drawn to the genre’s ability to reflect on the human condition while imagining worlds that push the boundaries of possibility. And while I haven’t published anything in this genre yet, that doesn’t mean I don’t have something in the works.
Book/Author Recommendations: For classic sci-fi, read Isaac Asimov’s “Foundation"”series. For contemporary thought-provoking science fiction, explore the works of Philip K. Dick, such as “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?”
- The Allure of Romance:
Romance is a genre that celebrates the universal themes of love, connection, and relationships. I’m drawn to the genre’s ability to evoke emotions, offer escapism, and provide a comforting sense of hope. It’s a realm where character development and the dynamics of human connection take center stage. I love to explore the various types of relationships, adding in the elements of all the other genres.
Book/Author Recommendations: Dive into classic romance with Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” for timeless love stories or explore contemporary romance with Jamie Lewis’s “Joker” or Kris Michaels’ “Jacob” for on edge of your seat romantic suspense.
- The Intimate Exploration of Literary Fiction:
Literary fiction delves deep into the human experience, offering introspective narratives and complex characters. I'm drawn to the genre’s focus on language, character development, and its ability to evoke deep emotions. This was my intent behind “Life’s Moments” as I explore different scenes throughout a person’s life.
Book/Author Recommendations: Read Toni Morrison’s “Beloved” for a profound exploration of the legacy of slavery or Jhumpa Lahiri’s “The Namesake” for a poignant immigrant story.
Exploring different writing genres is like embarking on a literary expedition, each genre a new territory to discover and cherish. While I may have my favorites, I believe that the richness of literature lies in its diversity. So, whether you’re a seasoned reader or a budding writer, I encourage you to venture beyond your comfort zone and explore the enchanting worlds of these diverse genres. Who knows, you might uncover a new favorite or even find inspiration for your next writing project amidst the pages of a genre you’ve never explored before.
Happy reading and writing!
Robbie & the FGR Team