I don't think the problem is that people don't read enough mystery books, but that people don't read.

What I look for in any character, good or bad, is whether I can hear him speak. If I can imagine him that clearly, then I can write about him.

But at the same time, the commonplace statement about them is true: every character is the hero of his own story. Each has a justification for his actions that is convincing to him. It's fun to give these people voices.

All writers are mimics, and I'm not interested in picking up somebody else's style or voice.

I do try not to spend much time reading in the suspense genre.

If I don't have a project going, I sit down and begin to write something - a character sketch, a monologue, a description of some sight, or even just a list of ideas.

I don't consciously do anything to maintain a unique voice.