Leading anthologist Maxim Jakubowski presents the very best in crime writing from around the world - 40 short stories from an all-star line-up of international writers.

They cover the full spectrum of crime fiction, from noir and thrillers, to whodunnits and procedurals, with settings that include Italy, Cuba, Scandinavia, Russia, USA, Japan, Germany, Mexico, France, Italy, Spain and the UK. Among the writers presented are:

Ian Rankin, bestselling author of compelling, cerebral crime fiction set in Edinburgh, featuring the much-loved Inspector Rebus.

John Mortimer, the English barrister and writer, famous for his much-loved fictional character Horace Rumpole of the Bailey.

Boris Akunin, whose eccentric characters and surprising, inventive plots have earned him a reputation as one of the finest contemporary writers of classic crime fiction.

Mark Billingham, whose series of taut procedural thrillers featuring London policeman Tom Thorne have won him numerous fans.

Giorgio Faletti, author of the 5 million copy seller I Kill.

Jo Nesbo, a hugely succesful Norwegian writer with a series featuring Detective Harry Hole, set in Oslo.

Jeffrey Deaver, one of the very best US crime writers. His psychological thrillers feautring Lincoln Rhyme have been bestsellers around the world.

Ruth Rendell, one of the UK's most respected crime writers.