What are the common word count limits for action novels?

For short stories, which can be considered a form of very short novels in a sense, the word count is usually under 7,500 words. Novellas typically range from about 10,000 - 40,000 words. Mainstream commercial novels often fall between 80,000 - 120,000 words. However, genre can play a role. For example, a cozy mystery might be on the lower end of that range, around 70,000 - 80,000 words, while a high - fantasy epic could easily exceed 150,000 words.

Word count limits can have a significant impact on novels. If the limit is too low, it may force the author to cut out important plotlines or character development, making the story feel rushed. On the other hand, a very high word count limit might lead to excessive padding and a loss of focus. Publishers often have word count guidelines based on the type of novel (e.g., a short story collection might have a lower limit compared to a epic fantasy novel). Also, different literary markets may have different expectations regarding word count.

The word limits for novels can be very flexible. For a simple or concise novel, it could be as few as 20,000 words. In the middle range, many commercial novels aim for around 80,000 - 100,000 words as this is a length that publishers often find marketable. But some literary novels or complex sagas can have no upper limit and can go well over 200,000 words.

The average word count for short novels can vary widely, but generally it can be around 10,000 to 40,000 words.

Well, it really varies. Novels aimed at a more literary adult audience might be on the shorter side, say around 50,000 - 70,000 words. But if we're talking about commercial adult fiction, like romance or thriller novels for adults, they often range from 70,000 - 100,000 words. Longer, more complex adult novels can be 130,000 - 180,000 words or more.

One common method is to use the built - in features of text editors. For instance, many advanced text editors have a word count option in their menus. You just need to open the novel file in the editor and look for this option.

If the word count limit is low, say around 30,000 words, the plot has to be very concise. There's no room for long - winded descriptions or multiple sub - plots. The action has to be fast - paced from the start. In contrast, with a higher word count like 100,000 words, the author can develop more complex characters, add more sub - plots, and build a more detailed world for the action to take place in.

Typical fantasy novels can range from 60,000 to 100,000 words. But there are shorter ones for younger readers or as part of a series starter that might be around 30,000 - 50,000 words. Longer, more in - depth and complex fantasy works can reach 150,000 words or more. For example, 'The Lord of the Rings' is a very long and complex epic fantasy with a significant word count.

The intended market has a say in the word count. For example, if it's aimed at the mass - market paperback market, publishers may prefer a shorter word count, around 60,000 - 80,000 words for a debut. The author's writing style also affects it. Some authors are more concise and can tell a great story in fewer words, while others are more elaborate and may need more words. Additionally, the pacing of the story; a fast - paced debut may be shorter, while a slow - burn, character - driven one could be longer.

The plot complexity is a major factor. If there are multiple storylines, sub - plots, and twists, it will likely increase the word count. World - building also plays a huge role. A detailed and elaborate fictional world with different cultures, languages, and magic systems requires more words to describe. Character development is another aspect. If there are many characters with in - depth backstories, it will add to the word count.