Avoid prologues: they can be ­annoying, especially a prologue ­following an introduction that comes after a foreword.

I don't want the reader to be aware of me as the writer.

Never use the words 'suddenly' or 'all hell broke loose.'

I don’t think writers compete, I think they’re all doing separate things in their own style.

I always felt, you don’t have a good time doin crime, you may as well find a job.

I focus on characters as individuals with attitudes and write each scene from a particular character's point of view. That way, even narrative passages take on the character's sound. I don't want the reader to be aware of me, writing.

I got halfway through 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.' I don't get it at all. What's the big thrill? It's boring.