From Booklist
This first in a series of anthologies sponsored by the British Crime Writers Association features 22 short stories with urban themes. The editor notes that he was looking for stories that offered imaginative takes on the familiar idea of big-city crime. He certainly got what he wanted. Notable British writers, the majority of whom have at least one major mystery award under their belts, have contributed a fine collection of stories that are funny, tragic, offbeat, suspenseful, or plain weird. Ruth Rendell, Reginald Hill, Bill James, Val McDermid, and John Harvey are among the big-name contributors. McDermid's story of tragic love set in Russia and Rendell's bleak exploration of the effects of loneliness are among the highlights, but it's impossible to choose a favorite. All of these tales are eminently readable and will fill the bill perfectly when noir fans are looking for a quick read. Emily Melton
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