A distinct writing style also helps. Some authors have a very lyrical or descriptive style that draws readers in. For instance, Alice Walker in 'The Color Purple'. Her use of language to convey the emotions and experiences of the female characters is masterful. This, combined with her ability to tell a powerful story, makes her a top author in women's fiction.
Well, one factor is the ability to create relatable female characters. For example, an author like Margaret Atwood in 'The Handmaid's Tale' creates a strong and complex female protagonist. Readers can really connect with her experiences and struggles. This connection is key.
A great author of realistic fiction is able to observe the world around them carefully. They can take real - life situations, whether it's a social issue like poverty or a personal relationship, and turn it into a story. For example, they might see how a community is affected by a factory closing and write about the people's struggles. They also need to create believable characters. These characters should have flaws and virtues, just like real people. And they have to use language that is accessible and relatable, so readers can easily connect with the story.
A great story is key. If an author can create a plot that's engaging, full of twists and turns, and keeps readers hooked from start to finish, they're more likely to be a best - seller. For example, Suzanne Collins with 'The Hunger Games' trilogy. The dystopian setting and the survival - based plot made it very popular.
One key factor is accurate research. A great historical fiction author digs deep into the time period they are writing about. For example, if they are writing about the Roman Empire, they need to know about the politics, the daily life, the architecture, etc. Another is the ability to create engaging characters. These characters should feel real and be relatable even though they are living in a different time. For instance, in Hilary Mantel's works, her characters like Thomas Cromwell are complex and well - developed.
A great science fiction author often has a vivid imagination. They can create unique and believable worlds that draw readers in, like J.R.R. Tolkien did in his Middle - earth, though his works are more fantasy - adjacent to science fiction. They also need to be able to handle scientific concepts well. For example, Neal Stephenson in his books like 'Snow Crash' weaves in complex ideas about virtual reality and computer science in an engaging way. And of course, they should be able to tell a good story that has engaging characters and a plot that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
Good knowledge of military matters. If an author doesn't know about military tactics, equipment, and the military lifestyle, it's hard to write convincing military fiction. For example, Tom Clancy was known for his detailed research on military technology. Another factor is the ability to create engaging characters. In military fiction, the soldiers and officers need to be well - developed characters that readers can care about, like in Stephen E. Ambrose's works where real - life heroes are vividly portrayed.
An author can be considered among the best in historical fiction if they can transport the reader to another time. Margaret Atwood does this well in 'Alias Grace'. She weaves a story that makes you feel like you're in 19th - century Canada. Another factor is the accuracy of historical details while still making the story interesting. Leo Tolstoy in 'War and Peace' manages to include a vast amount of historical information without it becoming a dry history lesson.
A best contemporary author in fiction often has the capacity to connect with a wide range of readers. They can touch on universal themes such as love, loss, and the search for identity. Take Paulo Coelho's 'The Alchemist' for instance. It's a story that has appealed to people all over the world because of its exploration of the journey of self - discovery. Also, innovation in storytelling matters. An author who can break the traditional narrative forms and still hold the reader's attention is highly regarded.
A non-fiction author is essentially a storyteller of reality. They have the task of communicating factual knowledge and insights to the readers. This might involve in-depth exploration of a particular topic, sharing personal expertise, or shedding light on hidden truths through meticulous research and reporting.
Accuracy in historical details. If an author can get the historical facts right, like the way of life, the politics, and the culture of the period, they are more likely to be considered good. For example, an author writing about Ancient Rome should know about the social hierarchy, the military system, and the daily life of the Romans.
An author of science fiction is successful when they can engage the reader's imagination. They need to be able to make the reader believe in the impossible. Take for instance, Neal Stephenson. His books are filled with complex technological concepts, yet he presents them in a way that draws the reader in. Also, being able to predict future trends or explore current issues through a science - fictional lens helps. Authors like Margaret Atwood, who wrote 'The Handmaid's Tale' which, while more on the dystopian side, uses science - fictional elements to comment on real - world issues.