Within the literary community, numerous accolades acknowledge the craft of writing, the intrigue of plot, and the depth of characterisation in various genres. Among them, The Dilys Award carves its own niche, honoring the books that mystery booksellers find most gratifying to recommend and sell.

The Origins and Significance of The Dilys Award

In homage to the eminent Dilys Winn, the founder of New York’s esteemed Murder Ink bookstore, The Dilys Award shines a light on new titles that enliven the shelves and conversations of mystery specialty bookstores. This annual award encapsulates the joy of discovery and the passion that fuels both booksellers and readers in their love for the mystery genre.

Criteria and Ceremony

The Dilys Award uniquely reflects the tastes and enthusiasms of those who are at the frontline of selling mystery books. The winning title is selected for its universal appeal and ability to captivate a wide range of customers, essentially the book "we most enjoyed selling" in the previous year. The announcement and presentation of the award are traditionally held during the Left Coast Crime conference, a gathering celebrated by authors, fans, and industry professionals alike.

Past Winners and Nominees of The Dilys Award

A Showcase of Mystery and Excellence

The roster of The Dilys Award nominees and winners features a diverse array of talented authors whose works have become integral to the genre's landscape. Let's take a look at some of these remarkable stories that have captivated the imagination of booksellers and readers.

1999: A Year of Tough Decisions

This year saw Dennis Lehane's Gone, Baby, Gone take home the accolade, alongside notable contenders like Nevada Barr and James Lee Burke, each bringing their unique voice to the mystery genre.

The Evanovich Era: 1998 & 1995

With her knack for combining humor with suspense, Janet Evanovich clinched the award in 1998 for Three to Get Deadly and earlier in 1995 with One for the Money, marking a notable presence in the annals of The Dilys Award.

Michael Connelly: A Repeat Winner

Murder Ink: the Mystery Readers Companion/ Fun Vintage Book by ...

One cannot mention The Dilys Award without acknowledging Michael Connelly, a two-time winner with The Poet in 1997 and The Last Coyote in 1996, an impressive testament to his compelling storytelling.

1992-1994: The Formative Years

The early years of the award showcased the wide range of mystery writing, from Carl Hiaasen's satirical mayhem in Native Tongue to the evocative intrigue of Peter Hoeg's Smilla's Sense of Snow.

Traveling Through Mystery

The mystery genre has the unique ability to transport readers to different locales, from the neon-lit streets of a bustling metropolis to the quiet, menacing small town with deep secrets. The novels celebrated by The Dilys Award are more than just riveting narratives; they are invitations to travel into the heart of human intrigue. Whether you are venturing through the pages from the comfort of home or packing a beloved winner as your travel companion, these mysteries are gateways to places filled with suspense and discovery. The Dilys Award goes beyond celebrating a book's literary merit; it recognizes the journey that each story offers to the curious reader.