Well, the atmosphere. A stormy backdrop creates a really moody and mysterious atmosphere. It's like the whole world is in chaos and the detective has to find order within it. The howling wind, the pelting rain, the flashes of lightning - all these elements can be used to heighten the sense of danger and urgency in the story. And it's different from the normal detective story setting, which makes it stand out.
The danger factor. Storms are dangerous and unpredictable, and when you combine that with detective work, it makes for a really exciting read. It adds an extra layer of tension.
The mystery aspect. People love trying to figure out the whodunit before the detective in the story does. For example, in 'Murder on the Orient Express' by Agatha Christie, readers are constantly guessing who the murderer is among all the suspects on the train.
The combination of pictures and detective stories. The pictures in comic detective novels can bring the story to life more vividly than just text. For example, in 'The Adventures of Tintin', the detailed illustrations of different locations and characters help readers better understand the story's setting and the personalities involved.
The mystery aspect. In Cthulhu detective novels, there are often strange disappearances, cult activities and unexplained phenomena. Just like in regular detective novels, the detective has to piece together clues. But here, the clues lead to a world of cosmic horror. It's exciting to see how the detective tries to make sense of things that are beyond human understanding.
The unique relationship between the dog and the human (if there is one in the story) is very appealing. Dogs have such loyalty and often unique abilities like a great sense of smell which can be used in detective work. It adds an element of fun and mystery.
The blend of mystery and history. We get to solve a mystery while also learning about a different time period. For example, in 'The Name of the Rose', we learn about medieval religious practices and architecture as we follow the mystery.
The combination of the supernatural (vampires) and detective work is very appealing. It adds an extra layer of mystery. Vampires have their own set of rules and characteristics, like immortality and special powers, which make the detective work more complex and exciting.
The humor. It breaks the tension usually associated with detective stories. Instead of just a gloomy search for the truth, there are funny situations and characters to lighten the mood.
Magic detective novels often have complex and imaginative worlds. In these stories, the rules of magic are like another set of clues. Readers get to explore these magical worlds while also following the detective's journey to solve the mystery. It's like getting two stories in one - the exploration of magic and the solving of a crime. Moreover, the characters in these novels are usually very diverse. There could be wizards, witches, magical creatures all interacting with the detective, creating a rich tapestry of relationships and conflicts.
The mystery aspect. People are drawn to trying to figure out who the killer is before the detective in the story does. It's like a puzzle.
The mystery aspect. Great new detective novels keep readers guessing until the very end. We are constantly trying to figure out who the culprit is, what the motive was, and how the crime was committed.