Three Argentine writers, Claudia Piñeiro, Reynaldo Sietecase, and Juan Carrá, have been named finalists in the 39th edition of the Semana Negra de Gijón awards, celebrating notable contributions to Spanish-language crime literature. The festival, an annual event known for its focus on detective and crime-themed literature, will take place on the coasts of Arbeyal from July 3 to July 12. The finalists have submitted works published in 2025 through the Penguin Random House megagroup, showcasing the dynamic and engaging storytelling present in contemporary Argentine literature.

The selected titles include "La muerte ajena" by Piñeiro, a work that explores themes of death and morality; "La Rey" by Sietecase, which likely delves into the complexities and nuances of crime and punishment; and "Salvate vos. Los Molfino. Seis hermanos, una madre sola. Una persecución implacable. El mayor crimen internacional de la dictadura" by Carrá, a nonfiction piece addressing historical crimes in Argentina during its dictatorship. The announcement of the winners is slated for July 10, adding to the anticipation surrounding the festival, as it highlights significant voices in the genre.

The Semana Negra de Gijón is not just an awards ceremony, but a celebration of crime literature as a vital component of Spanish-speaking culture, drawing writers, readers, and enthusiasts from across the globe. With renowned personalities such as Miguel Barrero, the director of the event, leading discussions and activities, the festival continues to gain prominence in the literary calendar, underscoring the importance of crime fiction in understanding societal issues and human behavior, particularly in the context of Latin America.