Handicapping the Anthonys

First up, Best Novel:

Unlike other categories (as well as normal procedure) there’s a ton of overlap between the nominees here and the Edgars, with repeats by Laura Lippman, T. Jefferson Parker and Julia Spencer-Fleming. Ken Bruen repeats as a nominee from last year as well. And then there are the surprises: truth is, I can’t really argue with Kent Krueger’s appearance on the list, as he’s awfully underrated and more people should read his books. Katzenbach? On the surface it’s a head-scratcher, but it did receive some good reviews upon its release last summer and on an anecdotal level, several folks I know loved the book. It’s also a feather in the cap for ITW types to see a prototype thriller get recognition.

So who will take it? Hard to say, since the category’s got so many heavy hitters and popular favorites, so perhaps there will be a tie?

Best First:

Um, wow. First, the more neutral reason, that the concordance between this shortlist and pretty much every other major one for this category bears no relation whatsoever. And that it’s a decidedly cozy list, save J.A. Konrath’s book. Then, the less neutral reason:

RETRIBUTION? WTF?

I think I’ll leave it at that as I pick my jaw up from off the floor. I can’t even handicap this now.

Best PBO:

Really, quite a nice list. Perennial nominees Robin Burcell and Roberta Isleib are on the list once again, as is Jason Starr, while Susan McBride and M.J. Rose make welcome debuts. There’s something for everyone, be they fans of noir, cozy or psychological suspense. But somehow, it’s gonna be a cozy in this category, I suspect.

Best Short Story

Isn’t it interesting how a different story from BROOKLYN NOIR makes a mystery shortlist? And I quite liked Arthur Neresesian’s twisted little story, too, so I hope it takes it. That said, a lot of short story vets are in the running, and with Ted Hertel, Elaine Viets and Rhys Bowen (Terence Faherty’s no slouch either) it’s hard to pick a favorite. Really.

The Rest

I wish there had been a category for Worst Cover Art. That would have been awesome to vote for.