How can one identify the traits of a best - selling novel?

Look for a story that grabs your attention right from the start. That often indicates a strong opening, which is an element of a best - selling novel. Notice the characters. If they seem real and you care about what happens to them, it's a good sign. Also, if the plot keeps you guessing and makes you want to turn the pages, those are elements of a potentially best - selling novel.

You can start by reading a lot of best - selling novels. As you read, take note of what makes you keep turning the pages. Is it the characters? The plot? The setting? Another way is to study reviews. See what other readers and critics praise about a particular book. Often, they will mention elements like a great story arc or memorable characters.

You can look at bestseller lists in well - known newspapers like The New York Times or The Guardian. These often include upmarket fiction. Also, awards can be an indicator. If a book has won prestigious literary awards like the Pulitzer or the Booker Prize, it's likely to be upmarket and successful. Another way is to check reviews from respected literary critics.

You can identify the traits of a war novel by looking for military elements like battles, weapons, and military ranks. If these are prominent, it's likely a war novel.

Look for the ones with a lot of copies on the shelves. Usually, best selling literary fictions will be stocked in large quantities. Also, check for any signs or displays that the bookstore has put up for popular books. Another way is to ask the bookstore staff. They are often well - informed about which literary fictions are selling well.

Look for real - life situations. If the story is about things like going to work, dealing with family, or facing everyday challenges, it's likely realistic fiction.

To identify the traits of detective novels, you should pay attention to the plot structure. It usually has a pattern of discovery, investigation, and revelation. The presence of suspects with motives is also a sign. In addition, the use of foreshadowing can be a trait. It gives hints about what's going to happen later in the mystery - solving process. And the tone of the novel is often mysterious or suspenseful.

Identifying the traits of historical fiction is not too difficult. You can start by examining the overall atmosphere of the story. Does it feel like a different time? If it has a sense of 'olden days', it could be historical fiction. Then, look at the events. If they are based on real - life happenings from history, like the signing of the Magna Carta. Also, the dialogue might use archaic language or expressions typical of a past era. And if there are real historical figures making appearances or being mentioned, that's a strong indication of historical fiction.

Look for the setting. If it's in a past era, that's a sign. Also, check if real historical events are mentioned or form part of the plot.

Look for real - world settings. If the story is set in a place that exists, like New York City or a rural village, it's likely a sign of realistic fiction. Also, check the characters. If they seem like ordinary people with normal problems, that's a trait. For example, a character struggling with paying bills or getting along with a difficult coworker.