Can you recommend some classic French detective novels?

Yes. 'Nana' by Émile Zola is a well - known classic French novel. It depicts the life of a courtesan in Paris and shows the seedy side of society at that time. 'The Three Musketeers' by Alexandre Dumas is also very popular. It follows the adventures of d'Artagnan and his three musketeer friends. And 'Swann's Way' by Marcel Proust is a remarkable work that explores memory and time through the character of Swann.

Sure. 'Madame Bovary' by Gustave Flaubert is a well - known French classic novel. It tells the story of Emma Bovary, a bored and unfulfilled housewife who has extramarital affairs in search of passion.

The 'Arsene Lupin' stories by Maurice Leblanc can also be considered in a way. Although Lupin is more of a gentleman thief, there are elements of detective - like problem - solving in the novels as he outwits the police and other adversaries. These stories are known for their clever plots and the charm of the main character.

Sure. 'The Adventures of Arsène Lupin' is a good start. The stories are exciting and not too complex. Lupin's character is very appealing and the plots are full of action and mystery.

Often, they have a very atmospheric setting, like the streets of Paris. This setting becomes almost like a character itself.

Yes. 'Paul et Virginie' by Jacques - Henri Bernardin de Saint - Pierre is a classic French love story. It is set on the island of Mauritius and tells the innocent love story between Paul and Virginie. Their love is pure and simple, but is faced with the harsh realities of society and nature. Also, 'Manon Lescaut' by Abbé Prévost is a famous work. The story of Manon and Des Grieux's passionate and tumultuous love is full of drama and emotion. Manon's fickleness and Des Grieux's unwavering love for her create a complex and engaging narrative about love and sacrifice.

There are several. 'Carmilla' by Sheridan Le Fanu, which has been translated into French and is a classic in the horror genre. It predates Bram Stoker's 'Dracula' and tells a story of a female vampire. In addition, 'The Werewolf of Paris' by Guy Endore is a notable French - set horror novel. It combines elements of the werewolf myth with the historical and cultural backdrop of Paris, creating a very atmospheric and terrifying read.

Sure. 'A Sentimental Education' by Gustave Flaubert is a classic French romance novel. It tells the story of a young man's journey through love and life in 19th - century France. Then there's 'Paul et Virginie' by Bernardin de Saint - Pierre. This novel is set in a tropical island and portrays a pure and tragic love story. And 'Manon Lescaut' by Abbé Prévost is also a great example, following the passionate and tumultuous relationship between the two main characters.

One of the top classic French novels is 'Madame Bovary' by Gustave Flaubert. It tells the story of Emma Bovary, a bored and unhappy housewife who has affairs in an attempt to escape her dull life. Another great one is 'The Three Musketeers' by Alexandre Dumas. It's full of adventure, friendship, and honor as it follows the adventures of d'Artagnan and his musketeer friends. And 'Les Misérables' by Victor Hugo is also a masterpiece. It depicts the struggles of the poor in 19th - century France, with themes of love, sacrifice, and social justice.

One of the well - known French Canadian classic novels is 'The Tin Flute' by Gabrielle Roy. It offers a vivid portrayal of life in Montreal during the Great Depression.