Can you recommend some of the best Japanese noir novels?

One of the well - known Japanese noir novels is 'Out' by Natsuo Kirino. It delves into the lives of four women working the night shift in a boxed - lunch factory and the dark turn their lives take when they get involved in a murder. Another is 'The Devotion of Suspect X' by Keigo Higashino. It's a complex story of love, sacrifice, and a battle of wits between a mathematician and a detective. Also, 'Coin Locker Babies' by Ryu Murakami is quite famous, exploring the dark and strange fates of two boys abandoned in coin - locker.

The best Japanese noir novels often have complex characters. For example, in 'Out', the female characters are not just one - dimensional but have deep - seated desires and fears. They also tend to have a dark and gritty atmosphere. 'Coin Locker Babies' portrays a very seedy and violent world. Another characteristic is the exploration of moral ambiguity. In 'The Devotion of Suspect X', the actions of the characters make you question what is right and wrong.

Sure. 'The Sandman' by Lars Kepler is a great 2016 Scandinavian noir novel. It has a fast - paced plot with a lot of mystery and suspense. The characters are interesting and the way the story unfolds keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Patricia Highsmith's 'Strangers on a Train' is a great noir work. It has a unique premise where two strangers plan to swap murders. The psychological tension and the exploration of the characters' minds are what make this novel stand out. It shows how noir can be not just about crime but also about the complex human psyche.

One of the best noir detective novels is 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler. It features the iconic detective Philip Marlowe and has a complex plot filled with mystery and intrigue.

Sure. 'The Blackwater Lightship' by Colm Tóibín can be considered an Irish noir novel. It has a somber mood and deals with family secrets and complex relationships. The setting plays an important role in creating that noir - like atmosphere.

'Mildred Pierce' by James M. Cain as well. It focuses on a mother's relationship with her daughter against the backdrop of Hollywood - like ambition and hard times. The novel shows the dark side of family dynamics and the lengths a person might go to for success, all wrapped in a noir - ish style of storytelling.

Sure. 'L.A. Confidential' by James Ellroy is an excellent neo noir novel. It's set in 1950s Los Angeles and weaves together multiple storylines involving corrupt cops, Hollywood glamour, and seedy criminal activities.

Sure. 'Neuromancer' is a top pick. It was groundbreaking when it came out. Then there's 'Altered Carbon'. It's got a really cool concept of body - hopping. And 'Snow Crash' is also excellent.

One of the best new noir novels is 'Such a Fun Age' by Kiley Reid. It delves into issues of race and privilege in a modern, noir - like way. Another great one is 'My Dark Vanessa' by Kate Elizabeth Russell, which explores a complex relationship with elements of mystery and moral ambiguity. Also, 'The Other Black Girl' by Zakiya Dalila Harris has noir elements as it unfolds a story full of intrigue in the workplace.