One common theme is the power dynamics within the family related to money. For instance, who controls the family fortune often dictates the relationships among family members.
One common conflict is when a family member wants to pursue a high - paying job that requires long hours away from home. This can strain family relationships as there is less time for family bonding. For example, a father taking a job in another city to earn more money but missing his children's growing - up moments.
Betrayal is a common theme. In many family thriller novels, family members often betray one another's trust, which leads to the thriller aspect. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the husband and wife betray each other in different ways.
One common theme is inheritance. This could be inheritance of physical items like a family heirloom which represents the family jewels in a literal sense, but also inheritance of values, beliefs, and family secrets.
In wealthy family novels, the theme of family loyalty and betrayal is quite prevalent. Some family members may stick together through thick and thin, while others might betray their own kin for personal gain. Additionally, the impact of wealth on the characters' personalities is a theme. Some become arrogant and self - centered due to their wealth, while others try to use it for good. Another theme is the isolation that often comes with extreme wealth, as these families may be cut off from the real world and normal relationships.
Love within the family is a common theme. It can be parental love, like a mother's unconditional love for her children. For example, in many novels, a mother sacrifices a lot for her kids.
One common theme is succession. Deciding who will take over the family business is often a central plot point. For example, in many novels, there are power struggles among family members for control. Another theme is loyalty. Family members may have to choose between loyalty to the family and what they think is right for the business. Also, the impact of family dynamics on the business is a theme. Like if there are family feuds, it can greatly affect the success or failure of the business.
Betrayal is a frequent theme in crime family novels. Family members or associates might betray the family for various reasons, like personal gain or fear. And then there's the theme of legacy. Crime families are often concerned about their legacy, how they will be remembered in the criminal underworld. They want to pass on their power and influence to the next generation, but this often comes with challenges and conflicts as seen in many of these types of novels.
Family relationships are a common theme. It could be about the love between family members, or the conflicts that arise within the family unit.
One common theme is the idea of family secrets. In many American family novels, there are hidden things within the family that, when revealed, can change the family dynamic completely. Another theme is social mobility. Families might strive to move up in society, and this journey is often explored in these novels.
Secrecy is a common theme. In many family trust novels, there are hidden secrets within the family that are related to the trust. For example, in 'The Inheritance Games', the girl has to figure out the secrets to understand the family trust she has inherited.