1. Compelling Characters:
* Depth and complexity: Characters feel real, with motivations, flaws, and internal conflicts that drive their actions.
* Growth and change: Characters evolve throughout the story, learning, adapting, or perhaps even becoming corrupted.
* Relatability: Readers find aspects of themselves in the characters, making their journeys resonate emotionally.
2. Engaging Plot:
* Conflict and tension: The narrative is driven by obstacles, challenges, and stakes that keep readers hooked.
* Surprises and twists: Unexpected turns in the plot keep readers guessing and invested in the outcome.
* Satisfying resolution: The ending provides closure, answering questions while leaving room for reflection.
3. Vivid Worldbuilding:
* Rich and detailed setting: The physical environment, culture, and society are vividly imagined and contribute to the story's atmosphere.
* Internal consistency: The world's rules, magic systems, or social dynamics are internally consistent, even if fantastical.
* Immersive experience: Readers feel transported into the story's world, engaging all their senses.
4. Powerful Language:
* Prose that sings: The writing itself is beautiful, evocative, and memorable, even when dealing with challenging topics.
* Precise and evocative details: Descriptive language paints a clear picture for the reader without being overly verbose.
* Meaningful dialogue: Conversations reveal character, advance the plot, and/or create tension and conflict.
5. Thought-provoking Themes:
* Exploration of universal truths: Great novels tackle universal themes like love, loss, identity, or societal issues.
* Questions and reflections: The story prompts readers to think critically about the world, themselves, and their own beliefs.
* Enduring relevance: Even decades later, the story's themes continue to resonate with readers.
Beyond these general guidelines:
* Individual style: Each great author brings their unique voice and approach to storytelling.
* Subjectivity: What resonates with one reader may not appeal to another, making "greatness" inherently subjective.
Ultimately, the best way to determine what makes a novel truly great is to experience it for yourself. Let the story transport you, explore its themes, and form your own opinion.