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.
Characteristics include a sense of authenticity. In 'A Tale of Two Cities', Dickens' portrayal of the French Revolution feels very real. They also have engaging storylines. 'Cold Mountain' has an exciting journey plot during the Civil War. Moreover, they can make the readers understand different cultures and times. 'The Name of the Rose' lets readers explore medieval monastery life, with its unique beliefs and practices.
Bestselling historical fiction books usually have strong historical research behind them. They bring a past era to life. Take 'All the Light We Cannot See' for instance. It accurately portrays the life during World War II. They also tend to have relatable characters. In 'The Book Thief', the characters' experiences make readers feel the horror and hope in Nazi Germany. And they often have a theme that resonates across time, like the search for identity in 'The Kite Runner' which is set in Afghanistan's history.
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.
Hilary Mantel's 'Wolf Hall' is also highly popular. It focuses on the life of Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. Mantel's meticulous research and her unique narrative style bring the Tudor period to life.
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 of the bestselling books in 2019 fiction was 'Where the Crawdads Sing' by Delia Owens. It's a story that combines mystery, coming - of - age, and nature themes. The main character Kya's story set in the marshlands is both heart - wrenching and captivating.
One of the bestselling fiction books in 2020 was 'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig. It tells the story of a woman who gets to experience different versions of her life in a magical library. Another popular one was 'Where the Crawdads Sing' by Delia Owens. It combines mystery and nature elements, set in the marshes of North Carolina. And 'Normal People' by Sally Rooney was also a big hit, exploring the complex relationship between two young people.
Some of the 2020 bestselling fiction books include 'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig. It's a thought - provoking story about a woman who gets to explore different versions of her life in a magical library. Another one could be 'Where the Crawdads Sing' by Delia Owens. It has a beautiful setting in the marshlands and a captivating mystery at its core.
Some of the books in the 2020 bestselling fiction could be 'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig. It's a story that explores different lives through the concept of a magical library.
There are quite a few. 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens is a classic historical fiction bestseller. It's about the French Revolution. Then there's 'Cold Mountain' which is set during the American Civil War and tells the story of a Confederate soldier's journey back home. 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is also a well - known historical fiction book set in a medieval monastery.
Well, one characteristic is a complex and engaging plot. There are often multiple twists and turns that keep readers on their toes. Another is a memorable protagonist, like Sherlock Holmes. He's super intelligent and has his own quirks which draw readers in. Also, a good sense of place is important. For example, in many crime fictions set in big cities like London or New York, the gritty and busy cityscape adds to the atmosphere of mystery.