Blog
“A Burning” by Megha Majumdar
Honored to review this timely debut novel in last Sunday's Boston Globe. No, I didn't think it was flawless, but it is thrilling – and an important read. For that reason, I'm posting it here: Furies and fates A propulsive debut ponders life on the margins By Clea...
#NoContact Book Tour with Tracy Clark
It was the best of times. It was the worst of times. Best for me, because I get to host multiple-award-winning author Tracy Clark here on the #NoContact book tour. Tracy's third Chicago mystery – What You Don't See – is just out, bringing back investigator Cass Raines...
Missed it? Catch up now
Wow, that was a blast – six authors, questions, chat... I read from my upcoming HOLD ME DOWN and the feedback was wonderful (thanks so much, all!). If you want to view the event, you can see a recording here. powered by Crowdcast powered by Crowdcast
Virtual Noir at the Bar (join us?)
Can the cat writer go dark? Tune in tomorrow and find out... Free, of course, but register here: https://bit.ly/3cRD54b EDIT: If you missed it, you can watch the replay below! powered by Crowdcast
#NoContact Book Tour with Claudia Long
Welcome to the #NoContact Book Tour! While we all stay inside and stay safe, books have become even more important. But book events and conferences, alas, are canceled. To do my own small bit, I’m running interviews with authors whose tours must now be virtual....
#NoContact Book Tour with Ira Robbins
I've been trying to remember when I first heard the name "Ira Robbins," and I can't. Ira was one of those writers I trusted to steer me toward music I would love – and wouldn't hear about anywhere else. When I started writing about music, he was one of the few I...
Reviewing “Rodham” – if only…
This ran in Sunday's Boston Globe with a gorgeous illustration (not available online): BOOK REVIEW New novel ‘Rodham’ imagines Hillary without Bill By Clea Simon Globe Correspondent,Updated May 14, 2020, 2:30 p.m. Author Curtis SittenfeldJOSEPHINE SITTENFELD...
“Up From the Streets” – NOLA music on film
In a better world, I’d be just back from New Orleans. Every spring since 1989, I’ve attended at least one weekend of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (Jon has joined me since 1993). This annual festival — always the last weekend in April and...
Reading While Distracted
Librarian and blogger Lesa Holstine has started a wonderful series for the independent Poisoned Pen Bookstore, asking authors what we're reading in these strange times. Today was my turn. I'm sharing the entire post below. If you'd like to see the others, from authors...
Bookshelves of the Rich and Famous
Is there a lighter side to this odd and horrible time? Just maybe – in the peek it has allowed us into the homes of celebrities. (This piece ran in the Boston Globe.) OPINION Bookshelves of the rich and famous Was that ‘Pride and Prejudice’ on Amy Klobuchar’s shelf?...