One characteristic is the exploration of the cop's personal life. In novels such as 'The Black Echo', we see Harry Bosch dealing with his own demons while trying to solve crimes. Another is the detailed portrayal of the criminal underworld. In 'The Big Sleep', we get a vivid picture of the seedy side of the city. Also, famous cop novels usually have a well - structured plot that gradually unfolds the mystery. It's not just about finding the bad guy but also about understanding the motives and the context. There's often a race against time as well, which adds to the tension.
Famous cop novels often have a strong central detective character. This character is usually intelligent, observant, and has a strong sense of justice. For example, Sherlock Holmes in some of the stories that involve police - like investigations. They also typically have complex mysteries to solve, like in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'. The settings can vary widely, from big cities like New York in many American cop novels to small European towns as in some Scandinavian crime novels. And there is often a lot of suspense and twists in the plot to keep the readers on the edge of their seats.
Characteristics of famous cop novels include a focus on the investigation process. This can involve forensic details, interviewing witnesses, and following leads, as seen in 'Gorky Park'. There's also a sense of moral ambiguity sometimes. The cops may have to make tough decisions that blur the lines between right and wrong. The use of red herrings is common to mislead the reader and keep the mystery alive. Moreover, these novels often show the impact of crime on the community. For instance, in 'Mystic River', the murder affects the whole neighborhood and the relationships within it. The language in cop novels can be gritty and realistic, reflecting the harsh world of crime and policing.