Well, world - building is a key factor. Just like Tolkien's Middle - earth, a Tolkienesque novel usually has a detailed and immersive world. For example, a world with its own history, languages, and cultures. Another aspect is the presence of epic quests. The hero or heroes in the story often have to go on a long and difficult journey, like Frodo in 'The Lord of the Rings'. Also, a sense of good versus evil, where there are clearly defined forces of good and bad fighting for the fate of the world.
One important thing is the theme of heroism. In Tolkienesque novels, the heroes are not always perfect but they rise to the occasion. They face great challenges and overcome them with courage and determination. The magic in the story also has a certain feel. It's not just about flashy spells but is often deeply rooted in the world's fabric. There are also elements of nature being important. Middle - earth had a strong connection to nature, and so do Tolkienesque novels, where forests, mountains, and rivers are not just scenery but play important roles in the story.
One of the best is 'The Chronicles of Narnia' series by C.S. Lewis. It has a richly imagined world full of magic and talking animals, much like Tolkien's Middle - earth. Another great one is 'Earthsea' by Ursula K. Le Guin. It features a detailed world with a unique magic system. And 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss also stands out. It has a deep lore, a complex main character, and a world filled with mystery and adventure.
One of the most famous is 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy by J. R. R. Tolkien himself. It has a vast and detailed world, with different races like hobbits, elves, dwarves and men. Another great example is 'The Chronicles of Narnia' by C. S. Lewis. Although it has its own unique charm, it also shares some elements typical of tolkienesque fantasy, such as the existence of magical creatures and a richly - imagined world. 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R. R. Martin also has certain tolkienesque aspects, like the complex political intrigue and a large - scale world filled with different cultures and peoples.
Tolkienesque fantasy novels have had a huge impact. For one, they've popularized the idea of a fully - realized and detailed fantasy world. Many modern authors now strive to create worlds as complex as Middle - earth. They also influenced the use of epic quests. In 'The Lord of the Rings', the Fellowship's journey to destroy the One Ring is a classic example. This has led to many modern novels having similar grand quests for their characters. And the concept of different races with their own cultures and languages, like in Tolkien's works, is now a common feature in modern fantasy literature.
Well, one factor is the world - building. For example, in 'Mistborn' by Brandon Sanderson, the world has a unique magic system where certain people can ingest metals to gain powers. This distinct magic system makes the novel stand out.
Character development also plays a key role. In 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss, the main character Kvothe is so vividly portrayed that readers become deeply invested in his story. The novel's exploration of themes like knowledge, power, and identity makes it important. Moreover, an important fantasy novel can have a profound impact on the genre. 'The Earthsea Cycle' by Ursula K. Le Guin introduced many concepts that influenced later fantasy works.
A bad fantasy novel could be due to a confusing plot. Maybe there are too many sub - plots that don't connect well or the main plot is just all over the place. For example, if the story jumps from one event to another without any real transition or logical flow. It might also have a lack of emotional depth. If the reader can't connect with the characters on an emotional level, it fails as a good fantasy novel.
An unusual fantasy novel might have a very unique magic system. For example, in 'Mistborn' by Brandon Sanderson, the magic system is based on ingesting different metals to gain powers, which is quite different from the typical magic in most fantasy novels.
Well, an amazing fantasy novel often has a compelling plot. It could be an epic quest like in 'The Wheel of Time' or a battle between good and evil as in 'A Song of Ice and Fire'. The ability to transport the reader to a different world is also crucial. When reading 'The Chronicles of Narnia', you feel like you are really in Narnia. And strong themes, such as friendship and heroism, can enhance the amazingness of a fantasy novel.
Well, a good fantasy novel typically has a deep and immersive magic system. This system should be logical within the context of the story. For example, in 'Harry Potter', the magic has rules and limitations. Additionally, themes like good versus evil, friendship, and self - discovery are often explored, which gives the story more depth and makes it relatable to readers.
One factor that makes a fantasy novel smart is an original and well - thought - out magic system. Take 'Fullmetal Alchemist' for instance. The laws of alchemy are clearly defined and the characters have to use their intelligence to work within those rules. Complex plotlines also contribute. In 'The Stormlight Archive', there are multiple storylines that are interwoven and full of political intrigue, battles, and character development. The author has to be very smart to manage all these elements. Additionally, if a fantasy novel can make the reader think about real - life issues in a different context, such as 'The Giver' which makes us think about freedom and choice, it is smart.