I turned to the Times crossword puzzle and asked Kate, “What’s the definition of a moderate Arab?” “I don’t know.” “A guy who ran out of ammunition.

I do write my manuscripts by hand, in pencil on legal pads. Then they are typed on a word processor by my typist.

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

I enjoy the presence of a woman in the house for brief periods of time. They fall into two categories: the organizers and the slobs. There’s probably a third category—the naggers, who try to get you to do things, but I’ve never run into one of those. Oddly, I have no preference regarding oganizers or slobs, as long as they don’t try to pick my clothes for me. Basically, all women are nurturers and healers, and all men are mental patients to varying degrees. It works fine if people stick to their fated roles. But nobody does.

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

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

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.