Here is a selection of 7 must-read American thrillers, classic and contemporary alike, each offering a distinct experience, with captivating plotlines and memorable characters.
Looking to add books to your reading list? Here are some articles you may find of interest:
- 5. **St. Bart's Hospital, London**: In the exciting "A Case of Identity," Holmes visits this historic teaching hospital and medical museum in the heart of London.
- 5. "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao" by Sergio DÃaz (erratum: should be Sergio Pitol: "The Feast of the Goat" or Judas (Jud //ByLauraEsquivel
- — Nathan Englander
(1930) by Dashiell Hammett
Private investigator Sam Spade becomes embroiled in a treacherous situation involving a valuable gold statuette adorned with precious gems. As he navigates this complex case, he encounters individuals who deceive, manipulate, and even try to eliminate one another, consistently covering their tracks. Dashiell Hammett skillfully crafts the modern detective novel with his concise, direct style by portraying a world where materialism and greed can quickly lead to devastation. This gripping story, filled with unexpected turns and surprises, is also renowned for its exceptional film adaptation.
The Postman Always Rings Twice
Frank Chambers, a typical young vagabond, falls in love with Cora, the sensual wife of a café owner. Together they hatch a plan to get rid of her troublesome husband. This short but intense American noir novel delves into the extremes of passion and guilt. With his typical direct style, Cain brings out the psychology of the characters in a story where love and crime are intertwined for the better and for the worse. Since its publication, the novel has been adapted many times for the silver screen.
(1939) by Raymond Chandler
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(1963) by Jim Thompson
Troy Dillon, a struggling scam artist, is left reeling after a botched scheme sets off a chain reaction of events. Trapped between his controlling mother, Lydia, and a seductive yet menacing mistress, Maya, he becomes entangled in a tangled web of deception and danger. This gripping crime thriller delves into the toxic effects of complicated relationships and the dire outcomes of difficult decisions. Ratcheting up the suspense throughout, Thompson has crafted a compellingPage 1 of 1document, a true accomplishment in the crime fiction genre.
(1987) by James Ellroy
In a city contaminated with corruption, scandal, and personal obsessions, where credibility and integrity hold little value, Ellroy's vivid and blunt writing vividly portrays the dispiriting and captivating ambiance of a city overwhelmed by hidden truths.
(2018) by Delia Owens
In a poignant story of isolation, survival, and the weight of societal criticism. The serene scenery of nature amplifies the emotional resonance of this distinctive narrative.
(2020) by S.A. Cosby
Beauregard "Bug" Montage, a former getaway driver turned mechanic, battles to keep his family's garage solvent. Faced with financial difficulties, he takes on one final job in a bid to secure his family's future. However, things take a turn for the worse and he becomes embroiled in a maelstrom of violence and deceit. This gripping thriller delves into complex moral conflicts, loyalty, and selfless devotion in a rural America plagued by deep-seated social unrest.