What are some of the best private investigator novels?

One of the best private investigator stories is about a PI who was hired to find a missing heir. The heir had disappeared years ago, and the family needed to find them to claim a large inheritance. The PI started by interviewing the remaining family members, but they were uncooperative at first. However, through persistent digging and following up on old leads, the PI discovered that the heir had changed their identity and was living in a small town. The PI managed to make contact and reunite the heir with their family. It was a great success story for the investigator.

Sure. 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' by Alexander McCall Smith is a great start. It's set in Botswana and features Precious Ramotswe, a charming and intelligent female private investigator. The stories are often light - hearted and give a great introduction to the genre.

One popular one is 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler. It features the iconic private investigator Philip Marlowe and is full of complex mysteries and sharp dialogue.

One characteristic is complex characters. In modern private investigator novels, the investigators often have a troubled past or some personal demons that add depth to their personalities. For example, they might be a former cop who left the force under a cloud, which gives them an edge and a certain cynicism. Another aspect is the use of modern technology. These days, private eyes use all kinds of high - tech gadgets like surveillance drones, advanced computer hacking tools (in the story world), and GPS trackers to solve cases. Also, the settings in modern private investigator novels are often gritty urban landscapes, full of seedy bars, abandoned warehouses, and high - rise office buildings that hide all kinds of secrets.

One common trait is being observant. They need to notice small details that others might miss. Another is being tenacious. They don't give up easily on a case.

The main character, the private investigator, is often a loner with a strong sense of justice. Like in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson, Lisbeth Salander is a unique investigator with her own moral code. These characters usually have to navigate a seedy underworld filled with dangerous characters and hidden motives.

One of the most well - known is 'The Maltese Falcon' by Dashiell Hammett. It features the hard - boiled detective Sam Spade. Another is 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler, with his iconic detective Philip Marlowe.

There was a story of a private investigator hired to find a lost family heirloom. The investigator traced the history of the item, interviewed family members who had knowledge of it, and searched antique shops and online marketplaces. After months of work, the heirloom was found in a small antique store in a different state. It was returned to the family, bringing great joy and a sense of connection to their heritage.

One great private investigator book in fiction is 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler. It features the iconic detective Philip Marlowe. Another is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn, which has a complex plot with elements of mystery and investigation. And 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson is also a popular choice, with its engaging story and a unique female investigator.

They usually have a mysterious and adventurous tone. The main character is often smart and observant, solving complex cases.