How does 'the art of the lesbian mystery novel' differ from other mystery novels?

A literary mystery novel often has more complex characters. For example, in a regular mystery novel, the detective might be a simple good - guy - catches - bad - guy type. But in a literary mystery like 'The Name of the Rose', the characters are multi - dimensional, with their own beliefs, desires, and flaws that are deeply intertwined with the mystery. Also, the writing style is usually more elaborate. A regular mystery might be more straightforward in its prose, while a literary mystery can have beautiful and detailed descriptions like in 'Rebecca' where the setting of Manderley is almost a character in itself.

In character - driven mystery novels, the focus is on the characters' personalities, motives, and relationships. For example, in a typical plot - driven mystery, the emphasis might be on a series of events or a convoluted crime setup. But in a character - driven one, like 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler, Marlowe's character, his code of ethics and his cynical view of the world, shape how he approaches the mystery. It's not just about who did it, but how the characters are involved and affected.

Mystery thriller fiction often focuses on suspense and the unknown. Unlike romance, for example, which is centered around relationships, mystery thriller is about solving a mystery or facing a threat. It keeps the reader on edge.

Paranormal mystery fiction often involves elements that are beyond scientific explanation, like ghosts, demons, or psychic powers. Regular mystery fiction usually sticks to more earthly and human - related causes for the mystery, such as crimes committed by people for money or revenge. For example, in a regular mystery, a detective might be looking for a murderer who has a financial motive. But in paranormal mystery fiction, the detective might be looking for a spirit that is causing strange events in a house.

Romantic mystery fiction has an added layer of emotion compared to regular mystery. In regular mystery, it's all about the puzzle - solving. But in romantic mystery, the emotions between the characters add depth to the story. The love or attraction between the characters can cloud their judgment when it comes to the mystery. Also, the romantic relationship can be a source of mystery itself. Maybe one character has a hidden identity that affects the relationship and also ties into the overall mystery in the story, which is not typically the case in regular mystery fiction.

Christian mystery fiction often has a strong moral and spiritual component. Regular mystery fiction might focus mainly on solving the crime. In Christian mystery fiction, characters may be guided by their faith in their search for truth. For example, in 'This Present Darkness', the characters' prayers and spiritual battles are as important as the physical mystery they're trying to solve.

Erotic mystery novels have an added layer of sexual or romantic tension. Regular mystery novels focus mainly on solving a crime or mystery. For example, in a regular mystery, it might be all about finding a murderer. But in an erotic mystery, while there's still a mystery, there's also the sexual relationship between characters that affects the plot.

Fantasy mystery novels differ from regular mystery novels in several ways. Firstly, the settings are distinct. Fantasy mystery novels are set in fantastical realms such as enchanted forests, magical kingdoms, or parallel universes. In contrast, regular mystery novels are set in the real world, in places like modern cities or small towns. Secondly, the types of clues are different. In fantasy mystery novels, clues can be magical symbols, the behavior of magical creatures, or the properties of enchanted objects. In regular mystery novels, clues are more likely to be fingerprints, witness testimonies, or financial records. Finally, the motives of the characters can be very different. In fantasy mystery novels, motives might be related to power struggles within a magical hierarchy or the protection of a magical source. In regular mystery novels, motives are often related to money, love, or revenge.

Sexy mystery novels often have elements of romance and sexual tension that regular mystery novels may lack. For example, in a regular mystery novel, the focus might be solely on the crime and its solution. But in a sexy mystery novel like 'Fifty Shades of Grey' (which has mystery elements), there's a strong focus on the relationship between the characters, including their sexual relationship.

New romantic mystery fiction usually has a stronger emotional component. Traditional mystery might be more plot - driven. In new ones, the emotions of the characters in their romantic relationships play a big role. For instance, in 'The Guest List', the romantic pasts and present relationships of the guests are key to understanding the mystery. Also, the setting in new romantic mystery often serves both the mystery and the romance. In a traditional mystery, the setting is mainly for the mystery to unfold. In new ones like 'The Lost Apothecary', the old - time apothecary setting is for both the mystery of the poisons and the budding romance of the modern - day character.