The mystery novel presents stories of crime, theft and guilty strangers, who hope to get away with their misdeeds. Their identity; however, is unknown. Despite the thrill and the horror of the described bloodshed, the reader remains transfixed on the story until the author reveals the truth and solves the crime.

Why is delving into this dark subject matter so fascinating? The answer is surprisingly simple: nothing is more engaging than watching someone employ logic, determination and a pinch of genius in bringing criminals to justice. The development of this new literary genre reflected a shift in the 1850 from Romanticism to post-Romanticism in art and literature, reflecting the established confidence of the British Empire coupled with growing tensions between this fast modernizing society and traditional moral values and beliefs.

The mystery and crime genre developed in the mid-19th century with the creation of the character Auguste Dupin by American writer Edgar Allan Poe, soon followed by Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. The development of this new literary genre reflected a shift in the 1850 from Romanticism to post-Romanticism in art and literature, reflecting the established confidence of the British Empire coupled with growing tensions between this fast modernizing society and traditional moral values and beliefs.

The crime genre integrated new scientific techniques and modern logic with traditional human fears and vulnerabilities to create a fictional resolution to these growing tensions between the new and old. Readers devoured these stories, attracted by the shock and gore of crimes, logical puzzles, and suspenseful storytelling. Through the eyes of a brilliant investigator with a sharp mind and extraordinary powers of observation, even the most unsolvable mystery could be resolved. These stories created a glimmer of hope in a society undergoing fast-paced and uncertain change. Let’s consider Sherlock Holmes: he observes, deliberates, and logically pieces together evidence to successfully uncover even the more evasive criminal. Arthur Conan Doyle leads the reader through a serious of suspenseful twists and turns to unravel the crime and its perpetrator. As the reader delves deeper into the story, they experience of fear, suspense and finally, relief as the truth is revealed. Justice is served, but above all… enjoyment is assured!

Once experienced, this rush of emotions is unforgotten! Since the mid-1800s, this genre has expanded exponentially, canonizing various sleuths, such as Christie guides the reader to solve intricate crimes in 20th century aristocratic England, combing a flare for description of her contemporary society and unpacking the criminal mind. Present day mystery writers, such as Gina D.B. Clemen, draw the reader in with the enthusiasm and intellectual sharpness of the young detectives mind.

Put on your detective hat, and get ready to solve this month’s mystery!