Even the most radical Islamic terrorist would not want to see the revered holy city of Medina go up. It would be like losing the Vatican in Rome.

Lawrence Kelter is an exciting new novelist, who reminds me of an early Robert Ludlum.

We're all pilgrims on the same journey but some pilgrims have better road maps.

There are a lot of books about the passing of the English aristocracy, but the vast majority of Long Islanders don't understand their own backyard. It's a private preserve.

I had a very strong desire to be successful at something.

I try to end every chapter with an air of suspense. I try to leave the reader wanting to turn the page.

There are Mafia families that have bought magnificent houses on the North Shore, although not yet the great estates because they don't want that kind of high profile.