The characters in these novels usually have to overcome various obstacles in their relationships. It could be class differences, like in 'Pride and Prejudice', or war and political unrest, as seen in 'Gone with the Wind'. These obstacles add depth and drama to the love stories.
Most of them also feature strong female characters. Take 'Outlander' for instance. Claire is a very independent woman. She uses her medical knowledge from the future to survive in the past and stands up for herself in her relationship with Jamie. These female characters often play a crucial role in the development of the plot and the love story within the historical context.
The settings are often very vivid. For example, in 'Outlander', the descriptions of the Scottish Highlands in different historical periods are so detailed that you can almost feel like you're there. Another characteristic is the complex characters. In 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth is a strong - willed and intelligent woman, and Mr. Darcy is initially proud but has a good heart. These complex characters make their relationship more interesting.
They often have detailed historical settings. For example, the architecture, clothing, and social norms of the era are well - described.
Most of the best ones blend historical events seamlessly with the romantic plot. For instance, a novel set during the partition of India will not only show the heartbreak of the nation but also the personal heartbreaks of the lovers caught in that chaos. The language used is also very evocative of the time, with traditional Indian words and phrases that add to the authenticity.
Well, often they have a strong sense of place. For example, in 'The Tale of Genji', the Heian court setting is described in great detail, from the architecture to the clothing, which sets the mood for the romances. They also tend to have complex characters. In these novels, the characters are not just one - dimensional lovers. They have their own social status, family obligations, and personal dreams that influence their romantic relationships.
Well, a key characteristic is a complex love relationship. In the best angsty historical romance novels, the love between the characters is not straightforward. There are often obstacles like social class differences. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy start off with misunderstandings due to their different social standings. Another characteristic is a rich historical backdrop. It sets the mood and often adds to the angst. Take 'The Other Boleyn Girl' by Philippa Gregory. The Tudor court setting with all its politics and power struggles intensifies the angsty love triangle between Mary, Anne, and Henry VIII. And of course, strong - willed characters are common. These characters fight for their love or against it because of their principles, which leads to a lot of emotional upheaval.
Well, one characteristic is the vivid historical setting. For example, in 'The Moon Embracing the Sun', the detailed description of the Joseon Dynasty court life makes the story more immersive. Another is the complex relationships. In 'Sungkyunkwan Scandal', the characters have to navigate their feelings while dealing with the strict rules of the academy and society.
A good plot is essential. There could be elements of mystery, like a hidden family secret that affects the relationship. Or perhaps a political intrigue that the lovers are caught up in. This adds depth to the story and makes the sexual and romantic elements more engaging. For instance, if a couple is trying to keep their relationship a secret due to political unrest, their stolen moments together become even more charged.
One characteristic is the presence of a complex past between the main characters. For example, in 'Outlander', Claire has a life in the 20th century before being thrust into the past and her relationship with Jamie is colored by her knowledge of the future. Another is a strong sense of time and place. In 'The Bronze Horseman', the setting of World War II Russia is crucial to the second - chance love story. Also, the characters usually have to overcome some sort of internal or external obstacle. In 'A Kingdom of Dreams', the political unrest in medieval Scotland is an external obstacle to the lovers' second chance at happiness.
One characteristic is diverse characters. You'll find characters from different backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life, which makes the stories more inclusive. For example, there are interracial relationships in some of these novels.
The top 5 best romance novels often have strong character development. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth Bennet is a well - rounded character with her own beliefs and flaws. Another characteristic is the exploration of different types of love. In 'Romeo and Juliet', it's a young, passionate and tragic love, while in 'Outlander', it's a love that overcomes time and space. Also, these novels usually have engaging storylines that keep the readers hooked, like in 'The Notebook' where the flashbacks and present - day story of the couple are intertwined.