Author, Compulsively Readable Thrillers
Hi, all. Two Cyber-Monday audiobook contests I want to make sure you know about: I’ve joined 9 other traditionally published authors who’ve now gone indie in this “public service” contest. You can win one of 30+ free audiobooks — in my case, either Havana Lost or An Eye for Murder. Contest goes through December 7th, … Read more
More holiday specials! I’m giving away a free audio of Havana Lost sometime between December 1-7, as part of my participation in The Virtual Book Fair. All you have to do is sign-up for my newsletter here. I’ll announce the winner on the 7th. But, and this is the best part, there are a lot … Read more
Audiobooks are quickly changing the way we “read.” Yes, I’m a book addict, but there’s just not enough time in the day for me to escape with a great story. So I make time. When I’m in the car, walking the dog, or cleaning the house, I now listen to audiobooks. In fact, audio is … Read more
I have a favor to ask everyone… at least those of you who’ve listened to the audio of SET THE NIGHT ON FIRE and rated/ reviewed it on Audible. I’ve had to set up a new page for the audio (the rights reverted to me– which is good). However, the ratings and reviews could not … Read more
“Good writing is supposed to evoke sensation in the reader – not the fact that it is raining, but the feeling of being rained upon.” E. L. Doctorow I love that definition. Sensory detail succeeds when a writer uses the senses of touch, taste, sight, smell and sound to create a visceral, emotional reaction … Read more
Delighted that Digital Book Today reprinted one of my blogposts on Crime Fiction Subgenres. Would love your comments over there. Did I get it right?
If you have read Havana Lost you’ll have noticed the way I’ve woven the Santería religion through the plot. A potent mix of European Catholicism and African Voodoo, it is a constant backdrop to the Cuban psyche. My character Carla Garcia believes in it more than any of the other characters in the book, not … Read more
I guest post (okay, it might be a slight rant) about strong female protagonists and whether they have to be “likeable” over at Poe’s Deadly Daughters. Hope you’ll take a look.
Booklist has reviewed HAVANA LOST, and it’s a great review! (Be still my heart). Thank you, thank you… The Cuban Revolution is the rich backdrop for this riveting historical thriller. In the days just prior to the revolution, life in Cuba is difficult. Spies are everywhere. Poverty and hunger are rampant. But for American Francesca … Read more
Hi, all. I managed to squeeze in another Writing Lite over the weekend. In this segment, I wrap up my discussion of language with one of my favorite passages from Raymond Chandler. Enjoy!