The characters you refer to as predatory and unsavory are useful. They're the ones who make a novel into a thriller. They're active, and most of the common virtues, the signs of a good person, are not.

Once you have invented a character with three dimensions and a voice, you begin to realize that some of the things you'd like him to do to further your plot are things that such a person wouldn't, or couldn't, do.

I do want to write about Jane Whitefield again, but only when I have a good enough idea - something I've figured out about her that's news and that's worth a reader's time.

I held a variety of jobs - most notably ten years working in universities - and kept on writing.

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

Yes, in my books I do edit myself to keep from becoming the Village Explainer.

Being comfortable isn't the way to learn to expand your abilities.