Well, first of all, they offer a unique blend of two popular genres. People love detective stories for the intrigue and the process of deduction, and love stories for the emotional connection. In detective love stories, the mystery surrounding the characters' relationships adds an extra layer of excitement. We are not only interested in who the culprit is in a crime, but also how the love relationships will develop. The uncertainty in both the mystery and the love plot keeps the readers hooked. For instance, in stories like 'Gone Girl', the mystery of the marriage is as much of a draw as the mystery of the possible crime.
The mystery aspect. We love trying to figure out the solution before the detective does. In the best detective stories, there are always clues and red herrings that keep us engaged.
The characters are often very interesting. For example, in detective stories, the detective usually has unique skills or quirks. In 'Sherlock Holmes', Holmes has his amazing powers of observation and deduction. These traits make the characters memorable and the stories appealing.
The mystery element is key. These stories present a problem, often a murder or a theft, and the reader is eager to find out how it will be resolved. The detective stories in 'wsj best detective stories' use red herrings effectively, leading the reader down wrong paths just like the detective might be misled in the story. This creates suspense and makes the revelation at the end all the more satisfying.
The real - life aspect. Knowing that these events actually happened makes them more thrilling. It's not just a fictional story but something that occurred in the real world, which adds an extra layer of fascination. For example, when we read about the Jack the Ripper case, we are reading about a real horror that once haunted the streets of London.
One reason is the human element. These stories involve real people with real motives and emotions. In the JonBenét Ramsey case, we see a family in turmoil, and the public tries to understand what could have led to such a tragedy. Another factor is the challenge. For detectives and the public alike, trying to solve these cases is like a puzzle. In the Black Dahlia case, the complex nature of the crime scene and the lack of clear evidence made it a fascinating challenge.
The unique relationship between the dog and the human (if there is one in the story) is very appealing. Dogs have such loyalty and often unique abilities like a great sense of smell which can be used in detective work. It adds an element of fun and mystery.
The blend of mystery and history. We get to solve a mystery while also learning about a different time period. For example, in 'The Name of the Rose', we learn about medieval religious practices and architecture as we follow the mystery.
The combination of the supernatural (vampires) and detective work is very appealing. It adds an extra layer of mystery. Vampires have their own set of rules and characteristics, like immortality and special powers, which make the detective work more complex and exciting.
The humor in detective fiction can relieve the tension that often comes with mystery - solving. For example, in a typical detective story, there are dark and serious elements like crimes and suspects. But humor can make it easier to digest.
The humor. It breaks the tension usually associated with detective stories. Instead of just a gloomy search for the truth, there are funny situations and characters to lighten the mood.