They typically had complex characters. The police protagonists were not always perfect heroes. They might have their own vices or moral dilemmas. This added a sense of realism to the stories. Moreover, the criminals were also well - developed, with their own motives and backstories that were gradually revealed throughout the novels.
The plots were often convoluted. There were multiple sub - plots involving different aspects of crime such as murder, theft, and corruption. These novels also often reflected the social and political climate of the 1940s. Racism and class differences were sometimes themes that were intertwined with the crime stories, showing how these factors could contribute to criminal behavior or the way the police handled cases.
One characteristic could be the gritty and noir atmosphere. The settings were often dark, seedy urban areas. For example, in many of these novels, the police officers had to deal with organized crime syndicates that held a lot of power in the cities.
They often feature tough and gritty detectives. For example, in many of these novels, the main characters are jaded police officers dealing with the seedy underbelly of society during that era.
Often, they feature the unique Dublin setting. The city's streets, neighborhoods, and its distinct culture play a big role. For example, in many novels, the local pubs are not just places for characters to gather but also key to the plot as they can be places where clues are shared or suspects lurk.
They often feature strong cultural elements. Native American beliefs, traditions, and values are deeply intertwined with the police work in the novels. For example, in Hillerman's works, the Navajo way of life affects how the police officers approach crimes and interact with the community.
Most police officers in crime novels are morally upright. They uphold the law and are committed to justice. However, some novels also explore the grey areas of their morality, like in 'True Detective' where the main characters have their own demons and flaws. They are also resourceful. They know how to use the tools at their disposal, whether it's forensic evidence or informants. They can also be intuitive, having a gut feeling about a case or a suspect that often leads them in the right direction.
They usually feature complex characters. The police officers themselves can be flawed individuals with personal problems, like in some novels where an officer is dealing with a troubled family life while trying to solve a high - profile case. This adds depth to the story.
In new American crime novels, the writing style can be very descriptive. It helps to create a vivid picture of the crime scenes and the environments. The dialogue is also crucial, as it gives insights into the characters' personalities. Authors may use a lot of slang or local dialects to make the characters seem more authentic.
One characteristic is their fast - paced plots. Since they are short, they need to quickly draw the reader in and keep the action going. For example, in 'The Postman Always Rings Twice', the affair and the murder plot start right away. Another characteristic is the often - noir atmosphere. These novels usually depict a seedy side of American life, like in 'Double Indemnity' where the characters are involved in a sordid insurance fraud - murder scheme. Also, they tend to have complex characters with hidden motives. In 'A Simple Plan', the main character's seemingly simple discovery quickly reveals his complex and dark desires.
American noir crime novels typically have a moody atmosphere. They're known for their complex and often flawed protagonists. These novels may explore themes such as greed, power, and the human capacity for evil. The plotlines can be convoluted, with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader on edge.
Often, they feature young protagonists like kids or teens as the detectives. For example, in 'The Hardy Boys', Frank and Joe are teenagers. This makes it easier for young readers to identify with the characters.
They also tend to explore the immigrant experience. Korean American crime novels may show how the characters' immigrant status affects their relationship with the law, both as victims and perpetrators. There could be themes of discrimination or misunderstanding due to cultural differences.