The Keeper of Stories

The term “upmarket” refers to a fiction genre or category often described as a blend of commercial and literary. The writing includes literary devices and techniques and presents deep, often introspective character viewpoints; however, it generally uses plain English and thus is more accessible than literary fiction.

Upmarket literature typically includes universal themes and a satisfying plot with genre elements (e.g., romance, suspense, mystery), as well as neatly capped endings. It is often more character driven than plot driven. An upmarket novel may lean more literary or more commercial depending on its language and story elements. Upmarket novels are not always for women readers or by women writers, though many are. Similarly, not all upmarket works are book club contenders, but this genre is popular among book clubs. Recent examples of upmarket novels include Bonnie Garmus’s Lessons in Chemistry (2022), Glendy Vanderah’s Where the Forest Meets the Stars (2019), and Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library (2020).

The Keeper of Stories fits this genre well. Janice is quiet and introspective but experiences a transformative character arc that changes her for the better, becoming outspoken when necessary and arriving at a happy yet realistic ending.