What are some of the UK best crime novels?

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 of the best UK spy novels is 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy' by John le Carré. It's a complex and masterful exploration of Cold War espionage. Another great one is 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold', also by le Carré. It offers a gritty and realistic look into the world of spying. And Ian Fleming's 'Casino Royale' is a classic in the genre. It introduced the world - famous James Bond and his glamorous and dangerous world of espionage.

One characteristic is the complex characters. Detectives are often flawed yet brilliant. Another is the detailed settings, usually British landscapes which give an authentic feel. And the plots are full of twists.

Some great UK crime fiction books include 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson, though he was Swedish, the book was set in part in the UK and has a strong crime - solving element. Then there's 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy' by John le Carré. It's a classic of the spy - thriller genre, set against the backdrop of the Cold War. And 'The Cuckoo's Calling' by J.K. Rowling writing as Robert Galbraith. It has a well - crafted mystery with a private detective Cormoran Strike.