One factor is the mystery element itself. In a top modern mystery novel, the mystery should be hard to solve but not impossible. For instance, in 'In the Woods', the mystery of what happened in the past is gradually revealed in a way that keeps you guessing. The writing style also matters. A vivid and engaging writing style like that of Liane Moriarty in 'Big Little Lies' can draw readers in. And the ability to create an atmosphere, whether it's the creepy atmosphere in 'Sharp Objects' or the tense one on the cruise ship in 'The Woman in Cabin 10', helps make a modern mystery novel a top one.
Well, for a modern mystery novel to be considered top, it usually has a strong central mystery. Take 'The Cuckoo's Calling' for example. The mystery of the death that Cormoran Strike is investigating is what drives the whole story. Character relationships are important too. In 'Before the Fall', the relationships between the different characters on the plane and those related to the crash add depth to the mystery. And innovation in the genre can also set a novel apart. If it brings something new like a different type of detective or a unique setting, as seen in many of the top modern mystery novels, it can be highly regarded.
A great story. It needs to have an engaging plot that keeps readers hooked. Like in 'A Song of Ice and Fire', the political struggles, wars, and the role of dragons in all of that create a complex and exciting story. The dragons add an element of power and mystery to the overall narrative.
A top harem visual novel often has a well - developed protagonist. In 'Sakura Wars', the main character has to grow and develop as he deals with the different female characters and the challenges of the world. The relationships between the characters need to be believable. In 'Amagami SS', the way the relationships are built through different story arcs for each girl makes it feel real. Also, the replayability can be a factor. In 'Shuffle!', you can make different choices each time, leading to different endings, which keeps the game interesting.
Good characters are key. If the characters are well - written and have depth, it makes the game great. For example, in 'Clannad', the characters feel real and their stories are very touching. Another factor is the story itself. A complex and interesting plot like in 'Steins; Gate' can make a dating sim stand out.
There are several factors. Firstly, the integration of technology into the story must be seamless. It can't feel like the technology is just tacked on. In 'Neuromancer', Gibson weaves in concepts like cyberspace so well that it becomes an integral part of the world and the plot. Secondly, the novel should raise interesting questions about the implications of technology on society, ethics, and humanity. A top techno thriller makes the reader think about these things while also being entertained. And finally, the writing style matters. It should be able to convey the high - tech concepts in a way that is accessible to a wide range of readers, not just those with a technical background.
Some of the top modern mystery novels could include 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It has a complex plot full of twists and turns. Another one might be 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson which features a unique and engaging mystery with a strong female lead. And 'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides also stands out for its psychological mystery elements.
One key factor is the art style. If it has a unique, detailed, and visually appealing art style that can enhance the storytelling, it has a good chance to be considered top - tier. For example, the detailed and mood - setting art in 'The Sandman' by Neil Gaiman.
A great murder mystery story often has a complex plot. There are usually multiple suspects with their own motives and secrets. For example, in 'And Then There Were None', each character has a past that could be a reason for the murders. Also, a good mystery has a detective or investigator who is intelligent and observant. In 'Sherlock Holmes' stories, Holmes' deductive skills are what drive the story forward. Another factor is the element of suspense. It keeps the readers on the edge of their seats, like in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' where the mystery unfolds slowly but surely.
One factor is an engaging plot. For example, if it has a mystery like in 'The Maze Runner' where the boys need to figure out the maze. Another is relatable characters. In 'The Hunger Games', Katniss is a strong and relatable female lead. Also, unique world - building matters. In 'Divergent', the concept of the factions makes its world distinct.
Violence against vulnerable characters can also heighten the sense of violence in a mystery novel. When the victims are children or the elderly, for instance, it tends to be more disturbing. In some mystery novels that deal with crimes against children, the violence is not only physical but also psychological, which makes the story more complex and the overall feeling of violence more intense.
A great mystery romance novel often has a strong plot. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the mystery of what happened to Amy is so gripping. The characters also need to be well - developed. In 'The Rosie Project', the main character's quirks make the story interesting. And there has to be a good balance between the mystery and the romance. If it's too much mystery, it might overshadow the romance, and vice versa.