edgar award for best first novel by an american author

The Edgar Award for Best First Novel by an American Author is a prestigious literary prize presented annually by the Mystery Writers of America. Established in 1954, this award aims to recognize exceptional debut novels that demonstrate excellence in the mystery and crime fiction genre. In this article, we will explore some of the notable winners of this award throughout the years, shining a spotlight on talented American authors and their captivating first novels.

One of the most celebrated winners of the Edgar Award for Best First Novel is Gillian Flynn's "Gone Girl." Published in 2012, this psychological thriller took the literary world by storm, captivating readers with its gripping narrative and mind-bending twists. Flynn's expert storytelling and intricate character development have solidified her position as a master of the genre. Since "Gone Girl," she has continued to captivate audiences with novels like "Sharp Objects" and "Dark Places," further establishing her as a leading voice in contemporary mystery fiction.

Another highly acclaimed recipient of this award is Laura Lippman for her debut novel, "Baltimore Blues." This book, published in 1997, introduced readers to Tess Monaghan, an ex-journalist turned private investigator, and kick-started a successful series featuring the tenacious detective. Lippman's skillful rendering of Baltimore's ambiance and her ability to create complex, multi-dimensional characters have garnered her a dedicated fanbase. Her subsequent books, including "What the Dead Know" and "Sunburn," have consistently impressed readers and critics alike.

In recent years, Jennifer Egan's "A Visit from the Goon Squad" emerged as a groundbreaking novel that won both the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the Edgar Award for Best First Novel. While not strictly a mystery novel, Egan's work intertwines various narratives and explores the interconnected lives of a diverse cast of characters. "A Visit from the Goon Squad" is an imaginative and thought-provoking exploration of time, music, and the human condition. Egan's work pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling, leaving readers deeply moved and craving more.

To stay up to date with the latest winners of the Edgar Award for Best First Novel by an American Author, avid readers can visit the official website of the Mystery Writers of America. This organization not only celebrates the award recipients but also provides a wealth of information and resources for crime fiction enthusiasts. Additionally, online platforms such as Goodreads and BookBub offer curated lists of award-winning debut novels, ensuring that readers never miss out on the most exciting new voices in American mystery fiction.

In conclusion, the Edgar Award for Best First Novel by an American Author serves as a testament to the immense talent and creativity within the mystery and crime fiction genre. From Gillian Flynn to Laura Lippman and Jennifer Egan, the award has recognized numerous exceptional novels and introduced readers to unforgettable characters and gripping narratives. By exploring the works of these award-winning authors and utilizing resources such as the Mystery Writers of America's website, readers can embark on a thrilling literary journey filled with suspense, intrigue, and remarkable storytelling.
Mobile Storm Fiction
Mobile Storm

Humans have entered the era of interstellar navigation, with Earth and the Moon becoming their main habitats. They are also intensifying efforts to expand to other planets, with military power being the key to expansion. The USE and NUP, representing different interests, are engaged in fierce conflicts. Mobile suits have replaced most conventional weapons and become the primary combat force of humanity. The protagonist's dream is to become an outstanding mobile suit pilot and he tirelessly works towards it. However, his poor performance in exams threatens to shatter his dream of attending military school. A meteor event changes the trajectory. In a parallel world, an alien object introduces a brand new beginning, marking the birth of a new era for humanity.

285.13 Million words | 2022-12-28 07:05Update

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Infinite Bloodline Fiction
Infinite Bloodline

Can't humans really evolve again? Will genetic mutation lead to genetic collapse? Can the dark light virus only be used according to the game? Why can't I gather the best of all families? My devouring is just a way to optimize my bloodline by absorbing the advantages of others, like the Sharingan from Naruto and Wolverine's super-regeneration factor...

43.27 Million words | 2022-12-24 19:13Update

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Lord of the Stars and Seas Fiction
Lord of the Stars and Seas

In the interstellar era, the Chinese civilization, which has experienced countless rebirths and resurgences, is once again reaching its peak. The descendants of dragons can be found throughout the vast seas of stars. A generation of special forces king was schemed against and assassinated by political adversaries and alien civilizations while on a top-secret mission. Through the help of an ancient artifact, he miraculously survives and steps onto the magnificent interstellar stage. Destruction and rebirth, glory and dreams, many alien civilizations covet from the sidelines. Can the human world break through the encirclement? {Book club number:, friends who want to join please provide the names of the male and female leads and pass the verification.}

424.30 Million words | 2021-07-23 16:01Update

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Infinite Arms System Fiction
Infinite Arms System

After a strange encounter, Ling Feng unexpectedly discovered that he magically possessed an infinite arsenal filled with all kinds of military weapons! Before he could fully comprehend this sudden turn of events, a terrifying virus called "Mad Wolf" swept across the country overnight. In an instant, the city he resided in was plagued by roaming zombies, with the streets filled with beast-like roars and terrified screams. As the apocalypse descended and mutated zombies wreaked havoc, Ling Feng embarked on a mission to save his loved ones, friends, and his long-time crush, a sexy goddess. With unparalleled skill, he drove armored vehicles and tanks, successfully rescuing them. Furthermore, he led countless survivors to establish a massive army, rebuilding their homes amidst the ruins. "My name is Ling Feng, and I am currently standing on the rooftop of the World Trade Center. If any of you are still alive, if you can hear my voice, please respond. I will come to rescue you and provide food, weapons, and safe shelters. Trust me, I have the most badass army and the most powerful military weapons." If you, my dear readers, think "Infinite Arsenal System" is not bad, please don't forget to recommend it to your friends in your QQ groups and on Weibo!

314.46 Million words | 2021-05-03 22:46Update

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The World of Ants Fiction
The World of Ants

If a person finds themselves potentially crossing over, they should first check if they possess any special abilities (cultivation genre). If not, they should see if those around them have any magical martial skills (fantasy genre). If still not, then they should determine whether they have traveled to the past or future (historical or sci-fi genre). However, the protagonist in this story doesn't need any of the above because they have crossed over as an ant... This story belongs to the pseudo sci-fi and farming genre, portraying the rise of ant civilization after the extinction of humanity. It does not involve magic, fantasy, or fairy tales. In writing, we will respect the physiological habits of various insects in reality and avoid turning it into a human story disguised as insects, but there may be some modifications to suit the needs of the novel. Hope you all enjoy it!

353.93 Million words | 2022-10-12 04:05Update

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Borrowing the Mandate of Heaven. Fiction
Borrowing the Mandate of Heaven.

The old bachelor in the village married a beautiful daughter-in-law, and after my brother curiously peeped at them... Welcome to the world of Borrowing Destiny, where every story will send chills down your spine. Are you ready? Borrowing Destiny is waiting for you! Those who reward with Borrowing Destiny amulets will receive extra updates, without exception. Even if it exhausts me, I will still provide extra updates!

594.75 Million words | 2021-03-18 17:26Update

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Drifting Classroom Fiction
Drifting Classroom

There is a non-existent classroom in the school, and I walked into it. Dilapidated walls, yellowed light bulbs, and a heavy atmosphere filled with students and teachers. I can't leave, can't escape, I can only stay in this non-existent classroom. I call it... the Ghost Classroom. My other two completed novels: a 700,000-word high-energy gaming story titled "My Dad is Garen" and a million-word hilarious satire novel titled "One Hundred Thousand Godly Satires."

102.59 Million words | 2020-10-11 22:12Update

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Tsundere Star Mom: Training the Male God to be a Milk Daddy Fiction
Tsundere Star Mom: Training the Male God to be a Milk Daddy

Aiqianqian took a wounded man home. This man not only used her belongings, ate her food, and slept in her bed, but also shamelessly climbed into her bed completely naked! Aiqianqian's face turned red as she shouted, "Ji Tianqi, no matter how far it is, you better roll away from me!" The man started rolling around on her bed in a playful manner. Aiqianqian was so angry that her nose started bleeding. One day, Aiqianqian saw on TV the news of the upcoming wedding of the CEO of Ji Corporation. But why did the man on TV have the same name and exactly the same appearance as the demonic man in their house?! The man kneeled in front of her, holding a ring. "To repay the queen for her hospitality during this time, I have decided to offer myself to you." Aiqianqian started bleeding from her nose again. "Go away, I have someone I like..." The man smirked devilishly. "It's fine, because in this lifetime, I'm sticking with you no matter what!"

114.90 Million words | 2020-10-22 21:34Update

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Doomsday Paradise Fiction
Doomsday Paradise

Lin Sanjiu's boyfriend is gentle, wealthy, handsome, and devoted only to her. All her friends envy her good fortune, but deep inside, Lin Sanjiu is filled with fear and unease. After a shocking twist, the truth is revealed, and with it begins a terrifying and hopeless journey. The apocalyptic hell, unveiled by those close to her, is now roaring towards her. Every month brings a new apocalypse, sudden death scenarios, unknown friends, unknown enemies, unknown environments, unknown journeys. Amidst constant threat of death, Lin Sanjiu utilizes her intelligence and strength to struggle for survival, growing in adversity, and advancing with unwavering determination.

704.85 Million words | 2022-06-30 09:26Update

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Supreme Technological Empire Fiction
Supreme Technological Empire

【Hilarious Urban Sci-fi Super Cool Novel!】 【Urban Rebirth + Future Technology = One person dominating the world!】 Is the end of science theology? Yes, Chen Lang, who has been reborn, knows better than anyone else. In the not-so-distant future, under the pressure of world destruction, humanity can unleash immense wisdom and creativity. This is an era where everyone can become a dragon and gods are created. Chen Lang is determined to become the father of all living beings and the gods' godfather! 【Book Fans Group:】

217.90 Million words | 2021-06-05 12:35Update

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The Self-Cultivation of the Supreme Deity Fiction
The Self-Cultivation of the Supreme Deity

Extra Skit: The Rise of a Main God. Main God Construction Flow.

459.59 Million words | 2021-12-24 16:44Update

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Cosmic supervillain Fiction
Cosmic supervillain

Wang Hao traveled through time and obtained a system. Why? A villain system? It requires deceiving others, doing bad things, and being despised by others... in order to use it? Should one have integrity or not? N years later, the first thing every person in the universe does when they wake up is to spit on Wang Hao's portrait and curse him as a beast, before having the mood to go to work. Wang Hao looks innocent: Can you blame me for this? I was originally a pure and innocent youth. It's all the system's fault. The system looks disdainful: Blaming the system won't make you any less despicable. Group chat number: [N/A]

549.09 Million words | 2022-12-19 08:40Update

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Armed Storm Fiction
Armed Storm

Wang Dong, a classmate, is about to embark on a splendid college life filled with beautiful girls, but what awaits him is a "contract to sell himself" for the development of Norton Star. Norton Star is under a massive attack by the Zargo tribe, and the defense forces are instantly annihilated. Wang Dong is faced with a harsh environment of five times gravity, rampant bugs, shortage of water and food, and isolation without any support... Mysterious space crystals, the power of blade warriors? The 256-degree limit blade technique? A simple and honest low-level robot, a ghost full of nonsense. Wang Dong fights for his life...

200.40 Million words | 2022-12-28 19:39Update

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Rebirth of Nie Xiaoqian Fiction
Rebirth of Nie Xiaoqian

Travel through the world of "A Chinese Ghost Story" and transform into the ghostly Nie Xiaoqian. Being a ghost is not about dining as guests, for ghosts do not eat, nor is it about writing articles, but one can write articles. It is not about painting or embroidering, but one can cultivate through painting, being composed and elegant, displaying a gentle and modest demeanor, being kind, respectful, frugal, and accommodating.

514.87 Million words | 2021-09-08 19:36Update

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Humanitarian paradise. Fiction
Humanitarian paradise.

This is a future world, the birthplace of dreams, where advancements in technology have eliminated arduous physical labor for humans. For the first time, they are being liberated from internal oppression, heralding the arrival of a golden age. However, the karmic ties of the past millions of years remain entangled, leaving humans with the choice to either eliminate or liberate themselves from them.

171.11 Million words | 2021-11-08 11:20Update

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The Rural Doctor's Daughter Has Some Farmland. Fiction
The Rural Doctor's Daughter Has Some Farmland.

Zhang Xiaoyan, a dual-doctorate in medicine, transmigrated into the body of an eight-year-old fool who was killed. Faced with destitution, domestic disputes, and a life worse off than beggars for her loving parents and siblings, she had the intention to make money. However, being too young and lacking resources, she could only make do with what she had, abandoning medicine and venturing into business. Unexpectedly, before she even started, she encountered a decent-looking swindler. Swindler, don't think that your good looks and agility will let you off the hook. This miss won't let it go easily. If we meet again, I will make sure you'll be begging for life and longing for death!

156.36 Million words | 2021-09-22 16:07Update

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Arrival in the world of cinema. Fiction
Arrival in the world of cinema.

Emerton returns to Hammernata, the Black Pearl sets sail in the Caribbean Sea, vampires interpret the legend of the night, and numerous American superheroes make their appearances. Chen Xu, a time-traveling visitor, will show us how he navigates the world of movies. Please kindly save and recommend, I am grateful from the bottom of my heart. The completed VIP novel "Arrival" is now available for reading. Welcome to enjoy my new book "Death Movie".

321.54 Million words | 2021-11-08 11:28Update

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Don't waste the cold summer. Fiction
Don't waste the cold summer.

You finally came back before I grew old in loneliness. Later, Lin Mochen became the chairman of a conglomerate with assets worth billions, one of the youngest tycoons in the domestic business world. Someone asked him, "What is so good about her that you can't forget her for so many years?" Lin Mochen answered, "I used to think that I deserved better. But in this world, who could be better than the woman I love?"

32.75 Million words | 2022-11-29 13:52Update

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Apocalypse Skill Tree Fiction
Apocalypse Skill Tree

Hong Yi loves to gaze at the stars, the profound night and the brilliant starlight can temporarily make people forget their troubles and imagine things they want but cannot have, or reminisce about past beauty. However, no matter how far the thoughts wander, there is always a time to return to reality. The most important thing for people is to live down-to-earth and look forward. After a major catastrophe, humanity relies on activating the brain domain to become evolvers, gaining mysterious powers within the brain domain, which are known as skills! Completed novels include "New World at the End", "Chapter of Demons", "Unrivaled Martial Saint", and "Shadow Street". Rest assured, the quality is guaranteed for reading!

95.63 Million words | 2021-10-01 02:39Update

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Unparalleled in the World of Online Gaming Fiction
Unparalleled in the World of Online Gaming

Can someone without a heart still live? The mysterious crystal on the chest, a dazzling world of extraordinary abilities. The return of a legendary hero, unstoppable by any sword. With beauty by my side, we will create an unparalleled legend. Who says playing games is useless? Whoever stands in my way, even if they are gods, I will crush them before their eyes! (Thousand people) (Diving group) Three groups.

208.77 Million words | 2023-01-26 07:48Update

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