The Subgenres of Mysteries

October 02, 2012

A mystery is fiction that deals with crime. It normally involves a murder with a successful solution to the story. The suspense comes from seeking a solution. This normally puts the detective or others characters who are pursuing the villain in danger. Popular subgenres are the detective story, police procedural, romantic suspense, and cozy mystery.

The most famous of all detective characters is Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle. Detective fiction is where an investigator examines the crime. I would recommend the Complete Works of Sherlock Holmes, Volumes 1 and 2.

A popular author of police procedural mysteries is Tony Hillerman. Police procedural fiction attempts to depict the activities of a police force as they investigate crimes. The first book in Tony Hillerman’s series is The Blessing Way. This series features the characters of Leaphorn and Chee.

Romantic suspense is where the protagonist is solving a mystery. A relationship must be central to the story with the protagonist. A popular romantic suspense author is J.D. Robb, otherwise known as Nora Roberts. Here, character Detective Eve Dallas works for the NYPD. This book is set is the future. The first book in this series is Naked in Death.

Cozy Mysteries are humorous. The crime and detection take place in a small and socially friendly community. Linda O. Johnston is a popular cozy author. She has written two popular series, the Pet-sitter and Pet Rescue series. The first book in the Pet-sitter series is Sit, Stay, Slay, and the first book in the Pet Rescue series is Beaglemania.

These are just a small variety of authors and mystery books that MCPL libraries offer. If you are looking for a new author to read, we have a mystery display at our local branch that may help you discover something new.  

April E.
Raytown Branch