One characteristic is the use of vivid and often exotic settings. South America has diverse landscapes like the Amazon rainforest and the Andes mountains. These settings can create a sense of isolation and danger which adds to the mystery. For example, in many novels, a character might be lost in the jungle, and the mystery unfolds as they try to find their way out while also dealing with some hidden secrets.
Many South American mystery novels blend different cultural elements. There's a mix of indigenous cultures, colonial influences, and modern society. This can lead to complex characters and plots. For instance, a mystery might involve an ancient indigenous curse that seems to be affecting a modern - day family in a colonial - style town. The clash of these different cultural aspects creates a rich tapestry of mystery.