[vexed2002]

Perhaps 10 years too late, I've come to the realization that every single book I have ever bought (and REALLY loved) has always had one re-occuring theme in. That of a child thats growing and usually becomes pretty darn powerful/respected in the world.

Garion, Belgariad. (and the 13 other identical Edding's novels) (never to be read again) :P
Pug/Tomas/James, Riftwar Saga
Frodo, LOTR
Fitz, Assassins Apprentice
Simon, Memory Sorrow & Thorn

I'm sure you get the idea.

Was just wondering if there were any themes that guaranteed you read a book..

(and if nobodys already seen it, there an article on 'why people read fiction' by david farland at..
http://www.runelords.com/writingtips/Why%20People%20Read.html )

[Bond]

Plot, plot, plot.

Complicated, twisting, spinning, twirling, convoluted, jaw-dropping, deftly executed plots always get me to read the next in the series.

[ChrisW]

Hrm I don't tink there is a single theme that I like more than any other. But I do know that i'm usually put off by anything that has elves/dark elves/orcs etc in it.

[jbcohen]

As an adjunct question, that may spark a bit of debate: What should an author put into a book to ensure that he/she can come up with a bit of a readership base?

[astrianna]

I like strong female protagonists. Not that I don't read (and enjoy!) books that feature males as the main characters, but historically I have preferred to read about strong women. Books are so formative, I think I was looking for role models when I was young and the preferance carried on into my adulthood.
I enjoy a book that has a romantic subplot. Not thinly veiled porn, or Velveeta with dragons, but a well-written love story that is underlying a well-written fantasy story.

[fluffy bunny]

plot, characterisation, writing style

[Warewolf]

I'll read a book if the blurb on the back sounds interesting or if it gets good recommendations from either people I know or from the various websites I frequent.

Fluffy bunny, how can you tell if the plot or writing style are good if you don't read it first? http://www.sffworld.com/ubb/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by Warewolf (edited January 28, 2002).]

[Lamanai]

Anything with the word "Mage" in the title. They're all great books.

Sorry, Qin. Couldn't resist... http://www.sffworld.com/ubb/smile.gif

[The Iron Orchid]

There only circumstances which absolutely guarantee that I will read a book are if it is given to me for Christmas or my birthday by my husband.

[Qin]

Interesting characters, intelligent discussions, and an occasional joke about democrats for good measure.