The best Chinese novels often have rich cultural connotations. For example, 'Dream of the Red Chamber' is like a panorama of traditional Chinese culture, showing the architecture, clothing, food, and social etiquette. They also usually have complex characters. In 'Journey to the West', each character has distinct personalities. Monkey King is brave and rebellious, while Tang Monk is kind - hearted but a bit gullible.
Well, many of them often have a strong sense of cultural identity. They are deeply rooted in Chinese history, traditions and values.
The best Chinese BL novels often have very well - developed characters. For example, in 'The Husky and His White Cat Shizun', the main characters have complex personalities, with their own flaws and strengths. They also usually have unique settings. Like 'Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation' which is set in a cultivation world, full of magic and different sects. Another characteristic is the intense emotional expression. In 'Addicted', the love between the two characters is depicted with great passion.
Many of the best contemporary Chinese novels often reflect on China's rapid social changes. For example, they may show how traditional values collide with modern ideas. They also tend to have rich character portrayals. Just like in 'To Live', the main character's experiences and emotions are deeply and realistically depicted.
The best Chinese romance novels typically blend family and social relationships with love. In 'A Dream of Red Mansions', the love between the characters is intertwined with family power struggles and social hierarchies. They also tend to be rich in symbolism. For example, in 'The Plum in the Golden Vase', various objects and events symbolize different aspects of the characters' relationships. Moreover, they often explore different forms of love, be it unrequited love as in 'Romance of the Western Chamber' or tragic love as in 'Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai'.
Well, the best Chinese fantasy novels also often feature complex character relationships. There are not only friendships and romances but also enmities and rivalries. These relationships drive the plot forward. In addition, they usually have a unique power system. Different from Western magic, Chinese fantasy novels may have things like Qi cultivation, magic weapon forging, which is very interesting.
The use of language is also characteristic. Chinese mystery novels may use vivid descriptions to set the mood. For instance, in a spooky mystery set in an old alley, the detailed description of the dilapidated buildings and the faint sounds at night can really draw the reader in. And the plot twists are often unexpected. Just when you think you've figured it out, a new clue emerges and changes everything.
Many of the best Chinese American novels often deal with the theme of identity. Characters are caught between their Chinese heritage and American upbringing, like in 'The Joy Luck Club'.
Many of them are good at portraying complex characters. Take 'Fortress Besieged' as an example. The characters in it have various personalities and motives, which make the story more vivid and thought - provoking. Also, these novels usually have strong narrative abilities, whether it is a linear or non - linear narrative.
Well, most of the best Chinese historical BL novels often have elaborate historical settings. They transport readers to different periods in Chinese history, like the ancient dynasties. The characters are usually well - developed, with distinct personalities. For example, in 'The Husky and His White Cat Shizun', the main characters have complex backstories that shape their actions and relationships.
Well, often they have rich world - building. For example, they create unique settings like mysterious cultivation worlds with different levels of existence, strange beasts, and powerful artifacts. These settings are crucial for drawing readers in.