Why do some crime novels grip us while others leave us rolling our eyes? In this episode, we dive into the common pitfalls that make bad crime fiction so frustrating. From predictable twists and lazy plotting to cartoonish villains and gratuitous violence, we break down the storytelling sins that take the thrill out of the thriller.

Why do so many detectives act like rogue vigilantes? Why do the police always seem incompetent? And why do some crime authors think endless shock value is a substitute for good storytelling?

We also explore what makes crime fiction so enduringly popular and why the best mysteries keep readers guessing while staying grounded in logic.

Whether you're a writer looking to avoid these mistakes or a reader who loves dissecting crime fiction, this episode is for you. Plus, we’ll discuss some of our favorite crime novels that get it right—and those that absolutely don’t.

Books mentioned in this episode:https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub/list/306DZ7VO5JVH2?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_54VJFF4BHP4260S3CHYY

Inkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.

The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!Inkspot Publishing Website: https://inkspotpublishing.com/Amazon Affiliate Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/inkspotpub?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_FCBRWQP5VFZXGXDTTN2B_1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkspotpub/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkspotpublishing/X: https://www.twitter.com/inkspotpub/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkspotpubLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkspot-publishing/posts/?feedView=allProduced and edited by Taryn de Meillon#IndieBookClub #BookPodcast #BookTube #ReadingCommunity #AmReading #FictionLover #Storytelling #LiteratureLover #Bookish #WritingCommunity #Novels #Bookstagram #PopCultureBooks #podcast #publishing #literature #freespeech