Each of these novels has inspired me in my own writing. They are all great examples of how character is the most important thing in a novel. Their characters are totally believeable - and live on long after you have turned the last page.
Love in The Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez made a big impression of me when I was writing my first novel, Meet Me Under The Ombu Tree. A sensual writer, Marquez taught me how to create a sense of place through sound and smell. In his novel I could literally smell the orange blossom and lavender and feel the humidity on my skin. I really believed I was there.
Fried Green Tomatoes at The Whislestop Cafe by Fannie Flagg. I just love the eccentric characters, especially Mrs Threadgood. Flagg is a querky writer with a delightful sense of humour. I re read this when I was writing my second novel and wanted to include a chorus of eccentric old ladies. I loved the eccentric tone of the book.
The Count of Montecristo by Alexandre Dumas, what a delightful romantic classic. A tale of love and revenge that I simply couldn't put down. I would love to spend years writing an epic like this, but would never have the patience - or the plot! It is never dull and full of twists and turns. I loved the magic, which was cleverly crafted as I always believed in his world. A truly satisfactory plot.
Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy is one of the best and most tragic love storites ever written. It's epic in size and so detailed, but I was never bored because the characters are so fascinating.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a beautifully written and charming portrait daily life in 18th Century England. I love all Austen's novels because I adore looking through a window into that time, but this one is probably my favourite. The characters are wonderful and complicated. She's especially good at annoying old women!
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