What are the characteristics of London historical fiction novels?

One characteristic is the detailed description of London's landscapes. For example, in 'A Tale of Two Cities', Dickens vividly describes the London streets and buildings. Another is the portrayal of the social classes. In many such novels, we can see the contrast between the rich and the poor in London. Also, they often reflect the historical events that took place in London, like wars or revolutions.

London in historical fiction can be a place full of contrasts. It's a city where the grandeur of palaces coexists with the squalor of slums. Writers use London as a backdrop to explore different social strata. Some works might focus on the political intrigues in the court, which were often centered around London. Others may show the daily struggles of commoners in the city's bustling markets and alleys.

The 'Peter Ackroyd' series of novels also focuses on London's history in a fictional way. For example, 'Hawksmoor' combines elements of historical architecture and mystery. It delves into the darker corners of London's past, exploring the relationship between the city's buildings and the secrets they hold.

There's 'Vanity Fair' which has parts set in London, showing the social life and the vanity of the upper classes in the city. 'Peter Ackroyd's 'London: The Biography' is a fictionalized account of the city's long history. It weaves together real historical events and fictional elements to create a rich tapestry of London through the ages. Also, 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' has some of its action taking place in London during the French Revolution era, highlighting the political tensions and the city's role in the broader European context.

Often, London novels have a strong sense of place. They describe the unique streets, buildings, and neighborhoods of London, like the foggy Thames - side scenes. They also tend to explore the class differences that were very prominent in London's history.

In best London crime fiction, the mystery is key. There are always puzzles to be solved, whether it's a missing person or a series of murders. The city itself becomes a character. The dark alleys, the big mansions, the bustling markets all contribute to the mood of the story. And there's often a sense of danger lurking around every corner. The stories also reflect the changing times in London. From the Victorian era to modern - day London, the crime fictions show how the city has evolved and how crime has changed with it.

Well, they often have a strong sense of place. London's unique neighborhoods, from the posh areas to the seedy alleys, are vividly described. For example, in many books, the foggy streets add to the mystery.

In Victorian London detective fiction, the detective figure is crucial. They are often loners or outsiders in some way. The mysteries are deeply rooted in the culture and society of the time. For instance, the emerging technologies of the Victorian era, such as the telegraph and the new methods of transportation, are sometimes incorporated into the plots. The stories also show the limitations and biases of the legal and social systems of Victorian London, which the detectives must navigate while solving cases.

London gangster fiction books often feature a seedy and gritty underworld. They typically have complex characters who are involved in illegal activities like drug dealing, robbery, and extortion. For example, in 'The Long Firm', the characters are deeply immersed in the criminal world of 1960s London.

Another characteristic is the use of local London dialects and slang, which adds authenticity. In many of these books, you'll read phrases and words that are unique to London. Also, loyalty and betrayal are common themes. Gang members may turn on each other for power or money, as seen in several of these fictional works.