Yes, there are. The cover pictures of crime novels can be very interesting. They often feature dark and mysterious elements like a shadowy figure in an alley or a detective with a magnifying glass, which gives you a hint about the story inside.
One of the things that make obscure crime novels interesting is the creativity of the authors. Since they don't have the pressure of conforming to a mass - market formula, they can take risks. They might introduce new types of crimes or new ways of investigating them. Some might even play with the concept of time or reality in the story. Another factor is that they can give a voice to different regions or sub - cultures. You might find a crime novel set in a very specific part of a country that you've never heard of, and it can introduce you to a whole new world of traditions, languages, and social dynamics, all while presenting a thrilling crime story.
One common POV in crime novels is the detective's. This allows readers to follow the investigation process closely, seeing the clues as the detective does. Another POV could be the criminal's. It adds an element of mystery and suspense as readers get inside the mind of the wrongdoer. A third POV might be that of a witness. It can provide a different perspective, often with limited information that the reader has to piece together with other elements in the story.
As far as I know, Anthony Bourdain was not associated with crime novels. His fame stemmed from his exploration of different cuisines and cultures around the world. There is no information indicating he had any crime novels in his body of work.
The unique perspective of cats. Cats are often seen as mysterious creatures in real life, so in crime novels, they can add an element of enigma. For example, a cat might be the only one to witness a crime without the criminal noticing.
I would recommend 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote. It's a non - fictional crime novel that reads like a thriller. Capote delved deep into the real - life murder case, presenting a detailed and chilling account.
Crime novels usually have a strong sense of place. For example, many noir crime novels are set in the seedy underbelly of big cities like Los Angeles or New York in the 1940s and 1950s. The dark alleys, smoky bars, and run - down apartments all add to the mood of the story. The setting becomes almost like another character in the book, influencing the actions and motives of the people in the story.
The art aspect. They introduce readers to art history, different art forms, and the value of art. For example, a novel might describe a stolen Rembrandt painting. You learn about the artist and the significance of the work while following the crime mystery. It's like getting an art lesson along with a thrilling story. There are also the complex characters involved, from the criminals who are often very sophisticated to the detectives trying to catch them.