1. aguywhotypes

    aguywhotypes Active Member

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    Where to begin for non-crime mystery?

    Discussion in 'Crime, Thriller & Action' started by aguywhotypes, Jul 30, 2015.

    I am interested in learning more about non-crime mysteries.

    I would like to write one. I have no clue as to where to begin.
    I know basic story structure, etc.

    I want a mystery that involves a map and a setting of tunnels/underground.

    Any books to get me in the right direction?
     
  2. Bryan Romer

    Bryan Romer Contributor Contributor

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    I think most of Clive Cussler's novels are races to ancient/buries secrets.
     
  3. sidtvicious

    sidtvicious Contributor Contributor

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    So, I find that there is a great distinction to begin with between Crime Fiction and the Mystery, so seeing as that you're concentrating on the latter I assume you're looking for books that have a series of clues/investigation style without incorporating crime themes (Detectives, criminals and the like.)

    First I ditto @Bryan Romer 's suggestion of Clive Cussler, though Cussler frequently has more of what I'd consider an Adventure vibe over mystery. Also, he occasionally includes espionage/military elements---some people associate this with certain aspects of Crime Fiction.--I'd stick to the Dirk Pitt ones if you want to avoid crime fiction elements.


    I don't have a lot of thoughts on the tunnel aspect, but I do have suggestions that involve investigation that doesn't just involve trying to interview witnesses and perps or gathering evidence.

    Things I can think of off the top of my head:

    The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova (A mystery at heart, with some very fun stylistic and theme choices)
    Some of Dan Simmons stuff has mystery elements to it (thought it's some very heavy with a capital 'H' historical fiction)
    Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey



    If something else comes to mind, I'll be sure to add to the list.
     
  4. aguywhotypes

    aguywhotypes Active Member

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    Thanks, I will look into these.

    What I'm looking for is something along the line of the TV show Zero Hour, it got canned after several episodes. Zero Hour without the paranormal.
     
  5. tonguetied

    tonguetied Contributor Contributor

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    Ah, will I make it to work on time using the subway, the map shows two changes of cars. :D just kidding of course.
     

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