Blog

Writers on writing

Maybe it's because I'm teaching writing again, but I love this interview between Ann Patchett and Elizabeth McCracken. And, yes, I stole it - as all good ideas are stolen - in this case from good buddy and excellent novelist Caroline Leavitt (at right).

read more

All About Agatha

Did you know Agatha Christie only received 25 pounds for her first mystery, The Mysterious Affair at Styles? And that wasn't even an advance. She only got that because someone agreed to serialize it, and that was her take.I've been asked to write the introductions to...

read more

Thank you, Oline!

"These are darn good mysteries." – says Oline Cogdill, mystery columnist for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Make my day, why don't you, Oline!

read more

Remembering to forget…

It's not like I don't have enough on my plate. I've got the revisions of "Probable Claws" to finish up (luckily, my editor is on vacation, which gives me some breathing room). And I've got my summer writing class to teach. But my agent is sending out my non-Theda...

read more

Wear your pet!

No, not "where your pet?" I mean, why not wear your pet as the wonderful ornament to your life that he or she is?My friend Laurie has long pursued a variety of interesting crafts and arts, developing a real flair for folk art that looks (and feels) good. And now that...

read more

Separated at birth?

Watching game 5 of the NBA playoffs last night, it occurred to me that LA Lakers star Kobe Bryant (far left) looks a little like a meerkat (right). Something about the eyes. Which makes me like Bryant more. Not a good thing for a New Englander, so, please, don't tell...

read more

Then again…

Tim Russert has died. He wasn't always perfect - who is? - but he was the kind of journalist we need more of. So sad. May he rest in peace.

read more

Reasons to be happy…

Did you know Friday the 13th is actually a safer day to drive or wander about? A Dutch study tackled the topic and proved it true. And remember, to pet any black cats you might see, too!

read more

The heat is on

Half past seven and the mercury is stuck at 94 degrees. I'm still trying to read through that non-Theda project. I like it, I do, but it's just too difficult to do anything in this weather that in any way resembles work. Did take a break to visit the lovely and ever...

read more