What makes the love stories in 'New York Times Best Seller Love Stories' so appealing?

The characters are usually very interesting. In spy novels like 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy', the spies are not just action heroes but complex individuals with their own flaws, motives and backstories. They are often in moral grey areas, which makes them more relatable and engaging. Moreover, the settings in these novels, whether it's the Cold War - era Europe or modern - day international hotspots, add an element of exoticism and danger that is very appealing.

A more contemporary one is 'Eleanor & Park' by Rainbow Rowell. It's a story about two misfit teenagers, Eleanor and Park. They find solace and love in each other on the school bus and through shared interests in music and comics. Their relationship is sweet and real, dealing with the insecurities and difficulties of being a teenager in love.

Well, they offer a sense of authenticity. People are drawn to real - life stories because they know that these events actually happened. It makes the reading experience more engaging as it's not just made - up fiction.

One of the popular ones could be 'The Notebook' by Nicholas Sparks. It tells a heart - wrenching love story that spans over decades. The love between Noah and Allie is so deep and pure, despite the many obstacles they face, like Allie's family not approving and her developing memory problems later in life.

The characters. In a best - seller love story, the characters are usually well - developed. For example, in 'The Fault in Our Stars', Hazel and Augustus are complex characters with their own hopes, fears and dreams. Their love is more appealing because we understand who they are. Also, the plot. A good love story often has a plot full of twists and turns like in 'Gone with the Wind'. Scarlett's love for Ashley and Rhett's love for Scarlett create a complex web of relationships that keep readers hooked.

Well, one factor is the universality of love. Everyone can relate to the feeling of falling in love or losing love. In novels like 'Me Before You', the unique situation of the characters still taps into this basic human emotion. Another thing is the settings. Many best seller love story novels are set in beautiful or interesting places. 'Call Me by Your Name' has the allure of the Italian landscape which adds to the charm of the love story. And often, these novels have a good plot structure that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

The emotions. In best - seller love story books, the strong emotions like love, passion, and sometimes heartbreak are what draw readers in. For example, in 'The Fault in Our Stars', the love between Hazel and Augustus is so pure and yet shadowed by their health issues. It makes readers feel deeply.

The setting of New York itself adds to the charm. The city is so vibrant and full of life. It's a place where dreams are made and broken. In these love stories, the city is almost like another character. It provides the backdrop for these beautiful relationships to develop. Whether it's a date in Central Park or a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, the city gives these love stories a unique flavor.

Well, 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon is also popular. It combines elements of time - travel and historical fiction within a love story. The main characters, Claire and Jamie, have a passionate relationship that is set against the backdrop of 18th - century Scotland.

Well, the writing styles of these books vary but are often engaging. Take 'Lessons in Chemistry', for example. Its witty and intelligent writing style makes it stand out. Additionally, the marketing and promotion of these books contribute to their popularity. Publishers often push these books, getting them in front of more readers.