Well, one characteristic of top new mystery novels is that they play with the reader's mind. They make you question what you think you know. They might use red herrings, which are false clues, to mislead the reader. In terms of writing style, they are often descriptive, creating vivid scenes that add to the mystery. The characters in these novels are often multi - dimensional. They are not just good or bad, but have a mix of qualities that make them seem real. And the resolution of the mystery is usually satisfying, tying up all the loose ends in a way that makes sense.
The element of surprise is crucial. These novels often have unexpected twists. Take 'Gone Girl' again. Just when you think you have it all figured out, a new revelation turns the whole story on its head. And in terms of writing style, many of the top ones are very engaging, making it hard to put the book down as you're eager to solve the mystery.
One characteristic is the presence of suspense. In most of these top 30 mystery novels, the authors keep the readers on the edge of their seats by withholding key information until the right moment. For example, in 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler, the plot twists and turns constantly, and you never really know who is behind all the shady business until the very end.
Well, the top 5 mystery novels usually feature a mystery that needs to be solved. In 'In Cold Blood', it's the mystery behind the senseless murder of a family. They often have a central detective or investigator figure. In 'The Silence of the Lambs', Clarice Starling is that figure. The settings in these novels can be very atmospheric. In 'Rebecca', the spooky old mansion adds to the sense of mystery. These novels also play with the reader's mind. 'The Maltese Falcon' has so many double - crosses and false leads that it keeps the reader guessing. And in 'The Name of the Rose', the medieval monastery setting is full of secrets and hidden meanings.
Complex characters are also common. For example, in many of the novels, the detectives are often flawed but brilliant. They have their own backstories and personalities that add depth to the story. In 'The Maltese Falcon', Sam Spade is a tough - as - nails detective with his own moral code that gets tested throughout the mystery.
One characteristic is a complex plot. Top rated mystery novels usually have multiple layers of stories, like in 'Gone Girl'. There are many unexpected twists that keep readers guessing. Another is strong characters. For example, Sherlock Holmes is a very well - developed character. Suspense is also key, such as in 'And Then There Were None' where the sense of danger builds throughout the story.
Top murder mystery novels often have a complex plot. For example, in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson, there are multiple layers of mystery involving family secrets and serial murders. This makes the reader constantly try to piece together the clues.
Typically, they have a complex plot. For example, in 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote, the plot unfolds slowly, revealing different layers of the crime and the characters involved. Another characteristic is the element of surprise. 'The Sixth Sense' in book form (if there was one) would be a good example. Just when you think you know what's going on, there's a huge twist.
They often have a gloomy and atmospheric setting. The cold, often desolate Scandinavian landscapes add to the sense of mystery and unease. For example, many novels are set in small, isolated towns or during long, dark winters.
New British mystery novels often have complex characters. For example, in many of them, the detectives are not just simple crime - solvers but have their own personal issues and backstories that add depth to the story.
New murder mystery novels often have complex characters. For example, they might have a detective with a troubled past that affects how they solve the case.