Good underrated novels usually have deep characters that are not fully appreciated. 'The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao' by Junot Díaz is one such novel. The main character Oscar is a complex and relatable figure, but it might not have reached as many readers as it should. The setting can also play a role. If it's set in a less - known or less - popular location, like 'Half of a Yellow Sun' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie which is set in Nigeria during the Biafran War, it might not get as much attention. And sometimes, it's just a matter of bad timing. A book might be released when there are a lot of big - name releases, and it gets overshadowed, like some small - press novels.
A short story can be underrated when it challenges the reader too much. Some stories have complex themes, non - linear narratives, or unusual writing styles. For example, stories that use stream - of - consciousness writing might be difficult for some readers to understand, and so they don't gain as much popularity. Another factor is that the story might be overshadowed by the author's more famous works. For example, an author who is known for a blockbuster novel might have some great short stories that are ignored because people are more focused on their well - known work.
There are several reasons for science fiction novels to be underrated. Sometimes, the cover art or the title doesn't attract readers. A dull or unappealing cover can make a potentially great book be passed over. For example, some older science fiction novels with cheesy or uninformative covers might not get the attention they deserve. Also, if a novel doesn't fit neatly into an established sub - genre category, it can be overlooked. A book that combines elements of cyberpunk and space opera in a unique way might not have an obvious audience. Moreover, if the author is not well - known or part of a big - name literary clique, their work might not get promoted as much. This was the case for many indie - published science fiction novels in the past, which often had great ideas but little exposure.
In my view, the fact that 'A Christmas Memory' is not as flashy as modern Christmas stories makes it underrated. It's a story that slowly unfolds, painting a picture of a rural Christmas. It doesn't have the instant - gratification elements that are so common today. People might overlook it because it requires a bit more patience to fully appreciate its beauty.
Another one is 'Kaiba'. It has a very unique art style and an amazing story. The anime is set in a world where memories can be transferred and stored in cards. The main character, Kaiba, has lost his memories and goes on a journey to find out who he really is. It touches on themes like identity, love, and the value of memories in a very thought - provoking way.
One good underrated Victorian novel is 'The Moonstone' by Wilkie Collins. It is often considered a precursor to the modern detective story. It has a complex plot full of mystery, with multiple narrators that add to the intrigue. Another is 'North and South' by Elizabeth Gaskell. It explores the social divide between the industrial North and the more genteel South in England, as well as themes of class, love, and social change. And 'The House of Mirth' by Edith Wharton (although she was American, her works were influenced by Victorian values). It's a tragic story of a woman caught in the strict social hierarchies of the time, and her attempts to navigate through them.
One good underrated light novel is 'Kumo Desu ga, Nani ka?'. It has an interesting premise where the protagonist is reincarnated as a spider in a fantasy world. The story gradually unfolds with unique world - building and character development. Another is 'Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash'. It presents a more realistic take on the isekai genre, focusing on the struggles of the characters in a new world rather than just overpowered heroes. And 'The Saga of Tanya the Evil' is also underrated. It has a complex and somewhat controversial main character, Tanya, and a unique military - fantasy setting that makes it stand out.
One good underrated Victorian novel is 'North and South' by Elizabeth Gaskell. It explores themes of class differences, industrialization, and the relationship between a southern gentlewoman and a northern mill owner. Another is 'The Moonstone' by Wilkie Collins, which is often considered a precursor to the modern detective story. It has a complex plot filled with mystery and intrigue. Also, 'The House of Mirth' by Edith Wharton, although set in America during a similar period, has strong Victorian elements and is an in - depth study of a woman's struggle in a society governed by strict social norms.
One underrated genre is historical fiction set in less - explored time periods. For example, novels set during the Byzantine Empire can offer a really unique reading experience. You get to learn about a different culture and time while enjoying a fictional story.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is often overlooked. It's set in Nazi Germany and is narrated by Death. It shows a different perspective of the time through the eyes of a young girl who steals books.
Some underrated horror novels could be 'The House Next Door' by Anne Rivers Siddons. It creates a sense of unease with a spooky house. Another might be 'The Elementals' by Michael McDowell, which has a unique take on horror with its setting and characters. And 'Lost Souls' by Poppy Z. Brite is also often overlooked. It has a dark and edgy take on vampires and the gothic subculture.