They often have complex characters. In 'Lady Audley's Secret', Lady Audley herself is a very complex character with many layers. She is charming on the surface but hides a lot of secrets. Another characteristic is a sense of suspense. These novels keep you guessing. For instance, in 'East Lynne', you're constantly wondering what will happen next as the characters face various challenges and revelations. They also tend to deal with themes of love, betrayal, and social class in a way that is both entertaining and thought - provoking.
Sensation fiction is a literary genre. It typically features exciting and often melodramatic plots that are designed to arouse strong emotions and sensations in the reader. It often includes elements such as mystery, crime, and romance. For example, many works in this genre might have a complex murder mystery at the heart of the story, with a web of secrets and betrayals that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
A companion to sensation fiction could be a supplementary guide or resource that provides additional context, analysis, or background information related to sensation fiction works.
Sensation fiction originated in the 19th century and was driven by a demand for more thrilling and suspenseful stories. It emerged as a reaction to traditional literary forms.
For a novel to be a sensation, it could have a unique setting or a story that taps into current social or cultural issues, making it highly relevant and engaging to a wide audience.
Some of the best Victorian sensation novels include 'The Woman in White' by Wilkie Collins. It's a gripping tale full of mystery, secrets, and complex characters. The plot twists keep readers on the edge of their seats.