The contrast. Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, and crime novels set during this period play on the contrast between the happy season and the dark deeds. It makes for an interesting read.
The mystery element. People love to be intrigued and try to solve the puzzle along with the characters in the book.
The latest crime novels are popular because they often have exciting and unpredictable plots. Readers love to be kept guessing until the very end.
The settings also play a role. Whether it's a gritty urban landscape like in 'The Wire' (which could be considered a crime novel in a way, if you think of it as a long - form narrative), or a small - town mystery like in many classic crime novels, the setting helps to create the mood and atmosphere. It can be a character in itself, influencing the actions and motives of the people in the story. These elements combined make the top 100 crime novels very popular.
The complex characters. In boston crime novels, you often find characters with deep - seated motives and troubled pasts. These characters draw readers in as they try to figure out what makes them tick and how they are involved in the crimes. For example, in 'Mystic River', the characters' past traumas are intertwined with the present - day mystery. It makes for a very engaging read.
Well, it's a combination of things. Firstly, the exploration of the human psyche, especially the dark side. We get to peek into the minds of criminals and understand what drives them to commit such heinous acts. Also, the thrill of the chase, as the detective or the protagonist tries to solve the crime and stop the horror. And let's not forget the shock factor. The often - grisly and unexpected crimes described in these novels can be both horrifying and fascinating at the same time. It's like a morbid curiosity that draws people in.
People like the contrast. The serious nature of crime is balanced with humor. In 'The Spellman Files', the family's crazy antics and the way they approach detective work is humorous. It's like getting the best of both worlds - the intrigue of a crime story and the light - heartedness of humor. It makes the reading experience more enjoyable and less intense compared to pure crime novels.
Funny crime novels are popular because they offer a break from the typical dark and gritty crime stories. They add an element of humor that makes the reading experience more enjoyable. For example, in 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency', the main character's simple yet effective ways of solving crimes along with her unique perspective on life in Botswana bring in the humor.
The fast - paced plots. James Patterson's crime novels often have a lot of action and twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
The atmosphere. British cities, with their old buildings, narrow alleys, and often gloomy weather, create a perfect backdrop for gritty crime stories. It gives a sense of mystery and danger.
The unique settings contribute a lot. Nordic countries have harsh and beautiful landscapes which add to the atmosphere. For example, the cold and desolate Icelandic scenery in Arnaldur IndriĆ°ason's novels. Also, the complex characters are a big draw. They are often flawed and multi - dimensional, like Lisbeth Salander in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.