Mystery novels are like jigsaw puzzles, in paperback.
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The thrill of starting a new, whodunnit mystery is exciting and exhilarating. From true-crime books or podcasts, to classic Sherlock Holmes capers, the genre sees a variety of narratives that take readers or listeners on wild journeys around the world. But what is the allure of the mystery novel, and why does it keep us coming back for more? Here are a few reasons that may put it into perspective:
1. It’s the perfect combination of the expected and the unexpected
When you pick up and start reading a mystery novel, you know that the basic formula is the same as probably every other mystery novel you’ve read: a crime has been committed, a curious character is looking into the crime, and after many starts and stops, the truth is finally revealed. The ‘how’ of it all, is where readers find unexpected action, adventure, drama, suspense and thrills – and it’s what makes readers head back to the book store for another mystery pick.
2. Readers become active participants
Mystery novels tend to be incredibly immersive, and draw readers right into the action. For every detail and clue that is shared, the reader is trying to connect the dots as much as the main protagonist of the book. As the story unravels, readers develop their own theories and ideas of who committed the crime – a good enough reason to see the book through to the end, to find out if they were right.
3. They provide all the thrills, without any danger
While every mystery reader appreciates – even loves – the action and escapism of mystery novels, the appeal also lies in the fact that people can participate without any threat of danger to themselves. According to an April 2019 report in US-based psychology news website Psychology Today, mysteries allow readers to delve into typically taboo topics, like death, and explore dangerous situations without ever being at risk. Confronting murderers and exploring dark, abandoned houses is all fair game in a novel – but in real life? No, thank you.
4. A neat ending
Most mysteries tie up all the loose ends, even if they don’t always see justice served, at the end. This clear-cut conclusion is a satisfying way to leave readers at the turn of the last page, and it’s what drives most readers to finish the book.
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