How important is the setting or time period to everyone?

[M.P. VandenBerg]

I would love to read a crime novel that takes place in Medieval times (Thieves Guild Skyrim baby). All the other concepts are too iconic. Sci-fi investigation is a genre in itself, and as it's been said above, the criminals will bend technology to create new crimes and usually requires a load of planning and thought.

You need to ask yourself what genre you want to do and whether you want to focus on a character/plot-driven story, or technology/society one. Working on your characters might make it more obvious. Keep in mind (as I'm sure you're aware) Medieval era might require a ton of research.

Why not the alternate universe?

 

[Christine Wheelwright]

I would love to read a crime novel that takes place in Medieval times (Thieves Guild Skyrim baby). All the other concepts are too iconic. Sci-fi investigation is a genre in itself, and as it's been said above, the criminals will bend technology to create new crimes and usually requires a load of planning and thought.

You need to ask yourself what genre you want to do and whether you want to focus on a character/plot-driven story, or technology/society one. Working on your characters might make it more obvious. Keep in mind (as I'm sure you're aware) Medieval era might require a ton of research.

Why not the alternate universe?

The Name of the Rose springs to mind. And the Cadfael Chronicles (although I haven't read those, so can't give an opinion). I'm working on a historical novel myself, so I can attest to the immense amount of research required.

 

[sknox]

Brother Cadfael is a great character, and Ellis Peters knew her time period well. I would recommend these stories to anyone.

 

[Montero]

Seconded on Brother Cadfael.