There's James Patterson. He has written numerous detective novels with fast - paced plots and engaging characters. Also, Karin Slaughter. Her books often deal with dark and gritty crime scenarios. Patterson's Alex Cross series, for example, has been extremely popular. The character is a detective who faces all kinds of dangerous criminals. Karin Slaughter's novels are known for their in - depth exploration of the criminal mind and the often - disturbing crime scenes she depicts.
Many people like Agatha Christie, although she was from an earlier era, her influence is still strong in modern detective novels. In more contemporary times, we have authors like Michael Connelly. His detective Harry Bosch has become a well - loved character. Then there's Patricia Cornwell. Her Kay Scarpetta series is very popular. These authors bring different styles to the genre. Connelly's stories are often set in the real - world context of Los Angeles, with a focus on police procedures. Cornwell's novels are known for their forensic details, as her main character is a forensic pathologist.
Lee Child is a well - known author in this genre. His Jack Reacher series features a tough and resourceful ex - military detective who travels around solving crimes. And then there's Karin Slaughter, whose novels often deal with gritty and disturbing crimes while also exploring the personal lives of the investigators.
Well, there was also Ed McBain. His 87th Precinct series was very popular during the 1960s. He focused on the police procedural aspect of detective work, showing how the cops worked together to solve crimes. And Raymond Chandler's influence still lingered in the 1960s, with his hard - boiled detective style inspiring many new authors to create tough - as - nails detectives in their novels.
Steven Saylor is quite popular. His Gordianus series is set in ancient Rome and offers great detective stories. He does a good job of recreating the Roman atmosphere.
Richard Montanari is a popular author. His works often involve detective stories set in Philadelphia. His writing style is engaging and his characters are well - developed.
There might be emerging authors in Barbados who are starting to make a name for themselves in the detective novel genre. They bring fresh perspectives, often focusing on modern - day issues in Barbados while still maintaining the traditional mystery elements.
Dashiell Hammett is a popular name in this genre. His 'The Thin Man' is a great example of detective comedy. He was able to create a detective story with a lot of witty dialogue. Another author is Lisa Lutz. In her 'The Spellman Files' series, she writes about a family of detectives with a very humorous take on detective work. The family dynamics are both comical and interesting for readers.
China Miéville is a well - known author in this area. His works often blend strange and unique settings with detective - like plots. His use of language and his ability to create truly otherworldly dieselpunk environments make his novels stand out.
Dennis Lehane is a very popular author of Boston detective novels. His works like 'Mystic River' and 'The Given Day' are highly regarded.
Sebastian Fitzek is a popular author. His works often delve deep into the psychological aspects of crime and detection, making for gripping reads.
Raymond Chandler is a very popular author. His works often feature hard - boiled detective characters dealing with shadowy underworlds and complex mysteries.