best modern american crime novels

The best modern American crime novels often have unique characters. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the complex and duplicitous nature of the two main characters makes the story so engaging. They break the mold of typical good - guy - bad - guy characters. Another factor is the setting. Novels like 'L.A. Confidential' use the distinct backdrop of Los Angeles to create a sense of place that is integral to the story. The seedy underbelly of the city becomes a character in itself.

Well, 'Mystic River' by Dennis Lehane is an excellent modern American crime novel. It tells a tragic story of three friends whose lives are forever changed by a childhood event and a new crime. 'The Wire' by David Simon, which started as a TV series but also has a novelization, offers a deep look into the criminal underworld and the institutions that deal with it in modern American cities. And 'L.A. Confidential' by James Ellroy is a noir - style crime novel that takes you through the seamy side of Los Angeles.

I would recommend 'The Buenos Aires Quintet' by Manuel Puig. It's a unique crime novel that delves deep into the psychology of the characters. Set in Argentina, it presents a web of relationships and secrets that are gradually uncovered.

I also recommend 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It features the iconic character Hannibal Lecter. The cat - and - mouse game between Clarice Starling and Lecter while she tries to solve a serial killer case is gripping.

One of the best modern crime novels is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It has a complex plot full of twists and turns, exploring the dark side of a marriage. Another great one is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It combines mystery, crime-solving, and a unique, edgy protagonist. 'In the Woods' by Tana French is also highly regarded, with its atmospheric storytelling and psychological depth.

Another great one is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It combines a dark and gritty crime story with elements of mystery and thriller. The character of Lisbeth Salander is very memorable, a brilliant but troubled hacker who helps solve a decades - old mystery.

Some of the well - regarded modern American novels include 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It's a classic that deals with themes of racism and justice in the American South. Another is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald, which explores the decadence and disillusionment of the Jazz Age. 'Invisible Man' by Ralph Ellison is also significant as it delves into the African - American experience and identity in a society that often renders them invisible.

One of the best is 'The Savage Detectives' by Roberto Bolaño. It weaves a complex tale of poets turned detectives in a somewhat surreal Latin American setting, full of mystery and intrigue.

One of the well - known books in it could be 'The Maltese Falcon'. It's a classic crime novel with a complex plot involving a valuable statuette. The characters are vividly drawn, especially the detective Sam Spade. Another might be 'In Cold Blood' which is based on a real - life murder case. It delves deep into the minds of the killers and the impact on the community.

The best American crime fiction novels often have complex characters. For example, in 'The Godfather', the characters are multi - faceted, not simply good or bad. They also usually have a gripping plot. 'Gone Girl' keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its unexpected twists. And many feature a sense of place, like 'Chinatown Beat' which vividly portrays the Chinatown area.