Many 80s mystery novels had complex plots. They often involved multiple characters with their own secrets. For example, in 'The Name of the Rose', there are many monks each having their own motives and backstories that are gradually revealed as the mystery unfolds.
A lot of them were set in unique or exotic locations. 'Gorky Park' was set in Moscow, which was not a common setting for Western readers at that time. This added an element of mystery and novelty. Also, they often had a strong sense of atmosphere, like the gloomy and intellectual atmosphere in 'The Name of the Rose' or the cold and somewhat menacing atmosphere in 'Gorky Park'.
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.
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 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.
Many 2013 mystery novels had complex characters. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the two main characters, Nick and Amy, are both very multi - dimensional. Their actions and motives are not straightforward, which adds to the overall mystery.
His mystery novels often have complex plots. There are usually multiple layers of mystery that need to be unravelled.
Hallie Ephron is great at creating suspense. She slowly reveals clues and information, keeping the readers guessing all the time. In 'Come and Find Me', the mystery unfolds gradually, and you can't help but keep turning the pages to find out what will happen next. Also, her writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making her mystery novels accessible to a wide range of readers.
One characteristic is his use of humor. Even in mystery novels, Twain manages to incorporate his signature humor. This could be through the dialogues of the characters or the situations they find themselves in. It makes his mystery novels different from the more solemn ones. His humor can also be used to mislead the reader, adding an extra layer of mystery.