Can you recommend a few from the top 25 hard sci fi novels for a beginner?

Sure. Start with 'The Maltese Falcon'. It's a great introduction to the hard - boiled genre with its fast - paced plot and interesting characters like Sam Spade.

You could also try 'Strangers on a Train' by Patricia Highsmith. It's a thrilling noir that plays with the idea of a chance encounter on a train leading to a sinister pact between two strangers. The psychological aspects of the characters are really well - explored, which makes it an interesting read for those new to noir novels.

Sure. 'The Woman in White' by Wilkie Collins is a great start. It has an interesting mystery and a good pace. Also, 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie is a classic. It's easy to follow and full of suspense. 'The Silence of the Lambs' is also suitable. It's very engaging despite its dark themes.

Sure. 'Dracula' is a great start. It's easy to get into and has all the classic gothic elements like a menacing villain, spooky settings, and a sense of impending doom.

Sure. 'Pride and Prejudice' is a great start. It's easy to read and has a very charming love story. Also, 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green. It's a modern - day love story that's quite moving.

For a beginner, 'Le Morte d'Arthur' is a great start. It's a cornerstone of medieval literature. The tales of King Arthur, his knights like Lancelot and Gawain, and the quest for the Holy Grail are easy to get into and will introduce you to the world of medieval romance.

Sure. 'The Rosie Project' is a great start. It's a charming story about a genetics professor looking for love in a very methodical way. It's funny and has a sweet romance. Another good one is 'The Unhoneymooners'. It has an enemies - to - lovers plot that's easy to follow and really engaging.

Sure. 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' is a good start. It's a short but impactful story about the duality of human nature. Another one is 'The Tell - Tale Heart' by Edgar Allan Poe. His use of psychological horror is brilliant and it's an easy read.

For a beginner, 'The Woman in Black' by Susan Hill could be a great choice. It has a spooky atmosphere and a really creepy ghost story. Another option is 'The Amityville Horror' which is based on a supposed true story of a haunted house. It has all the classic elements of a horror story like strange noises, apparitions, etc. These books will introduce you to the world of horror literature in an accessible way.

Sure. 'The Three - Body Problem' by Liu Cixin has some detective - like elements as scientists try to figure out the mystery behind the Trisolaran civilization. It's a great blend of science fiction and a sort of detective - mystery plot.