best contemporary crime novels

Some of the best contemporary crime novels include 'Big Little Lies' by Liane Moriarty. It weaves together multiple storylines of the lives of different women, and there's a mystery at the heart of it regarding a murder. 'In the Woods' by Tana French is also a great pick. It has an atmospheric setting and a detective trying to solve a crime while also dealing with his own past traumas. 'The Dry' by Jane Harper is a good example too. It's set in a drought - stricken Australian town and has a mystery that unfolds gradually as the main character investigates a murder.

One of the best is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It has a complex plot full of twists and turns. The characters are well - developed, especially the two main characters whose relationship is full of secrets and lies.

Sure. 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler is a great start. It has a simple yet engaging mystery, and Chandler's writing style is very accessible. You'll get a good feel for the noir elements that are often present in American crime novels.

I'd recommend 'The Westing Game' by Ellen Raskin. It's a classic among contemporary crime novels for young readers and beginners. It has a diverse cast of characters and a cleverly constructed mystery that unfolds in an apartment building. Also, 'The Name of the Star' by Maureen Johnson has a unique take on crime. It involves a girl who can see ghosts and is trying to solve a mystery related to a modern - day Jack the Ripper - like killer. It's easy to get into and full of suspense.

Contemporary British crime novels often feature complex characters. The protagonists are usually detectives or investigators with their own personal demons and quirks. For example, in some novels, the detective may have a troubled past that affects how they approach cases. Another characteristic is the detailed setting. They vividly portray British cities and towns, from the bustling streets of London to the quiet countryside villages. The plots are typically intricate, filled with twists and turns that keep readers on their toes.

One popular contemporary crime fiction novel is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It features a complex mystery and a unique protagonist, Lisbeth Salander. Another is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn, which has a gripping plot full of twists. And 'Big Little Lies' by Liane Moriarty also falls into this category, exploring secrets and lies among a group of women in a coastal town.

Some of the well - known contemporary novels could include 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream. Another might be 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee which deals with racial injustice. And '1984' by George Orwell, which warns about totalitarianism and the loss of privacy.

One popular author is Ian Rankin. His "Rebus" series is well - known. Another is Val McDermid, who writes gripping crime novels with complex plots. And then there's Mark Billingham, whose books are also very much loved by crime fiction fans.

Common themes include social issues. For example, contemporary crime fiction might address topics like poverty, inequality, and corruption. These elements add depth to the stories and make them more relevant to the real world. Additionally, the theme of redemption can be found. Some characters, whether they are criminals or those affected by crime, may seek redemption throughout the narrative.

One of the best true crime novels is 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote. It's a classic that delves into the brutal murders of a Kansas family. Another great one is 'Helter Skelter' which details the Manson Family murders. And 'The Devil in the White City' by Erik Larson is also highly regarded as it combines the story of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with the serial killings of H. H. Holmes.