New Orleans' history of crime and corruption also features prominently. There have been real - life events like the mob activity in the past. In fiction novels, this can be exaggerated or used as inspiration. So you might have a story where the protagonist is trying to solve a crime that is linked to an old - time New Orleans crime syndicate. The city's past also includes disasters like floods, which can be used to create a sense of chaos and danger in the story.
New Orleans thriller novels are special because of the diverse characters that inhabit the city in these stories. You have the mix of different ethnicities, from Creole to Cajun, and people with different beliefs. For example, in many novels, the characters' knowledge of voodoo adds an element of the unknown and the supernatural to the thrillers. Also, the city's architecture, with its old mansions and narrow alleys, provides a perfect backdrop for suspense and mystery. It's like the city itself becomes a character in the story.
Another good choice is 'Garden District Gothic' by Greg Herren. It combines the unique charm and spooky elements of New Orleans, presenting a story filled with mystery, danger and unexpected twists.
One great New Orleans thriller novel is 'The Neon Rain' by James Lee Burke. It features detective Dave Robicheaux and the seedy, yet alluring, underbelly of New Orleans.
Well, one characteristic is the rich setting. New Orleans has a unique atmosphere with its French Quarter, jazz music, and voodoo culture. These elements often feature prominently in New Orleans novels, adding an air of mystery and allure. Another aspect is the diverse characters. You can find characters from different ethnic backgrounds, like Creole and Cajun, which reflects the city's multicultural heritage.
Characteristics of great New Orleans novels include a strong sense of place. The humid climate, the Mississippi River, and the city's famous cemeteries are often described in detail. The novels also tend to explore the complex social hierarchies that have existed in the city, from the wealthy plantation owners' descendants to the working - class people. And the city's history of voodoo and mystery often adds an element of the supernatural to the stories. For instance, in 'Interview with the Vampire', the New Orleans setting is perfect for the vampire lore, with its shadowy alleys and old mansions.
One of the best is 'A Confederacy of Dunces' by John Kennedy Toole. It vividly portrays the unique characters and the eccentric atmosphere of New Orleans. Another great one could be 'The Moviegoer' by Walker Percy which also captures the essence of the city in a very nuanced way.
One characteristic is the use of the city's unique setting. The old buildings, cemeteries, and swamps of New Orleans often play a big role, creating a spooky atmosphere. For example, in 'Interview with the Vampire', the decaying mansions add to the sense of horror.
One characteristic is the unique setting. New Orleans has a rich and distinct culture, from its French Quarter to its voodoo traditions. This often seeps into the detective novels, providing an exotic backdrop. For example, in many novels, the detectives might visit a voodoo priestess for clues or a seedy bar in the French Quarter.
Julie Smith's Skip Langdon series is also excellent. In 'Huck Finn's Blood', Skip has to deal with a mystery that involves family secrets and the unique cultural aspects of New Orleans. Smith does a great job of making the city a character in itself. The reader gets a sense of the local traditions, the food, and the different types of people who call New Orleans home, all while following Skip's investigation.