Well, 'The Age of Innocence' by Edith Wharton is an essential New York novel. It delves into the upper - class society of New York in the 19th century, exploring themes of love, social norms, and the restrictions placed on individuals. Then there's 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' by Betty Smith. It tells the story of a young girl growing up in the tenements of Brooklyn, which is an important part of the New York experience. And don't forget 'Native Son' by Richard Wright, which shows a different, more harrowing side of life in the city.
You can start by asking for recommendations from local librarians in New York. They are very knowledgeable about books related to the city. Another way is to look at best - seller lists from New York - based bookstores over the years. This can give you an idea of the novels that have been popular and might be considered essential.
One famous New York novel is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It vividly depicts the life of the wealthy in New York during the Jazz Age. Another is 'Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger, which shows the alienation of a young man in New York. 'Bonfire of the Vanities' by Tom Wolfe also gives a detailed look at different aspects of New York society.
One great New York novel is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It vividly portrays the wealth, decadence, and illusions of the Jazz Age in New York. Another is 'Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger, which gives a view of a young man's disillusionment with the adult world in the city. Also, 'Bonfire of the Vanities' by Tom Wolfe is a great exploration of power, race, and class in New York in the 1980s.
Some stories might be about the city's architecture. The New York Times could cover how old buildings are being renovated to preserve their historical value while also adapting to modern needs. There could be tales of famous landmarks, like the Empire State Building, and the people who work there or the events that take place there.
Definitely 'The Black Dahlia' by James Ellroy. Although it's based on a real - life crime in Los Angeles, Ellroy's writing style and the dark, seedy nature of the story can be compared to the gritty New York crime novels. 'Mystic River' by Dennis Lehane is also a great pick. Set in Boston, but with themes of crime, guilt, and redemption that are very relevant to the New York crime novel genre. And 'In the Woods' by Tana French is a psychological thriller that has some of the elements of a crime novel set in an urban environment like New York.
One characteristic could be the vivid description of the Upstate New York landscape. For example, the mountains, forests, and small towns are often depicted in great detail. Another might be the unique local cultures and traditions that are woven into the stories. Also, the characters in these novels may have a certain 'Upstate' sensibility, perhaps being more self - reliant or having a closer connection to nature.
They often depict the fast - paced life in New York. The city's skyscrapers, busy streets, and diverse neighborhoods are common settings. For example, in 'The Great Gatsby', though not strictly only about New York City, it shows the glamorous and sometimes seedy side of the city's high society that was centered in New York at that time.
Some great 'new york cop novels' include '87th Precinct' series by Ed McBain. It gives a detailed look at the police work in an urban setting like New York. Also, 'The Friends of Eddie Coyle' by George V. Higgins. It's a classic that delves into the underworld and the cops who try to keep it in check. 'The Power of the Dog' by Don Winslow is also notable as it shows the drug - related crimes and how the cops are dealing with them in New York.
One of the New York best selling novels is 'Where the Crawdads Sing'. It's a story full of mystery and nature's beauty. The protagonist's journey of survival and her connection with the marshlands make it a very engaging read.
One popular 'New York serial novel' could be 'The Age of Innocence' by Edith Wharton. It gives a vivid picture of the upper - class New York society in the 19th century, with its strict social norms and complex relationships.