Good research is key. An author like James Michener spent years researching for his books. For example, in 'Centennial' which is about the history of the American West, his in - depth knowledge of the region's history, geography, and cultures shines through. This makes the story feel authentic.
A great historical fiction author can also make the past relevant to the present. For example, George Orwell in '1984' (while set in a fictional future, it has strong historical and political undertones). He uses his understanding of totalitarian regimes in history to create a cautionary tale that still has meaning and resonance today.
The ability to create engaging characters. In historical fiction, characters need to be relatable yet also a product of their time. For instance, in Colleen McCullough's 'The Thorn Birds', the characters are complex and their relationships are deeply influenced by the historical and cultural context of Australia where the story is set. Their dreams, desires, and conflicts draw the reader in.
An author can be considered among the best in historical fiction if they can transport the reader to another time. Margaret Atwood does this well in 'Alias Grace'. She weaves a story that makes you feel like you're in 19th - century Canada. Another factor is the accuracy of historical details while still making the story interesting. Leo Tolstoy in 'War and Peace' manages to include a vast amount of historical information without it becoming a dry history lesson.
Accuracy in historical details. If an author can get the historical facts right, like the way of life, the politics, and the culture of the period, they are more likely to be considered good. For example, an author writing about Ancient Rome should know about the social hierarchy, the military system, and the daily life of the Romans.
One key factor is accurate research. A great historical fiction author digs deep into the time period they are writing about. For example, if they are writing about the Roman Empire, they need to know about the politics, the daily life, the architecture, etc. Another is the ability to create engaging characters. These characters should feel real and be relatable even though they are living in a different time. For instance, in Hilary Mantel's works, her characters like Thomas Cromwell are complex and well - developed.
Good research is key. An author needs to dig deep into the historical period they're writing about. For example, they should know the social norms, the politics, and the everyday life of the time. If an author is writing about the Roman Empire, they need to understand how the government worked, what people ate, and how they dressed.
A best contemporary author in fiction often has the capacity to connect with a wide range of readers. They can touch on universal themes such as love, loss, and the search for identity. Take Paulo Coelho's 'The Alchemist' for instance. It's a story that has appealed to people all over the world because of its exploration of the journey of self - discovery. Also, innovation in storytelling matters. An author who can break the traditional narrative forms and still hold the reader's attention is highly regarded.
Good knowledge of military matters. If an author doesn't know about military tactics, equipment, and the military lifestyle, it's hard to write convincing military fiction. For example, Tom Clancy was known for his detailed research on military technology. Another factor is the ability to create engaging characters. In military fiction, the soldiers and officers need to be well - developed characters that readers can care about, like in Stephen E. Ambrose's works where real - life heroes are vividly portrayed.
A great science fiction author often has a vivid imagination. They can create unique and believable worlds that draw readers in, like J.R.R. Tolkien did in his Middle - earth, though his works are more fantasy - adjacent to science fiction. They also need to be able to handle scientific concepts well. For example, Neal Stephenson in his books like 'Snow Crash' weaves in complex ideas about virtual reality and computer science in an engaging way. And of course, they should be able to tell a good story that has engaging characters and a plot that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
A great story is key. If an author can create a plot that's engaging, full of twists and turns, and keeps readers hooked from start to finish, they're more likely to be a best - seller. For example, Suzanne Collins with 'The Hunger Games' trilogy. The dystopian setting and the survival - based plot made it very popular.
One reason it's appealing is that it can bring history to life for those who might not be interested in dry historical texts. Authors can use their storytelling skills to make the past exciting. They can create engaging characters who interact with real historical events. It also helps us to understand the continuity between the past and the present. By seeing how people in the past faced challenges similar to ours, we can gain insights into our own lives. For example, reading about how people dealt with plagues in the Middle Ages can give us a new perspective on dealing with modern - day health crises.
A great Vietnam historical fiction often has accurate historical details. For example, if it's about the Vietnam War, it should correctly represent the military strategies, the types of weapons used, and the geographical settings. This helps the reader to have a more immersive experience.