A detective story, also known as a mystery or crime novel, refers to a genre of fiction literature characterized by an intricate and puzzling plot involving crime, investigation, and the pursuit of a criminal or the truth behind a mysterious event. Typically, it revolves around a detective - a professional investigator or an amateur sleuth - who employs logical reasoning, observational skills, deductive reasoning, and critical thinking to unravel the complexities of the case.
In a detective story, the narrative usually starts with the occurrence of a crime, often a murder, and explores the subsequent investigation process, presenting a web of clues, red herrings, and a myriad of suspects. The protagonist often faces obstacles and unexpected twists, as they gather evidence, interrogate suspects, and follow leads to unravel the truth. The suspense and tension typically build as the detective moves through the story, with the climax reserved for the moment of revelation when the mystery is finally solved.
Detective stories can be found in various subgenres, such as the whodunit, cozy mystery, hardboiled detective fiction, locked room mystery, or police procedural, each with its own distinct characteristics and narrative conventions.
As a popular genre, detective stories have been widely embraced by readers across cultures and have engendered many iconic figures like Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, Nancy Drew, and Philip Marlowe. They often explore themes of justice, morality, and the fallibility of human nature, while offering an engaging, intellectually stimulating, and entertaining experience for readers.
