Kate Atkinson is an absolute must-read. I love everything she writes.

I'm also inspired by anything that I consider great. It makes me want to raise my game too - Hitchcock movies, Hopper paintings, Springsteen concerts.

Painful memories didn't just ease back in-they shoved the door open hard, all of them and all at once

There are few times that I feel more at peace, more in tune, more Zen, if you will, than when I force myself to unplug.

No characters in 'Stay Close,' including the leads, are black and white. I want them to be grey. I think that makes for a much more interesting reading experience, something that will stay with you a little bit longer.

Writing a novel in general is like trying to reach a mountain top you'll never quite reach - so you try again and maybe get a little closer.

Tragedy is a hell of a teacher. It's much too strict, but it's a hell of a teacher.