"The relationship between myth and fairytale and current novels featuring women as crime-solvers is examined in this work. Using theories from Jung, Joseph Campbell and others, the author finds that the plots and imagery of these novels conform to quest narratives outlined in classical myths and traditional fairytales.".

"Narcissus, Medusa, Orpheus and Orestes are a few of the figures re-emerging in today's mystery fiction. Among the mystery authors discussed are Patricia Cornwell, Amanda Cross, Sue Grafton, P. D. James, Sara Paretsky and Julie Smith. After establishing the anatomy of a mystery in Chapter One, the work covers many myths, rituals and rites associated with mysteries, including myths of identity and religion, and rites of initiation."--BOOK JACKET.