Most likely, '50 cent novels' are not popular today. The modern book industry has evolved significantly. With the rise of digital publishing, the cost structure has changed. Readers today are more interested in books with a strong brand, well - known authors, and high - production values. While there may be some very cheap e - books available, they are not typically referred to as '50 cent novels'. Also, the marketing and distribution models have changed so much that it's hard to imagine a niche for such low - priced novels in the current market.