Is 70,000 Words Enough for a Novel? Exploring Ideal Novel Lengths

Discover whether 70,000 words is suitable for a novel and learn about genre-specific word counts.

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70,000 words is generally an acceptable length for a novel. While some genres like fantasy or historical fiction often exceed this word count, contemporary fiction, romance, and thrillers commonly fit within this range. Focus on compelling storytelling and well-developed characters to engage readers, as quality often outweighs length.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is considered a short novel length? A short novel, or novella, typically ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 words.
  2. How many words are in a typical romance novel? Romance novels often range from 50,000 to 100,000 words, with many fitting around 70,000 words.
  3. Are there strict rules for novel word count? While there are general guidelines, the ideal word count can vary by genre and storytelling style.