The idea of a journey and transformation is also common. The characters in mass transit crime novels often start at one point in their lives and end up changed by the events that occur during their travels. In 'Transit', the main character's experiences during her travels and the strange events she encounters change her perception of herself and the world around her.
There's also 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead. Although it's a bit different as it uses the concept of an actual underground railroad in a more metaphorical sense for a story about a slave's escape which involves elements of danger and crime during her journey through various forms of transit.
One common theme could be displacement. Given the idea of 'life in transit', characters may be displaced from their original homes or communities. Another theme might be the search for stability. As they are in transit, they are constantly seeking a more stable situation. Also, the theme of cultural clash could be present if the characters are moving between different regions or cultures.
Power dynamics is another theme. There are often struggles for power between the headhunters, the criminals they are hunting, and the authorities. For example, a headhunter might be trying to outwit a powerful criminal organization. In these novels, the balance of power is constantly shifting, which creates suspense. Also, the theme of morality is prevalent. Headhunters may have to make difficult moral choices, like whether to break the law to catch a more dangerous criminal. This exploration of right and wrong adds depth to the story.
One common theme is corruption. In the boxing world depicted in these novels, there are often corrupt promoters, managers, or even judges who manipulate the outcomes of fights for their own gain, which is often linked to criminal activities like money laundering or illegal gambling.
The theme of control is very common. The criminal character tries to exert sexual control over others through their criminal actions. Another is the exploration of the darker aspects of human sexuality. These novels often delve into fetishes or abnormal sexual behaviors within the framework of crime. Also, the theme of the unravelling of a character's moral compass due to sexual and criminal temptations is quite prevalent in erotic crime novels.
Redemption is a common theme. In these novels, characters who have committed crimes or are involved in criminal situations often find redemption through their Christian faith.
Psychological manipulation is also a theme. The criminals in desecration crime novels often play mind games with their victims or the investigators. They desecrate the mental state of others by creating fear, confusion, and paranoia. It makes the story more complex and engaging.
Betrayal is a frequent theme in crime family novels. Family members or associates might betray the family for various reasons, like personal gain or fear. And then there's the theme of legacy. Crime families are often concerned about their legacy, how they will be remembered in the criminal underworld. They want to pass on their power and influence to the next generation, but this often comes with challenges and conflicts as seen in many of these types of novels.
One common theme is the exploration of the seedy underbelly of Canaan society. Crime novels often expose the hidden crimes and immoral activities that might be going on beneath the surface of this place.
One common theme is revenge. The protagonist often seeks vengeance for a wrong done to them or someone they care about. Another is the exploration of justice, whether it's the official legal system or a more personal form of justice. And mystery itself is a big theme, with the reader trying to figure out who the culprit is along with the detective in the story.