One common theme is the pursuit of knowledge at all costs. Characters in these novels are often extremely dedicated to their studies, sometimes to the point of obsession.
Another theme is the sense of elitism and exclusivity. The settings are usually in prestigious academic institutions where only a select few are part of. This creates a sense of mystery and allure. In 'If We Were Villains', the group of Shakespearean actors has a sense of being an elite within the academic drama department, and this affects their relationships.
Isolation and elitism are also common. The characters in these stories usually form a small, exclusive group within an academic setting. They think they are superior in some way, which leads to their downfall in many cases. In 'If We Were Villains', the theater students' clique has this sense of being above others. Also, there's often a sense of the past haunting the present, like in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' where the past actions of the characters keep coming back to haunt them in the form of the unaging portrait.
One common theme is the corruption within the hero society. Your dark OC can be a tool to expose the seedy underbelly of how heroes are really like. Another theme is the struggle between good and evil, but from the perspective of the OC who might not see things in such black - and - white terms. Revenge is also a popular theme. Maybe the OC has a vendetta against a certain hero or the hero system in general.
One of the best dark academia novels is 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt. It's set in a New England college and follows a group of students studying Classics. Their pursuit of knowledge takes a dark turn as they get involved in a murder. Another great one is 'If We Were Villains' by M. L. Rio. It's about a group of Shakespearean actors at a prestigious arts conservatory, and it has mystery and a complex web of relationships. 'Gilded Wolves' by Roshani Chokshi also fits the bill. It combines historical Parisian settings with a group of misfits on a treasure - hunting adventure filled with secrets and intrigue.
Well, dark academia novels typically have a focus on academic life but with a darker twist. They might include elements like secret societies, forbidden knowledge, and characters grappling with their own inner demons within an academic setting. The atmosphere is often moody and brooding.
One common theme is friendship. Just like in the original concept, characters form strong bonds in fanfictions. Another is the exploration of magic. Writers often come up with new spells or expand on existing ones. For example, in some fanfictions, there are special healing magics.
Power is a common theme. Mafia characters are always vying for more power within their organizations. Another theme is loyalty, which is often tested. For example, in 'The Godfather', loyalty to the family is crucial but also complex.
One common theme is power dynamics. There could be elements of domination and submission, where one character holds complete control over the sexual experiences of another. Another theme is the exploration of taboos, like incestuous desires or extreme fetishism. Also, psychological manipulation often plays a role, with characters using sex as a tool to gain power or revenge.
Another common theme is redemption. Many 'dark warriors novels' feature characters who start out on a dark path but then strive to redeem themselves. For example, a dark warrior might have committed terrible deeds in the past but then tries to make up for it. There are also themes related to loyalty and betrayal. Dark warriors may have to deal with comrades who betray them or they themselves may be tempted to betray their own code. The exploration of good and evil within the context of these characters is also a prevalent theme. They exist in a grey area between pure good and pure evil, which makes for interesting character development and plot twists.
Mystery is a big part of 'dark wind novels'. There are usually unanswered questions, hidden secrets, or a sense of something not being quite right. It could be a mystery about a character's past, a strange event that keeps repeating, or a hidden object with a dark power. These mysteries keep the reader engaged and eager to find out what's really going on in the dark and often dangerous world of the novel.