They typically have relatable characters. In 'Sense and Sensibility', the sisters' experiences in love are things that many people can relate to. The themes in great love story books are also important. In 'Outlander', themes like loyalty and sacrifice are intertwined with the love story. And they often have a memorable narrative. 'Anna Karenina' has a narrative that keeps you engaged in the love stories and the characters' fates.
One characteristic is the ability to evoke strong emotions. When you read 'Wuthering Heights', you can feel the intense love and hatred of the characters. Another is the exploration of different types of love. 'Jane Eyre' shows both romantic love and self - love. Great love story books also often have a vivid setting. In 'Love in the Time of Cholera', the setting of the town and the time period add to the atmosphere of the love story.
One characteristic is the presence of obstacles. In 'The Fault in Our Stars', Hazel and Gus have to deal with their terminal illnesses while falling in love. Also, these books often show growth. In 'Gone with the Wind', Scarlett's love for Ashley and Rhett makes her grow and change as a person throughout the story. The settings also play a role. A beautiful or exotic setting like in 'A Room with a View' can enhance the love story.
Typically, they focus on the relationship between two or more characters. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice', the focus is on the interactions and growing feelings between Elizabeth and Darcy. They often have emotional highs and lows. In 'The Notebook', the couple faces many challenges, and the story shows their joys and sorrows. Also, they usually explore themes like passion, loyalty, and sacrifice.
Some great books with love stories include 'Gone with the Wind'. Scarlett O'Hara's love for Ashley Wilkes and her complex relationship with Rhett Butler is very engaging. 'Love in the Time of Cholera' by Gabriel García Márquez is also remarkable. It shows how love can endure over a long period of time. And 'Atonement' by Ian McEwan has a love story that is intertwined with themes of guilt and forgiveness.
One characteristic is intense emotions. The love in these books is often passionate, like a fire that burns brightly but also consumes. Another is a sense of inevitability. The tragic end seems fated, as if the lovers are powerless against the forces that drive them apart, whether it's society, family, or fate itself. For example, in 'Romeo and Juliet', their families' feud makes their love doomed from the start.
Many true love story books deal with sacrifice. In 'Love Story' by Erich Segal, the female character sacrifices a lot for her relationship, showing the selfless nature that can be part of true love. These books also usually show the growth of the relationship. It doesn't start perfect but develops over time as the characters learn more about each other and themselves.
These books usually have a sense of urgency. The lovers may be separated by the war, like in 'Cold Mountain'. The male lead has to fight his way back to his love through a war - torn country, and this urgency adds to the intensity of the love story.
Books about sad love stories often have a bittersweet quality. There are moments of great happiness in the relationship, but they are overshadowed by the overall sadness. For instance, in 'Love Story' by Erich Segal, the couple has a beautiful relationship but it is cut short by illness. And they usually explore themes of sacrifice, like a character sacrificing their own happiness for the sake of the other.
Most of these books are full of emotional turmoil. The characters experience a roller - coaster of emotions. They might start with hope and joy in their love, but then things go wrong. There could be misunderstandings, betrayals or just the cruel hand of time. These elements combine to create a melancholic atmosphere that makes the readers feel the sadness of the love story.
Religious and spiritual elements are common. Love might be seen as a form of spiritual connection. In some books, characters' love is influenced by their religious beliefs and practices. They may seek blessings from deities or follow certain religious rituals related to love and marriage. Moreover, the caste system also sometimes impacts the love stories. Lovers from different castes may face numerous obstacles, which adds to the drama and depth of the story. This shows how deeply rooted the social structure is in the concept of love in Indian society as depicted in books.
One characteristic is the authenticity of emotions. Just like in any love story, the feelings of love, longing, and passion need to be real. For example, in 'Call Me By Your Name', the way Elio's love for Oliver is depicted, with all its insecurities and intensities.