Complex and engaging plots. Authors like Agatha Christie are masters at this. Her plots are like intricate puzzles. There are multiple suspects, false leads, and unexpected twists that keep readers hooked from start to finish.
Originality. The best ones come up with unique concepts. For example, Edgar Allan Poe, who is often considered a pioneer in detective fiction. His stories like 'The Murders in the Rue Morgue' introduced new ideas of solving mysteries.
The best recent detective novels often have unique and complex characters. For example, in 'The Silent Patient', the main characters' psychological depth adds a lot to the story. Their flaws and motives are not straightforward, which makes the reader more engaged.
Originality. The best living authors of fiction often come up with unique concepts and ideas. For instance, authors like Kazuo Ishiguro create stories that are not like the typical mainstream fiction. His work 'Never Let Me Go' has a very distinct premise about clones that makes it stand out.
One key factor is their ability to create unique and relatable characters. For instance, Douglas Adams' characters in 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' are so distinct and their reactions to the crazy situations are what make it humorous. Another is their use of unexpected twists. Terry Pratchett often throws in a curveball in his Discworld stories that catches the reader off - guard and makes them laugh. Also, their use of language. Mark Twain had a way with words that was both simple and yet deeply humorous. His descriptions and dialogues were full of wit.
Well, many Indian fiction authors are great at character development. Take Arundhati Roy's characters in 'The God of Small Things'. They are complex and multi - dimensional, which makes the readers really connect with them. Also, the use of language is special. Authors like Vikram Seth use a rich vocabulary and beautiful prose to bring their stories to life. And their works often touch on important social and political issues, like R.K. Narayan's works that subtly comment on Indian society.
One key factor is their ability to create memorable characters. For example, Shakespeare's Hamlet is a character that has been analyzed and re - analyzed for centuries. Another is their unique storytelling styles. Dickens had a very descriptive and often humorous style that drew readers in. Also, their exploration of important themes. Tolstoy in 'Anna Karenina' explored love and society in a way that was both complex and relatable.
The characters. Philip Marlowe is an iconic detective. His smart - aleck remarks and unwavering sense of justice make him memorable.
There are several factors. Firstly, the writing style. If the author of 'A Cold Trail' has a distinct writing style that draws readers in more effectively than other best - selling detective novels, it would stand out. For instance, the use of vivid descriptions and a fast - paced narrative can make it more engaging. Secondly, the mystery itself. If it's a particularly complex and thought - provoking mystery, it will be different from the more formulaic ones in some best - selling detective novels. And finally, the way the story unfolds. If there are unexpected turns and revelations that are not typical in other best - selling detective novels, it would make 'A Cold Trail' unique.
The local culture. It's deeply ingrained in the stories. The Scottish traditions, dialects, and ways of life are all part of the fabric of the novels. It gives a unique flavor that you don't find in other detective novels.
The best Indian novels often stand out because of their unique cultural settings. India has a rich and diverse culture, and novels like 'The God of Small Things' can vividly depict the local traditions, caste systems, and family dynamics in Kerala. This cultural backdrop gives the stories a depth and authenticity that is captivating.
The best weird novels stand out because they break the norms. They often have strange and unexpected plot twists. For example, in 'House of Leaves', the very structure of the book is part of the weirdness. They also create unique atmospheres. In 'At the Mountains of Madness', Lovecraft creates a sense of dread and mystery with his descriptions of the Antarctic landscape. And they can make the reader question reality, like 'The Crying of Lot 49' which has a complex web of possible interpretations.