In RDR2, you might find crime novels in various places. One common place is in the houses or buildings around the game world. Sometimes, they can be found on desks or bookshelves in the homes of more educated or wealthy characters. Another possibility is in certain shops or stores in the towns. Keep an eye out for any book - related items during your exploration.
In RDR2, you can start by checking the general stores in towns. They often have a selection of books, including potentially crime novels. Also, visit the various homesteads and cabins scattered around the map. Sometimes you can find books lying around on tables or shelves inside these places.
In Red Dead Redemption 2, you can start by checking all the places where Hosea might keep his belongings. Maybe his tent or a special hiding spot in the camp. Also, look for any bookshelves or reading areas in the buildings you can access. Sometimes, it could be a random loot find during certain missions or side activities.
I think your best bet is to search in the towns and settlements. Check the shelves of general stores or talk to the local traders. They might have heard of or even have the crime novel you're looking for related to Hosea in RDR2.
Try checking the general store in Saint Denis. They sometimes have a collection of various novels, including the one you're looking for. But it's not guaranteed every time.
In RDR2, there are a few quests that can potentially involve finding a crime novel. One type of quest is when you are assisting a historian or a book collector. They may send you on a search for rare books, and a crime novel could be part of that collection. You'll need to follow the clues given in the quest, which might lead you to search in specific areas like the attics of old buildings or the basements of certain establishments. It's all about paying attention to the details of the quest and exploring the areas thoroughly.
In RDR2, the best place to start looking for Hosea's crime novel would be in the areas where Hosea spends most of his time. That would be the gang's camp. Check all the nooks and crannies there. If not in the camp, then it could be in a building in a town that Hosea has visited. For example, if he had business in Valentine, search the buildings there. It's also possible that it's a random item that can be found while looting certain places. So, loot any abandoned buildings, cabins, or even bandit camps. There's a chance you might stumble upon the crime novel.