Can you recommend some best modern noir fiction authors?

Dashiell Hammett is definitely one of the best noir fiction authors. His works, like 'Red Harvest', are known for their gritty portrayal of the criminal underworld. Then there's James M. Cain, who wrote 'Mildred Pierce'. His stories often explore the darker side of human nature.

Well, Vera Caspary is a great noir detective fiction author. Her work 'Laura' is really good. It has a lot of psychological elements in the mystery. Then there's Geoffrey Homes. His 'Out of the Past' is a wonderful example of his noir writing skills. And Cornell Woolrich is also an author to look out for. His stories often have a sense of doom and mystery which is characteristic of noir detective fiction.

Raymond Chandler is a top neo noir fiction author. His works, like 'The Big Sleep', feature his iconic detective Philip Marlowe. Chandler's writing style, with its sharp dialogue and detailed descriptions of the seedy side of life, has had a huge influence on the neo noir genre. Another great author is James Ellroy. His 'L.A. Confidential' and other works are known for their complex plots and exploration of the dark side of Los Angeles. Frank Miller is also notable. His 'Sin City' graphic novels are a prime example of neo noir, with their extreme and violent stories set in a noir - like world.

James Ellroy is renowned for his Los Angeles - set noir. His novels, such as 'L.A. Confidential', are gritty and unflinching in their portrayal of the city's dark side. He has a unique ability to weave complex plots and create memorable characters.

One of the big names in modern noir fiction is James Sallis. His writing has a distinct noir feel, with a focus on the characters' internal struggles as well as the external noir - like settings. Megan Abbott is also quite well - known. She often writes about female characters in noir - ish situations, exploring themes of power, desire, and danger. Also, Don Winslow has made a name for himself in this genre. His books are filled with the elements of modern noir, such as the exploration of crime syndicates and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters within those worlds.

Tom Clancy is definitely a top author in modern military fiction. His books are known for their detailed research on military technology and operations, like in 'The Sum of All Fears' which shows a complex international situation and military responses.

Agatha Christie is a classic mystery author, and her works still hold up as great modern mystery reads. Her books like 'Murder on the Orient Express' and 'And Then There Were None' are known for their intricate plots and unexpected endings.

Some of the best authors in crime noir fiction are Ross Macdonald. His Lew Archer series has complex characters and engaging plots. Jim Thompson is also a great one. His books like 'The Killer Inside Me' are disturbing yet brilliant. And Chester Himes with his Harlem - based crime noir novels is also highly regarded.

One of the best modern noir fiction works is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It has a complex plot full of twists and turns, exploring themes of marriage, deception, and the dark side of human nature. The characters are well - developed and the story keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Alasdair Gray is a must - mention. His works, such as 'Lanark', are full of deep philosophical ideas and unique narrative structures. Iain Banks also stands out. His 'The Wasp Factory' is a dark and thought - provoking piece. Lewis Grassic Gibbon is important as well. His 'Sunset Song' beautifully captures the essence of rural Scottish life.