A complex backstory also helps. Take Norman Bates from 'Psycho' for example. His troubled relationship with his mother and his split personality disorder add depth to his character. This complexity makes him more than just a one - dimensional killer and thus one of the best in fiction. His actions are driven by his psychological issues which are fascinating to explore.
For a fictional serial killer to be considered one of the best, they need to have a unique modus operandi. Like Dexter, he only kills other killers. His 'code' makes him different from other serial killers in fiction.
One of the best is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It features the infamous Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant and terrifying serial killer. His psychological games with Clarice Starling are captivating. Another great one is 'American Psycho' by Bret Easton Ellis, which delves into the mind of a wealthy and deranged killer in the 1980s. And 'Red Dragon' also by Thomas Harris is excellent, introducing the character of Francis Dolarhyde, a serial killer with a complex and disturbing backstory.
Well, it could be that Sam has extraordinary abilities or a backstory that's too fantastical to be real. That's what makes him a fictional killer.
I would say 'The Bone Collector' is a great fictional serial killer book. The way the detective, despite his physical limitations, tries to solve the case is really inspiring. And 'Darkly Dreaming Dexter' is unique as it makes you root for a serial killer in a strange way. He has his own code of ethics which makes the story very interesting.
The suspense. In the best serial killer short stories, like 'The Cask of Amontillado', the reader is left in suspense about what will happen next. We wonder how the killer will carry out their plan. Another factor is the psychological aspect. Stories such as 'The Tell - Tale Heart' dig deep into the mind of the killer, showing their obsessions and paranoia, which is fascinating. And often, there's a sense of mystery, like in 'The Murders in the Rue Morgue', where we are trying to figure out who the killer is and how they committed the crime.
A good fictional mom is often one who can adapt to different situations. Take Ma from 'The Grapes of Wrath'. She has to adapt to the harsh living conditions during the Dust Bowl and on the journey west. Also, the ability to instill good values in their children is crucial. Mrs. March from 'Little Women' does this very well, teaching her daughters about the importance of giving, loving, and being strong individuals.
One of the best is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It features the iconic character Hannibal Lecter. The cat - and - mouse game between Clarice Starling and Lecter is gripping.
One of the best is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It features the brilliant and terrifying Dr. Hannibal Lecter. The cat - and - mouse game between Clarice Starling and Lecter is gripping.
A killer story usually has a unique and compelling plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
One great fictional serial killer book is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It features the infamous Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant and terrifying psychiatrist who is also a serial killer. His interactions with FBI trainee Clarice Starling are both chilling and fascinating.
A great World War fictional book often has a relatable protagonist. For example, in 'All Quiet on the Western Front', Paul Bäumer's experiences make the reader feel the harsh reality of war. Authentic historical details also matter. 'The Book Thief' is set in Nazi - occupied Germany and accurately depicts the time. The ability to convey the emotional and psychological impact of war, like in 'Slaughterhouse - Five', where Billy Pilgrim's time - traveling is a metaphor for the disorienting effect of war on the mind.