Can Detective Novels Use Fictional Settings?

Detective novels have often employed both real and fictional settings to transport readers to different worlds of mystery and intrigue. But can these stories thrive in fictional settings? The answer is a resounding yes, as this article will explore.

Fictional vs. Real Settings in Detective Novels

Some detective stories are set in real places such as Oxford, where Inspector Morse once patrolled (or so we are led to believe), and London, the stomping ground of Sherlock Holmes. Edinburgh, with its venerable Inspector Rebus, and other locales feature real cities and towns that bring the mysteries to life. Sometimes these places are so accurate and detailed that even geography and train times are meticulously researched. For example, Dorothy L. Sayers spent a lot of time ensuring that the Ayrshire locations and timings worked correctly for Five Red Herrings.

Other stories, however, create fictional places that adhere to a particular genre. St. Mary’s Mead, the fictional English village where Miss Marple solves her mysteries, does not exist but is meant to embody many such villages. Similarly, the market town of Kingsmarkham, where Inspector Wexford patrols, is typical of modest-sized towns and does not actually exist.

Some authors go for the complete invention of places. For example, in detective science fiction, Isaac Asimov’s Elijah Bailey series features a completely fictional setting. These fictional places can be as imaginative as the author’s mind allows, as long as they fit seamlessly within the narrative and theme of the story.

Popular Examples of Fictional Settings

One of the most famous fictional settings is Cabot Cove from the television series Murder She Wrote. While the town is based on real locations, it is not an actual place. Similarly, the series Midsomer Murders also takes place in a fictional English county and village based on real locations.

Many mysteries set in real cities and towns use thinly disguised real places with new names. For instance, you might find a bustling New Orleans or the quaint streets of London, Paris, or Budapest, but with altered names to create a distinct and unique atmosphere.

The Importance of Setting in Detective Novels

Setting plays a crucial role in the genre of detective novels. A well-crafted setting can become a character itself, providing ambiance, atmosphere, and subtle clues for the reader. Moreover, it can enhance the realism and immersion of the story, making the narrative more engaging.

Los Angeles and London are examples of cities that dominate their respective genres, often embodying the essence of crime and mystery. However, sometimes, even in works like the Holmes stories by Arthur Conan Doyle, the author mixes real and fictional settings to create a complex and rich narrative.

When creating a setting for a detective novel, it is crucial to pick your location carefully, ensuring that it enhances the story rather than detracts from it. If the setting is too far-fetched, readers might lose their connection with the narrative. Conversely, too much verisimilitude can make the story feel sterile and lacking in creativity.

Conclusion

Whether writing real or wholly fictional settings, the key to success in detective novels lies in creating a world that feels authentic and engaging. While fictional settings offer endless possibilities for creativity, they must align naturally with the story's narrative and thematic elements. In the end, the best detective novels strike a balance between the familiarity of the real and the imagination of the fictional, creating a compelling and memorable reading experience.

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