What makes the British Library Classic Crime Novels special?

There's also 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler. This noir - style crime novel introduces the hard - boiled detective Philip Marlowe. The story is set in a seedy underworld, with Marlowe having to navigate through a web of lies and danger to solve the case.

One of the most well - known is 'Sherlock Holmes' series by Arthur Conan Doyle. It features the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. Watson, solving complex mysteries in Victorian London. Another great one is Agatha Christie's 'Murder on the Orient Express'. The story unfolds on a train journey filled with a diverse group of suspects, and Christie masterfully weaves a web of intrigue. Then there's 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', also by Doyle, which combines elements of the supernatural and detective work, set against the desolate moors.

The characters in these novels are typically complex. They are not simply good or bad. For example, detectives may have their own flaws and be cynical. Criminals might have some sympathetic traits. This moral ambiguity makes the stories more interesting. Moreover, the plots are usually full of twists and turns. Just when you think you've figured it out, there's another surprise waiting. It's like a maze that the reader has to navigate through.

One characteristic is the complex and often eccentric detectives. For example, Sherlock Holmes is highly intelligent yet has his own quirks. Another is the detailed settings, like the fog - filled London streets in many stories which add to the atmosphere of mystery. Also, the intricate plots full of twists and turns are common, keeping readers guessing until the end.

The unique cultural context of Britain. British graphic novels often draw on the country's rich history, from the Arthurian legends to the industrial revolution. For example, in 'V for Vendetta', the setting of a dystopian Britain is deeply influenced by real - world political and social issues.

A true British crime story often involves elements like complex motives, detailed investigations, and a reflection of the social and cultural context of the UK.

The atmosphere. British cities, with their old buildings, narrow alleys, and often gloomy weather, create a perfect backdrop for gritty crime stories. It gives a sense of mystery and danger.

Some might also mention 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris, although it's an American - British co - production in a sense. It has a very creepy and intelligent villain, Hannibal Lecter. But if we stick purely to British, there's also Ian Rankin's 'Rebus' series, which delves into the darker side of Edinburgh and the complex character of Inspector Rebus as he tries to solve various crimes.

Sure. One of the most famous is 'Sherlock Holmes' series by Arthur Conan Doyle. It features the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. Watson solving various complex crimes in Victorian London.

The depth of the stories. These novels often explore complex themes like good vs evil, fate vs free will, and the nature of power. They don't just tell a simple adventure story but dig deep into the human condition. For instance, in many of these books, the characters face moral dilemmas that make you think about your own values. Also, the detailed world - building in these novels is remarkable. The authors painstakingly create every aspect of their fictional worlds, from the geography to the social hierarchies, which adds to the overall richness of the 'library of fates fantasy novels'.