Well, in the best New England mystery novels, the weather and landscape play a big role. The cold winters, the foggy coasts can all add to the mood and mystery. The local culture and traditions are also important aspects. Things like old - fashioned values, small - town gossip, and community events can be integral to the plot. And of course, the mystery element is strong. There are often twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end.
Characteristics of the best New England mystery novels? Firstly, they tend to have a distinct atmosphere. The old buildings, the cobblestone streets in some areas create a certain mood. The use of local dialects or accents can also be a feature, making the characters more authentic. The plots are usually intricate, with multiple sub - plots that all tie in together. And they often explore themes of family, loyalty, and secrets within the context of the mystery, which are all elements that are often associated with New England settings.
One characteristic is the setting. New England settings, like small coastal towns or big cities like Boston, often play a major role. The cold, often foggy weather can add to the spooky atmosphere. For example, in many novels, an old, creaky house by the sea might be the center of the mystery. Another is the sense of community. People in New England mystery novels are usually tightly knit, and secrets within the community can drive the mystery.
Often, they have a strong sense of place. For example, they describe the unique landscapes of New England, like the forests and small towns.
New England novels often have a strong sense of place. They typically depict the unique landscapes, small towns, and seascapes of New England. The characters are often influenced by the Puritan heritage of the region, with themes of morality, sin, and redemption being common.
They often feature complex plots. There are usually multiple layers of mystery and intrigue. For example, in many of these novels, a crime occurs in a seemingly ordinary Victorian setting like a grand manor or a fog - filled London street. The characters are typically well - defined, with strict social hierarchies being a big part of the story. The detectives or protagonists in these novels often have to navigate through the complex web of Victorian society to solve the mystery.
The best new mystery novels often have complex characters. For example, in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo', Lisbeth Salander is a multi - faceted character with a troubled past that adds depth to the mystery. Also, a strong sense of place is important. In 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil', the setting of Savannah becomes almost like a character itself, with its unique culture and atmosphere contributing to the overall mystery. And of course, a good mystery has an unpredictable plot. You think you know what's going to happen, but then there's a sudden turn, like in 'Gone Girl' where the whole perception of the story changes halfway through.
The characters in New England romance novels tend to be independent - think of the strong - willed heroines and determined heroes. They might face challenges related to the region's traditional values. Also, the seasons in New England are frequently used to set the mood. For example, a winter setting can add a sense of isolation or coziness depending on the story's needs.
They often draw on the region's history. New England has a long and sometimes dark history, such as the Salem witch trials. Novels may incorporate elements of witchcraft, superstition, and the fear of the unknown that was prevalent during those times. This historical backdrop adds depth and authenticity to the horror.
Family and community play important roles. In novels like 'Our Town' by Thornton Wilder, we see how the small - town New England community functions and how families interact within it. It shows the close - knit nature of New England society and how relationships are formed and maintained.
Often, they feature the harsh sea conditions. The sea is like a powerful character itself. For example, in 'The Old Man and the Sea', the sea is both the source of the fisherman's livelihood and a great adversary.
One of the great New England mystery novels is 'The Given Day' by Dennis Lehane. It's set in Boston and has a richly detailed backdrop of the city during a tumultuous time. Another is 'Murder at the Breakers' by Alyssa Maxwell, which takes place in the opulent mansions of Newport, Rhode Island. And 'In the Woods' by Tana French is also notable. It's set in Ireland but has that same sense of mystery and atmosphere that is often associated with New England settings.