Good fantasy books often have well - developed worlds. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Tolkien created Middle - earth with its own languages, cultures, and histories. They also usually have interesting characters like Harry Potter in the 'Harry Potter' series. These characters grow and develop throughout the story. Another characteristic is a unique magic system, as seen in 'Mistborn' where the magic has specific rules and powers.
Good fantasy books often have unique and immersive worlds. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Tolkien created Middle - earth which is full of different cultures and landscapes. They also usually have memorable characters, like Harry Potter who is brave and kind - hearted. Magic or some sort of extraordinary element is another characteristic, as seen in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' with the wizards and magic spells here and there.
One important characteristic is a unique magic system. In 'Mistborn' trilogy, the allomancy and feruchemy are very distinct magic systems that add depth to the story. Compelling antagonists are also common. In 'A Song of Ice and Fire', characters like Joffrey are despised antagonists that drive the plot forward. And the ability to transport readers to a different world is crucial. 'The Chronicles of Narnia' does this so well by creating Narnia, a world full of wonder and danger.
One key characteristic is the ability to blend science and magic or the unknown in a believable way. In 'The Magicians' by Lev Grossman, magic is presented in a way that has rules and limitations, similar to how science works. Creativity in concepts is also crucial. Books like 'Snow Crash' by Neal Stephenson introduce new and wild ideas such as the Metaverse. And of course, good storytelling. A book like 'The Chronicles of Narnia' has a great narrative arc that takes you through different adventures in a magical land.
Complex magic systems can be a big part of good adult fantasy. In 'The Wheel of Time' by Robert Jordan, the magic system is vast and detailed. It takes time for readers to understand but adds a lot of depth to the story. Additionally, the writing style is often sophisticated. Authors like Ursula K. Le Guin in her 'Earthsea' series use beautiful and thought - provoking language to tell their stories.
Often, they have a made - up world. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Middle - earth is a fully - fledged world with its own history, languages, and cultures. Magic also plays a big part. In 'Harry Potter', there are spells and potions. And they usually have unique creatures. Think of the dragons in 'Eragon' or the faeries in 'The Cruel Prince'.
Fantasy fiction books often have magical elements, like spells and mythical creatures. They also usually take place in made-up worlds that are very different from ours.
Good ones often have a well - developed fictional world. For example, in 'Dune', the desert planet of Arrakis is vividly described, and within this science - fiction setting, the romantic relationship between Paul and Chani adds an emotional depth. The blend of the unknown elements of the science - fiction world and the emotional connection of the romantic plot makes it engaging.
They usually feature interesting pirate characters. These characters have their own unique personalities, like the cunning and fearless captains. In the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' books, Captain Jack Sparrow is a very well - known and beloved pirate character with his wacky yet shrewd personality.
One characteristic is the presence of a unique magic system. In 'The Mortal Instruments', the runes and the magic of the shadowhunters are distinct. They usually have a fast - paced plot to keep young readers engaged. 'Divergent' has a constantly evolving and action - packed plot. Another aspect is the exploration of complex relationships. In 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children', the relationships between the peculiar children are full of mystery and growth.
One characteristic is the presence of dark themes. These can include things like death, destruction, and moral ambiguity. For example, in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series, characters often face difficult moral choices. Another is the use of magic or supernatural elements in a way that is often not as bright and shiny as in traditional fantasy. In 'The Kingkiller Chronicle', the magic has a certain mystery and danger to it. Also, the settings are usually more on the gritty and gloomy side, like the post - apocalyptic world in 'The Road' which has some dark fantasy elements.