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Nashville, Tennessee recently hosted the annual Bouchercon World Mystery Convention from August 28 to September 1. This event, named after the late mystery author and critic Anthony Boucher, is a gathering point for mystery writers and fans. Attendees have the opportunity to vote on Anthony Awards for outstanding books in various categories.
William Kent Krueger, a favorite at Bouchercon, was present to promote his new Cork O'Connor novel, "Spirit Crossing." Fans can look forward to seeing him next year in Erlanger where he will give a book talk and sign copies on April 9, 2025.
The convention featured numerous panel programs where attendees could hear from both established authors and newcomers. Among the notable works highlighted was S.A. Cosby's "All the Sinners Bleed," which won the Anthony Award for Best Novel.
I.S. Berry's debut novel "The Peacock and the Sparrow" was recognized as part of a growing trend of female authors in spy novels. Mick Herron discussed his latest book "The Secret Hours," while Brad Thor promoted his thriller "Shadow of Doubt."
Nancy Springer received the Anthony Award for Best Children's or Young Adult Mystery with her book "Enola Holmes and the Mark of the Mongoose." Rachel Howzell Hall's new thriller "What Fire Brings" also generated interest among attendees.
Dennis Lehane's solo interview focused on his mob mystery set in Boston titled "Small Mercies." He shared experiences from writing for TV shows like The Wire.
Other highlights included Nashville resident J.T. Ellison promoting her upcoming thriller "A Very Bad Thing," Timothy Egan winning an award for Best Nonfiction with "A Fever in the Heartland," and Nina Simon being honored with Best First Novel for "Mother-daughter Murder Night."
Audiobooks were also a topic of discussion at Bouchercon, with a panel featuring leading narrators such as Jessica Kaye, Andi Arndt, Marni Penning, Holly Adams, Amanda Stribling, and Brian Keany sharing insights into their work.
These books and more are available through the Kenton County Public Library catalog.
