Includes bibliographical references (pages 123-130) and index.
Contents:
Origins -- The two ages : golden and hard-boiled -- Transitions -- International crime fiction -- Gender -- Spy fiction, the thriller and legal drama -- Can crime fiction be taken seriously?
Summary:
"Tells the story of the developing genre of crime fiction, from its 18th century origins in Britain to its contemporary international scope. Ranging from drawing-room murder mysteries to spy fiction, legal dramas, and thrillers, Bradford explores the conventions of the genre, and considers how crime writers have worked to escape the limitations it places on them."--Front flap
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.