Well, complex characters are a main feature. For example, in 'The Jew of Malta', Barabas is a multi - faceted character. His actions and decisions are not always straightforward, adding to the mystery. Another feature is the exploration of moral and ethical gray areas. It makes you wonder about the characters' true natures.
One of the notable works is 'The Jew of Malta'. It's full of mystery and intrigue. The complex character of Barabas, a Maltese Jew, drives the plot with his devious plans and interactions with other characters in a world filled with political and religious tensions.
Well, one key element is the complex detective character, like Marlowe. He's often a bit of a loner with a sharp mind. Another is the mysterious setting, usually a place full of secrets. And of course, the murder itself which sets off a chain of investigations and plot twists.
In my opinion, 'The Long Goodbye' is among the best. It delves deeper into Marlowe's character. The mystery in this one is not just about solving a crime but also about Marlowe's relationship with his friend Terry Lennox. It's a more complex and nuanced story compared to some of the others, with Chandler's masterful writing making it a classic in the detective genre.
A great Philip Marlowe novel often has a really engaging mystery. For example, in 'The Big Sleep', there are multiple mysteries intertwined that keep the reader guessing. Also, Marlowe's character has to be well - developed. He's a tough, yet moral detective, and when that's portrayed well, like in 'Farewell, My Lovely', it makes for a great novel.