Well, I'm not exactly sure which specific 'the first police procedural story' you're referring to. There are many early police procedural stories. Generally, they often revolve around the investigation processes of the police, including how they gather evidence, interview suspects, and solve crimes. They might also show the internal workings of a police department.
I'm not certain who the author of 'the first police procedural story' is. There were many early writers in the mystery and crime fiction genre who might have contributed to this type of story.
One of the top police procedural novels is 'Presumed Innocent' by Scott Turow. It gives a detailed look at the legal and investigative aspects within the context of a murder case. 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson also makes the list. It has a strong female lead involved in solving a decades - old mystery which includes police - style investigations.
Great police procedural novels usually feature a believable detective or team of investigators. Take 'Law & Order' - based novels. The characters are well - developed, with their own flaws and strengths, which makes them seem real. They also show the procedures of police work, like how evidence is collected, how interviews are conducted, and how the legal system comes into play.
Definitely 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex plot with journalist Mikael Blomkvist and the hacker Lisbeth Salander investigating a decades - old disappearance. The story delves deep into family secrets and corporate corruption.
One of the best is 'Gorky Park' by Martin Cruz Smith. It has a great plot set in Moscow, with detailed police work. The main character, Arkady Renko, is a complex and engaging detective. Another good one is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It's not just about catching a serial killer but also about the psychological aspects involved. And 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson is also a great police procedural novel with a strong female lead, Lisbeth Salander, who helps in solving a complex mystery.
The key elements include accurate police procedures. For example, how investigations are carried out, from collecting evidence at the crime scene to interviewing witnesses. Another element is the police hierarchy, showing how different ranks interact and contribute to the case. Also, the portrayal of police characters' personal and professional lives, as it adds depth to the story.
The 'Rebus' series by Ian Rankin is also highly regarded. John Rebus is a complex and flawed detective in Edinburgh. The novels are gritty and deal with a range of real - life issues in the city, from crime syndicates to political corruption, all while Rebus tries to uphold the law and solve the crimes.
Well, one characteristic is the detailed description of crime scenes. In novels like 'Gorky Park', the author spends time explaining how the crime scene is examined, what the clues are, and how they might be connected. Also, these novels usually have a cast of characters within the police force, each with their own skills and personalities. They work together (or sometimes not so well together) to solve the crime. Moreover, the pacing is often slow and methodical, mirroring the actual police work process.
Definitely 'In the Woods' by Tana French. This book has a unique take on police procedurals. It delves deep into the pasts of the detectives as they try to solve a present - day mystery. The writing is atmospheric and the characters are well - developed.