One of the UK's best crime novels is 'The Cuckoo's Calling' by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling). It features a private detective, Cormoran Strike, investigating the death of a supermodel. Another great one is 'Rebecca' by Daphne du Maurier, which has elements of mystery and crime in a gothic setting. 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie is also a classic, with a group of people on an island being killed off one by one in a most mysterious way.
Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle. These stories are iconic. Holmes' brilliant deductions and the various mysteries he solves in Victorian London have made it a timeless classic in the crime genre.
A good beginner - friendly UK crime novel is 'The Woman in Black' by Susan Hill. It has a spooky atmosphere and a simple yet engaging mystery. It's not too complex, so it's easy for new readers of the genre to get into. Also, 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' by Alexander McCall Smith, while set in Botswana, has a very accessible style. It shows the simple yet effective detective work of Mma Ramotswe, which can be a good introduction to the idea of crime - solving in novels.
One of the best is 'Sherlock Holmes' series by Arthur Conan Doyle. It features the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. Watson solving complex mysteries in Victorian London.
Agatha Christie's works are also top - notch. For example, 'Murder on the Orient Express'. Her books are known for their intricate plots, multiple suspects, and unexpected twists. Christie is a master at creating suspense and mystery within the UK setting.
One characteristic is the complex characters. Detectives in UK crime novels often have their own personal demons and flaws. For example, John Rebus in Ian Rankin's series. Another is the detailed settings. Many are set in real - life UK locations like London or Edinburgh, which adds authenticity. Also, the plots are usually full of twists and turns, keeping readers on their toes.
One of the best is 'Rebecca' by Daphne du Maurier. It has elements of mystery and crime within its Gothic story. The sense of unease and the mystery surrounding the first Mrs. de Winter is really engaging.
Agatha Christie is a must - mention. She wrote numerous classic crime novels. Her characters are well - developed and her plot twists keep readers on their toes.
There are many great novels on such a list. 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Brontë is a powerful story of love and revenge set in the Yorkshire moors. The complex characters and the wild, desolate setting make it a remarkable read. 'Middlemarch' by George Eliot is also a significant work, delving deep into the lives and relationships of the people in a provincial town.
One well - known literary agent in the UK for crime fiction is Curtis Brown. They have a long history of representing crime fiction authors and have helped many break into the market.