The Villian Explains

One of the mystery writing tropes which drives me nuts is the moment in a book where the villain feels compelled to explain everything he’s done. Usually this happens when the protagonist is helpless, at the complete mercy of the bad guy. The protagonist often says something like, “I guess you’ve been very clever inContinue reading “The Villian Explains”

An Unhealthy Appetite

When a child eats vigorously and with relish (as well as mustard), the grown-ups will say “That boy has a healthy appetite.” I have been in Diabetes Hell for 15 years now. I can tell you that there is also such a thing as an “Unhealthy Appetite.” As a Diabetic, I have to avoid sugar.Continue reading “An Unhealthy Appetite”

Say What?

Some people say stupid things. Some people say hurtful things. Some people say offensive things. Some people say things they think are funny but are not. Some people say disgusting things. Some people say annoying things. Some people say outrageous things. Some people say things they shouldn’t say. Some people say things that piss youContinue reading “Say What?”

Not Convinced

Over the weekend I decided to read a short book for my Sunday vacation. The choice was Ed McBain’s 60s novel, “Doll.” McBain, who died in 2008, is a Grand Master celebrated by the Mystery Writers of America. He wrote over 50 books in his 87th Precinct series, which is considered by the MWA asContinue reading “Not Convinced”

Conventional Wisdom

I have returned from the Killer Nashville convention in Franklin, Tennessee. I was nominated, for the third year in a row, for a Claymore Award (given to an unpublished manuscript). For the third year I went down to defeat. Sigh. But awards are unpredictable. Last year my comic novel, “The Return of Edsel Eddie,” lostContinue reading “Conventional Wisdom”