I am not a slow writer, I am not a fast writer . . . I am a half-fast writer.

Ever since I first visited New Orleans back in '89, I've been intrigued by the French Quarter. I always wanted to set something in the Quarter, whether it was historic or contemporary. Unfortunately, I was always tied up with previous commitments - earlier multiple contracts - and could not get a crack at it.

To Serve and Protect..."- Traditional Motto of Protection Rackets

In times of crisis, it is of the utmost importance that one does not lose her head. Marie Antoinette

C'mon kid. Think a minute, even if it hurts.

When things are at their blackest, I say to myself, 'Cheer up, things could be worse.' And sure enough, they get worse.

I've had a five- or six-year down-spell as a writer, and now that most of the other contracts are cleared or down to the last book, I have a chance to do what I want to do - specifically, something set in New Orleans.