Well, 'Pride and Prejudice' is a prime example. Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are so well - developed that their relationship and personal growth shape the entire story. Also, 'The Great Gatsby' has Jay Gatsby as a central character whose dreams and illusions drive the plot forward, along with the other characters' reactions to him.
One great character - driven novel is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. The characters, especially Atticus Finch, are complex and their values and actions drive the story. Another is 'The Catcher in the Rye' where Holden Caulfield's inner turmoil and his unique perspective are at the heart of the narrative.
In 'Little Women' by Louisa May Alcott, the four March sisters - Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy - are the driving force. Their different personalities, dreams, and the challenges they face growing up form the core of the story. It's a great character - driven novel.
One of the best character - driven novels is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. The characters, like Atticus Finch, are complex and drive the story forward through their beliefs and actions. Another is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. Elizabeth Bennet's character growth and her relationships are central to the plot. 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger also fits. Holden Caulfield's internal struggles and his view of the world around him form the essence of the novel.
I think 'The Dark Tower' series by Stephen King is a good one. Roland Deschain is a very deep character, his quest for the Dark Tower is not just a physical journey but also a journey of self - discovery. 'Uprooted' by Naomi Novik also has strong character - driven elements. The main character Agnieszka is a complex girl who has to grow and face challenges. And 'The Priory of the Orange Tree' by Samantha Shannon has many well - crafted characters. Ead Duryan, for instance, has her own secrets and motives that drive her actions and the overall story as she tries to protect her world from a great evil.
Some great character - driven fictions include 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' by Gabriel García Márquez. The Buendía family members, each with their distinct personalities and desires, drive the complex narrative that spans generations. Their relationships, their dreams, and their tragedies are what make the story. Also, 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison. Sethe's past as a slave and her haunted present due to the killing of her daughter are the main forces in the story. Her character's journey of dealing with guilt, love, and survival is central to the narrative.
Another great one is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. The complex plot involves a journalist and a hacker girl investigating a decades - old disappearance. There are elements of mystery, family secrets, and corporate corruption that all tie together in a very engaging way.
One of the best is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. The dialogues between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are sharp, witty and full of underlying emotions. They drive the story forward, from their initial misunderstandings to their gradual realization of love for each other.
A great character - driven novel is 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte. Jane is a very strong - minded character. Her experiences, from her difficult childhood at Gateshead to her time at Thornfield Hall and her relationship with Mr. Rochester, are all shaped by her own character traits. 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald is also character - driven. Jay Gatsby's unrequited love for Daisy and his attempts to win her back through his elaborate parties and false identity are what the story revolves around. Then there's 'Wuthering Heights' with Heathcliff and Catherine, whose intense and tortured relationship drives the entire dark and brooding narrative.
One tip is to create complex characters with deep backstories. This makes them more relatable and interesting. Another is to let the characters' actions and decisions drive the plot forward. For example, if a character has a fear of heights, that can influence how they react in a situation where they have to climb a tall building. Also, show character growth throughout the story, like a shy character becoming more confident over time.
'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon is also great. It combines time - travel and romance. The relationship between Claire and Jamie is intense and full of passion. It takes readers through different historical periods and the challenges they face together only strengthen their bond.
One great example is 'The Lord of the Rings' series. The characters like Frodo, Aragorn, and Gandalf are richly developed. Their individual motives, fears, and growth throughout the journey drive the story forward. Another is 'Dune'. Paul Atreides' character arc from a young noble to a powerful leader shapes the complex political and science - fiction world of Arrakis. Also, 'Star Wars' has many character - driven stories. Luke Skywalker's evolution from a farm boy to a Jedi is central to the overall saga.