Were there hard and fast rules I followed when writing? Not likely. I'm lazier than that. Was there a formula for a succesful novel? If there were, we'd all be bestselling authors. What was I going to tell this room full of people who had paid money to glean knowledge from me?
It's about time some visionary publisher woke up to those of us who are spiritual and readers here on earth!
As a mystery writer, I believe that crime stems from strong emotions, and strong emotions stem from conflict.
If you have an affinity for New Orleans and the Louisiana/Mississippi coast, then you will want to read The Beach Trees. It will take you there, and keep you there for the length of the story.
Dianne Dixon's debut novel, The Language of Secrets, is destined to become this year's The Memory Keeper's Daughter and a perennial book club favorite.
If you have an interest in ancient China or simply wish to better understand that country today, van Gulik's Judge Dee novels are especially attractive, but beyond that, they are also truly addictive.
In Evidence, the step by step solving of the murders is so procedural it borders on boring. Where is the inventiveness that was there at the start of this series?
If you're looking for a series to watch before bedtime or after a stressful day, The No. Ladies' Detective Agency is for you. But for challenging and emotive television, look elsewhere.
