best character driven fantasy novels

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.

Sure. 'Ella Enchanted' by Gail Carson Levine is an excellent beginner - friendly character - driven fantasy novel. Ella is cursed with obedience, and her journey to break the curse while dealing with various challenges makes for a great read. 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' is also good. The children in the story, like Lucy, are very well - developed characters. Their discovery of Narnia and their role in the fight against the White Witch is a captivating story. And 'The Graveyard Book' by Neil Gaiman is another one. Bod, the main character, grows up in a graveyard among ghosts. His character development as he learns about the world of the living and the dead is really engaging.

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.

Well, 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien can be considered character - driven in a sense. Bilbo Baggins' transformation from a timid hobbit to a brave adventurer is what moves the story forward. Then there's 'The Earthsea Cycle' by Ursula K. Le Guin. Ged's growth and his struggle with power are key aspects of the story. And don't forget 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman, which has a host of characters whose actions and personalities shape the narrative.

In character - driven fantasy novels, the characters' internal struggles, growth, and relationships are the main focus. For example, in 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho, Santiago's personal journey of self - discovery is what really matters. In plot - driven ones, it's the events and the overarching story arc that take precedence. So, like in a mystery - plot - driven fantasy, the solving of the mystery is more important than the character's inner thoughts.

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.

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.

Look for novels where the characters' emotions and development are central. If the plot seems to be propelled mainly by what the characters think, feel, and do, it's likely character - driven. For example, in 'The Bell Jar' by Sylvia Plath, Esther's mental state and her journey through depression and self - discovery are what move the story along.

There's no definitive answer as to which is more popular. Different genres tend to lean more towards one or the other. For example, literary fiction often has character - driven works, and these are popular among readers who enjoy exploring the human psyche. However, genres like action - adventure and mystery are usually plot - driven and have a large following too. So, it varies from person to person.

First, they need to focus on creating well - rounded characters. Give them clear motives, desires, and fears. For example, if a character wants to save their family in a post - apocalyptic science - fiction world, that will drive their actions. Second, let the characters grow and change. In a fantasy story, a young wizard starting as a novice and becoming a powerful mage should have a believable character arc. Third, make their relationships matter. In a space opera science - fiction, the relationship between the captain and the crew can greatly influence the story.