Bestselling psychological fiction books often have complex characters. For example, in 'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides, the main character Alicia is a mystery herself. Her silence after a crime is what draws readers in, and we get to explore her psyche as the story progresses.
They usually involve a lot of internal conflict. Take 'The Bell Jar' by Sylvia Plath. The protagonist's struggle with her own mental state, her desires, and the society's expectations is a central aspect of the book. This internal turmoil makes the story relatable and engaging.
Mystery and suspense are also common characteristics. In 'Sharp Objects' by Gillian Flynn, the protagonist's investigation into a series of murders in her hometown is filled with psychological tension. The secrets that are gradually uncovered add to the overall allure of the book.
Well, one characteristic is a vivid historical setting. For example, in 'The Pillars of the Earth', the detailed description of 12th - century England makes the story seem real. Another is complex characters. In 'Gone with the Wind', Scarlett O'Hara is a very complex character full of contradictions. Also, a good plot that often weaves historical events into the story, like in 'Wolf Hall' where the political intrigues of Henry VIII's court are central to the plot.
These books may often have unreliable narrators. This is a common characteristic in psychological fiction. By having an unreliable narrator, it makes the reader question what is real and what is just in the character's mind. For instance, the narrator's perception of events might be distorted by their own psychological traumas or desires. So, the reader has to piece together the true story while also understanding the psychological state of the narrator.
One of the bestselling psychological fiction books is 'The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins. It's a gripping story that plays with the unreliable narrator trope. The main character's hazy memories and her observations from the train commute create a sense of mystery and suspense.
Psychological books fiction often focuses on the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters. For example, they might explore how a character's past traumas shape their present behavior. They can also be very character - driven, with the plot revolving around the psychological development or decline of the main character.
Psychological fiction books typically have complex characters with hidden motives. They might not be what they seem at first glance. In 'The Picture of Dorian Gray', Dorian's true self is gradually revealed as the story progresses. Also, these books often use unreliable narrators. In 'Lolita', Humbert Humbert's narration is suspect, which adds to the psychological depth. They also tend to be thought - provoking, making readers question human nature and society.
Bestselling action adventure fiction books often have a fast - paced plot. There are always exciting events happening one after another, like in 'The Bourne Identity' where the main character is constantly on the run and in danger. Another characteristic is a strong protagonist. For example, Katniss in 'The Hunger Games' is a brave and resourceful character. They also usually have an interesting setting, such as the post - apocalyptic world in 'The Maze Runner' which adds to the sense of adventure.
Bestselling fiction often has engaging characters. These characters are well - developed and relatable, making readers care about their stories. It also usually has a captivating plot. A plot full of twists and turns, conflicts, and resolutions keeps readers hooked. For example, 'The Da Vinci Code' had a complex and exciting plot that attracted a huge audience.
One characteristic is the use of unreliable narrators. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the alternating perspectives of the two main characters, both of whom have their own secrets and motives, keep the reader guessing. Another is the exploration of the dark side of human nature. In 'American Psycho', the protagonist's violent and misogynistic tendencies are deeply explored. Also, a sense of psychological isolation is often present. In 'The Shining', the family is isolated in the hotel, which exacerbates the psychological breakdown.
Good psychological books fiction often has complex characters. For example, in 'The Great Gatsby', the characters like Gatsby himself are full of contradictions, which makes readers dig deep into their motives and inner worlds. Another characteristic is the exploration of deep emotions. In 'Wuthering Heights', the love and hatred between Heathcliff and Catherine are so intense that it reflects the complexity of human emotions. Also, they usually have thought - provoking themes, like in 'Brave New World' which makes us think about the impact of technology on human nature.
Psychological thriller fiction books usually have a sense of unease and suspense throughout. The settings are often used to enhance this, like in 'In a Dark, Dark Wood' where the isolated location of the bachelorette party creates a feeling of being trapped. Also, they tend to have unexpected plot twists. 'The Silent Patient' is full of such twists that keep the reader guessing until the very end.