In the novel 'The Great Gatsby', Jay Gatsby could be considered in a way. He cheats his way into a new identity to win back Daisy. He throws lavish parties and pretends to be someone he's not entirely, all in the pursuit of the woman he loves. And then there's 'Les Misérables'. Jean Valjean cheats the law in order to survive and do good. He breaks parole but then goes on to lead a life of helping others, being a hero in his own right while being a 'cheating hero' in the eyes of the law.
One of the well - known 'cheating hero novels' could be 'A Song of Ice and Fire'. Although it's not strictly about a 'cheating hero' in a traditional sense, many of the characters use deception and cunning, which are forms of 'cheating' in the game of thrones. Another could be 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. Edmond Dantes uses various forms of subterfuge to exact his revenge, acting like a 'cheating hero' against his enemies.
There's 'The Lord's Betrayal'. The hero is wrongly accused of cheating in his relationship with the heroine. The story unfolds as they both struggle with their feelings and the false accusations. It shows how rumors can destroy a relationship and how love can overcome such difficulties.
Often, they involve a hero who doesn't follow the traditional rules of heroism. Instead of relying solely on strength or virtue, they might use clever tricks or loopholes. This can make the story more unpredictable and exciting as readers are kept on their toes wondering what the hero will do next.
One popular one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. In this novel, the relationship between the two main characters is full of twists and turns that involve elements of betrayal. The wife's disappearance and the secrets that unfold make it a complex and engaging cheating - themed romance in a very dark way.
The 'Hunger Games' series can be considered in a sense. Katniss Everdeen has to 'cheat' the Capitol's rules to survive in the Games. She uses her wits and skills that are not always what the Capitol intended. It's a great series for young adults that shows a form of a 'cheating hero'.
Some great hero novels are 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' by Mark Twain. Huck is a hero in his own right as he defies the norms of society and helps his friend Jim, a runaway slave. 'Moby - Dick' is another. Captain Ahab is a complex hero, driven by his obsession to hunt the white whale. And 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' is a great hero novel. The Scarlet Pimpernel, Sir Percy Blakeney, is a hero who rescues French aristocrats from the guillotine during the French Revolution.
Another could be Terry Pratchett. His Discworld series has characters that often use their wits in ways that are not the typical heroic methods. They might take advantage of the absurd rules of their world in a way that is like 'cheating' but in a very entertaining and thought - provoking way.
One story I heard was about a woman who found out her partner was cheating. Instead of making a scene immediately, she quietly collected evidence of his affairs. She then sent an anonymous package to his workplace with all the proof, which led to him getting fired and his reputation in tatters.
In 'The Catcher in the Rye', Holden Caulfield can be seen as a tortured hero. He is tortured by his disillusionment with the adult world and his own identity issues. 'Dracula' can also be thought of in this context. Jonathan Harker is tortured both physically and mentally by his encounter with Dracula. 'Frankenstein' is another. The creature created by Victor Frankenstein is tortured by his own existence, being shunned by society and longing for acceptance, while Victor himself is tortured by the consequences of his creation.
Well, 'Gates of Fire' is an excellent military hero novel. It focuses on the Battle of Thermopylae and the Spartans' heroic stand. It's full of great battle scenes and strong characters. 'The Killer Angels' is also worth mentioning. It's about the Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War. It gives a detailed and engaging account of the soldiers on both sides. And then there's 'Sharpe's Eagle'. The protagonist, Richard Sharpe, is a great military hero in this Napoleonic Wars - set story.
One of the best is 'Pride and Prejudice'. Mr. Darcy is a kind of hero. His initial pride and Elizabeth's prejudice create a great dynamic, and as the story unfolds, their relationship develops into a beautiful and enduring love. Another good one is 'Jane Eyre'. Mr. Rochester is a complex hero figure. Jane's strong character and their love story full of challenges make it a classic hero - centered romance novel.