You want the greatest trick for writing a novel? Here it is: imagine urgently whispering your story into one person's ear - and only one. This one visualization will clarify every word choice you make.

I try not to divide plot and character. I get to know a character by what they want and fear and how those internal forces play out in their lives.

I am deeply Catholic and always will be, but I'm no longer a member of the church. I left in 2003 because of the sex abuse scandal.

I'm a writer of faith. I was raised Catholic, and I have a deeply Catholic imagination.

My work is to know the characters intimately and to tell their story.

If you look at the world one way, it takes from you - it's a thief of time, energy, creative mojo. But if you look at the world another way, it gives you an endless supply of motivation.

Some of the best work done to combat the Republicans has been wit and humor.