Best Crime Novels 2018 Fiction: What are some of the top picks?

I think 'Chinatown' by Robert Towne is a great Hollywood crime novel. It was later made into a famous movie. The story has all the elements of a classic crime tale set in Hollywood, with political corruption, a mysterious femme fatale, and a complex mystery that keeps you guessing.

There's also 'The Nickel Boys' by Colson Whitehead. It tells a heart - wrenching story about a boys' reform school in the Jim Crow South. The writing is superb, and it sheds light on a dark period of American history.

Another great one is 'Perfume: The Story of a Murderer' by Patrick Süskind. This novel not only tells a fascinating crime story but also delves deep into the sense of smell and how it can be related to human nature. The protagonist is a very complex character with a disturbing obsession. It has been widely acclaimed and translated into many languages.

One of the best mafia crime novels is 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo. It's a classic that delves deep into the Corleone family's world of organized crime. The characters are vividly drawn, and it shows the complex relationships within the mafia. Another great one is 'Goodfellas' which is based on a true story and gives readers a gritty look at the life of mobsters.

One of the best European crime novels is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It combines a complex mystery with engaging characters. The story is set in Sweden and delves into dark family secrets and corporate corruption.

Another great one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. The story is full of twists and turns. It starts as a missing person case but quickly evolves into a much more complex and disturbing web of lies and secrets between the two main characters, Nick and Amy.

I really like 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. The character of Hannibal Lecter is one of the most iconic in crime fiction. The cat - and - mouse game between Clarice Starling and Lecter as she tries to solve a serial killer case is gripping. The book also delves deep into the minds of the characters, which makes it even more interesting.

Well, 'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir is also among the best 2021 fiction. It's an exciting science - fiction story about a lone astronaut on a desperate mission. 'Matrix' by Lauren Groff is a historical fiction that reimagines the life of a 12th - century nun. These books are all great reads from 2021 in the fiction category.

'Angle of Repose' by Wallace Stegner also has strong connections to Colorado. It tells the story of a historian looking into the life of his grandmother in the Old West, which includes parts of Colorado. The novel delves into themes of family, history, and the changing landscape of the West.

Toothless from 'How to Train Your Dragon' is a top choice. He's not just a fearsome beast but also a loyal friend. His design is really cool, and the way he interacts with Hiccup is heart - warming. Another one is Drogon. His size and strength are intimidating, and he's a symbol of power in 'A Song of Ice and Fire'.