The Mystery, Crime, and Thriller Group discussion
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What is a good novel and what is a good read?
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message 1:
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Jerold
(new)
Nov 13, 2011 05:16PM
Steven: There would seem to be a place for pure entertainment and escapist stories in our relaxed time, even if the books are not "literature". Most of us read for pleasure, especially those who choose to participate in a Forum dedicated to mystery novels. What's wrong with that?
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To me there is nothing wrong with a realistic motive in the books I read, when I am seeking that, then I will read a true crime book or a memior, but I also feel there is nothing wrong with a good ole murder mystery, a shocking thriller, or even a little bit of smut. I say bring on the good reads!!!!!
Steven wrote: "Jerry wrote: "Steven: There would seem to be a place for pure entertainment and escapist stories in our relaxed time, even if the books are not "literature". Most of us read for pleasure, especia..."I think for me the issue is the depth of the characters. I like bad guys. A lot. And I love page-turning thrillers.
But I want my bad guys to have real motives and believable characterizations. I have no problem with a madman trying to take over the world, but I want to know *why* he's doing it. He can't just be crazy or evil. How'd he get here.
That's what separates a goodread as the OP put it from a junkread in my view. If a villain has believable motives, I'm in hook, line, and sinker.
Steven wrote: "Yes, John, you're are so right. That's the kind of novels that are known as quality reads"I can agree with that, even in the context of pure entertainment. I don't like comic books.
I love comic books, but I haven't read one in years.....
Interesting point though about whether best sellers are 'made' rather than deserving of their status. If your publisher can get you into Tesco or Asda - in the UK, and I assume Walmart and Target in the US, you've already got a big leg up the ladder. It DOES NOT mean that your book is any good, however. I'd give a new thriller-suspense writer a try if I saw their book in one of those places. Much easier to find than on Amazon.
Barbara wrote: "Interesting point though about whether best sellers are 'made' rather than deserving of their status. If your publisher can get you into Tesco or Asda - in the UK, and I assume Walmart and Target i..."Barbara: How do tags on Amazon work for you to find what you want to read? Can they compete with The big box stores and tables of books?
