Crime Writers of Canada (CWC) announced the winners of the 2025 Crime Writers of Canada Awards of Excellence in Canadian Crime Writing. Since 1984, Crime Writers of Canada has recognized the best in mystery, crime, suspense fiction, and crime non-fiction by Canadian authors. Sponsored by Superior Shores Press, the Best Juvenile/YA Crime Book was awarded to Sigmund Brouwer for his novel Shock Wave, published by Orca Book Publishers.
About Shock Wave
In this fast-paced and engaging thriller, 18-year-old Jake Ballard is tricked into helping a teenage girl break into a houseboat and becomes the target of an angry crime boss. Jake is given 24 hours to rectify the situation and, as his mother is away receiving treatment for combat-related PTSD, he must do it on his own. As Jake skillfully navigates dangerous situations and finds the courage to continue, he discovers the answer to the question that many teens today face—what to do with their lives. The author elevates this storytelling by providing interesting and realistic discussions on the military, violence, service to others, and mental health. Short chapters, action-filled scenes and snappy dialogue make this book set in Sicamous, British Columbia, a compelling and easy read for teens.
To see the shortlist for the Best Juvenile/YA Crime Book, click here.
To view the complete listed on winners, visit, crimewriterscanada.com.