There has been good and bad news from the world of mystery writing in the past few days. On the plus side, the 2010 Edgar Nominees were announced. These titles are selected by the Mystery Writers of America to honor "the best in mystery fiction, non-fiction and television published or produced in 2009." The winners will be announced in April.

On a much sadder note, many readers were shocked to learn that best-selling author Robert B. Parker passed away Monday at the age of 77. Tributes and memories are filling the internet, such as this from the Wall Street Journal and this from the New York Times, While many enjoy his "Sunny Randall" and "Jesse Stone" series, I have always been a strict "Spenser" devotee. I still remember when I first discovered this series and how I devoured all I could find. Since then, the arrival of the newest Spenser novel was always a highlight in my reading calendar and is something I will miss.

marlise