One of the iconic urban fantasy novels is 'A Discovery of Witches' by Deborah Harkness. It combines elements of history, magic, and romance in a modern - day setting. The story follows a historian who discovers she is a witch and gets involved with a vampire.
Neil Gaiman's 'Neverwhere' is also highly iconic. It takes readers on a journey through the hidden, magical underbelly of London. The characters are vivid, and the world - building is superb, filled with strange creatures and unique magic systems.
These novels have also influenced character - building. In Neil Gaiman's 'Neverwhere', the diverse and strange characters have inspired other authors to create more unique and complex characters in their own works. They've shown that characters don't have to be strictly human or follow normal conventions.
One of the most iconic mystery novels is 'Sherlock Holmes' series by Arthur Conan Doyle. These stories feature the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. Watson. Another is 'Agatha Christie's 'Murder on the Orient Express'. It has a complex plot with a murder taking place on a train and Christie masterfully weaves together the clues and suspects. 'The Maltese Falcon' by Dashiell Hammett is also iconic, with its hard - boiled detective Sam Spade.
Some great iconic horror novels include 'Interview with the Vampire' by Anne Rice. It delves into the complex and often tragic lives of vampires. 'House of Leaves' by Mark Z. Danielewski is a very unique horror novel that messes with the layout of the book itself to create a sense of unease. Also, 'Carrie' by Stephen King, which tells the story of a girl with telekinetic powers who is bullied at school and then takes revenge in a very horrific way.
The Sword of Shannara. It's a key element in Terry Brooks' series. It has the power to destroy the Warlock Lord and is a very important weapon in the fight against evil in that fictional world.
Well, 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon is quite iconic in the romance genre. It combines time - travel, historical settings, and a passionate love story. 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks is also very well - known. It tells a heart - warming and somewhat bittersweet love story that has touched many readers. And then there's 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte, which features a strong - willed heroine and a complex love relationship.
There are many. 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge' by Ambrose Bierce is iconic. It plays with time and the reader's perception. The sudden twists in the story are what make it stand out. 'Young Goodman Brown' by Nathaniel Hawthorne is also an iconic short story. It delves into the Puritan idea of sin and the loss of innocence. Hawthorne's use of symbolism, like the forest as a place of evil, adds depth to the story. 'Bartleby, the Scrivener' by Herman Melville is iconic for its exploration of alienation and the human condition in a modernizing society.
Aragorn from 'The Lord of the Rings' can be considered one. He has to deal with the political aspects of uniting different kingdoms against Sauron. Also, Tyrion Lannister from 'A Song of Ice and Fire'. He is constantly involved in the political games of Westeros, using his wits despite his family's prejudice against him.
One of the most iconic is 'Expelliarmus' from the Harry Potter series. It's a disarming spell that's used in many duels. Another is 'The One Ring's invisibility ability in The Lord of the Rings. It allows the wearer to disappear, which causes all sorts of mischief and adventure.
One iconic bedtime story is 'Goodnight Moon'. It has simple yet soothing text and charming illustrations that help children relax before sleep. The repetition in the story is also very calming.
One iconic Christmas story is 'A Christmas Carol' by Charles Dickens. It tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve. Through these encounters, he transforms into a kind and generous person. Another is 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry. It's about a young couple who, despite their poverty, selflessly sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy Christmas gifts for each other. And 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' is also very popular. The Grinch tries to steal Christmas from the Whos in Whoville but ultimately discovers the true meaning of the holiday.