How Many Words Is a Novel? Book Length by Genre
Blog / BOOKS
Many publishers consider 70,000–100,000 words a typical length for an adult debut novel. Genre changes the expected range.
Common categories
Flash fiction: under 1,000 words. Short story: 1,000–7,500. Novelette: 7,500–17,500. Novella: 17,500–40,000. Novel: 40,000+.
By genre (typical ranges)
Romance: 50,000–90,000. Mystery and thriller: 70,000–90,000. Fantasy and science fiction: 90,000–120,000. Young adult: 50,000–80,000. Middle grade: 20,000–55,000.
Check submission guidelines
Agents and publishers set their own limits. Always follow their published guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
How many pages is a 80,000-word novel?
Roughly 250–320 printed pages, depending on trim size and typesetting.