Anthony Awards
The premier fan-voted mystery awards, presented annually at Bouchercon and named after legendary critic Anthony Boucher.
About the Anthony Awards
The Anthony Awards honor outstanding achievement in mystery writing and are presented each fall at Bouchercon, the World Mystery Convention. Named after Anthony Boucher (1911-1968), a legendary mystery author, critic, and editor who cofounded The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, the awards represent the voice of mystery readers and fans.
Unlike juried awards, the Anthonys are voted on directly by Bouchercon attendees, making them a true reflection of reader preferences in the mystery community. The awards were first presented in 1986.
Categories
- Best Novel - Mystery/crime novel
- Best First Novel - Debut mystery
- Best Paperback Original - Original paperback release
- Best Short Story - Mystery short fiction
- Best Anthology or Collection - Edited mystery anthology
- Best Critical/Non-Fiction - Mystery-related nonfiction
- Best Young Adult - YA mystery fiction
Nomination and Voting Process
Nominations open to all Bouchercon members in the spring. After nominations close, a shortlist is compiled and voting opens to registered convention attendees. Winners are announced at the Saturday night awards ceremony during Bouchercon.
Recent Anthony Award Winners - Best Novel
| Year | Title | Author |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | The Last Devil to Die | Richard Osman |
| 2023 | All the Sinners Bleed | S.A. Cosby |
| 2022 | The Maid | Nita Prose |
| 2021 | The Moonlight Child | Karen McQuestion |
| 2020 | The Boy from the Woods | Harlan Coben |
| 2019 | A Better Man | Louise Penny |
| 2018 | Kingdom of the Blind | Louise Penny |
| 2017 | Glass Houses | Louise Penny |
| 2016 | A Great Reckoning | Louise Penny |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can vote for the Anthony Awards?
Voting is open to registered Bouchercon attendees. Both in-person and virtual attendees can typically participate in voting, though specific rules may vary by year.
What is Bouchercon?
Bouchercon is the World Mystery Convention, an annual gathering of mystery fans, authors, publishers, and booksellers. It takes place in a different city each year and features panels, readings, and networking events.
How is Anthony Boucher connected?
Anthony Boucher (1911-1968) was a highly influential mystery critic, author, and editor. He wrote the mystery review column for The New York Times for years and helped establish many now-famous authors. The convention and awards honor his legacy.
Can any mystery subgenre win?
Yes, unlike some awards that focus on specific subgenres, the Anthony Awards are open to all types of mystery and crime fiction, from cozies to noir to thrillers.