I’m sorry I haven’t posted in a while. Blame this lack of motivation on pandemic blues (still sticking close to home due to household members’ underlying conditions). This has also caused a reading slump. I began subscribing to two great mystery mags to turn the doldrums tide: Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and Mystery Scene.
I’ve read Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine off and on over the years, buying current editions wherever I could find them—usually in my semi-local big-box bookstore chain. (Unfortunately, I don’t live near any independent bookstores.) I’m a short story fan, whether or not they contain a murder or other mystery. So, reading this mag is a no-brainer for me. Writers who’ve contributed are a who’s who in literary fiction: Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury, Dashiell Hammett, Stephen King and Ernest Hemingway, to name but a few.
Along with stories from the likes of Marilyn Todd, most issues have two regular columns. The first, “Blog Bytes,” highlights websites that discuss the mystery and thriller book scenes, as well as authors and booksellers. The second, “The Jury Box,” highlights upcoming mystery fare from various publishers. EQMM is now published as a double issue every other month. It will seem a long, dry wait until the next issue comes over the transom.
Mystery Scene defines itself as “Your Guide to the Best in Mystery, Crime and Suspense.” This magazine normally contains articles about, and interviews with, current authors at the top of their field, new authors to watch, and information for collectors. Also included are numerous book reviews. So many reviews, in fact, it could be hazardous to your wallet! Mystery Scene is issued five times per year.
I foresee that these will be great mystery mags to turn the doldrums tide. See you soon with another book review.
Hi Jane
I really appreciate your post today and for letting us know why on the lack of postings. But when you do post it is always worth reading as you have new and interesting topics for me.
Thank you
Hester
I’m looking forward to picking up copies of these magazines. I love short stories also.
I just finished “The Cold Vanish.” It covers true disappearances of people while the main focus is disappearing in a National Forest. It was eye opening how these cases were handled and the lengths people will go to trying to find their loved one. It made me rethink all the years I have been a lone hiker without any means of communication. One wrong step may lead you on a path that you’ll never return from. Intentional or unintentional disappearances are both intriguing.