The plot of a good historical novel should be engaging and intertwined with historical events. It shouldn't just be a history lesson but a story that draws the reader in. For example, a novel about World War II could follow the journey of a soldier while also showing the broader historical context like battles, political decisions, and the impact on civilians.
A good historical novel should have accurate historical details. For example, if it's set in ancient Rome, the description of the architecture, social hierarchy, and daily life should be based on historical research. This helps to create an authentic backdrop for the story.
Well - developed characters are crucial in a good historical novel. They should be complex and reflect the values and attitudes of the time period. For instance, in a novel about the French Revolution, the characters could include revolutionaries, aristocrats, and commoners, each with their own motives and beliefs.
A good historical novel is often accurate in its historical details. For example, if it's set in ancient Rome, it should get the architecture, social hierarchy, and daily life right. Another factor is engaging characters. Like in 'A Tale of Two Cities', the characters like Sydney Carton are so well - drawn that they draw readers into the story. Also, a good plot that ties in with the historical context, such as in 'War and Peace' where the plot is intertwined with the Napoleonic Wars.
A good historical novel usually has accurate depictions of the time period, engaging characters, and a compelling plot that immerses readers in the past.
A good historical crime novel often has a well - researched historical setting. For example, if it's set in Victorian London, the details of the streets, the social hierarchy, and the police procedures of that time should be accurate. It also needs engaging characters. Just like in any crime novel, the detective or the investigator should be someone the reader can root for. And of course, a complex and mysterious plot. The crime should be something that keeps the reader guessing until the end.
A deep understanding of the social and cultural context of the time period. This means knowing how people interacted, what their values were, and what the norms were in society. For instance, in a historical novel set in Victorian England, understanding the strict class system and how it influenced people's behavior.
A great historical romance novel often has accurate historical details that enhance the authenticity. The relationship between the main characters should evolve naturally and face believable obstacles. A good ending that leaves the reader satisfied is also crucial.
For me, good historical fiction needs accurate depictions of the time period. It should show the culture, clothing, and daily life realistically.
A good historical story should have accurate details and vivid descriptions of the period. It also needs engaging characters and a compelling plot that reflects the context of the time.
A good historical story often has a balance of historical accuracy and creative storytelling. It should have engaging conflicts that were relevant to the time, and showcase how people's lives were shaped by the events and circumstances of that period.
A good cozy historical fiction often has a relatable protagonist. For example, a character like Elizabeth Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice' who readers can understand and root for. The historical setting needs to be well - researched and immersive, like the Regency England in Austen's novels.
Compelling characters. In really good historical fiction, the characters should feel like real people who could have existed in that time period. They should have believable motives and reactions to the historical events around them. For instance, in 'War and Peace', Tolstoy's characters are so well - drawn that they bring the Napoleonic era to life. And their personal dramas are intertwined with the grand historical events.