QUESTIONS FROM READERS

Richard Hawke, one of the authors spotlighted in our Debut Suspense/Thriller feature, answers readers' questions about his portrayal of law enforcement officers in SPEAK OF THE DEVIL and his plans to continue writing novels featuring private investigator Fritz Malone and company.

Mary from Pinson, AL: I have a daughter who is a police officer, so corrupt cops is a hot button issue with me. What type of research did you do, and was the story line inspired by your research or was it solely your imagination? Why did you choose to portray law enforcement officers as criminals? Will any of your future novels include Fritz Malone?

Richard Hawke: Please tell your daughter that I have plenty of respect for law enforcement agents, but that a book about clean cops would be boring. This story simply developed out of the circumstances and I ran with it. Although, let it be said, I do have a fondness for the skeptical individual who goes up against the establishment. A healthy distrust of authority is not such a bad thing.

Ronda from Baraboo, WI: If and when there are more "Fritz Malone" books, will they take on a "continuation of life's events" --- for example, engagement, marriage, problems, reference to previous novels, events, etc. --- that it would behoove the reader to peruse in sequence?

Richard Hawke: This is a good question. I haven't mapped out the next set of books, but it is my intention that Fritz will not remain a static character...that he will age and evolve, albeit more slowly than the rest of us. At the same time, I'd like for the books not to be so specifically sequential that a new reader couldn't just dip in anywhere they want
and feel that they're comfortable.

Ray from East Northport, NY: What is the significance of the title --- SPEAK OF THE DEVIL?

Richard Hawke: I don't want to give the plot away by answering this question too directly. Reflect on it a bit, Ray...it should come to you (or email me RHawke@mindspring.com)

Suzanne from Hornell, NY: Do you not like cats and/or dogs?

Richard Hawke: Is there something in my book that suggests a dislike of either? Or are there no cats or dogs in the book? (I can't remember at the moment) Some of my best friends have been cats and dogs. I'm a big fan of giraffes as well, but they're too tall to fit in a book.

Bonnie from Reno, NV: Do you plan to write a series with the same cast of characters?

Richard Hawke: My plan is to continue with Fritz and company. The second book is nearly complete. Not everyone from SPEAK OF THE DEVIL returns in book 2, but the major players are all there. A bit more of Shirley Malone this time...which is fun. She's a pip.

Karen from Albuquerque, NM: Do you plan to write more books, and if so, will you include the characters from this book?

Richard Hawke: See the answer(s) above. Yes and yes. Definitely. I also hope to put out some books that are completely unrelated to this gang...but that's further down the line.

Marsha from Newburgh, NY: Will this character return in the next book(s)?

Richard Hawke: This character will ROCK in the next book(s). As will a few surprise newbies.

Chris from Carrollton, TX: How fast can you get us another book?

Richard Hawke: Hang tight, Chris. You have a whole year to enjoy other books before the next installment comes in from me.

Linda from Machesney Park, IL: When will you have another book finished? I will be sure to read it.

Richard Hawke: Hey...it might take 2 or 3 hours to read these books...but it takes j-u-s-t a little longer to write them. I suppose I could try my hand at thriller haikus, but that really wouldn't be the same.

Ricki from St. Peters, MO: Are there going to be future books featuring Fritz Malone?

Richard Hawke: Here's my new way of answering this question. If everyone who enjoyed this book will encourage 100 other people to buy a copy (and have them encourage another 100 and so forth), there's a really really good chance that Fritz will be back.

Sherry from Denver, CO: I have no questions to ask Mr. Hawke. I just wish him all the luck in the world in his career.

Richard Hawke: Sherry. I love you.

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