Mysteries are the biggest selling segment of the fiction market, everyone loves a mystery.

Setting is particularly important in a mystery, often acting as another character in the story, and setting the mood and tone of the work. It has been said if you truly want to know a place, read the mysteries that are set there. They offer an unique point of view.

I would like to suggest a program that explores the settings of Canadian mysteries in conjunction with the Arthur Ellis Awards for the best mysteries of 2008 which takes place in June. It would be wonderful to hear different writers read from their works - and the very best part is - the Crime Writers of Canada have done the hard work and come up with a list of the very best for the past year.
Hope this idea is of interest to you.
Yours,
Phyllis Smallman

Reply: Thank you for this recommendation. You'll be pleased to know that March is 'Mystery Month' on The Next Chapter, and we will hear from such writers as Peter Robinson, Gail Bowen, Pat Capponi, Jose Latour, and Linwood Barclay.