Well, a key characteristic is the creation of a unique and immersive world. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Middle - earth is a fully realized place with its own languages, cultures and histories. Another is the presence of magic or supernatural elements. In 'Harry Potter', magic is everywhere, from spells to magical creatures. And often, there are epic quests or adventures, like in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' where various characters are on their own journeys for power, survival or revenge.
In novel good fantasy books, there is often a rich mythology. In 'The Name of the Wind', there are many legends and stories about Kvothe that add depth to the world. They also tend to have strong themes. For example, in 'Mistborn', themes of class struggle and revolution are prominent. And many of them use symbolism. In 'The Dark Tower', the tower itself can be seen as a symbol of many things, such as the goal of the hero's journey or the center of the universe.
One characteristic is the existence of larger - than - life characters. Take 'The Chronicles of Narnia' for instance, Aslan the lion is a very powerful and wise character. Also, good fantasy books often have a battle between good and evil. In 'His Dark Materials', the fight between the Authority and those who oppose it is central to the story. And they usually have a sense of wonder. In 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland', the strange and unexpected things that happen, like changing size, create a sense of wonder for the reader.
They usually have rich and detailed settings. Take 'Percy Jackson & The Olympians' for instance. The Camp Half - Blood and all the different places in Greek mythology are described in great detail. Moreover, the themes in these books can be quite diverse. In 'A Court of Thorns and Roses', there are themes of love, power, and survival. And most of these books have a sense of wonder and mystery, which makes the readers keep turning the pages to find out what will happen next, like in 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' where the mystery of the peculiar children and their world keeps you hooked.
Good fantasy books often have well - developed worlds. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Tolkien created Middle - earth with its own languages, cultures, and histories. They also usually have interesting characters like Harry Potter in the 'Harry Potter' series. These characters grow and develop throughout the story. Another characteristic is a unique magic system, as seen in 'Mistborn' where the magic has specific rules and powers.
Good fantasy books often have unique and immersive worlds. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Tolkien created Middle - earth which is full of different cultures and landscapes. They also usually have memorable characters, like Harry Potter who is brave and kind - hearted. Magic or some sort of extraordinary element is another characteristic, as seen in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' with the wizards and magic spells here and there.
One important characteristic is a unique magic system. In 'Mistborn' trilogy, the allomancy and feruchemy are very distinct magic systems that add depth to the story. Compelling antagonists are also common. In 'A Song of Ice and Fire', characters like Joffrey are despised antagonists that drive the plot forward. And the ability to transport readers to a different world is crucial. 'The Chronicles of Narnia' does this so well by creating Narnia, a world full of wonder and danger.
One key characteristic is the ability to blend science and magic or the unknown in a believable way. In 'The Magicians' by Lev Grossman, magic is presented in a way that has rules and limitations, similar to how science works. Creativity in concepts is also crucial. Books like 'Snow Crash' by Neal Stephenson introduce new and wild ideas such as the Metaverse. And of course, good storytelling. A book like 'The Chronicles of Narnia' has a great narrative arc that takes you through different adventures in a magical land.
Complex magic systems can be a big part of good adult fantasy. In 'The Wheel of Time' by Robert Jordan, the magic system is vast and detailed. It takes time for readers to understand but adds a lot of depth to the story. Additionally, the writing style is often sophisticated. Authors like Ursula K. Le Guin in her 'Earthsea' series use beautiful and thought - provoking language to tell their stories.
Good novel books often have well - developed characters. These characters feel real and complex, with their own motives, desires and flaws. For example, in 'Anna Karenina', Anna is a multi - dimensional character full of passion and contradictions. Another characteristic is an engaging plot. It should have a beginning, middle and end that keeps the reader interested. 'The Da Vinci Code' has a very fast - paced and exciting plot. Also, good novels usually have some kind of deeper meaning or theme, like 'The Grapes of Wrath' which explores themes of poverty and the human spirit during the Great Depression.
Good ones often have a well - developed fictional world. For example, in 'Dune', the desert planet of Arrakis is vividly described, and within this science - fiction setting, the romantic relationship between Paul and Chani adds an emotional depth. The blend of the unknown elements of the science - fiction world and the emotional connection of the romantic plot makes it engaging.
They usually feature interesting pirate characters. These characters have their own unique personalities, like the cunning and fearless captains. In the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' books, Captain Jack Sparrow is a very well - known and beloved pirate character with his wacky yet shrewd personality.
One characteristic is the presence of a unique magic system. In 'The Mortal Instruments', the runes and the magic of the shadowhunters are distinct. They usually have a fast - paced plot to keep young readers engaged. 'Divergent' has a constantly evolving and action - packed plot. Another aspect is the exploration of complex relationships. In 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children', the relationships between the peculiar children are full of mystery and growth.