Killers and Thrillers: Crime Fiction's Enduring Hold on Readers
By Randi Steers
Questions abound when you're a bookseller; ranging anywhere from topics about the local community, to whether a specific book is in stock, we get them all. Some are headscratchers doomed to remain unsolved mysteries, whereas others are second nature responses to the most common enquiries. If you were to ask me what the average reader is looking for when they enter our shop, I would scarcely hesitate to answer: crime fiction.
Why is that? Genre fiction in general remains popular, and there's no question as to why; escapism is one of reading's biggest draws as a pastime (or lifestyle if you're like some of our regulars). And in this multi-genre age, books contain a myriad of facets; you can find mysterious elements in historical fiction, romantic sublots in fantasies, and humour in science fiction stories.
Yet, there needs to be grounding elements to any good story, lest the reader's suspension of disbelief be provoked. Crime fiction allows for our darker curiosities to be indulged, without straying too far beyond what's plausible. The villains of epic fantasy are formidable, but readers aren't themselves in danger of curses and ancient prophecies affecting them anytime soon. But a stalker? Cult leader? Serial killer? These individuals live hidden amongst us in all societies on earth.
It's that nearness that crime fiction takes full advantage of: the same thing that entices people of all ages to ride rollercoasters, go ziplining, or even bungee jump. The thrill of pretending at danger while remaining perfectly safe. If that isn't the universal draw of reading about terrible things happening to unsuspecting victims, then I don't know what is. We all like a little dalliance with the dark side of human nature now and then; we just want to do it while in the comfort and safety of our favourite reading chair.
Yet, there needs to be grounding elements to any good story, lest the reader's suspension of disbelief be provoked. Crime fiction allows for our darker curiosities to be indulged, without straying too far beyond what's plausible. The villains of epic fantasy are formidable, but readers aren't themselves in danger of curses and ancient prophecies affecting them anytime soon. But a stalker? Cult leader? Serial killer? These individuals live hidden amongst us in all societies on earth.
It's that nearness that crime fiction takes full advantage of: the same thing that entices people of all ages to ride rollercoasters, go ziplining, or even bungee jump. The thrill of pretending at danger while remaining perfectly safe. If that isn't the universal draw of reading about terrible things happening to unsuspecting victims, then I don't know what is. We all like a little dalliance with the dark side of human nature now and then; we just want to do it while in the comfort and safety of our favourite reading chair.
Note: fiction is one of those areas where we get a lot in and out each week. Stock constantly changes and we don't normally list them online. If you are after a particular book, either visit us in-store or contact us to see if we have it.
