Award - winning romantic suspense novels often have a great sense of pacing. They build the suspense gradually, like a slow - burning fuse. In the beginning, they might introduce the characters and their relationships in a somewhat normal way, but then little things start to seem off. The romance is not just there for decoration. It's intertwined with the mystery. For instance, the two characters might be trying to solve a mystery together while also dealing with their feelings for each other. And the settings are usually well - described, creating an atmosphere that enhances the overall mood of the story, whether it's a spooky old house or a busy city street.
One great award - winning romantic suspense novel is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its complex characters and a plot full of twists and turns. The relationship between the two main characters is both romantic in a very dark way and full of suspense as the mystery unfolds.
Often, award - winning novels have strong and unique themes. For example, they might explore deep human emotions like love, loss, or identity. They also tend to have well - developed characters. Take 'Jane Eyre' as an example. The character of Jane is complex and multi - dimensional. The writing style is usually of high quality, with engaging prose.
They usually have engaging characters. In 'All the Light We Cannot See', the two main characters are so well - developed that readers can't help but be drawn into their individual plights and the overarching story of the war. The characters feel real and their emotions are palpable.
Well, most award - winning YA novels have relatable characters. Teens can see themselves or someone they know in the protagonists. For example, in 'The Fault in Our Stars', the characters deal with real - life issues like illness and mortality. Another characteristic is engaging storylines. They often have elements of adventure, mystery, or romance to keep readers hooked. Like in 'The Hunger Games', the high - stakes battle royale is very exciting.
Well - developed characters are also important. In 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris, the characters of Clarice Starling and Hannibal Lecter are so vivid. Their interactions and their own internal struggles add depth to the mystery. Usually, award winning mystery novels also have a great sense of suspense. They keep the reader on the edge of their seat, like in 'Sherlock Holmes' stories. Doyle was a master at creating suspenseful situations that make the reader eager to find out how Holmes will solve the mystery.
Top award - winning novels usually have excellent writing styles. Take 'Ulysses' by James Joyce. Its stream - of - consciousness writing is complex yet masterful. They also tend to have a great impact on society or the literary world. 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison, for instance, brought the issue of slavery and its aftermath to the forefront of American literature.
They usually deal with mature themes. Take 'The Kite Runner' as an example. It tackles themes such as guilt, redemption, and the political situation in Afghanistan. These are themes that are more suitable for adult audiences who can better understand and reflect on them.
A characteristic is their ability to create immersive worlds. Take 'Hyperion' for instance. The world it creates is vast and full of different cultures and mysteries. Hugo Award winning novels usually also have engaging plots. 'A Canticle for Leibowitz' has a plot that spans centuries, keeping the reader interested with its twists and turns related to the rise and fall of knowledge. Another aspect is their impact on the genre. 'Foundation' has had a huge impact on science fiction as a whole, influencing many other works with its ideas of large - scale historical development.
Many award - winning graphic novels are known for their unique narrative styles. 'Watchmen' is a prime example. It plays with the concept of the superhero genre in a non - traditional way, deconstructing it. Also, they tend to have well - developed characters. In 'Fun Home', the complex relationship between the author and her father is explored through the detailed characterizations. And they often have a certain cultural or historical significance, like 'The Sandman' which draws on various mythologies and cultural references.
Award - winning horror novels typically have a great build - up of suspense. They don't just jump straight into the horror but gradually increase the tension. In 'It', Stephen King slowly reveals the true nature of the evil clown over time. They also make use of psychological horror. 'American Psycho' is a prime example where the horror comes from the deranged mind of the main character. And they are often able to create a sense of dread that lingers long after you've finished reading, through their effective use of language and pacing.