Podcasts > NPR's Book of the Day > In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

By NPR (podcasts@npr.org)

In NPR's Book of the Day podcast, author Richard Osman delves into the inspiration behind his new detective novel "We Solve Murders." He explains his approach to character development, believing that multi-dimensional characters outweigh intricate plots in crafting an engaging murder mystery.

Osman introduces an unlikely detective duo in "We Solve Murders" — a bodyguard and her retired police officer father-in-law — who investigate the death of a social media influencer. The novel touches on modern themes like fame and social media while uniquely incorporating AI elements into the plot. Osman also discusses his penchant for elderly protagonists' fresh perspectives and his creative decision to launch a new series while staying true to the spirit of his beloved "Thursday Murder Club" novels.

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In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

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In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

1-Page Summary

Osman's Writing Style and Approach

According to Richard Osman, creating multi-dimensional characters is more crucial than weaving a complex plot in a murder mystery. Osman believes the driving force isn't the plot but the motivations of relatable characters, infusing his novels with authenticity from his own experiences.

New Characters and Plot in "We Solve Murders"

"We Solve Murders" introduces an unlikely detective duo: Amy, a bodyguard, and her father-in-law Steve, a retired police officer. The murder investigation involves an influential social media figure's death, exploring themes of fame and social media.

Use of Technology

Osman incorporates AI into the plot, with the killer using the ChatGPT chatbot to disguise their communications. Osman comments on how AI can "iron out" individual voice, suggesting human work retains nuance AI lacks.

Osman's Interest in Older Characters

Osman spotlights elderly protagonists who bring unique outlooks and wisdom. As Osman suggests, their liberation from societal expectations leads to humorous, unpredictable scenarios.

New Book Series

Eager to innovate, Osman launched "We Solve Murders" to explore new worlds and characters. Yet he envisions it coexisting in the vibrant universe of his "Thursday Murder Club" series, with a shared spirit and warmth.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While Osman prioritizes character development, some critics argue that a complex plot is equally important in a murder mystery to keep readers engaged and guessing.
  • Drawing from personal experience can add authenticity, but it may also limit the diversity of characters and scenarios an author portrays if they rely too heavily on what they know.
  • The concept of an unlikely detective duo is not new in mystery literature and may be seen as a trope unless given a fresh and innovative treatment.
  • Exploring themes of fame and social media through a murder mystery could be seen as opportunistic or superficial if not handled with depth and insight.
  • The use of AI like ChatGPT in the plot could be criticized for potentially oversimplifying the complexities of AI and its impact on communication and privacy.
  • The assertion that AI lacks nuance may be challenged as AI continues to advance and produce increasingly sophisticated and human-like outputs.
  • Focusing on elderly protagonists is commendable for diversity, but it could also be argued that this might not always lead to humor and unpredictability; it could reinforce stereotypes if not done thoughtfully.
  • Launching a new series to explore new worlds and characters is a creative endeavor, but it could be criticized if it seems like a mere extension of the "Thursday Murder Club" series without sufficient differentiation.
  • The idea of coexisting series sharing a spirit and warmth might be seen as formulaic if the new series does not establish its own distinct identity.

Actionables

  • You can develop your storytelling by writing short stories that focus on character development rather than complex plots, emphasizing the depth and relatability of characters. Start by creating characters based on people you know or aspects of yourself, and place them in simple scenarios that challenge their personalities and beliefs. This practice will help you understand how character-driven narratives work and improve your ability to create engaging characters in any creative endeavor.
  • Enhance your social media presence by creating content that reflects your personal experiences, mirroring the authenticity found in Osman's work. Begin by identifying moments or lessons from your life that resonate with you and consider how they could be shared in a way that adds value to your audience. This could be through storytelling posts, advice threads, or even sharing personal anecdotes that highlight your unique perspective.
  • Explore the wisdom of the older generation by starting conversations with elderly family members or community members, seeking their insights on various topics. Document these discussions, perhaps in a blog or a video series, to capture the humor and unpredictability that can arise, much like the elderly characters in Osman's novels. This not only helps preserve their stories but also provides you with a fresh perspective that can be applied to your personal or professional life.

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In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

Osman's writing style and approach to murder mysteries

Richard Osman, an author with a distinctive approach to the murder mystery genre, prioritizes the depth of his characters over the intricacy of his plots.

Osman views plot as secondary to character development in murder mysteries

Richard Osman believes that the driving force of a murder mystery isn't the plot itself but the characters and their motivations. According to Osman, creating realistic, multi-dimensional characters is more crucial than weaving an overly complex or fast-paced storyline. He concentrates on crafting individuals who readers can relate to, ensuring that their internal monologues are reflective of thoughts that the reader might share, rather than embodying pure, unpleasant evil.

Osman incorporates his own experiences and observations into his writing

Osman's extensive background in television production and comedy, along with his interactions across various social circles, furnish him with a rich repository of ideas and character archetypes. These experiences influence his narratives, allowing him to infuse his murder mystery novels with authentically drawn characters and scenarios that resonate with readers.

In his writing ...

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Osman's writing style and approach to murder mysteries

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While character depth is important, some readers and critics argue that a murder mystery's appeal often lies in its plot, and a weak or predictable plot can undermine even the most well-developed characters.
  • A complex storyline can be just as engaging as character development, and some of the most celebrated murder mysteries are plot-driven.
  • Incorporating personal experiences can enrich a narrative, but there's a risk of becoming too self-referential or less relatable to a diverse readership.
  • A background in television and comedy may not always translate to success in writing novels, as the mediums require different storytelling techniques.
  • Realistic, multi-dimensional characters are crucial, but without a strong plot, they may not have a meaningful stage to showcase their complexity.
  • While avoiding pure evil or good characters can add depth, sometimes clear moral distinctions can provide clarity and satisfaction in a murder mystery.
  • Grounding murder mysteries i ...

Actionables

  • You can deepen your understanding of people by observing their behavior in various situations and noting down your observations in a journal. This practice will help you recognize the complexity of human behavior, similar to how Osman's characters exhibit shades of morality. For example, while sitting in a café, observe how a person treats the staff or reacts to a spilled drink. Write down not only what they do but also consider why they might behave that way, considering factors like their mood, company, or the time of day.
  • Start a creative writing project where you focus on developing one character in depth rather than plotting a complex story. Begin by creating a character profile that includes their background, interests, and quirks. Then, write short scenes placing this character in different scenarios, exploring how they react and grow. This could be as simple as how they handle receiving bad news or their thought process when choosing a gift for a friend. The goal is to understand the character fully, not to weave an intricate plot.
  • Engage in role-playing exercises with friends where each p ...

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In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

The new characters and plot of "We Solve Murders"

Richard Osman's "We Solve Murders" introduces an intriguing and unlikely detective duo composed of Amy, a bodyguard, and her father-in-law Steve, a retired police officer.

"We Solve Murders" introduces a new detective duo of Amy, a bodyguard, and her father-in-law Steve, a retired police officer

Osman wanted to bring a fresh perspective to the detective genre by creating a team with distinct professional backgrounds and life experiences — Amy Wheeler from a bodyguard agency called Maximum Impact Solutions, and her father-in-law, Steve Wheeler, a former London cop. The charming Steve is coaxed back into the crime-fighting life by Amy when several of her firm's clients face danger from a crafty villain.

Initially conceived as a story of just Amy and Steve, Osman's narrative evolved to include Rosie D'Antonia, a vibrant character reminiscent of the Jackie Collins of crime fiction. Osman found Rosie's character so compelling that she became a pivotal part of the trio's investigative team.

The murder investigation in "We Solve Murders" involves the death of an inf ...

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The new characters and plot of "We Solve Murders"

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Actionables

  • You can explore the dynamics of unconventional partnerships by teaming up with someone from a different professional background on a small project. For instance, if you're a writer, partner with a graphic designer to create a visual story, combining narrative and visual elements to see how different skills enhance the outcome.
  • Dive into the world of amateur sleuthing by starting a book club focused on detective novels, where each member assumes a character role. This could be a fun way to engage with the genre, as you'll not only discuss the book but also role-play the investigation, offering a deeper understanding of character dynamics.
  • Reflect on the impact of social media o ...

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In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

The use of technology in the book

In "We Solve Murders," author Richard Osman utilizes cutting-edge artificial intelligence in the core of the book's suspenseful plot.

The killer in "We Solve Murders" uses the AI chatbot ChatGPT to disguise their communications

The narrative reveals an ingenious use of AI by the supervillain. The killer employs the AI chatbot ChatGPT, cheekily referred to as Chatcheaputee, to mask their identity. This is done through requests that all their email communications and phone conversations be filtered through the AI to adopt the persona of an English gentleman, consequently smoothing out any idiosyncrasies that could betray their true identity. Osman incorporates this concept of AI-generated content to add an innovative technological twist to the murder mystery plot, making the killer's identity more elusive and difficult for the reader to deduce.

Osman comments on how AI can "iron out" individual personality and voice

Further commenting on the implications of AI in creative processes, Osman observes the potential of AI to "iron out" individua ...

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The use of technology in the book

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • AI-generated content can enhance human creativity rather than replace it, offering new forms of collaboration between humans and machines.
  • The use of AI like ChatGPT in storytelling could be seen as a reflection of contemporary society and its technological advancements, rather than a mere tool to make a character's identity elusive.
  • AI has the potential to mimic individual personality and voice to a high degree of accuracy, which could challenge Osman's observation about the "ironing out" of individuality.
  • The uniqueness of AI-generated content could be argued as a new form of nuance, with its own set of characteristics that differentiate it from human-written work.
  • The use of AI in creative processes might not necessarily limit personal expression but could provide a different medium through which individual characteristics are ...

Actionables

  • Explore the potential of AI in creative writing by using an AI chatbot to draft a short story, then edit it to add your own voice and style. This helps you understand the difference between AI-generated content and human creativity. Start by giving the AI a plot outline and see what it comes up with, then refine the characters, dialogue, and descriptions to inject your personal touch.
  • Experiment with digital personas by creating a character using an AI chatbot, and then write a series of letters or diary entries from their perspective. This can give you insight into how AI can be used to create complex characters and also the limitations in capturing human nuances. Choose different traits for your character and see how well the AI can maintain the persona over multiple interactions.
  • Analyze the uniqueness of ...

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In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

Osman's interest in older characters and their perspectives

Osman has a particular affinity for creating older characters within his narratives, valuing the unique perspectives they offer as individuals often overlooked or underestimated by society.

Osman enjoys writing about characters who are often overlooked or underestimated by society

In his work, such as the "Thursday Murder Club" series, Osman spotlights elderly protagonists who bring a wealth of life experience and a unique outlook. He admires his older characters' ability to use their understanding and wisdom against a world that often underestimates them, allowing them to approach problems in innovative and unconventional ways.

Osman's older characters are often unencumbered by societal expectations

Osman's senior characters display a liber ...

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Osman's interest in older characters and their perspectives

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While Osman values older characters for their unique perspectives, it could be argued that focusing predominantly on older characters might limit the diversity of perspectives in his narratives, as it may not fully represent the broader spectrum of experiences across different age groups.
  • The portrayal of older characters as often overlooked or underestimated by society might reinforce certain stereotypes, rather than challenging them, if not handled with nuance and depth.
  • The idea that older characters can use their wisdom and understanding against societal underestimation might be overly idealistic, as it doesn't account for the real-world challenges and systemic issues faced by the elderly.
  • The notion that senior characters are unencumbered by societal expectations could be seen as a romanticized view of aging, which might not resonate with all readers, especially those who are aware of the complexities and difficulties that come with old age.
  • The humor ...

Actionables

  • You can start a journal where you document stories and insights from the elderly in your community, capturing their unique perspectives and life experiences. By engaging in conversations with older individuals, you can record their anecdotes, wisdom, and the ways they navigate societal expectations. This not only preserves their stories but also provides you with a rich source of learning and reflection.
  • Create a photo essay or blog that showcases the lives and stories of older individuals, focusing on their independence, humor, and indifference to societal expectations. Through photography and narrative, you can highlight the dynamism and unpredictability of their daily lives, celebrating their contributions and challenging common stereotypes.
  • Volunteer at a local senior center or nursing home with t ...

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In 'We Solve Murders,' Richard Osman introduces a new detective trio

Osman's decision to start a new book series

Richard Osman expresses enthusiasm for creating new literary worlds with fresh characters, leading to the birth of the "We Solve Murders" series.

Osman wanted to create new worlds and introduce readers to new characters

With a fervent need to expand his creative horizons and explore different storytelling avenues, Osman decided to launch the "We Solve Murders" series. This ambition comes alongside his already successful "Thursday Murder Club" series. Eager to innovate within his writing, Osman remarks that you want to introduce people to new friends as an author. It gives him great joy to work with a slightly different palette and discover a new world filled with humor.

Osman sees the new series as coexisting in the same narrative universe as the "Thursday Murder Club"

Richard Osman envisions the "We Solve Murders" series as existing within ...

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Osman's decision to start a new book series

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Clarifications

  • The interconnected narrative landscape between Richard Osman's "Thursday Murder Club" and "We Solve Murders" series means that the stories and characters from both series coexist within the same fictional world. This connection allows for potential crossovers, shared locations, and thematic consistency between the two series. Readers may encounter familiar elements, such as settings or recurring characters, that bridge the narratives ...

Actionables

  • You can start a creative journal to explore and develop your own fictional universe, jotting down ideas for characters and settings daily. By dedicating time each day to expand on these ideas, you'll gradually build a rich, interconnected world, much like Osman's narrative universe. For example, if you imagine a character who's a baker by day and detective by night, write about their daily life, their friends, and how they stumble upon mysteries.
  • Experiment with writing short stories that share a common theme or moral lesson to create your thematic continuity. Choose a theme that resonates with you, like the importance of community or the resilience of the human spirit, and craft stories that subtly convey this message. For instance, you could write a series of stories set in different locations but all highlighting the power of kindness.
  • Engage with a friend or family member in a collaborative storytelling ...

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