Today is the launch of the 3rd Edition of the Blog Short Story Project, edited by Bryon Quertermous and Dave White. Gerald So has the running tally of contributors, including Patti Abbott, JT Ellison, Paul Guyot, Daniel Hatadi, David Montgomery and John Dumond.
Speaking of JT, she has a fantastic interview with Putnam senior VP and publisher Neil Nyren as he talks about his 20-plus years in the business, what he looks for in thrillers and changes in the publishing industry.
Megan Abbott pays tribute to James Ellroy in honor of his birthday.
Things aren't looking good for Oregon libraries, unfortunately.
Forensic scientist and debut crime novelist John Macken meets the folks on the cutting edge of British forensics.
The Bat Segundo show inches ever closer to show #100, with two new podcasts featuring Charlie Huston and Tayari Jones.
Jonathan Lethem talks to the Boston Globe about plagiarism, appropriation, playfulness and moving back to the same block he grew up on.
Patrick Anderson admires Robert Crais for making the sidekick the star, but ultimately feels THE WATCHMAN pales in comparison to THE LAST DETECTIVE. To which I say, um, I'd reverse that, but this is me.
Joseph Finder answers questions about technology and mystery for the current issue of Electronic House.
Scientists claim to be able to track a person's intentions. We'll see if this is reproducible.
And finally, why can't you be like Endicott?
In re: Ellroy: Does anyone have any info on when the next installment of his American Tabloid trilogy will be out?
Posted by: Michael Thomas | March 05, 2007 at 10:50 AM
Neil Nyren is always fun to listen to. I will have the pleasure of moderating his panel that kicks off the Edgar Symposium April 25 (joined by Kelley Ragland of St. Martins and agent Meg Ruley). Neil has promised to deliver his infamous tirade about the business. For a complete symposium sked, go to www.theedgars.com
Posted by: PJ Parrish | March 05, 2007 at 11:33 AM
I'm having a great time reading the Blog Short Story entries today. But I must admit, "Endicott" made my day.
Posted by: Louise Ure | March 05, 2007 at 01:56 PM
I actually felt The Last Detective was one of Crais' weaker efforts. However, The Forgotten Man and LA Requiem are two of my favorites... The Watchman ranks up there with that one.
Posted by: Dave White | March 05, 2007 at 11:09 PM
I liked "The Watchman" a whole lot, but it was structured like too many other "bodyguard thrillers" I've read: Guard and Target Initially Dislike Each Other, Guard and Target Come to Respect Each Other During Attempts on Their Lives, Guard and Target Learn Something Important About Themselves.
But I really liked seeing things from Pike's perspective and am glad that Elvis is becoming less of a goddamn mope.
Posted by: Michael Berry | March 06, 2007 at 04:44 PM
It's funny that you mention that, Michael, and you're quite right. I was so caught up in the story, though, that I didn't notice. (I guess I should pay closer attention.)
Anderson's review is a good one, although I disagree with it.
Posted by: David J. Montgomery | March 06, 2007 at 04:51 PM