What are the Strugatsky brothers' best novels?

Sure. 'Roadside Picnic' is a must - read. It's the basis for the movie 'Stalker', which shows how influential it is. The concept of the 'zones' and the exploration of human nature in the face of the unknown is really captivating.

In my opinion, 'The Inhabited Island' is among the best Strugatsky novels. It tells a story of a man who wakes up on an island with no memories. As he tries to piece together his past and understand the strange world around him, we are taken on a journey full of mystery, political intrigue, and self - discovery.

Another good one is 'The Doomed City'. It has an interesting premise where people are brought to a strange city to live and face various challenges that test their limits.

One main theme is often the exploration of future societies. Their works might show how different social structures and power dynamics could develop. For example, in some of their stories, they depict highly bureaucratic and controlling future governments. Another theme can be the relationship between humans and advanced technology. Sometimes it shows how technology can both empower and oppress humanity. They also touch on the concept of alien life, not just as a simple 'other' but as something that can challenge our understanding of life and existence.

Often, there's a sense of forbidden love in these novels. It's like the characters are treading on dangerous ground because of the brother - best friend relationship. This can create a lot of tension in the story. Also, these novels usually explore the theme of growing up and self - discovery. The main character's relationship with the brother's best friend becomes a part of their journey in understanding themselves, as in 'Fangirl' where Cath's relationship helps her break out of her shell.

Often, there are ordinary individuals who find themselves in extraordinary situations. These could be scientists or just regular people thrust into the middle of a grand scientific discovery or a social upheaval. For example, a young technician who stumbles upon a secret government project that could change the world.

One popular 'brothers best friend' novel is 'The Summer I Turned Pretty'. It's a coming - of - age story where the protagonist falls for her brother's best friend. Another is 'Pride and Prejudice' in a way, as Mr. Darcy could be seen as a sort of 'brother's best friend' figure to Bingley. And 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' also has elements of this trope, with the main character's relationship evolving with her sister's ex - boyfriend which is a similar dynamic.

One popular example is 'The Summer I Turned Pretty'. It involves a girl caught in a complex web of relationships with her brother's friends. The story beautifully weaves the elements of first love, friendship, and family dynamics. The protagonist's journey of self - discovery while dealing with her feelings for her brother's friends makes it an engaging read.

One great 'brothers best friend' romance novel is 'The Deal' by Elle Kennedy. It has a really engaging story where the heroine falls for her brother's best friend in a college setting. There's a lot of banter and sexual tension that makes it a fun read.

The forbidden aspect. Since it's your brother's best friend, there's an element of 'you can't have this person' which adds a lot of excitement and tension to the story. It makes the relationship seem more dangerous and thrilling.