Historical mysteries have a special place in my heart. And I know I’m not alone. When I talk about the one I’m writing, lots of women say it’s a favorite genre. Why do they have so much appeal? Here are a few reasons for me.
1) It’s cool to escape to a different time and place. There were plenty of problems in the past, but we survived them!
2) Mystery plots keep me turning the pages; I know where the book will be going. I can avoid themes that don’t interest me. I don’t like getting halfway through the book and realizing the characters are only going to whine about their lousy job or something.
3) I can escape from the stress and culture of modern times. There was less technology in history, and people weren’t under pressure to be available 24/7. We didn’t have an endless onslaught of TV and social media.
4) I always learn something new, and I love that. From Victoria Thompson’s Sarah Brandt, I’ve learned a few things about midwifing. Her Counterfeit Lady series offers an intriguing glimpse at the world of the con artist. Jennifer Ashley’s Kat Halloway expands my limited knowledge of cooking. And every series draws me into the enticing world of sleuthing.
5) There are lots of connections between the social issues of the past and those we grappled with today–including sexism, racism, and poverty. It’s interesting to read about how these things were addressed over the years, and what the characters learned from their experiences.
6) I firmly believe there’s just as much truth in fiction as in non-fiction. The emotional truths of life come through loud and clear with fictional characters and settings. You get a glimpse into someone else’s mind and heart. The character is fictional, but the emotions are real.
What do you love about historical mysteries? Share your thoughts at amyrenshawauthor@gmail.com.