Strong characters are also crucial. Characters that are well - developed, with their own motives and secrets. Take Sherlock Holmes, a very iconic mystery character. Novels with such memorable characters have a better chance of winning a prize. In addition, the writing style should be engaging. It should be able to create an atmosphere of mystery and suspense, making the readers feel as if they are part of the mystery - solving process.
The novel should also be original. It should bring something new to the mystery genre, whether it's a new way of solving a crime, a unique setting, or a different take on the detective character. For instance, some modern mystery novels set in unusual locations or with non - traditional detectives have won prizes because of their originality.
Firstly, it needs a great plot. A plot full of twists and turns that keeps readers guessing until the end. For example, 'Gone Girl' had a very complex and unexpected plot which made it a popular and award - worthy mystery novel.
Detective novels are a genre of literature that usually reveals the truth of the story through logical reasoning and the exploration of clues. Although mystery novels played an important role in the field of literature, the Nobel Prize did not set up an award specifically for mystery novels. The main reasons were as follows: The criteria for the Nobel Prize were very strict. Not only did they have to look at the quality of the work, but they also had to consider the subject matter, era, culture, and other factors. Mystery novels are usually more complicated, require more logical thinking, and are difficult to read, so they may not meet the selection criteria. 2. Mystery novels often require a long process of reasoning and the collection of a large number of clues, which may affect the time and efficiency of the selection committee. Moreover, mystery novels often involved abstract concepts and philosophical thoughts that might be difficult to express in specific language, which might also affect the approval of the selection committee. Although mystery novels have a certain literary value, compared to other Nobel Prize in Literature awards such as novels and dramas, it is more difficult to win. Therefore, the possibility of mystery novels winning the Nobel Prize in Literature was small. Although detective novels were an excellent literary genre, they did not win a single Nobel Prize.
Firstly, it needs a great plot. A complex and engaging plot full of twists and turns can catch the attention of the judges. For example, a murder mystery where the suspect changes multiple times.
You can start by looking at bestseller lists. Often, prize winning mystery novels make it to these lists. For example, the New York Times bestseller list often features such books.
One way is if the plot is too simple. For instance, if it's just a basic story of a crime and the perpetrator is immediately known.
To win a novel prize, you need to have a unique and compelling story, excellent writing skills, and a deep understanding of your audience. Your work should stand out from the rest and make a significant impact.
One great Pulitzer Prize mystery novel is 'The Goldfinch' by Donna Tartt. It weaves a complex tale of a young boy's journey through life after a tragic event at a museum. Another is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn, which is full of twists and turns as a man searches for his missing wife.
I would recommend 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It's a very accessible mystery novel. The story is fast - paced and full of suspense. It starts with the disappearance of a woman, and as the story unfolds, you discover all kinds of secrets about the relationship between the main characters. It's easy to get into and will keep you hooked from start to finish.
One great prize winning mystery novel is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex plot filled with mystery and intrigue.
Some Pulitzer Prize mystery novels are truly remarkable. For example, 'The Sympathizer' by Viet Thanh Nguyen has elements of mystery within its exploration of identity and the aftermath of the Vietnam War. The narrative is filled with intrigue as the protagonist navigates a complex web of loyalties and secrets. Also, 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead, which has mystery elements as it tells the story of a slave's journey on a literal underground railroad, a secret network for slaves to escape to freedom.
One of the most famous is the Edgar Allan Poe Awards. It honors the best in mystery writing, covering various categories like best novel, short story, etc.