Discovering The Essence Of A True Crime Novel

By Jose Barnes


When it comes to writing, there are a number of different genres. Most often, the first of these to come to mind are fiction, non-fiction, poetry and prose. While this is the case, there are also others such as that of the True Crime Novel. In most cases, this type story is focused on a story which readers will find particularly interesting, especially when there has been a massive amount of coverage in the media.

Generally, authors working in this genre focus on a specific incident which often includes the perpetrator, victim, date, time and place associated with the crime. While some authors prefer to use the factual information as documented in a case, there are others whom might change the names to protect those involved. In either case, it is important that the primary facts of the case remain the same.

While it can often be hard to relay the essence of a story to readers, authors working in this area tend to do a great job. For, as the stories are about real people, readers can often connect with the victims. Although, those whom write these stories from a speculative point of view as an onlooker may have a more difficult time doing so.

Research and development are the most important aspects in this type writing. When writing about a crime that has set a precedent or one which is historic in nature, it is important that all information such as date, time and place be specific. For, there are readers whom are going to take a special interest in the case. As such, a number of individuals may want to research and gain more insight into the facts of a case once having read the book.

Authors in this genre tend to take information from a number of different sources. When doing so, it is important that the information be vetted and confirmed as accurate and true as related in the source. Otherwise, if one were to write based on inaccuracies of a case, those involved could bring a case of libel against the author.

First hand accounts of crime have always entertained and excited readers. In addition, it is a rare genre which appeals equally to men and women. In the early 1900s, Edmund Pearson published a set of books related to the study of murder among men and women. After which, Pearson went on to have true crime stories published in high fashion magazines such as The New Yorker, Liberty and Vanity Fair.

While novels are often interesting, it should be noted that there have also been articles written by people such as Edmond Pearson which have appeared in a number of high fashion magazines such as Liberty, Vanity Fair nd the New Yorker. In these cases, the stories are generally considered either articles or short-stories depending on how the author chooses to tell the story.

Whether major or minor crimes, many make it onto local and national bookshelves. Depending on the essence of the story, the book may either be placed into fiction or non-fiction categories. Generally, if a story is based on an actual crime and written in first person, it is placed in the non-fiction category. Whereas, if the story has been changed to protect the innocent or for other reasons, it is often considered to be a fictional work based on a true story.




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