One characteristic is that they can use the long days and warm nights of summer to build suspense. For instance, a mystery might involve something that only happens at night during the summer months. Also, the themes in summer mystery novels can be related to things like lost love, family secrets that come to light during a family reunion in summer, or a mystery that has been buried for years and resurfaces during a summer trip. The use of nature, such as the sea or the forest, can also play a big role in creating an atmosphere of mystery. For example, a body might be found in a forest during a summer hike, or a mystery might be centered around a shipwreck off the coast in summer.
One great summer mystery novel is 'The Great Gatsby'. Set in the summer, it has an air of mystery surrounding the characters' relationships and pasts. The lavish parties and the enigma of Jay Gatsby himself keep readers intrigued.
Some great summer mystery novels include 'Rebecca' by Daphne du Maurier. The mystery unfolds in a large mansion during the summer, with the new bride trying to figure out the secrets of her husband's first wife, Rebecca. 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote is also a great choice. Although not a traditional 'summer' story in the sense of a beach read, the mystery of the Clutter family murders in a small Kansas town during a cold November has the same kind of gripping, mysterious quality. And 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt, which has a group of students involved in a mysterious and deadly event during their college days which has a certain summer - like intensity.
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.
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.
Many of the summer 2020 romance novels often had settings that were relevant to the season. For example, beach settings were quite common, like in 'Beach Read'. The stories usually centered around new beginnings or second chances at love. Characters were often on a journey of self - discovery while also falling in love.
Summer horror novels often use the bright and supposedly happy setting of summer as a contrast. For example, in 'Jaws', the sunny beaches are suddenly turned into a place of fear when the shark appears. They may also involve summer - related activities like camping or beach trips going wrong.
Many of the summer 2023 romance novels often have beach or coastal settings. This is because summer is associated with the beach. For example, characters might meet while surfing or having a beach barbecue.