Deep scientific concepts also contribute. 'Blindsight' by Peter Watts delves into neurology, consciousness, and alien intelligence in a way that is not easy to understand without careful thought. It challenges the reader's understanding of what it means to be sentient.
Read it multiple times. The first time you might get the general plot, but on subsequent reads, you can pick up on the details. For example, in 'Dune', the first read gives you the story of Paul Atreides, but later reads let you understand the Bene Gesserit's long - term plans and the deeper meaning of the Fremen's culture.
One example could be 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It has a complex political, ecological, and religious system. There are numerous factions vying for power on the desert planet Arrakis, and the spice melange is central to the economy and the power struggles. Another is 'Neuromancer' by William Gibson. It delved into complex concepts of cybernetics, artificial intelligence, and the blurring of the line between the human mind and the digital realm. And 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons is also very complex, with a multi - layered narrative structure and a richly detailed universe filled with different species, time - traveling, and religious undertones.
One factor is an engaging plot. For example, if it has a mystery like in 'The Maze Runner' where the boys need to figure out the maze. Another is relatable characters. In 'The Hunger Games', Katniss is a strong and relatable female lead. Also, unique world - building matters. In 'Divergent', the concept of the factions makes its world distinct.
Well - developed characters also contribute. In 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' by Patricia Highsmith, Tom Ripley is a complex character. His motives and actions are not straightforward, and understanding his psychology adds to the intelligence of the novel. Additionally, the exploration of themes such as morality, justice, and human nature can make a crime novel intelligent. 'Crime and Punishment' by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a prime example. It's not just about the crime but about the moral and psychological implications of it.
The story itself can be a major factor. For example, if it's about a great loss like in 'The Arrival' where the immigrant experience is filled with leaving behind loved ones and an entire way of life. The sense of longing and the unknown creates a very emotional atmosphere.
One key element that can make a light novel interesting is the plot. A complex and unpredictable plot like that in 'Durarara!!' keeps readers hooked. Also, the writing style matters. A light novel with a vivid and engaging writing style, like Haruki Murakami's 'Norwegian Wood' (although it's not strictly a light novel but has some similar elements), can be really interesting. The themes explored in the novel can also contribute. If it delves into deep and thought - provoking themes like identity and purpose, it can be more interesting.
Neal Stephenson's 'Snow Crash' is also quite complex. It combines elements of cyberpunk, linguistics, and ancient Sumerian mythology. The virtual world within the story, the Metaverse, has its own set of rules and hierarchies that are not easy to fully grasp at first.
Read it slowly. Complex science fiction books often have a lot of details and concepts. By taking your time, you can better absorb all the information. For example, in 'Dune', there are many terms related to the desert planet and its ecology. Reading slowly helps you understand these.
Power combined with a lack of morality. For example, if a powerful alien race in science fiction uses its advanced technology to enslave weaker races just for fun or to gain more resources without any ethical consideration. That's pure evil. They could be doing it on a large scale, across galaxies perhaps, and not care about the suffering they cause.
For a zap science fiction to be most satisfactory, it should have a compelling story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, along with well-developed characters that you can relate to. Also, cutting-edge visuals and sound effects add to the appeal.