A great crime drama novel should also have a satisfying conclusion. It doesn't have to be a happy ending, but it should tie up the loose ends and make sense of all the mystery and intrigue that has been built up throughout the story. For instance, in 'Sherlock Holmes' stories, Holmes always manages to solve the mystery in a logical and satisfying way.
The settings in French crime drama novels are often very atmospheric. They can be set in the narrow, cobbled streets of Paris or in the quiet French countryside. This setting adds to the overall mood of mystery and suspense. Also, the plots are usually full of twists and turns. Just when you think you've figured it out, there's a new development that throws you off track.
Well - developed characters are crucial. You often have a detective or an investigator with their own quirks and backstories. For example, Sherlock Holmes is a famous character in crime drama novels. His brilliant mind and unique personality are part of what makes those stories so great. And the villains are also complex, not just one - dimensional bad guys.
Well - developed characters are also important. In 'The Silence of the Lambs', the characters of Clarice Starling and Hannibal Lecter are very vivid. Their interactions drive the story forward. Additionally, a good crime novel often has a tense atmosphere that keeps readers hooked throughout.
Good teen crime novels often have relatable teen characters. For example, in 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night - Time', the main character is a teen with Asperger's syndrome, and his unique perspective adds depth to the crime - solving process. They also usually have an engaging mystery. Like in 'Holes', the mystery of the past events at the detention center keeps readers hooked. And they may have some moral lessons, such as in 'The Westing Game' where the characters learn about greed and justice while solving the mystery.
Well - crafted mysteries often have a unique setting. It can add to the atmosphere of the story. For instance, in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', the moors create a spooky and mysterious backdrop. And the solution to the mystery should be both unexpected and satisfying, like in many of Agatha Christie's works.
They often have a dark and moody atmosphere, which is influenced by the long, cold Swedish winters. For example, in many novels, the desolate landscapes and the gloomy weather seem to mirror the dark nature of the crimes.
Good recent crime novels often have complex characters. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the characters are far from one - dimensional, with their own motives and secrets that drive the plot. Another characteristic is a strong sense of place. In 'The Girl on the Train', the setting of the train journey and the surrounding areas play an important role in building the atmosphere of mystery. Also, they usually have unexpected twists. Just like in 'The Silent Patient', the ending is something that most readers don't see coming.
The romantic aspect is also crucial. It can range from a sweet, budding love to a complex, passionate and often troubled relationship. In 'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides, the relationship between the therapist and the patient has elements of both romance and mystery as the therapist tries to uncover the truth about the patient's crime while developing an inappropriate attraction to her.
Good modern crime novels often have complex and unpredictable plots. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the story keeps changing directions, making it hard for the reader to guess what will happen next.
A sense of atmosphere is important too. Whether it's the seedy underbelly of a big city or a small - town mystery, the setting should enhance the mood of the story. Like in Raymond Chandler's works, the noir atmosphere of 1940s Los Angeles is palpable.