There are many. For example, 'The Black Echo' by Michael Connelly. It's about a detective named Harry Bosch who investigates a murder case. It's a great start to the Bosch series. Then there's 'Before I Go to Sleep' by S. J. Watson. It's a unique take on a police - like investigation as the main character has amnesia and is trying to figure out things from her past which may be related to a crime. 'The Snowman' by Jo Nesbø is also a best seller in this genre, full of suspense and mystery surrounding a serial killer's actions.
I would recommend 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' by Alexander McCall Smith. It's a great starting point for those new to police procedural fiction. The stories are set in Botswana and feature Precious Ramotswe, a female detective. The writing is accessible and the cases are often more about the human side of things rather than overly complex and gory crime scenes.
Some great best seller police procedural fictions are 'The Reversal' by Michael Connelly. His books often center around his detective characters like Harry Bosch. 'In the Woods' by Tana French is also popular. It has a really engaging story about a detective trying to solve a mystery that is linked to his own past. And 'The Wire in the Blood' by Val McDermid, which has interesting police characters and complex criminal cases.
Sure. 'Presumed Innocent' by Scott Turow is excellent. It's about a prosecutor who becomes the prime suspect in a murder case within his own office. It shows the inner workings of the legal and police systems in a very engaging way.
Agatha Christie's 'Miss Marple' series can also be considered in a sense. Although not exactly the same as modern police procedurals, Miss Marple uses her shrewd observations and knowledge of human nature to solve crimes in her village and beyond. Her methods are unique and the stories are always full of charm and mystery.
Definitely 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex plot with journalist Mikael Blomkvist and the hacker Lisbeth Salander investigating a decades - old disappearance. The story delves deep into family secrets and corporate corruption.
One of the best is 'Gorky Park' by Martin Cruz Smith. It has a great plot set in Moscow, with detailed police work. The main character, Arkady Renko, is a complex and engaging detective. Another good one is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It's not just about catching a serial killer but also about the psychological aspects involved. And 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson is also a great police procedural novel with a strong female lead, Lisbeth Salander, who helps in solving a complex mystery.
A great best seller police procedural novel often has a unique setting. For instance, 'In the Woods' is set in a small Irish town, which gives it a distinct atmosphere. The element of mystery is crucial. In many of these novels, there are hidden clues and secrets that the reader tries to uncover along with the characters. And the character development can't be overlooked. In 'Before I Go to Sleep', the main character's struggle with amnesia and her journey to discover the truth about herself and a possible crime makes the story very engaging. Also, the way the novels often deal with human nature, both the good and the bad, makes them popular.
The 'Agatha Raisin' series by M.C. Beaton is also a great start. Although Agatha isn't a police officer, she often gets involved in police - related mysteries in a small English village. The novels are light - hearted and easy to read, which can be perfect for those new to the genre. They also give a taste of the British countryside and its idiosyncrasies.
Sure. 'The Ruth Galloway' series by Elly Griffiths is excellent. Ruth is an archaeologist who often gets involved with police investigations. The books blend archaeology with crime - solving in a really interesting way.
One great police procedural novel is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It features the brilliant and terrifying character Hannibal Lecter and the intense investigation led by Clarice Starling.