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Some people scorn the idea of niceness. These people probably do not read, and certainly should not try to write, cozy mysteries.

The skepticism or scorn toward the idea of niceness often stems from a variety of perceptions and experiences. Here are a few reasons why some people might view niceness with a critical eye:

Perceived Inauthenticity:Some people equate niceness with a lack of authenticity, suspecting that nice gestures or polite behavior are performed out of obligation or a desire to manipulate, rather than from genuine kindness.

Association with Weakness:Niceness is sometimes mistakenly seen as a sign of weakness or lack of assertiveness. In cultures that highly value competitiveness and strength, being nice might be viewed as a lack of ambition or resolve.

Fear of Exploitation:There’s a concern that being nice makes one vulnerable to being taken advantage of. This perspective is particularly prevalent in environments where trust is low, and there’s a high emphasis on self-protection.

Overemphasis on Niceness:When people prioritize being nice over being honest or direct, it can lead to situations where important issues are glossed over or not addressed. This can create frustration among those who value transparency and straightforwardness.

Cynicism:In a world where people are often exposed to negative news and experiences, some develop a cynical view toward acts of kindness, questioning the motives behind them or dismissing them as naïve.

Cultural Differences:What is considered nice behavior in one culture might not be viewed the same way in another. This can lead to misunderstandings or a devaluation of niceness as people navigate different cultural norms.

I know. It’s a lot of analysis for something you’re pretty sure you already understand. But it is relevant because if you’re writing a gay cozy mystery, there’s a high probability you’re going to be writing a gay male protagonist, which means your protagonist is going to be the dreaded Nice Guy.

The term “nice guy” has become a pejorative for men who claim to be nice but feel entitled to romantic or sexual attention because of their niceness. This has led some to be wary of those who overtly emphasize their own niceness. It also, historically, refers to guys who are decent but dull as ditchwater. Nice guys usually don’t get the girls (or boys). Bad Boys are typically romantic leads.

Is there anything more damning than to be dismissed as “nice enough”?

Despite these perspectives, it’s important to recognize that genuine kindness and consideration for others are valued across many cultures and communities. The key distinction often lies in the authenticity of one’s actions and the balance between being nice and maintaining other important values, such as honesty and integrity.

Now, back to world-building.

Your nice guys (and gals) live in nice places.

The ideal setting for a cozy mystery plays a crucial role in setting the tone and atmosphere of the story.

While the “ideal” can vary depending on the story’s specific needs and the author’s vision, certain elements are commonly found in successful cozy mystery settings that contribute to the genre’s charm and appeal. Some of this is liable to feel repetitive because we’ve already talked a lot about community and place, but here are some of the things that you’ll want to take into account when deciding where to set your cozy mystery:

Small Town or Close-Knit Community:Part of why you want to set your story in a close-knit community where everyone knows each other is because it allows the amateur sleuth to use personal relationships to gather clues. It also heightens the tension when the suspect is someone well-known to the protagonist and the community. We just don’t expect people we know, andespeciallypeople we like, to commit murder.

Quaint and Picturesque:The setting often has a quaint, picturesque quality that gives readers a kind of staycation vibe. Think charming villages, coastal towns, or idyllic countryside locations. The beauty and tranquility of the setting contrast with the crime, adding an element of armchair travel as well as depth to the story.

Unique or Niche Setting:A setting that revolves around a particular hobby, occupation, or interest can add flavor to a cozy mystery. For example, a bookstore, bakery, winery, or antique shop not only provides a backdrop for the story but also weaves in thematic elements related to the setting. But so does setting your story in Chinatown or on an archeological site or in a theme park.

Isolated or Contained:Settings that isolate the characters, such as a manor house during a storm, a cruise ship, or an island resort, can ramp up the suspense. The isolation not only means the suspect is likely among the known characters, but also that it’s going to be very difficult to get any help from the outside world, which intensifies the mystery.

Historical or Cultural Richness:A setting with historical significance or cultural richness can add layers to the narrative, allowing the mystery to delve into past events, local legends, or cultural customs that play into the plot. Think Mystic Seaport or Williamsburg Historic Area or South Park City.

A Sense of Community:Beyond the physical location, the ideal setting for a cozy mystery includes a strong sense of community. This might mean festivals, local traditions, or communal activities that bring characters together and provide opportunities for the sleuth to investigate.

Charm with a Dash of Mystery:Ultimately, the setting should have a certain charm that entices readers, combined with an undercurrent of mystery or secrets. This balance keeps readers engaged, both by the allure of the setting and the intrigue of the unfolding mystery.

An ideal cozy mystery setting is one that serves as more than just a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right, contributing to the story’s mood, providing clues, and influencing the characters’ actions and interactions. The choice of setting can significantly impact the story’s dynamics, making it a critical element in crafting a compelling cozy mystery.

Can a cozy mystery take place in the middle of Manhattan? Sure! Take a look atOnly Murders in the Building.

While the Arconia sits in the middle of one of the largest and busiest cities in the world, all the real action and excitement take place between those four—well, however many—apartment walls. The crimes are small and intimate, as is the cast of suspects and sleuths.

While the charm of cozy mysteries often lies in their settings, some locales have become particularly popular—so much so that they might be considered overused by some readers and writers.

That said, they’re popular for a reason:

Small English Village:The quintessential cozy mystery setting, popularized by Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple series. Its charm and quaintness are undeniable, but it’s been used extensively.

Quaint Seaside Towns:These offer picturesque settings and a tight-knit community feel, but they’re a common choice for many cozy series, especially those with themes of hidden treasures or maritime mysteries.