What are the characteristics of 80s mystery novels?

50s mystery novels usually had a strong sense of atmosphere. The language used was often descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the environment, whether it was a dark alley or a grand mansion. And the detectives or protagonists in these novels were often trying to solve crimes in a world that was changing rapidly after World War II, which added an extra layer of complexity to the stories.

The 1950s mystery novels often had a noir feel. They typically had morally ambiguous characters. For example, many of the detectives were not entirely clean - cut, like Philip Marlowe in 'The Big Sleep' who had his own set of flaws.

Well, they usually had a sense of adventure and exploration. In many of these novels like 'The Three Investigators', the boys would explore different places, from spooky old houses to hidden caves, all in the pursuit of solving the mystery. Also, there was a strong element of friendship. The boys in the stories would rely on each other, share clues and support one another throughout their investigations. These novels also had a moral undertone. The boys were often upholding good values like honesty and justice as they solved the mysteries.

These novels tend to have a slow - burning romance. The mystery aspect serves to heighten the tension and draw out the development of the relationship. The language used is often elaborate and descriptive, painting vivid pictures of the settings and the characters' emotions. For instance, in 'Northanger Abbey', the detailed descriptions of the Abbey itself add to both the mystery and the romantic atmosphere.

They often had a sense of adventure. Since flying was still relatively new and exciting in the 1960s, novels would play on the idea of the unknown in the skies. For example, in many of these novels, the plane might fly into uncharted territories or face strange weather conditions that added to the mystery.

Since I'm not sure which Todd's mystery novels you're referring to, generally, mystery novels often have suspenseful plots. They might keep readers guessing until the very end. There could be a detective - like character in Todd's novels who tries to solve the mystery.

A common characteristic is the element of surprise. In 'Magpie Murders', just when you think you've figured out one part of the mystery, another twist comes along. The authors use red herrings effectively. They lead the reader down one path, only to reveal that it was a false lead. This keeps the readers engaged and constantly re - evaluating their assumptions.

Many 2022 mystery novels had strong female protagonists. For example, in 'The Maid', the main character is a unique and endearing figure. Also, complex settings were common. Like in 'The Paris Apartment' with its multi - faceted apartment building full of different characters and secrets.

In 2017 mystery novels, one characteristic was the exploration of human psychology. Take 'A Gentleman in Moscow', the main character's thoughts and his relationships within the hotel are full of mystery. The pacing was also important. Novels like 'I See You' had a great build - up of suspense, gradually increasing the tension as the mystery unfolds. And, the use of red herrings was common. In various 2017 mystery novels, false leads were thrown at the readers to keep them guessing.

Many 2021 mystery novels had complex characters. For example, in 'The Maid', the main character's unique perspective and her Asperger's diagnosis added depth to the story. They also had intricate plots. In 'The Plot', the idea of a stolen plot within a writer's world created a convoluted mystery.