At the authors panel I attended earlier this month, we were asked why we had chosen to write mysteries in a specific era.
There are
several reasons why I chose the 1950s, not all of them very interesting. But in short, it’s an era that had more colorful charm than grizzly forensics. Since I’m all about the puzzle of a good mystery, that works well for me. The 1950s had great fashion, textures, music, and it was a complicated time socially as everyone tried to create a normal — better — life after the war. Basically, there’s a lot for me to work with.
The challenge is the era’s rampant sexism and racism. Not a good thing. And while I’m not a huge history buff, I can’t simply gloss over the pieces I don’t like. Of course, I’m writing murder mysteries not social historical commentary, but I really do try to use social accuracy to enhance the story and the mystery part of the adventure, without making it so central as to distract the audience. (And I sincerely hope I’m doing a good job.)
After all, we’re reading mysteries to enjoy ourselves.
Jennifer Berg, Historical Mystery Author 
Hi Jennifer. I admire that you’ve written a historical novel. I think there is so much more research involved than what I write.
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I didn’t really think of it as historical because it’s not that far back. I just figured it was a little less contemporary. I was actually surprised when the conference placed me on the “historical mystery” panel. But now that I’ve thought about it, there really is a big difference. Lots of people are only interested in books set in current settings. It’s true that there is research involved, but not that much, after all the 1950s aren’t that far back 😉
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Hi Jennifer. That’s really interesting. I think even 20 years back would be hard because of all the technology changes etc. I love to read any time setting. It’s always fun to think about the differences.
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