Literary Spotlight: John Lutz

John Lutz

John Lutz is an award-winning author of 40 fiction books. His novel Single White Female was the basis for the 1992 film staring Bridget Fonda.

Q: What is your opinion of Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes.?

A: Holmes is a fine model for any PI writer. He’s thoroughly realized and consistent throughout. The stories also demonstrate the importance and effective use of satellite characters like Inspector Lestrade, Mrs. Hudson and of course Watson.

Q: How do you account for the increase in detective/crime novels currently on the market?

A: The popularity of mysteries is cyclical. For crime-writers like myself to not realize that it won’t last forever and enjoy it would be, in itself, a crime.

Q: What is the best way for new writers to improve their craft and polish their work?

A: By writing. I think the craft of writing is something you learn by doing.

Q: How did publishing short stories in Alfred Hitchcock and Ellery Queen’s mystery magazines impact your career?

A: Both have had an enormous impact on my career. Some of my early novels began as short stories in the magazines. During those times when I had difficulty selling novels, those magazines helped to keep my career lurching along.

Q: Describe the challenges of floating from one genre to another.

A: You have to keep your potential readers in mind. As I write, I’m always aware of a reader looking over my shoulder. You must never forget that your audience changes with each genre.

Carlotta Holton is the author of Salem Pact and Touching The Dead, and is a member of the National Federation of Press Women and an affiliate member of the Horror Writers Association.

Carlotta Holton has just received her second award for Touching the Dead from the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest. Click here to purchase the book.