A review by whrohala
The Best American Mystery and Suspense 2021 by Steph Cha, Alafair Burke

dark inspiring mysterious sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

As is often the risk with anthologies, this book had its good aspects and not-so-good aspects. 

ALL of these stories were wonderfully written and engaging, there were just a handleful that didn't have quite the payoff I would have hoped for from the best mystery and suspense of the year (my own expectations may have set this book up for failure though, so take that into consideration). 

Of the 20 stories, I marked 8 of them for revisiting in the future, which is a win in my opinion. Those that ranked above for me, where most because of how resolved the story felt by the end, or the physical reaction I had to the climax or twist (chills, gasping, etc.). Ultimately, I think the writing styles of those authors, the way they told their story, just resonated with me more. 

Highly recommend, as I think that anyone who likes mystery and suspense will find something for them in this book, and get to read some amazing writing in the process. 
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