The settings of these best - selling detective novels are diverse. Some are set in big cities like London in Sherlock Holmes stories, full of fog and mystery. Others may be in small, idyllic towns where a dark secret lurks beneath the peaceful surface. This variety of settings adds to the allure of the detective novels.
They often feature an intelligent detective figure. Just like Poirot in Agatha Christie's novels, who uses his 'little grey cells' to solve the most baffling cases. These detectives usually have unique personalities that draw readers in.
Another important characteristic is the element of suspense. In detective novels such as 'And Then There Were None', the author builds up the suspense throughout the story. The reader is constantly on edge, wondering what will happen next and who the real culprit is. The novels also often deal with moral and ethical issues as the detective uncovers the truth behind the crimes.
One characteristic is complex characters. For example, Sherlock Holmes is a complex character with his brilliant mind and eccentricities. Another is the intricate plot. In 'Murder on the Orient Express', the plot is full of twists. There are also the elements of mystery and suspense. The readers are always kept guessing until the end.
Many Indian detective novels are known for their vivid descriptions of the local culture. For example, the settings often showcase the bustling streets, the diverse food, and the complex social hierarchies of India.
One of the best - selling detective novels is 'The Da Vinci Code' by Dan Brown. It combines mystery, art history, and religious elements, which makes it extremely fascinating.
I'm not sure specifically which detective novels are the best - selling in the so - called 'Museum of Desire'. There are many classic detective novels like Agatha Christie's 'Murder on the Orient Express' that are popular worldwide, but without more information about this 'Museum of Desire', it's hard to determine its best - selling detective novels.
One characteristic is the presence of a mystery or crime at the core. Usually, there's a detective figure, who is intelligent and observant, trying to solve the case. For example, Sherlock Holmes in Conan Doyle's works.
Many of them had engaging storylines. For example, in 'The Lost Symbol', the mystery elements keep readers hooked. They also often dealt with popular themes. 'The Help' focused on important social issues of the time. Another characteristic was strong character development. In 'The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest', Lisbeth Salander is a very well - developed and complex character.
The plot is crucial. In the best ones, there are multiple layers of mystery. Consider 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' by Alexander McCall Smith. Mma Ramotswe's investigations are filled with small mysteries within the larger one. Also, strong themes are common. Female detective novels might explore themes like justice, family, and female empowerment. In Marcia Muller's Sharon McCone series, Sharon often has to fight against male - dominated workplaces while solving cases.
Well, often they have a strong sense of place. For example, many are set in the vibrant cities of Spain like Madrid or Barcelona, which adds to the atmosphere. The characters are usually complex, not just the detectives but also the suspects and victims. They might have deep - seated motives or secrets.
Often, the best ones have a great sense of atmosphere. 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris creates a really creepy and tense atmosphere as FBI agent Clarice Starling tries to get into the mind of the brilliant but deranged psychiatrist - murderer Hannibal Lecter to solve a series of murders. And they usually have well - crafted mysteries that are not too easy to solve, which makes the reading experience more exciting.