Quote:
Originally Posted by avantman42
I think pdurrant has raised a valid point. BearMountainBooks said:
I've read plenty of thrillers that include detailed descriptions of how characters pick locks, or turn everyday objects into improvised weapons. They aren't how-to manuals, but they could certainly be described as containing clear instructions/tips for how to commit certain crimes.
I thought the problem books were extreme erotica books, ones that possibly contravened the Obscene Publications Acts.
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But those books do not exist SOLELY for scintillation. I am not familiar with the way the law is stated in any particular country, but I know they exist and the line has something to do with whether or not the books exist to scintillate, teach, etc versus a mention in a plot line. That is not to say that some of the books you're talking about don't cross the legal line. (And I'm not saying they do either.) But as part of a mystery or thriller they are far less likely to get the attention of authorities looking to shut down material that helps people with illegal activities (luring children, seducing underaged partners, torture methods that end in death or disfigurement, etc.)
In another conversation (offline and I won't repeat all of it) there was supposedly a book found on Amazon that was showing up under Children's reading that contained inappropriate photos that *could* have been underaged children. The author apparently assumed that since an actual age wasn't given, such pictures would be considered legal.