Mystery Fiction Created by Kathryn Reilly
Mystery Genre Background Mystery fiction focuses on the “what” instead of the “who” in a story. Mystery fiction may include elements from other genres such as crime and fantasy. This genre tends to have a quick-moving plot as the protagonist attempts to solve the mystery by finding clues and overcoming obstacles.
Mystery vs. Crime Fiction Although these two fiction genres are very similar, one main difference exists. Mystery fiction lacks a central crime. Although villains may commit crimes in mystery novels, the crime is not the focal point of the story. Mystery novels focus on a puzzle to be solved.
Mystery vs. Crime Fiction Comparison Mystery Fiction Where did the pirate ship sink, and where is its treasure? An antique key is discovered in a secret desk compartment. Why is it hidden, and what will it unlock? A great-grandchild discovers a series of cryptic letters written by her great-grandmother. What event are these letters describing, and why is there a need for secrecy? Crime Fiction Who killed the pirate captain? Who stole an antique key from a locked safety deposit box, and how was it stolen? The owner of old family letters returns home to find her home asunder and the letters burnt in the fireplace. Who committed these crimes?
Common Genre Elements Characters – Protagonist who uncovers the mystery. – Sidekicks who assist the protagonist in his or her quest to solve the mystery. – Antagonist who hinders the protagonist's progress. Settings – Anywhere – Anytime Other – Flashbacks are common in the mystery genre, especially if the mystery involves multiple time periods. – The author inserts clues for the reader throughout the text that the protagonist connects at the story’s conclusion, solving the mystery. – Many twists and turns often occur in mystery fiction.
Mystery Genre Example Nancy Drew is a popular mystery series in which a young lady solves one mystery each book. In the series’ first book, Nancy Drew sets out to discover a missing will, and encounters many obstacles and adventures along the way. keene-hardcover-cover-art.jpg
Mystery Genre Example English author Agatha Christie has written numerous mystery novels and short stories. “Sanctuary” begins when a stranger dies in the steps of a church. Miss Marple works to uncover the mystery of who the man was, and what his dying word, sanctuary, meant.
Mystery Genre Review Mystery fiction focuses on identifying and solving a perplexing puzzle, such as who a stranger is or why a particular item was hidden. Crimes such as theft and murder may occur in mystery fiction, but they are not the central focus of the story. Mystery authors pepper their stories with clues for the reader, which the protagonist typically reviews at the story’s conclusion.