An outstanding anthology of crime fiction and suspense, guest edited by bestselling thriller author Lisa Unger with series editor Steph Cha. This annual collection gathers 20 of the finest mystery and suspense short stories published in North America during the previous year, showcasing both acclaimed masters and exciting new voices.

Rather than following a single narrative, the anthology presents a wide range of crime fiction—from psychological thrillers and classic whodunits to noir, literary crime, revenge tales, and suspense with speculative elements. The stories feature memorable characters including haunted veterans, career criminals, assassins, detectives, grieving families, and ordinary people pushed into extraordinary situations. Each story offers a fresh mystery, moral dilemma, or shocking twist.

Contributors include celebrated authors such as Walter Mosley, S. A. Cosby, Joyce Carol Oates, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Jess Walter, and many emerging writers, resulting in a collection that is remarkably diverse in tone and style. Lisa Unger's introduction highlights how these stories explore the darker corners of human nature while remaining deeply engaging and emotionally resonant.