The Ned Kelly Awards for crime writing are among the most prestigious and long-standing literary honours in Australia, a true highlight of the nation’s publishing calendar.

The Best International Crime Fiction Award recognises outstanding crime writers from around the globe whose works have been published in Australia, celebrating their achievements alongside those of our local authors.

This year’s entries came from across the world, with particularly strong representation from the United Kingdom and New Zealand. According to the judging panel, the stories were expertly crafted, with the shortlist showcasing some of the finest international releases of the year.

The 2025 Ned Kelly Awards shortlist for Best International Crime Fiction is:

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Return to Blood by Michael Bennett – Read our book review

Leave the Girls Behind by Jacqueline Bublitz – Read our book review

The Waiting by Michael Connelly – Read our book review

A Case of Matricide by Graeme Macrae Burnet – Read our book review

Moscow X by David McCloskey – Find out more

Home Truths by Charity Norman – Read our book review

Find out more about the awards.