In the end, my reasons for moving down the timeline and introducing a new cast have more to do with keeping myself entertained, on the assumption that if I get bored, my readers are going to be even more bored.

Often I'll try things that just won't happen the way I'd like them to, so hearing that they're not working saves me some wear and tear the next time around.

But for the most part, love is a recognition, an opportunity to say, 'There is something about you I cherish.

Altruism accrues little benefit to those lying cold in the gutter.

There is no idea so brilliant or original that a sufficiently-untalented writer can't screw it up.

I don't write fantasy; I write historical novels about an imaginary place.

Neal had a couple of good ideas and they fit nicely, so that's the way I decided to go.