Writers are obsessed with villains. From the obvious enemy to the subtle rogue, villains add a depth to a story rarely plumbed by the hero. Their personalities are as intriguing as their acts, and their motivations, however sinister, are often what keep us turning pages as readers. As much as we may cringe at their… Read More »

On the January morning I sat at my computer to begin Things We Have in Common, I had neither a title nor a story. I didn’t even know what kind of story I might write. In another mood, on another day, I fancied I might have written something entirely different. And maybe I would have.… Read More »

The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris The stunning movie starring Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster had its roots as an equally gripping and brilliant novel by Thomas Harris. You could always pick up Red Dragon first (the original Hannibal Lecter tale) but if nostalgia’s tugging you towards this title instead, rest assured you can read… Read More »

Is there a more romantic and literary way to travel than by train? If you’re like me, trains have played a big part in your [commuting] life. Whether they’re via subways, skytrains or the old school long-distance railway originals, train rides of all kinds continue to be bookworm-friendly—not only do they offer perfect pockets of… Read More »