Well - developed characters are key. In many top - notch thriller novels, like 'The Bourne Identity' by Robert Ludlum, the main character is a man with a mysterious past who has to fight for his survival while also uncovering the truth about himself. His skills and his internal struggle make the story engaging.
One of the best is 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' by John le Carré. It's a classic that delves deep into the moral ambiguity of the Cold War espionage world. Another great one is 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy', also by le Carré. It has a complex plot with a lot of twists and turns. And 'Smiley's People' is also highly regarded in the spy thriller genre.
One characteristic is their universality. For example, 'Pride and Prejudice' shows the common human experiences of love and social status across different cultures. Another is their ability to offer deep insights into the human condition. 'Crime and Punishment' delves into the dark corners of the human mind. They also often have complex characters. In 'The Great Gatsby', Jay Gatsby is a multi - faceted character with dreams and flaws.
Well, one key characteristic is a fast - paced plot. For example, in 'The Bourne Identity', the action just keeps coming, and you're constantly on edge as Bourne tries to figure out his past. Another is suspense. In 'Rear Window', the suspense builds as the main character spies on his neighbors and suspects something sinister. Suspense makes you keep turning the pages.
Well, most of them have complex and unpredictable plots. For example, they often have sudden twists that you don't see coming.
A common characteristic was the element of surprise. In 'The Widow', just when you thought you had figured out the truth, a new piece of evidence or a twist in the story would change everything. This was typical of the 2016 best thriller novels, as they aimed to keep the readers guessing until the very end.
One characteristic is that they often deal with universal themes. For example, 'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint - Exupéry touches on themes of friendship, love, and the meaning of life, which are relevant to people all over the world. Another is that they usually have engaging storylines. Take 'The Da Vinci Code' by Dan Brown, its fast - paced mystery keeps readers hooked from start to finish. They also tend to have well - developed characters, like in 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte, where the main character's journey of self - discovery is very compelling.
Well, many international best sellers novels tend to be accessible in terms of language. Novels like 'The Little Prince' use simple yet profound language. They also usually have a strong plot. Consider 'Dan Brown's 'The Da Vinci Code', its fast - paced and intricate plot keeps readers hooked. Additionally, they can often tap into current social or cultural issues. For instance, 'The Handmaid's Tale' reflects on gender and power issues in society.
Well, many international best selling novels are well - written in terms of language use. 'Pride and Prejudice' has Austen's elegant and witty prose. They often create vivid settings. In 'Gone with the Wind', the descriptions of the South during the Civil War are so detailed that readers can almost feel like they are there. Also, these novels can be thought - provoking. 'The Da Vinci Code' makes readers question historical facts and religious beliefs. And they sometimes have elements of hope or redemption, as in 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini where the main character tries to atone for his past mistakes.
Well, first of all, they often deal with universal themes of fear and danger. Take 'Silence of the Lambs' for instance, the fear of a serial killer on the loose is something that can resonate with people all over the world. Also, the ability of these novels to surprise the reader is key. In 'And Then There Were None', the way the deaths occur and the mystery behind them are full of surprises. Moreover, the settings in these novels can be very alluring. In 'The Hunt for Red October', the underwater world of submarines and naval warfare is an exciting and different setting for a story.
One of the best is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex plot full of mystery and a strong female lead. The story involves a journalist and a hacker as they investigate a decades - old disappearance.