What are the characteristics of the best nonfiction crime novels?

These novels usually have well - researched details. The authors dig deep into the cases, like in 'In Cold Blood' where Truman Capote spent a lot of time interviewing people involved. They also tend to humanize the victims and sometimes the perpetrators, making it more than just a list of crimes. Moreover, they can often expose flaws in the criminal justice system through the stories they tell.

One of the best - selling nonfiction crime novels is 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote. It's a chilling account of a real - life murder case.

One characteristic is that it's based on real events. For example, like the books I mentioned before, they are about actual crimes that happened.

One of the best selling crime nonfiction novels is 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote. It's a chilling account of a real - life murder case. Another is 'Helter Skelter' by Vincent Bugliosi which details the Manson Family murders.

The best nonfiction war novels often have authenticity. For example, they are based on real events and real people's experiences. This makes the stories more impactful as the readers know that these things actually happened.

The best nonfiction history novels often have a unique perspective. Take 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' by Rebecca Skloot. It tells the story of Henrietta Lacks from a scientific, ethical, and human perspective. Accuracy is crucial too. Books like '1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus' by Charles C. Mann are highly accurate. And they usually connect past events to the present or broader historical trends, like how 'The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History' by Elizabeth Kolbert relates current environmental issues to past extinctions.

The best crime novels usually have a well - crafted mystery. For example, in 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris, the mystery of the serial killer's identity and motives keeps readers on the edge of their seats. It has a complex plot that unfolds gradually.

Typically, they have complex plots. For example, they often involve multiple suspects and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. The characters are well - developed, like the detectives or the criminals themselves. In many of these novels, the setting plays an important role, creating an atmosphere that can be dark, gritty or mysterious.

Dark crime novels usually explore the darker aspects of human nature. They might deal with topics such as violence, greed, and corruption. Take 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler, it shows the seedy underbelly of society, with all its vices and crimes, and how the detective has to navigate through this murky world to solve the case.

Icelandic crime novels are known for their intricate plots. They usually involve a web of relationships and secrets. Since Iceland has a relatively small population, the idea that a crime could be committed by someone close by or within the community is a recurring theme. Also, the unique Icelandic mythology and folklore sometimes seep into the stories, adding an extra layer of mystery.