Some of the books could be 'The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins. It was a very popular mystery novel in 2016. The story is told from different perspectives, mainly following a woman who becomes obsessed with the lives of a couple she sees from the train every day. This mystery unfolds with unexpected twists and turns.
Another one might be 'Before the Fall' by Noah Hawley. It's a gripping mystery that involves a plane crash. The story delves into the lives of the passengers before the crash and the mystery behind what really caused it. There are complex characters and a web of secrets that keep the reader guessing throughout.
I think 'Artemis Fowl' by Eoin Colfer is also very popular. The young criminal mastermind Artemis Fowl gets involved in various mysteries and dangerous situations in the world of fairies and magic. It has a great mix of mystery, adventure and unique characters.
Take 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone' for example. Its main characteristic is the creation of a rich and immersive magical world. There are unique magic spells, interesting magical creatures, and a detailed wizarding school system. Another book like 'The God of Small Things' has the characteristic of deep emotional exploration. It delves into complex family relationships and the social hierarchy in India in a very poignant way.
Another great one is 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. This book focuses on the life of Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. It gives a detailed look at the political intrigue and the complex relationships within the Tudor court.
Some of these books could also be experimental in their narrative structure. Take 'The Ghost Writer' for instance. Philip Roth plays with the idea of the unreliable narrator and the blurring of fact and fiction, which makes the reading experience both challenging and thought - provoking.
The 'Harry Potter' series might be in the list. It follows the adventures of a young wizard, Harry Potter, as he battles the dark wizard Voldemort and discovers the magical world. There are seven books in total, each filled with magic, friendship, and coming - of - age elements.
One great book could be 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho. It's a story about a young shepherd named Santiago who goes on a journey to find his personal legend. It's full of inspiring quotes and lessons about following your dreams and listening to your heart.
Another good one is 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' by Ransom Riggs. The story combines mystery with a touch of the supernatural as the main character discovers the strange secrets of an old orphanage. There are really interesting characters and a unique plot that keeps you hooked.
One well - known book could be 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It's a classic in the genre, with a richly imagined desert planet, complex political intrigue, and a hero's journey.
Another popular one was 'La Belle Sauvage'. Fans of Philip Pullman's 'His Dark Materials' were eager to read this prequel. It brought back the magic and the complex world - building that Pullman is known for, and introduced new characters and adventures in that universe.
Agatha Christie's 'Murder on the Orient Express' is also a top mystery. It has a complex plot with a murder happening on a train and a detective, Hercule Poirot, has to figure out who among the diverse group of passengers is the killer. Christie is known for her intricate plotting and unexpected twists.