What's the Attraction to Mysteries?

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I read lots of different genres, but I always seem to focus on mysteries and thrillers. I am a product of 70s cartoons, and I fell in love with Scooby-Doo, Josie and the Pussycats, The Funky Phantom, and so many other shows where the characters solved some kind of crime or puzzle. I wanted to be like the sleuths (and Bat Girl), so when I found the mystery section in the library, I was instantly sold on Nancy Drew, the Hardy Boys, Alfred Hitchcock’s the Three Investigator, and the Two-minute Mysteries. These became gateways to Agatha Christie, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, P. D. James, and so many fabulous reads.

Here’s why I’m attracted to mysteries:

  • There is a puzzle or a crime, and the reader can parse through the clues and work out his/her solution as the story progresses.

  • It’s a fun escape from whatever is going on in the real world, and it’s a great way to relax or wind down at the end of the day.

  • Mysteries are entertaining. I love visiting new places and experiencing new things through books.

  • I enjoy reading series because the characters become old friends.

  • And I know by the end, the crime will be solved and justice served.

Why do you read mysteries?