One characteristic is the ability to create a sense of wonder. In novels like 'American Gods', the combination of different mythologies creates a feeling of discovery. Another is the use of high - stakes conflict. In 'The Dark Tower', the fate of multiple worlds is at stake. And most top adult fantasy novels have a well - developed setting. Whether it's the alternate England in 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' or the post - apocalyptic world in some other novels, the setting plays a huge role in the story.
Top adult fantasy novels usually have an intricate plot. They are not simple linear stories but often have multiple sub - plots that intertwine. Take 'The Name of the Wind' for instance. It has a story within a story structure. They also tend to have a rich magic system. In 'Mistborn', the magic system is based on the consumption and use of metals which is very unique. And they often deal with adult - level emotions like love, loss, and regret.
The top 10 adult novels also tend to have rich language and detailed descriptions. In 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Bronte, the descriptions of the moors and the passionate relationships are vividly depicted, adding to the overall atmosphere and depth of the story.
Top adult romance novels typically feature strong character arcs. Take 'Me Before You' for example. Louisa goes through a significant transformation in the story as she falls in love with Will. Another aspect is the conflict within the relationships. In 'The Notebook', the main characters face external factors like family disapproval and health issues that test their love. The themes in these novels are often universal, such as love, loss, and forgiveness. In 'Gone with the Wind', Scarlett's journey is filled with these themes as she deals with her love for different men. Also, the pacing in top adult romance novels is usually well - managed. There are build - ups, climaxes, and resolutions in the love stories, just like in 'Outlander' where the relationship between Claire and Jamie has its ebbs and flows.
Another characteristic is the use of rich fantasy settings. In 'Crier's War', the unique world with its own politics, magic, and cultures provides a backdrop for the sapphic relationship to develop. Also, many of these novels often have themes of self - discovery and empowerment for the female characters, as seen in 'Gideon the Ninth' where the main characters grow and learn about themselves through their relationships.
Most young adult fantasy novels often have a young protagonist. For example, in 'Harry Potter', Harry is a young wizard. They usually have elements of magic or the supernatural, like in 'The Mortal Instruments' with all the demon - fighting and magic spells. Another characteristic is the exploration of themes such as friendship, like in 'Percy Jackson' where Percy and his friends support each other through many challenges.
They often had the ability to create immersive worlds. For example, authors like Suzanne Collins made the post - apocalyptic world of Panem seem real. The details in the different districts, the Capitol, and the rules of the Hunger Games all contributed to this immersive experience.
Some of the popular adult fantasy novels in 2019 might include 'The Priory of the Orange Tree' by Samantha Shannon. It has a richly detailed world with complex characters and a unique magic system.
One of the top 10 might be 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. It tells the story of Kvothe, a young man with a mysterious past and great magical abilities. 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman is also a great pick. It combines modern America with ancient mythologies in a very unique way. 'Good Omens' by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman is a humorous take on the end of the world and the battle between good and evil in a fantasy setting.
Many of them deal with complex and mature themes. For example, 'Maus' deals with the Holocaust, which is a very heavy and important historical event. It uses simple yet effective graphics to convey deep emotions. Another characteristic is that they often have a more nuanced view of characters. In 'Watchmen', the superheroes are not just one - dimensional good guys, but they have their own flaws, desires, and moral dilemmas.
Top publishers for young adult novels such as Penguin Random House usually have extensive distribution networks. This means their YA books can reach a large number of readers easily. Scholastic is known for its connection with schools and libraries, which helps in promoting young adult novels among the target audience. Another characteristic of top publishers is that they are open to new and innovative ideas in YA literature, like Simon & Schuster which often takes risks on new authors and unique concepts in the young adult genre.
Well, top adult fiction usually has well - developed themes. Themes such as morality, family, and the human condition are common. Take 'To Kill a Mockingbird' for instance. It delves deep into themes of racial injustice and moral growth. Also, the pacing is important. It keeps the reader hooked, not too slow to bore or too fast to seem rushed. In addition, many top adult fictions offer different perspectives. They might show the story from multiple characters' points of view, which gives a more comprehensive understanding of the plot and the world of the story.