Discovering The Essence Of A True Crime Novel

By Jose Barnes


When it comes to books, there are a variety of different genres. In the case of a True Crime Novel, the publication is often focused on one particularly interesting story. While stories vary, most often those put into this format are related to well known kidnappings, murders and other events which an audience may find interesting.

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.

Writers often determine the essence of the story. For some, adhering to the facts of a case is more important than characterization. Whereas, others can be speculative and written from the view of an onlooker. In either case, it is important that the facts of the case remain the same as the original.

In all cases, it is important to research and understand the facts before writing or publishing a book related to the event. There are other authors whom write about crimes which were either historic in nature or created a precedent. For example, books related to assassinations of presidents and other individuals. Whether these individuals are known as authors or historians, it is even more important that details of which these individuals write be true and accurate.

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.

The most exciting books of this nature are often considered those which detail first hand accounts of a crime. In addition, when a court case has ensured and a sentence has been handed down, it is important that those details be included in as interesting a way as possible. For, when readers can put oneself in the court along with the perpetrator and victim, the story becomes even more interesting to the reader.

Sensationalizing crimes has long been a controversial topic. As to whether a book sensationalizes a crime, or merely tells the fact is something to be considered. In addition, it should be noted that in some cases, the individuals charged with a crime have later been found innocent.

While there are some well known true crime publications, there are also those which are lesser known. Basically, if a story is based on an actual crime then it is considered non-fiction. Whereas, if there are modifications which change the facts of a case, then those books are often considered to be fiction based on a true story.




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