In Search of the Best Mysteries

lists mysteries

I want to develop the definitive list of the best mysteries. What are the best mysteries (and how do we know that they are, in fact, the very best)? Consider 3 dimensions for discovering the best mysteries:

Peer Recognition – authors (and their mystery novels) that are highly regarded by their fellow mystery authors, such as through awards (MWA Edgar, CWA Dagger) that are presented by mystery writers associations.
Reader Preferences – the books readers love, as indicated by book sales and reader awards (ex. the Anthony awards that are voted by attendees at the Bouchercon mystery convention).
Critics Assessments – such as inclusion on multiple "best of" lists by authoritative sources like major magazines and mystery associations.

In this article we will explore how to use the the combination of peer recognition, reader preferences, and critics assessments to develop a 3-step process and a formula to determine the best mysteries. We also invite your feedback so we can continuously refine and improve the process and the formula. In a separate article we will then apply this formula to unveil the StoryBUZZ 100 Best Mysteries of All Time.

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7 Reasons We Love Mysteries

Mysteries attract us with their intricate puzzles and hidden secrets, inviting us to peer into the shadows and uncover the unknown. They satisfy our innate curiosity, sparking an intellectual thrill as we piece together clues and follow the trail of the unknown. Whether it's the suspense of a hard-boiled detective novel, the chilling elegance of a psychological thriller, or the labyrinthine whodunnits steeped in secrecy, these narratives challenge our minds and encourage us to think critically and analytically.

Here are 7 reasons we love mysteries:

Intellectual Challenge: Mysteries prompt us to use our brains, inviting us to solve puzzles and connect dots. The thrill of deducing the correct answer can be immensely satisfying.
Adrenaline Rush: The suspense and unknown elements in mysteries create a thrilling experience, giving us a vicarious taste of danger and excitement from the safety of our reading nook.
Exploration of Human Nature: These stories delve into the psychological aspects of characters, allowing us to explore the darker, complex sides of human behaviour and motivations.
Emotional Engagement: Mysteries often provoke a wide range of emotions, from fear and tension to relief and triumph. This emotional rollercoaster keeps us deeply engaged.
Narrative Escapism: They offer a break from the everyday, pulling us into immersive worlds filled with intrigue and suspense, where the ordinary rules don't apply.
Moral Questions: Mystery narratives frequently touch on themes of justice and morality, prompting us to reflect on these deeper issues in light of fictional scenarios.
Character Development: The protagonists in mysteries, often detectives or amateur sleuths, exhibit growth and depth as they solve crimes, making them relatable and compelling characters to follow through a story.

The Purpose of a "Best of" List

Our fascination with "best of" lists draws us in, tickling our curiosity. But there's more to it than that. A well-curated "best of" list of mysteries provides:

Discovery: An expertly curated list helps readers uncover hidden gems in the mystery genre that they might have otherwise overlooked.
Sharing: A "best of" list fosters a sense of community by allowing enthusiasts to bond over shared recommendations and riveting discussions about their favorite stories.
Enjoyment: These lists serve as a gateway to immersive experiences, guiding readers to the most thrilling and engaging mystery novels, ensuring an array of memorable reading adventures.
Guidance: For newcomers, a "best of" list offers a starting point to delve into the genre, providing a well-rounded introduction to iconic and highly-regarded works.
Variety: They present a diverse range of subgenres and styles within mysteries, catering to different tastes and preferences, and encouraging exploration beyond one's usual picks.
Quality: By spotlighting top-tier mysteries, the list saves readers time and effort, ensuring their reading choices are consistently fulfilling and of high quality.
Celebration of Excellence: The "best of" lists honor and recognize outstanding contributions to the genre, celebrating the creativity and craftsmanship of exceptional authors.

Finding the Great Mystery Authors that Resonate Most With You

"When you find an author who really grabs you, read everything they have done. Don’t say, ‘Oh I want to know what so and so did’—and don’t bother at all with the best-seller list. Just read what this one author has to give to you. And then you can go read what they have read. And the world opens up in a way that is consistent with a certain point of view." – Joseph Campbell

Discovering that one great author whose stories resonate deeply with you can be a transformative experience. As you read more from a single author, your appreciation and enjoyment increases.

But the journey doesn't end there. Exploring the authors that have influenced your chosen writer can broaden your literary horizons even further. By tracing the sources of their inspiration, you uncover a tapestry of interconnected ideas and traditions that shape the genre. Reading not just the work of one author but also the works that have influenced them creates a chain of genre/literary lineage that enriches your reading experience.

This approach relates closely to the concept of a "best of" list. A well-curated list guides readers to exceptional works, much like following a beloved author's inspirations leads to discovering hidden gems and timeless classics. The "best of" list serves as an entry point, introducing readers to superior quality.

The ideal list of "best mysteries" is actually a list of the best mystery authors along with the one recommended book to start reading each author.

3 Dimensions of the "Best" Mysteries

In discovering the best mystery authors, there are three dimensions to consider: Peer Recognition, Reader Preferences, and Critics Assessments. Each of these facets provides unique insights that collectively form a comprehensive picture of literary excellence in the mystery genre.

Peer Recognition: This aspect showcases authors highly regarded by their peers in the mystery genre. Accolades, author endorsements, and collaborative projects are often ways in which writers within the mystery genre manifest peer recognition. Celebrated authors frequently praise the works of their peers, providing recommendations that shed light on both seasoned veterans and rising stars. Such endorsements carry weight as they come from individuals who understand the intricacies of crafting a great mystery. But the most tangible way of peer recognition is through awards by associations of mystery writers, such as the Mystery Writers Association of America (MWA) and the Crime Writer's Association (CWA) in the UK.
Reader Preferences: The next crucial dimension revolves around the audience's reception, gauged through book sales and reader awards. Best-selling status is an initial indicator, revealing which authors have captured the imagination of a vast readership. Reader awards (such as the Anthony award voted on by attendees of the Bouchecon mystery convention) captures the recognition of super-fans, readers who are deeply committed to the genre. This collective preference creates a democratic measure of an author's appeal to readers.
Critics Assessments: Finally, the enlightened eyes of critics provide an evaluative perspective. Critics bring their deep knowledge and analytical prowess to bear, often highlighting narrative techniques, thematic depth, and innovation within the genre. Well-respected publications and platforms typically feature their assessments, which lend an air of authority to their recommendations. By considering these critical evaluations, readers gain an understanding of which authors possess a timeless quality and resonate with the broader literary conversation. One tangible proxy for critics assessments is to consider multiple "best of" lists published by authoritative sources like major magazines and mystery associations.

The Formula: How to Create the Definitive List of the Best Mystery Authors

So, here it is: a 3-step process and an objective formula to create the definitive list of the best mysteries of all time. We would love your feedback on this, so we can consider other approaches, refinements, and improvements. There is a link to provide feedback later in the article.

Step 1: Classics - Identify the Classic Mystery Authors from the 1930s and Earlier

To craft a definitive list, it's essential first to acknowledge the architects of the mystery genre. We build modern mystery storytelling on the foundation laid by these classic authors. Focusing on the period of the 1930s and earlier, we must make sure out list includes the pioneers like Agatha Christie, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Edgar Allan Poe. Their contributions are timeless, setting standards for plot intricacies, character development, and atmospheric tension that still resonate today. Identifying and compiling a comprehensive list of these classic authors ensures that our definitive guide pays homage to the genesis of the genre.

Step 2: Raw Scoring - Apply a Scoring Methodology Based on the 3 Dimensions

With the foundational classics identified, the next step involves a meticulous scoring process grounded in the three core dimensions: Peer Recognition, Reader Preferences, and Critics Assessments.

This scoring methodology ensures a balanced and multi-faceted assessment of each author's impact and excellence.

Here is the proposed formula for the raw score:

Peer Recognition - Sum of Points Weighted at 40%
- Mystery Writer's Association (MWA) Edgar for Best Novel - 1 point for each
- MWA Grand Master (lifetime achievement as a mystery author) - 2 points
- Crime Writer's Association (CWA) Gold Dagger (the best novel of the year) - 1 point for each
- CWA Diamond Dagger (lifetime achievement as a mystery author) - 2 points
Reader Preference - Sum of Points Weighted at 35%
- Anthony Award "Best Hardcover" (voted on by the attendees of the Bouchercon mystery convention) - 1 point for each
- Bestsellers - 1 point for each 2 million copies sold (of their top selling book) with a max of 4 points
Critics Assessments - Sum of Points Weighted at 25%
- 3 points for each entry in the Top 10, 2 points for each entry in the Top 11-25, and 1 point for each entry in the Top 26-100 of these ranked lists:
  - MWA's "The Top 100 Mystery Novels of All Time"
  - CWA's "The Top 100 Crime Novels of All Time"
- 1 point for each entry in these un-ranked lists
  - Time Magazine's "The 100 Best Mystery and Thriller Books of All Time"
  - Parade Magazine's "The 101 Best Mystery Books of All Time"

Step 3: Group the Results into Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards

After scoring, we will categorize authors into four recognition levels: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze, based on natural groupings of the scoring from Step 1 and Step 2.

Just for fun, we will use some of the Clue mystery board game murder weapons in the awards:

Platinum Revolver Award: This category is reserved for mystery authors whose works have profoundly shaped the genre, receiving top scores across the three dimensions. These authors are not just celebrated figures but are also considered foundational pillars of mystery literature.

Gold Candlestick Award: Authors in this group have achieved outstanding acclaim and influence, consistently delivering high-quality storytelling that resonates deeply across readers, peers, and critics alike.

Silver Rope Award: These authors demonstrate significant contribution and respect within the genre, earning commendable scores in the dimensions but perhaps not reaching the ubiquitous reverence of those in the Platinum and Gold tiers.

Bronze Wrench Award: Completing the hierarchy, the Bronze level acknowledges authors who have made notable contributions and possess a loyal reader base but may not be as universally acknowledged or influential as those in higher categories.

Feedback: Your Ideas and Input

We would like your feedback, so we can continuously refine and improve the process and formula. What do you think?

Provide your feedback by clicking on this link and complete a simple 3-question form.

NEXT: The StoryBUZZ 100 Best Mysteries of All Time

We will apply the process and formula and unveil the StoryBUZZ Best Mysteries of All Time.

Stay tuned!

Beyond Mysteries: Developing the Definitive "Best of" List in Any Genre

Applying the formula and process used to identify the best mystery authors to other genres—or even to literary fiction—requires a similar strategic approach, adapted to the unique characteristics and benchmarks of each genre. Here's how to extend and customize this methodology:

Step 1: Genre Pioneers - Identify Key Figures in Each Genre's Foundation

Begin by acknowledging the foundational authors who have shaped the genre's landscape. Here are some examples for several genres.

SCIENCE FICTION:

H.G. Wells: Often referred to as the "father of science fiction," Wells is renowned for his prophetic works such as "The War of the Worlds," "The Time Machine," and "The Invisible Man." His narratives delve into themes of human perseverance, scientific advancement, and the unknown.
Jules Verne: A pivotal figure in early sci-fi, Verne's adventure-filled tales such as "Journey to the Center of the Earth," "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea," and "Around the World in Eighty Days" explored the limits of human exploration and technological potential.
Mary Shelley: Widely regarded as the first science fiction novelist, Shelley's "Frankenstein" offers a profound examination of human ambition, ethics in scientific experimentation, and the consequences of playing god.
Edgar Allan Poe: Although more frequently associated with gothic and horror literature, Poe's forays into science fiction, exemplified by works such as "The Unparalleled Adventure of One Hans Pfaall" and "The Facts in the Case of M. Valdemar," showcased his ability to blend elements of scientific imagination with macabre storytelling.
Hugo Gernsback: While primarily known as an editor and publisher, Gernsback played a crucial role in shaping science fiction as a recognized genre. His magazine "Amazing Stories" provided a platform for early sci-fi narratives, and his own writing, including "Ralph 124C 41+," influenced many future sci-fi writers.

FANTASY:

J.R.R. Tolkien: Often hailed as the father of modern fantasy literature, Tolkien's seminal works "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy have left an indelible mark on the genre. His richly detailed world-building and complex mythology continue to influence countless authors and readers.
C.S. Lewis: Renowned for "The Chronicles of Narnia" series, Lewis's blend of fantasy, Christianity, and personal philosophy created a lasting legacy. His imaginative lands and allegorical storytelling appeal to readers of all ages.
George MacDonald: A pioneer in both the modern fantasy and fairy tale genres, MacDonald authored classics such as "Phantastes" and "The Princess and the Goblin." His works inspired future writers, including both Tolkien and Lewis.
L. Frank Baum: Best known for creating the magical Land of Oz, Baum's "Oz" series, beginning with "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," laid the groundwork for American fantasy literature and has been adapted into numerous films and stage productions.
William Morris: Known for his works such as "The Well at the World's End" and "The Wood Beyond the World," Morris was a forerunner in fantasy fiction, providing rich medieval settings and intricate plots that would influence future fantasy writers.
Lord Dunsany: A significant figure in early 20th-century fantasy, Dunsany's short stories, including those in "The Gods of Pegāna" and "Time and the Gods," feature mythological worlds and otherworldly beings, impacting later fantasy creators like Lovecraft and Tolkien.

ROMANCE:

Jane Austen: Often considered one of the pioneering figures of the romance genre, Austen's novels such as "Pride and Prejudice," "Sense and Sensibility," and "Emma" have become timeless classics. Her keen social observations, intricate character development, and enduring themes of love and marriage continue to resonate with readers today.
Charlotte Brontë: Renowned for her novel "Jane Eyre," Charlotte Brontë's exploration of themes such as love, morality, and social class within a gothic framework has cemented her place in the romance literary canon. Her other works, including "Shirley" and "Villette," further exemplified her skill in weaving romance with complex social commentary.
Emily Brontë: Best known for her only novel, "Wuthering Heights," Emily Brontë's contribution to romance literature is marked by her dramatic and intense portrayal of love and passion on the atmospheric Yorkshire moors. Her novel's themes of destructive love and revenge distinguish her work within the genre.
Louisa May Alcott: While primarily recognized for her novel "Little Women," Louisa May Alcott's works often incorporated elements of romance. Her portrayal of strong, independent women navigating love and personal growth set a precedent for future romance authors.
Georgette Heyer: Credited with creating the modern historical romance genre, Georgette Heyer authored numerous novels set in the Regency era, including "Regency Buck," "The Grand Sophy," and "Cotillion." Her meticulous attention to historical detail and witty, charming narratives have inspired countless subsequent romance writers.
E. M. Hull: E. M. Hull's "The Sheik," published in 1919, is one of the earliest examples of the modern romance novel. Its exotic setting, passionate storyline, and significant influence on the genre helped shape early 20th-century romance writing.
Edith Wharton: An accomplished author whose works often blurred the lines between social commentary and romance, Edith Wharton's novels such as "Ethan Frome" and "The Age of Innocence" explore complex relationships and the constraints of societal expectations, making her a key figure in early romance literature.

HORROR:

Mary Shelley: Apart from her groundbreaking work in science fiction, Shelley's "Frankenstein" also stands as a cornerstone of horror literature. The novel's exploration of reanimation and the monstrous consequences of unchecked scientific ambition continue to unsettle and provoke thought.
Edgar Allan Poe: Renowned for his mastery of macabre and gothic horror, Poe's chilling tales such as "The Tell-Tale Heart," "The Fall of the House of Usher," and "The Masque of the Red Death" have left a profound impact on the horror genre, with his psychological insights and atmospheric storytelling resonating through ages.
Bram Stoker: Best known for his 1897 novel "Dracula," Stoker crafted one of the most iconic and enduring vampire tales in literature. "Dracula" has inspired countless adaptations and remains a seminal work that introduced many enduring tropes of the vampire genre.
H.P. Lovecraft: A visionary in horror fiction, Lovecraft's creation of the Cthulhu Mythos and his exploration of cosmic horror in works like "The Call of Cthulhu" and "At the Mountains of Madness" have deeply influenced the horror landscape. His emphasis on the insignificance of humanity in a vast, uncaring universe is a defining characteristic of his work.
Ambrose Bierce: An influential writer whose short stories such as "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and "The Damned Thing" blend psychological horror with supernatural elements, Bierce’s works often explore themes of existential dread and the mystery of the unknown.
M.R. James: Known for his ghost stories, M.R. James crafted tales like "Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad" and "Casting the Runes," which are celebrated for their subtle and unsettling horrors. His influence continues to be seen in modern horror fiction.
Algernon Blackwood: An author and occultist whose works such as "The Willows" and "The Wendigo" delve into supernatural terror, Blackwood's storytelling is praised for its eerie atmospheres and psychological depth.
Arthur Machen: With works like "The Great God Pan" and "The White People," Machen’s writing is steeped in mystical and occult themes. His contributions to supernatural horror have left a lasting mark on the genre.
Sheridan Le Fanu: A forerunner in gothic horror, Le Fanu's "Carmilla" is an early and influential vampire story that predated "Dracula." His mastery of suspense and atmosphere can also be seen in "Uncle Silas" and "The House by the Churchyard."
Robert W. Chambers: Known for his collection "The King in Yellow," Chambers’s stories blend supernatural, horror, and science fiction. His work has inspired many later writers, including H.P. Lovecraft, with its themes of madness and forbidden knowledge.

ACTION:

Robert Louis Stevenson: Best known for his adventure novels like "Treasure Island" and "Kidnapped," Stevenson's thrilling tales of pirates, treasure hunts, and daring escapades have captivated readers for generations. His ability to create vivid characters and engaging plots laid the groundwork for the action-adventure genre.
Alexandre Dumas: Author of swashbuckling epics such as "The Three Musketeers" and "The Count of Monte Cristo," Dumas's work is synonymous with daring sword fights, intricate plots, and heroic quests. His novels continue to be benchmarks in the action-adventure genre.
Edgar Rice Burroughs: Creator of iconic characters such as Tarzan and John Carter of Mars, Burroughs's works blend high adventure with exotic locales and fantastical elements. His influence on action and adventure fiction is profound and enduring.
H. Rider Haggard: Known for his tales of adventure in exotic lands, Haggard's "King Solomon's Mines" and "She" are classic examples of the action genre. His exploration of lost civilizations and heroic quests set a template for future adventure stories.
Jack London: Author of rugged tales of survival and adventure, London's "The Call of the Wild" and "White Fang" vividly depict the harshness and beauty of nature. His stories of resilience and exploration are key texts in action literature.

LITERARY:

Homer: Often considered the father of Western literature, Homer's epic poems "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" have served as foundational texts in Western canon. His exploration of heroism, adventure, and human nature continues to be studied and admired.
Dante Alighieri: Best known for "The Divine Comedy," Dante's exploration of the realms of the afterlife has made a profound impact on literature. His use of the Italian vernacular, intricate poetic structure, and deep philosophical themes marked a pivotal point in literary history.
Geoffrey Chaucer: Widely regarded as the father of English literature, Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" offers a vivid portrayal of 14th-century English society, blending humor, satire, and serious reflection in a series of interconnected stories.
William Shakespeare: Often hailed as the greatest playwright of all time, Shakespeare's extensive body of work, including tragedies like "Hamlet" and "Othello," comedies such as "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and historical plays like "Henry V," has shaped the English language and literary tradition profoundly.
Miguel de Cervantes: His magnum opus, "Don Quixote," is often cited as the first modern novel. Cervantes's blend of realism, satire, and idealism has made a lasting impact on narrative fiction.
Herman Melville: With "Moby-Dick," Melville crafted a complex narrative steeped in symbolism and philosophical musings, contributing significantly to American and global literary traditions.
Leo Tolstoy: Considered one of the giants of Russian literature, Tolstoy's novels "War and Peace" and "Anna Karenina" explore the complexities of Russian society, history, and human experiences.
Gustave Flaubert: Known for his precise literary style, Flaubert's "Madame Bovary" is a seminal work of realism in which he scrutinizes the limits of romanticism and bourgeois society.
Fyodor Dostoevsky: His psychological insights and exploration of philosophical themes in works like "Crime and Punishment" and "The Brothers Karamazov" have made Dostoevsky a cornerstone of Russian and existential literature.
Victor Hugo: A towering figure in French literature, Hugo's "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" are epic narratives that intertwine personal, political, and social struggles.

Step 2: Raw Scoring - Adapt the Scoring Methodology Across Genres

Once the foundational authors are identified, implement a scoring process tailored to the genre's unique attributes, guided by the three core dimensions: Peer Recognition, Reader Preferences, and Critics Assessments. Collect data on peer commendations, reader engagement, sales metrics, and critical reviews to generate a balanced evaluation across the dimensions.

Step 3: Customized Levels of Awards

To reflect the unique flavour of each genre, develop custom levels of recognition, using the platinum, gold, silver, and bronze tiers.

By organizing each genre's results into these levels, readers can easily navigate and discover the stellar works that define the essence of the respective genres, deeply engaging with authors who have left an indelible mark on their genre or literary landscapes.

Resources

MY FAVORITE ALL-PURPOSE RESOURCE

The Writer's Treasure Chest - for those of us who want to not only read, but also write mysteries, here is everything in one place, curated, organized, this is a great reference for all things writing craft, with tons of prompts, plot/character generators and other tools to inspire you to write a great story in any genre, including mysteries.

As you write your own mysteries (or any fiction), here are some articles that will be helpful as you work on all the aspects of the writing craft and your writing process:

FREE COURSE, GUIDE AND WORKBOOK

Do you want to write fiction faster, while practicing your craft and your writing process to consistently get better? Check out this link to the "Write Fiction Faster ... and better" guide and workbook, which comes with a companion course with 23 bite-sized video lessons and 4 worksheets.

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