Had I But Known: A Mechanic of the Mystery Genre

The “Had I But Known” trope is a common feature of mystery writing. It refers to a situation where a character laments that if they had only known something earlier, they could have avoided a terrible outcome. This trope can add suspense and tension to a story, as readers wonder what might have happened if the character had made a different choice. The origins of … Continue reading Had I But Known: A Mechanic of the Mystery Genre

Four Ways The Circular Staircase by Mary Roberts Rinehart Changed the Mystery Genre

The Circular Staircase by Mary Roberts Rinehart is considered a classic in the mystery genre and has significantly impacted the development of the genre as a whole. Here are some ways in which the book has influenced the mystery genre: In summary, The Circular Staircase has had a significant impact on the mystery genre, influencing everything from using certain tropes and settings to portraying strong … Continue reading Four Ways The Circular Staircase by Mary Roberts Rinehart Changed the Mystery Genre