Forty-one of the best mystery and suspense stories from around the world together in "a standout among mystery anthologies" ( Booklist ).

"This collection, the second in an annual series, has heft and authority. . . . Capers, cozies, character puzzles, mysteries that hinge on wordplay, excursions into noir, and comic jaunts are all represented." - Booklist

A Banquete of Mystery and Crime Fiction

Here, for the delectation of readers who hunger for outstanding mystery reading, are gathered the greatest mystery and crime stories of 2000. Award-winning author and editor Ed Gorman has once again collected the best stories of the year from around the world, to baffle, tantalize, and delight mystery readers. Included are tales of crime, mystery, and suspense from such authors as:

· Lawrence Block

· Jan Burke

· Dorothy Cannell

· Clark Howard

· Peter Lovesey

· Joyce Carol Oates

· Nancy Pickard

· Bill Pronzini

· Ian Rankin

· And a host of others

"The stories range in quality from above average to superb; indeed the biggest mystery is how a single year could have produced a bumper crop of so many outstanding tales." - Kirkus Reviews