Well - developed characters play a big role. Take 'Sherlock Holmes' for example. Holmes is such an iconic character with his sharp intellect and unique personality. His deductive reasoning skills make the story engaging. Also, the complex plots in these novels, full of red herrings and unexpected twists, like in 'The Da Vinci Code' by Dan Brown, are very appealing. It challenges the readers to piece together the clues along with the detective.
The mystery aspect combined with dinosaurs is very appealing. Dinosaurs are these huge, prehistoric creatures that we know so little about in many ways. When you add a mystery, like what really happened to them, or how they might interact in a fictional situation, it grabs our curiosity.
The humor. It lightens up the often - dark and tense atmosphere of a mystery. For example, in 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency', the main character's simple yet profound view of life and her interactions with the people around her are full of humor. This makes the mystery more enjoyable to read.
Well, scifi mystery novels are appealing because they combine two great genres. First, the mystery part makes you want to solve the puzzle. You turn the pages to find out what's really going on, like in 'Annihilation' where the mystery of Area X is so enticing. Second, the science - fiction elements let our imagination run wild. We can explore strange new worlds, advanced technologies, and different forms of life. In 'Hyperion', the different pilgrims' stories are full of mystery and set in a vast science - fictional universe, which is really captivating.
The festive setting. Christmas provides a unique backdrop with its snowy landscapes, warm hearths, and the general feeling of cheer. It contrasts sharply with the often dark and mysterious events in the story, creating an interesting dynamic. For example, in 'The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle', the bustling Christmas markets and the anticipation of the holiday add to the charm while Holmes is solving the mystery.
The mystery aspect. It makes readers curious and eager to find out what will happen next. Just like in a good 'bite me mystery novel', there are always secrets waiting to be uncovered.
The mystery surrounding the Holy Grail itself. It has been a symbol of great mystery for centuries, so when it's the center of a novel, it draws readers in. For example, in 'The Da Vinci Code', the idea that the Grail could be something completely different than what we thought was very alluring.
The intrigue. In intelligent mystery novels, there are often complex plots that keep you hooked. For example, in 'The Da Vinci Code', the mystery surrounding the secrets and symbols is really captivating.
Well, for one, it's the combination of history and mystery. We get to learn about different cultures and time periods through the archeological finds in the story. Take 'The Mummy Case' for instance. We learn about Egyptian history while also trying to figure out the mystery behind the mummy. Also, the characters are usually interesting. Archeologists are often portrayed as intelligent and curious, like Amelia Peabody in Elizabeth Peters' novels. They are on a quest to uncover the truth, which makes for an exciting read.
They break the norms. Outlandish mystery novels can combine different genres in unexpected ways. They might blend science fiction elements with mystery, like a mystery on a spaceship where the laws of physics are warped. This novelty makes them appealing. Also, they can introduce unique characters, like a detective who is half - human half - alien, which adds to the allure. They take us out of our comfort zones and make us think in different ways.
The sense of discovery. We get to learn about a different era while also following a mystery. For example, in 'The Name of the Rose', we learn about medieval monastic life as we try to figure out the murders in the monastery.