Best Crime Stories of the Year

The twenty best short stories of 2021, chosen by Lee Child, explore the depths of human psychology and provide fertile grounds for aberrant circumstances and poor choices. The writers present diverse methods and motivations, original perspectives, and perils, including tales of despair, hate, greed, fear, envy, insanity, and love.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2022
Publisher: Head of Zeus

The short story is a perfect medium for crime, as it allows for a quick discovery, revelation, and significance determination within a limited number of pages. The classic mystery tale, invented by Edgar Allen Poe, popularized by Arthur Conan Doyle, and perfected by Agatha Christie, has been a beloved genre for both aficionados and casual readers alike. However, mystery fiction has evolved significantly over the years, and the writers within these pages present far more than a simple case of crime and resolution.

These stories delve into the depths of human psychology, exploring the extremes of despair, hate, greed, fear, envy, insanity, or love. They offer diverse methods and motivations, original perspectives, and perilous situations. The writers present a tapestry of tales that challenge the reader's expectations and provide fertile grounds for contemplation and analysis.

The selection of stories in this anthology is impressive, featuring contributions from a diverse range of talented authors. Doug Allyn, Jim Allyn, Ambrose Bierce, Michael Bracken, James Lee Burke, Martin Edwards, John Floyd, Jacqueline Freimor, Alison Gaylin, Sue Grafton, Paul Kemprecos, Stephen King, Janice Law, Dennis McFadden, David Marcum, Tom Mead, David Morrell, Joyce Carol Oates, Sara Paretsky, Joseph Walker, Andrew Welsh-Huggins, among others, have contributed their unique voices to this collection.

Each story is carefully crafted, with intricate plotlines and well-developed characters that keep the reader engaged and invested. The authors have a keen eye for detail and a talent for creating vivid, atmospheric settings that enhance the narrative. Whether it's a suspenseful mystery, a psychological thriller, or a darkly poetic tale, these stories offer something for every reader's taste.

In conclusion, this anthology of twenty finest short stories of 2021 is a testament to the power of the short story as a genre. It showcases the talent and creativity of contemporary writers, providing a glimpse into the depths of human psychology and the complexities of the human condition. Whether you are a seasoned mystery fan or a newcomer to the genre, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire you.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801105750