Can you recommend some best African crime novels?

One well - known African crime novel is 'Nervous Conditions' by Tsitsi Dangarembga. It delves into the complex social and cultural issues in Zimbabwe, which are intertwined with elements of crime in the sense of the transgressions against the status quo and the struggles of the characters within a society on the cusp of change.

Another great one is 'The Number 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' by Alexander McCall Smith. It's set in Botswana, which is close to South Africa. The main character, Precious Ramotswe, is a charming and astute detective who solves various cases in a unique and heartwarming way. The books offer a great look into the African way of life along with the crime - solving aspect.

There's also 'The Number' by Sandile Ngidi. It offers a unique perspective on crime in South Africa. The story is set against the backdrop of the prison system and the underworld, showing the harsh realities and the complex web of crime and survival in the country.

Sure. 'Cotton Comes to Harlem' by Chester Himes is a classic African American crime novel. It tells the story of two Harlem detectives trying to solve a case related to a bale of cotton that everyone seems to be after. Also, 'Invisible Man' by Ralph Ellison, while not strictly a crime novel in the traditional sense, has elements of crime and the exploration of African American identity within a society full of challenges and sometimes criminal elements.

One of the best African novels is 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe. It vividly depicts the Igbo society in Nigeria before the arrival of the Europeans and the subsequent disruption. Another great one is 'Half of a Yellow Sun' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, which tells the story of the Biafran War through the lives of its characters. And 'The Joys of Motherhood' by Buchi Emecheta is also highly regarded as it explores the experiences of a Nigerian woman in a patriarchal society.

One of the best African novels is 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe. It beautifully depicts the Igbo society in Nigeria before the arrival of the Europeans and how colonialism disrupted their way of life.

The best African crime novels often have a strong sense of place. For example, they might vividly describe the bustling streets of Lagos or the rural landscapes of Kenya. This setting becomes an integral part of the crime story. They also tend to incorporate cultural elements. Like in many African cultures, there are certain social norms and taboos that play into the motives and actions of the characters involved in the crimes.

A great South African crime novel is 'The Number' by Rian Malan. It offers a unique perspective on crime and society in South Africa. The story is quite gripping and makes you think about various issues in the country.

A third option could be 'Purple Hibiscus' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie as well. It shows the relationship between a young girl and her family. The love between Kambili and her father is a central theme, though it is a very complex and often difficult love, set against the backdrop of a strict religious household in Nigeria.

One of the great East African novels is 'Nervous Conditions' by Tsitsi Dangarembga. It delves into the experiences of a young girl in colonial Rhodesia, exploring themes of race, gender, and identity.