One characteristic is the presence of a dark and often mysterious atmosphere. For example, in many of these novels, the settings are gloomy, like a haunted forest or a decaying city.
Dark fantasy light novels typically have an element of the macabre. They might feature death, destruction, or the decay of society. In 'Kumo desu ga, Nani ka?', the world is full of predators and the protagonist has to fight for survival in a rather brutal way. The power systems in these novels are often complex and can be used for both good and evil. Just like in 'The Rising of the Shield Hero', where the power of the shield can be used in different ways depending on the situation. There's also a sense of isolation for the characters. They are often alone or feel alone in the face of the dark forces in the story.
Dark urban fantasy light novels often feature a modern urban setting. There's usually a blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary. For example, you might have a normal city street during the day, but at night, vampires or other supernatural beings emerge. The main characters are often outsiders in some way, like a detective who can see the supernatural or a young person just discovering their magical powers. And there's a sense of danger and mystery that pervades the story.
Most of them often have elements of other worlds. For example, characters are usually summoned or transported to a different realm, like in 'Re:Zero'. They also tend to have unique power systems, such as the magic in 'Sword Art Online' or the game - based powers in 'No Game No Life'.
Dark and mature light novels often deal with complex themes such as human nature's dark side. They may explore topics like death, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of power. For example, in some, characters face difficult moral choices that have no easy answers.
Dark magic in light novels usually has a distinct appearance. It might be black or purple in color, and often accompanied by an eerie or foreboding feeling. For example, in 'Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash', the dark magic spells create a spooky atmosphere. Moreover, it is often used for self - gain or to cause harm rather than for the greater good, setting it apart from normal magic.
Dark psychological light novels typically feature a sense of mystery. The plot is usually not straightforward and keeps the reader guessing. There are often unexpected plot twists that are based on the psychological states of the characters.
The art styles in the light novels are also distinct. The illustrations help bring the characters and the world to life. And the writing style is often engaging, using vivid language to describe the amazing adventures and the emotional states of the characters. They can range from action - packed tales to more slice - of - life stories set in a fantasy backdrop.
Dark fantasy rapr novels often have a gloomy or menacing atmosphere. The settings are usually dark, like desolate wastelands, haunted forests or decaying cities. The characters can be morally ambiguous, not clearly good or bad. Magic in these novels may have a price or a dark side to it.
One characteristic is complex characters. They are not simply heroes or villains. They may have good intentions but be forced to do bad things, or vice versa. The atmosphere is often gloomy and foreboding. Take 'The Kingkiller Chronicle'. The world Kvothe inhabits has its dark underbelly, and his own journey is filled with both light and dark moments. Also, these novels may deal with themes of power and corruption. Power often corrupts those who seek it, leading to more darkness in the story.
Dark romance fantasy novels often have a brooding or dangerous atmosphere. The settings are usually filled with elements like dark magic, forbidding forests, or haunted castles. The romance is not the typical sweet kind. It can involve characters with a dark past or a morally ambiguous nature. For example, in 'A Court of Thorns and Roses', Tamlin has a dark side that adds a layer of complexity to the relationship with Feyre.