CWA Diamond Dagger: Michael Connelly

The Crime Writers’ Association (CWA) will award the CWA Diamond Dagger, given annually for “sustained excellence”, to US author Michael Connelly.

The prize recognizes crime authors “who have made a significant contribution to the genre”, with previous recipients including P D James, John le Carré, Dick Francis, Ruth Rendell, Lee Child and Ann Cleeves.

Connelly will be presented with the highest honor in British crime writing at the CWA’s Dagger Awards ceremony in London on 25th October.

Martin Edwards, chair of the CWA, said: “Michael Connelly’s crime novels have won international acclaim for more than a quarter century, and have given readers, television viewers, and film fans rich entertainment.

“A combination of wonderful characters, vivid settings, and gripping storylines characterizes his work. The CWA is delighted to celebrate his achievements with the award of the Diamond Dagger.”

The CWA Diamond Dagger is selected from nominations provided by its members. Nominees have to meet two essential criteria: first, their careers must be marked by sustained excellence, and second, they must have made a significant contribution to crime writing published in the English language.