What are the characteristics of a classic detective novel?

Well, in classic detective fiction, there is often an element of suspense that keeps the reader on edge. The author carefully plants clues throughout the story. There is a distinct narrative style, often told from the perspective of an observer or the detective himself. The resolution of the mystery is usually satisfying, tying up all the loose ends. For instance, Agatha Christie's novels are great examples. Her detectives like Hercule Poirot use their 'little grey cells' to solve the most convoluted of crimes.

Classic detective fiction often features a brilliant detective. For example, Sherlock Holmes in Conan Doyle's works. It has a mysterious crime at the start, usually a murder. There is also a process of clue - gathering and deduction by the detective. And it typically has a satisfying resolution where the mystery is solved.

Well, one characteristic is the complex and often eccentric detectives. For example, Sherlock Holmes with his brilliant deductive skills and unique personality. Another is the intricate plots full of mystery and suspense. There are usually a series of clues and red herrings that keep the readers guessing until the end. Also, the settings in classic British detective fiction are often very atmospheric, like the fog - filled London streets which add to the sense of mystery.

The characters in classic English detective fiction are diverse. Besides the detective, there are the suspects, each with their own motives and secrets. The stories usually unfold gradually, with the detective interviewing witnesses, examining crime scenes, and piecing together the puzzle. It also often has an element of suspense that keeps the readers on the edge of their seats until the final revelation of the culprit.

The atmosphere in classic noir detective novels is typically gloomy. There's a sense of impending doom. They frequently deal with themes of betrayal and human weakness. Noir novels also tend to have a femme fatale, a seductive woman who often leads the protagonist into trouble. These elements combine to create a unique and captivating genre.

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

Typically, they often have a brilliant detective as the central character. For example, Sherlock Holmes with his sharp mind. There's also a complex plot full of twists and turns. Like in Agatha Christie's novels, the ending is usually hard to predict. And the settings are often in British cities or countryside, such as London or the English moors, which add to the atmosphere.

Mystery and suspense are key characteristics. The plot is structured in a way that keeps the reader guessing until the end. There are often red herrings and false leads to misdirect the reader. In Agatha Christie's works, like 'Murder on the Orient Express', the numerous suspects and complex relationships create a lot of mystery.

Classic hard boiled detective novels typically feature a morally ambiguous world. The detective is not always a paragon of virtue but is more of a realist trying to survive in a corrupt world. The stories are filled with action and suspense. There is also a sense of fatalism in these novels, as if the characters are often at the mercy of forces beyond their control, yet they keep fighting to solve the mystery and get justice, or at least their own version of it.

One of the main characteristics is a complex mystery. There's usually a crime, like a murder or a theft, that needs to be solved. Another is the presence of a detective, who is often intelligent and observant. For example, Sherlock Holmes can notice the smallest details that others miss.