Why do readers find comfort in stories about murder and mystery? At Sharjah International Book Fair 2026, Egyptian novelist Noha Dawood and British author Clare Mackintosh explained how crime fiction offers readers suspense, emotional connection and a sense of justice while exploring the complicated choices people make.
SHARJAH: Why do millions of readers enjoy stories about crime, murder and mystery? At Sharjah International Book Fair 2026, two celebrated authors revealed that the appeal of crime fiction goes far beyond solving puzzles, offering readers emotional satisfaction, moral reflection and the possibility of justice.
Egyptian novelist Noha Dawood and British bestselling author Clare Mackintosh discussed the psychology behind the genre during a session titled ‘Why Does the Whole World Read Crime?’, moderated by Mohammed Al Attar.
The discussion formed part of the fair’s Thriller Festival, bringing together international authors to explore suspense, storytelling and human behaviour.
Why do crime novels make readers feel comfortable?
According to Dawood, mystery novels offer something everyday life often cannot guarantee: clear answers and a sense of closure.
“Crime novels usually end with us knowing who the killer is and seeing justice achieved,” she said.
“They give us an ending that we may not always find in our daily lives.”
She explained that following clues and attempting to identify the culprit keeps readers mentally engaged while encouraging them to understand human motivations.
Why do good characters make bad decisions?
For Mackintosh, compelling crime fiction depends on exploring the complicated relationship between right and wrong.
“What I like to write about is the way that good people do bad things, and sometimes bad people do good things,” she said.
The British novelist emphasised that even the most exciting storyline cannot succeed without believable characters.
Readers must care about the people involved, understand their motivations and feel emotionally invested in their journeys.
Dawood agreed, explaining that authors must understand even morally questionable characters without forcing readers towards particular judgments.
The mystery becomes a game between writer and reader
Mackintosh compared writing thrillers to playing a strategic game with the audience.
“Every time I write a book, I’m playing a game of chase, of cat and mouse, with the reader,” she said.
She explained that writers provide clues while carefully influencing assumptions, encouraging readers to reach conclusions that unexpected developments may challenge.
Dawood described a similar approach, where revealing information gradually allows audiences to become investigators themselves.
Does justice always mean a happy ending?
Drawing on her 12 years of policing experience, Mackintosh highlighted the difference between solving a case and achieving emotional closure.
She explained that the consequences of crime continue affecting victims, offenders and families long after legal proceedings conclude.
Impact to expect
Discussions like these at Sharjah Book Fair could encourage more readers to explore mystery and thriller literature while helping aspiring authors understand character development and storytelling. They also strengthen Sharjah’s position as a platform for international literary dialogue.
