What are the characteristics of good crime novels?

Good YA crime novels tend to feature fast-paced action, interesting detective work by the young characters, and lessons or growth for the protagonists. They often explore issues relevant to young people while keeping the mystery and thrills intact.

Well - crafted mysteries often have a unique setting. It can add to the atmosphere of the story. For instance, in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', the moors create a spooky and mysterious backdrop. And the solution to the mystery should be both unexpected and satisfying, like in many of Agatha Christie's works.

They often have a dark and moody atmosphere, which is influenced by the long, cold Swedish winters. For example, in many novels, the desolate landscapes and the gloomy weather seem to mirror the dark nature of the crimes.

Well, good British crime novels usually have intricate plots. They are not straightforward but filled with red herrings and unexpected twists. Take 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie. The plot keeps you on the edge of your seat as one by one the characters are seemingly murdered according to a nursery rhyme. Also, the social commentary aspect is common. They can reflect the values and problems of the society at the time, such as class differences and moral decay.

Well, a good English crime novel usually has a mystery that is both engaging and believable. Take 'Gone Girl' for instance. The mystery of what happened to the wife is really captivating. The use of suspense is also key. In 'The Silence of the Lambs', the suspense of whether Clarice will catch Buffalo Bill keeps you on the edge of your seat. And the writing style matters. In 'In Cold Blood', Capote's detailed and vivid writing makes the crime and the investigation come alive.

A sense of atmosphere is important too. Whether it's the seedy underbelly of a big city or a small - town mystery, the setting should enhance the mood of the story. Like in Raymond Chandler's works, the noir atmosphere of 1940s Los Angeles is palpable.

The romantic aspect is also crucial. It can range from a sweet, budding love to a complex, passionate and often troubled relationship. In 'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides, the relationship between the therapist and the patient has elements of both romance and mystery as the therapist tries to uncover the truth about the patient's crime while developing an inappropriate attraction to her.

Good recent crime novels often have complex characters. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the characters are far from one - dimensional, with their own motives and secrets that drive the plot. Another characteristic is a strong sense of place. In 'The Girl on the Train', the setting of the train journey and the surrounding areas play an important role in building the atmosphere of mystery. Also, they usually have unexpected twists. Just like in 'The Silent Patient', the ending is something that most readers don't see coming.

A great crime drama novel should also have a satisfying conclusion. It doesn't have to be a happy ending, but it should tie up the loose ends and make sense of all the mystery and intrigue that has been built up throughout the story. For instance, in 'Sherlock Holmes' stories, Holmes always manages to solve the mystery in a logical and satisfying way.

Good teen crime novels often have relatable teen characters. For example, in 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night - Time', the main character is a teen with Asperger's syndrome, and his unique perspective adds depth to the crime - solving process. They also usually have an engaging mystery. Like in 'Holes', the mystery of the past events at the detention center keeps readers hooked. And they may have some moral lessons, such as in 'The Westing Game' where the characters learn about greed and justice while solving the mystery.