The best short crime novels often have a strong opening to grab the reader's attention right away. For example, 'The Cask of Amontillado' starts with a sense of foreboding. They also usually have a cleverly crafted mystery. In 'Lamb to the Slaughter', the mystery lies in how the crime will be discovered. And most of them have a satisfying conclusion, like in 'The Speckled Band' where the mystery is fully resolved.
They often have a single, strong mystery at the core. Take 'The Tell - Tale Heart' by Poe. The entire story revolves around the mystery of the narrator's sanity and the hidden crime. There's not a lot of sub - plots to distract from the main mystery.
The best crime novels usually have a well - crafted mystery. For example, in 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris, the mystery of the serial killer's identity and motives keeps readers on the edge of their seats. It has a complex plot that unfolds gradually.
The best crime fiction short stories often have a strong sense of mystery. They draw readers in with an initial crime or strange situation. For example, in 'The Murders in the Rue Morgue', the brutal murders in a locked room create immediate intrigue. Also, they usually have interesting characters. In 'Lamb to the Slaughter', the seemingly gentle housewife who commits a crime is a very engaging character.
Typically, they have complex plots. For example, they often involve multiple suspects and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. The characters are well - developed, like the detectives or the criminals themselves. In many of these novels, the setting plays an important role, creating an atmosphere that can be dark, gritty or mysterious.
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.
Dark crime novels usually explore the darker aspects of human nature. They might deal with topics such as violence, greed, and corruption. Take 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler, it shows the seedy underbelly of society, with all its vices and crimes, and how the detective has to navigate through this murky world to solve the case.
Icelandic crime novels are known for their intricate plots. They usually involve a web of relationships and secrets. Since Iceland has a relatively small population, the idea that a crime could be committed by someone close by or within the community is a recurring theme. Also, the unique Icelandic mythology and folklore sometimes seep into the stories, adding an extra layer of mystery.
Well, the best latest crime novels often have complex characters. For example, the criminals are not just one - dimensional bad guys but have their own motives and backstories. In 'The Silent Patient', the main character's past traumas are key to understanding her actions.
The best African crime novels often have a strong sense of place. For example, they might vividly describe the bustling streets of Lagos or the rural landscapes of Kenya. This setting becomes an integral part of the crime story. They also tend to incorporate cultural elements. Like in many African cultures, there are certain social norms and taboos that play into the motives and actions of the characters involved in the crimes.
Well, many of the best Finnish crime novels often have a strong sense of place. They set the crime against the backdrop of Finland's unique landscapes, like its vast forests and cold winters. For example, in 'Purge', the setting plays a big role in the overall mood and the events that unfold.