Crime Writers of Canada's Podcast

Erik D’Souza interviews Vicki Grant, discussing her book, Death by Whoopi Cushion (published by Tundra Books), which is nominated for Best Juvenile/YA Crime Book, sponsored by Superior Shores Press. They examine Vicki's writing approach for reluctant readers, her character Manya Brown, and the humor-mystery-science balance in the book, and briefly touch on Vicki's adult mystery novel, These Are the Fireworks.  Bio Vicki Grant is a Canadian writer based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She began her professional life in advertising and television, creating short ads and scripts before transitioning to full-length novels. Her first novel, The Puppet Wrangler, was published in 2004, marking the start of her career in young adult and middle-grade literature. In 2006, her book, Quid Pro Quo, won the Award of Excellence (then called the Arthur Ellis award) in the category of Best Juvenile / YA Crime Book. She has written twenty-one books, including titles for reluctant readers and award-winning novels. Website: vickigrant.com/Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

  Erik D’Souza interviews Lorna Poplak about her book, On the Lamb, Great and Not-So-Great Escapes from Prison" (published by Dundurn Press), which is nominated for The Brass Knuckles Award for Best Nonfiction Crime Book, sponsored by David Reid Simpson Law Firm (Hamilton). Lorna discusses fascinating prison escape stories and her research methods. Lorna describes her book's focus on both the prison systems and the human motivations behind escapes, leaving readers to consider what constitutes a successful prison escape.  BioLorna Poplak is a Toronto-based writer, editor, and researcher drawn to the dark side of history. With a background in law, literature, information technology, and technical communications, Lorna has written scientific and historical articles, travel pieces, short fiction, and a radio play. She is a member of Crime Writers of Canada, Sisters in Crime, and Mesdames of Mayhem. Lorna has written three true crime books: Drop Dead: A Horrible History of Hanging in Canada, The Don: The Story of Toronto’s Infamous Jail, and On the Lam: Great (and Not So Great) Escapes from Prison. The Don was shortlisted for both the Crime Writers of Canada (CWC) Excellence Award and the Heritage Toronto Book Award. For more information about Lorna and her work, visit www.lornapoplak.com/ Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Angela Douglas, whose debut novel, Every Fall (published by EOB Publishing), is nominated for Best Crime Novel Set in Canada, sponsored by Shaftesbury.  They discuss the book's plot, which follows a police officer and his wife as they move to a new house and experience strange phenomena, told from both characters' perspectives. Angela explains how the story is set in fictional Canadian cities and features RCMP officers, making it uniquely Canadian. They also talk about Angela's book marketing efforts, including her work with Eyes on Books, a book marketing hub she founded. Angela gives us a sneak peek of her upcoming second novel, The Mentor. Angela Douglas is an award-winning author of psychological thrillers, based in the Okanagan, BC. Her debut novel, EVERY FALL, has been recognized by the Crime Writers of Canada Excellence Awards, the Canadian Book Club Awards, the Pen Craft Awards, and the National Indie Excellence Awards. She is also the founder of Eyes on Books, a Book Marketing Hub. When she isn’t working or hanging out with her family, she hides in her studio, writing her next book.www.angeladouglasbooks.comLearn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews Barbara Stokes, discussing her nomination for Best Unpublished Crime Novel manuscript written by an unpublished author, sponsored by ECW Press, for her manuscript, Death Scent. Barbara discusses her character Doc, a retired Black Lab cadaver dog, and the protagonist Em, a former RCMP officer turned private detective. Barbara explained that her writing takes a gritty approach with a feminist agenda, and she is already working on a second book titled Ladykillerz, featuring the same main character.A professional writer for her entire career, unpublished author Barbara Stokes has penned a wide variety of materials, from political speeches to poetry. At the tail end of COVID, standing in a parking lot on a hot Saskatoon day, Barbara Stokes listened to a man tell the story of how he was almost arrested when his identity was stolen by a wanted man. Inspired by what she heard, Barbara expanded the parking lot story into Death Scent, a crime novel featuring a female ex-RCMP officer, Em Tremblay, and her sniffer dog, Doc. The story is set in the southern prairies, as an unrelenting heat dome bakes the fictional towns of Valmont and Milk Creek. Four years later, with the number of rewrites impossible to count, Barbara is honoured that Death Scent has joined the CWC shortlist for books by an unpublished author. Barbara is currently at work on her second book, featuring the same main characters, also set in Saskatchewan, with the working title Ladykillerz. Barbara Stokes lives with her husband in Aldershot, Ontario, and makes frequent visits to the Prairie provinces, where beauty and inspiration are everywhere. In 2026, her goal is to find a publisher for Death Scent.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Cette entrevue en français a eu lieu entre Francisca Bullock et Steve Laflamme, finaliste du Prix d'excellence 2026 de Crime Writers of Canada dans la catégorie Meilleur livre policier en langue française, commandité par Carrick Publishing, pour son roman La mémoire du labyrinthe (publié chez Libre Expression). Bio Steve Laflamme enseigne la littérature (policière, entre autres) au Cégep de Sainte-Foy, à Québec. Il est l’auteur de dix romans policiers et à suspense chaudement accueillis par la critique. À temps perdu, il est également guitariste et chanteur dans un band de blues ne se produisant que dans des bars paumés. Surtout, il est papa de deux adolescents dont il est encore plus fier que de son réputé sucre à la crème. *Biographie et photo de www.editionsdruide.comLearn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews Jan Field about her novel, Yesterday Lies (published by La Cloche Publishing), which has been nominated for Best Crime First Novel, sponsored by Melodie Campbell. They discuss the novel's 1994 Northern Ontario setting, the unique crime scene involving a body in a tree, and the importance of family in the story. Jan explains her decision to keep the story in the 1990s era and describes her upcoming second book, Silence of the Deep, which is already written and heading to the editor. Bio Jan Field grew up in the mining town of Sudbury, Ontario, in a large, close-knit family that has kept her grounded and laughing (and reading) her entire life. Now retired from a career in marketing tourism accommodation in both northern and southern Ontario, Jan returns to her roots to create the Matt Brennan world, which is set in the remote northern landscape of Georgian Bay, Killarney, and the North Channel. The complexities of crime fascinate her: what makes ordinary people make horrible, life-altering decisions and what motivates others to seek out the truth and address the injustices of criminal action. She is incredibly honoured and humbled that ‘Yesterday’s Lies’ has been shortlisted for the Crime Writers of Canada’s Best Crime First Novel. She is a member of CWC, Toronto Sisters-in-Crime, and the Writer’s Community of Durham Region. ‘Yesterday’s Lies’ was published in October 2025, and ‘Silence of the Deep’, Book II of the Matt Brennan Series, is to be released in September 2026.Website: www.janicefield.com/Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews Kathleen Lippa, discussing her book, The Arctic Predator: The Crimes of Edward Horn Against Children in Canada's North (published by Dundurn Press), nominated for the Brass Knuckles Award for Best Non-Fiction Crime Book, sponsored by David Reid Simpson Law Firm (Hamilton). Kathleen explains that Ed Horn was a school teacher and principal who sexually abused Inuit children in the Canadian Arctic from 1971 to 1985, with over 100 victims, though the crimes remained unknown to the wider public until her book brought attention to them. She describes the challenging process of writing about such sensitive topics and the significant impact the crimes had on entire Arctic communities. BioKathleen Lippa is the author of critically-acclaimed book, Arctic Predator: The Crimes of Edward Horne Against Children in Canada’s North, published by DUNDURN PRESS.Born in Toronto and raised in St. John’s, Kathleen studied dance at a professional level at The Quinte Ballet School and The School of the Toronto Dance Theatre before embarking on a journalism career.At Memorial University of Newfoundland, where she graduated with a B.A. (English) in 1998, Kathleen was a reporter for the student newspaper, The Muse.During her newspaper career, Kathleen (has)worked as a reporter, photographer, page-designer, headline writer and copy editor for The Hanover Post, 24 Hours (Toronto), The Calgary Sun, and The Express (St. John’s) where she won a Canadian Community Newspapers Association Award (2001) for Arts Reporting.While serving as Bureau Chief of Nunavut News/North in Iqala witluit, Kathleen heard about the crimes of Ed Horne. She would spend the next 20 years of her life seeking the truth about what happened – building trust with contacts in Inuit communities, and getting the story on paper.Kathleen and her husband, Arctic historian and author Kenn Harper, spent many years living and travelling in the Canadian Arctic. They now divide their time between Ottawa and St. John’s.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews Rick Mofina, the recipient of the 2026 Grand Master Award from Crime Writers of Canada, to discuss his career and new book, One Second Away. Rick explains that his latest thriller represents a departure from his recent work, combining elements of global techno-thrillers with domestic suspense, featuring an ordinary family caught up in extraordinary circumstances when their child goes missing during an airline flight. They discuss Rick's approach to balancing character development with plot. He reveals that he’s currently working on two completed drafts: a standalone thriller submitted for next year's publication and a noir-style story set in 1993 that was previously rejected by publishers 25 years ago, which he plans to release in September or October.BioRick Mofina is a celebrated Canadian author and former journalist whose work has become a cornerstone of the modern crime and thriller genre. Over a career spanning several decades, he has transitioned from reporting on real-world tragedies to crafting some of the most authentic and pulse-pounding fiction in the industry. He has authored more than 30 crime fiction thrillers, which have been published in nearly 30 countries and translated into numerous languages.CWC selected Mofina for this year’s grandmaster  based on his prolific output, professional integrity, and years of dedicated service to both the organization and the genre.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews C.S. Porter, discussing his nominated novel, Salt on Her Tongue (published by Vagrant Press), for the Best Novel Set in Canada Award, sponsored by Shaftesbury. They discuss Porter's detective character, Kes Morris, who has taken a leave of absence and is given what's intended to be an easy missing person. The conversation covered the unique setting of the Bay of Fundy, which Porter describes as dangerous and aggressive, as well as the challenges of writing about such a specific location. They also discuss Porter's plans for a third Kes Morris novel, with the rough draft already completed.BioC.S. Porter is a writer, photographer, and filmmaker who lives near the sea and has passed on that love, fear, and awe to Detective Kes Morris. Their debut novel, Beneath Her Skin, won the Crime Writers of Canada Howard Engel Award in 2022.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews A.L. Wahdel about his nomination for Best First Crime Novel, sponsored by Melodie Campbell, for his debut book, Too Dark for the Light (published by Butterfly 80 Publishing ). Wahdel, a police officer with two decades of experience, discusses his writing process, his decision to set the story in Toronto, and his approach to authentic police-procedural elements while maintaining entertainment value. They discuss the series' potential to follow in the footsteps of authors like Michael Connelly and Louise Penny. Wahdel also reveals that the second book in the series is scheduled for release in September 2026, and expresses gratitude for being nominated alongside other talented authors. BioA.L. Wahdel is a Canadian crime thriller author. He crafts gritty, high-stakes stories set in Toronto—the city that raised him. His debut series brings the streets of Toronto to life with authentic detail, layered characters, and sharp suspense. Blending insider knowledge with powerful storytelling, Wahdel is redefining Canadian detective fiction for a global audience. You can connect with A.L. Wahdel on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, and Substack, and find out more at www.alwahdelauthor.com Also, sign up for his newsletter, “Midnight Intel” to get updates on new releases and exclusive promotions. Links https://www.alwahdelauthor.com/ https://alwahdel.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/alwahdelauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/al.wahdel/Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza speaks with Shelley Adina about her nomination for the Whodunit Award for Best Traditional Mystery for, The Engineer's Nemesis (published by Moonshell Books). Shelley discusses her steampunk mystery series featuring Lady Georgia Brunel and her aunt Millicent, in which the women solve cases while traveling on an airship. She explains her writing process, including her decision to write mysteries alongside her successful romance novels, and shares details about her upcoming books.  BioAfter a childhood spent reading Nancy Drew, and several years supporting the RCMP, Shelley Adina Bates now writes mysteries as a member of Sisters in Crime and Crime Writers of Canada. She is the author of some 60 novels—steampunk adventure and cozy fantasy mystery as Shelley Adina, deeply researched historical mystery under her full name, and as Adina Senft, she's the USA Today bestselling author of Amish women’s fiction. She holds a PhD in Creative Writing from Lancaster University in the UK. When she’s not writing, Shelley is usually quilting or enjoying the garden with her flock of rescued chickens.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews Ray Critch, a lawyer from St. John's, Newfoundland, who has been nominated for the Best First Crime Novel Award, sponsored by Melodie Campbell, for his book, The Beltane Massacre (published by Breakwater Books). They explore Ray's approach to writing about grief and high-stakes mystery, his experience with public speaking, and his plans to continue writing while maintaining his legal career. Ray also shared details about his upcoming second and third novels in the Rowan McRae series.BioBy day, Ray Critch is a lawyer from St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Practicing civil litigation with MacGillivray Injury and Insurance Law, he has appeared at every level of court in Newfoundland and Labrador and at the Supreme Court of Canada. By night, he is a happily married husband and father of two. However, every once in a while, he carves off some spare time to pop to a local sports bar and do some writing. Somehow, he has managed to write three novels, the first of which, The Beltane Massacre, was published by Breakwater Books in 2025 and is a finalist for the Crime Writers of Canada's First Book Award of Excellence.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Tamara L. Miller, a nominee for the Peter Robinson Award for Best Crime Novel for her debut book, Into the Fall (published by Thomas and Mercer). They discuss how Miller's camping trip in Ontario inspired the novel's premise about a woman stranded in the wilderness after her husband disappears. Miller shares her background, her transition from academic and government policy writing to crime fiction, and how she developed her writing skills through workshops and mentorship over several years. They also discuss her new book, The Weight of Glass, which follows a mother's disappearance in a small town along the shores of Lake Superior. Bio Tamara L. Miller writes psychological suspense steeped in atmosphere, emotional complexity, and the stark beauty of the Canadian wilderness. Her debut novel, Into the Fall was a 2025 Amazon First Reads selection. Her second novel, The Weight of Glass (2026), follows a daughter’s perilous search for answers after her mother’s disappearance along the snowbound shores of Lake Superior. She is unbelievably honoured and humbled that Into the Fall has been shortlisted for the Crime Writers of Canada Best Novel of 2026. Tamara holds a Ph.D. in Canadian history and draws on a lifelong love of the wilder places in her writing. She lives in Ottawa, Canada. https://bytamaramiller.com/Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Laury Silvers, discussing her nomination for the Whodunit Award for Best Traditional Mystery sponsored by Jane Doe, for her book, Some Justice. The interview covers Silvers' background as a retired professor of early Islam and Sufism, her decision to set her novels in Baghdad in 1912, and the evolution of writing styles from her Sufi Mysteries Quartet to the new Ghazi Amar Medieval Mysteries series. They discuss her writing approach, which she describes as emotionally driven, and her preference for self-publishing over traditional publishing. The conversation also touches on her contemporary thriller series, written under the pseudonym Jayne Green, and concludes with Silvers expressing her shock and excitement at being nominated for the award.BioLaury Silvers is a North American Muslim of Southern and New Yorker cultural origin, finally at home in Canada. She is a retired professor of early Islam, early Sufism, and early pious and Sufi women. She taught at Skidmore College and the University of Toronto. Silvers also published work engaging Islam and Gender in North America in academic journals and popular venues, was actively involved in the woman-led prayer movement, and co-founded the Toronto Unity Mosque. She has since retired from academia and activism and hopes her mysteries and thrillers continue her scholarship and activism in their own way. She lives in Toronto under Treaty 13.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Alice Fitzpatrick about her nomination for the Whodunit Award for Best Traditional Mystery, sponsored by Jane Doe, for her novel A Dark Death (Published by Stonehouse Publishing. She explains her writing process of A Dark Death, which features archaeological elements and explores the motivations of seemingly ordinary people to commit murder. The conversation also covers her upcoming Christmas-themed mystery, A Killing Cold.BioAlice Fitzpatrick has contributed short stories to literary magazines and anthologies, including the Crime Writers of Canada 40th anniversary anthology, Cold Canadian Crime.  She is a fearless champion of singing, cats, all things Welsh, and the Oxford comma.  Her summers spent with her Welsh family in Pembrokeshire inspired the creation of the Meredith Island Mysteries, which include Secrets in the Water and A Dark Death.  The Meredith Island Christmas mystery, A Killing Cold, will be released in June.  The traditional mystery appeals to her fascination with what makes seemingly ordinary people commit murder.  Alice lives in Toronto but dreams of a cottage on the Welsh coast. Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Barbara Fradkin about the nomination of her story, Cold Shock, which appears in A Capital Mystery Anthology, published by Ottawa Press and Publishing. They explored Barbara's fascination with why ordinary people resort to desperate actions, her creation of tension and atmosphere in beautiful settings such as the Rideau River, and her long-running Inspector Green series set in Ottawa. BioBarbara Fradkin is a retired child psychologist with a fascination for why we turn bad. She has published seventeen novels, over thirty short stories, and four Rapid Reads short novels. Twelve of her works have been shortlisted or won Awards of Excellence from Crime Writers of Canada. Besides her Amanda Doucette wilderness thrillers, she is best known for her gritty, long-running series featuring quixotic Ottawa Police Inspector Michael Green. Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Madeleine Harris-Callway, discussing her nomination for the story, The Lost Diner (published in Pulp Literature issue 47) in the Best Crime Short Stories category, sponsored by Crime Writers of Canada. Madeleine explains her story about a 62-year-old woman driving cars across the border for a criminal organization, sharing her character's background as a former repo specialist. Madeleine also updates us on her work with Les Madame et Messieurs de Mayhem collective, mentioning their upcoming seventh anthology titled "The Power of 13" scheduled for release in September ahead of Bouchercon in Calgary.BioM. H. Callway’s crime fiction has won or been short-listed for several leading awards including the Crime Writers of Canada Awards of Excellence, the Debut Dagger, and the Derringer. Her thriller, Windigo Fire (Seraphim Editions), was a finalist for the CWC Best First Novel Award. In 2013, she and Donna Carrick of Carrick Publishing co-founded the Mesdames and Messieurs of Mayhem, a collective of established Canadian crime writers. They are the subject of the critically acclaimed CBC documentary, The Mesdames of Mayhem, which you may view on CBC GEM or YouTube.https://mhcallway.com/Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews Iona Whishaw, whose novel, The Cost of a Hostage (Published by TouchWood Editions), is nominated for the Whodunit Award for Best Traditional Mystery, sponsored by Jane Doe. They discuss her Lane Winslow mystery series set in 1940s British Columbia. They explored how Lane's character evolved from being inspired by Iona's mother to developing her own distinct personality. BioIona Whishaw is a Canadian author known for her Lane Winslow mystery series, drawing inspiration from her diverse background as an educator and social worker. She began writing the Lane Winslow mystery series at the age of 64, inspired by her mother's adventurous life, which included her involvement in intelligence during World War II. The series features Lane Winslow, a former British spy who seeks a quieter life in British Columbia after the war. Iona's writing is characterized by its historical accuracy and rich character development, drawing from her extensive research and personal history, making her works resonate with readers who appreciate both mystery and historical context.Hear her earlier podcast, where we focused on Cost of a Hostage: Crime Writers of Canada - Podcasts on Crime Writing - Iona Whishaw, The Cost of a HostageLearn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Lis Angus, who is nominated for two awards. Her novel, That Other Family (published by Next Chapter), is nominated for Best Crime Novel Set in Canada, sponsored by Shaftesbury. And her story, Under the Circumstances (published in A Capital Mystery Anthology by Ottawa Press and Publishing), is shortlisted for Best Crime Short Story, sponsored by Crime Writers of Canada. They discuss Lis's writing approach and her themes around family, protection, and ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. Lis explains her extensive rewriting process and how she pares down her stories. The interview concludes with Lis mentioning her current work on a third novel, though it's still in early development stages.BioOriginally from Alberta, Lis Angus has also lived in Germany, Ottawa and Toronto. Before turning to fiction, she worked with children and families in crisis, and later as a business writer, conference organizer, and policy advisor while raising two daughters. Her two suspense novels, Not Your Child (2022) and That Other Family (December 2025), have been well-received. She lives in a small town south of Ottawa with her husband.Website: Lis Angus Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews John L. Hill about his nominated book, Acts of Darkness, Notorious Criminals, Their Defenders, Prosecutors, and Jailers (Published by Durvile & UpRoute), which is nominated for The Brass Knuckles Award for Best Nonfiction Crime Book, sponsored by David Reid Simpson Law Firm in Hamilton. John, a retired criminal and prison law lawyer, discusses how the book critically examines the Canadian justice system through real cases he's handled. They explored two chapters in detail: one about two businessmen wrongfully convicted of cocaine smuggling due to procedural errors, and another about the mistreatment of Indigenous youth in provincial facilities, including chaining and inhumane transportation practices. John emphasized the need to reform how society treats lawbreakers, particularly youth, arguing that punitive measures often create more problems than they solve and calling for better treatment to ensure safer communities.BioJohn L. Hill is a retired criminal and prison law lawyer. He taught correctional law at the Queen's and University of Windsor Law Schools. But in private practice, he dealt with some of Canada's most notorious criminals as well as with some of Canada's best prosecutors and defence lawyers. In retirement, he has become a nonfiction writer. He is a columnist for Law 360 Canada (formerly The Lawyer's Daily), an online newspaper for the legal community. He has also published three books: Pine Box Parole: Terry Fitzsimmons and the Quest to End Solitary Confinement, The Rest of the [True Crime] Story, and Acts of Darkness. He has also published a story dealing with slavery in southeastern Ontario in a Florida-based magazine.  John is the Ontario Central/East/Ottawa Regional Rep. for the CWC.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Joel Nedecky is nominated for Best Crime First Novel, sponsored by Melodie Campbell, with a $1000 prize. Erik D'Souza interviews Joel Nedecky, a Winnipeg school teacher and author of The Broken Detective (published by Run Amok Crime). The interview covers Joel's writing journey, from being nominated for The Award for Best Unpublished Manuscript, sponsored by ECW Press in 2023, to now being shortlisted for Best First Crime Novel, making it rare for an author to be nominated twice for the same book. They discuss the character of Jake Joelsen, who is described as "broken" due to childhood experiences with alcoholic parents and foster care, and his 2-week timeline to earn money before going to prison. The conversation also touches on the book's reception from readers, particularly women, and potential casting choices for a film adaptation. Joel shares his ongoing work on marketing the book and his plans for future writing projects, including a second Jake novel and a standalone novel, with hopes to publish the sequel in 2027.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Robert Cree and Therese Greenwood's book, The Many Names of Robert Cree: How a First Nations Chief, Brought Ancient Wisdom to Big Business and Prosperity to His People (Published by  ECW Press), is nominated for  The Brass Knuckles Award for Best Nonfiction Crime Book, sponsored by David Reid Simpson Law Firm in Hamilton. Elder Robert Cree’s memoir, The Many Names of Robert Cree, is a first-person account of surviving the residential school system designed to erase Indigenous culture, language, and knowledge. It is also the story of an epic life of struggle and healing, as Elder Robert takes the wisdom of the ancestors and a message of reconciliation to government and industry.In his book, Elder Robert recounts his early years in the bush, his captivity at residential school, his struggles with addiction, his political awakening as one of Canada’s youngest First Nation Chiefs, and the rising Indigenous activism of the late 20th century. He also describes the oil industry’s arrival on his then-poverty-stricken reserve and the struggle to balance economic opportunity with environmental challenges.Throughout, Robert’s leadership has been rooted in his unshakable commitment to the sacred traditional teachings of his people. His beliefs give him the strength to focus on hope, dignity, and building a better future for his community. Now a respected Elder and spiritual leader, Robert is well-known as a  champion of reconciliation.  Author Therese Greenwood received the Crime Writers of Canada Award of Excellence and Western Writers of America Spur Award for her fiction, which has appeared across Canada and the U.S. Her memoir of the Fort McMurray wildfire, What You Take With You: Wildfire, Family and the Road Home, was a Finalist for an Alberta Book Publishing Award.Therese has worked as a reporter and editor and spent a decade as a CBC Radio correspondent. Her feature stories and columns appear regularly in national news publications, and she is a frequent commentator on issues related to both wildfires and crime fiction. She has a Master’s degree in journalism.  Their book, The Many Names of Robert Cree: How a First Nations Chief Brought Ancient Wisdom to Big Business and Prosperity to His People, has not only been nominated for a CWC award but has also received the 2026 Axiom Book Award Bronze Medal and is a finalist for the 2026 Alberta Literary Award.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

In this podcast, Erik D’Souza interviews David L. Tucker, a nominee for Best Crime First Novel, sponsored by Melodie Campbell, for his debut crime novel, A Painting to Die For (published by Otter & Osprey Press). David explains how he transitioned to writing crime fiction, inspired by a trip to London and observations about the art market, which led to the story's setting in London during Brexit in 2017. The novel follows Bill Fredrick, a struggling Toronto portrait painter who becomes involved in a dangerous situation when he travels to London to help his wealthy uncle with a family matter. Erik and David discuss the writing process, including how David incorporated sensory details into his narrative and how the book successfully engages readers through its slow-burning tension and atmospheric descriptions. BioDavid L. Tucker has won numerous international awards as a writer, producer and director of television documentaries, art specials, drama and current affairs programming. Best known for his work on CBC’s The Nature of Things with David Suzuki, Tucker garnered a Gemini for Best Direction, a Gracie, a Chris, a Prix Italia, a Freddie, and presented work at Hot Docs. His previous collection of short stories, One Way Ticket, earned him an Oakville Arts Council Literary Award. With a graduate degree in interdisciplinary fine arts, Tucker has also taught media aesthetics, documentary and screenwriting and presented scholarly papers in Paris, Budapest, Berlin and in the States. Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Jack David, co-founder of ECW Press, a Canadian book publisher founded in 1974 that has published over 2,000 books across various genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Jack discusses the importance of good writing over social media presence, and shares why ECW Press sponsors the Crime Writers of Canada's best unpublished crime novel manuscript category, offering $500 to support emerging writers. ECW Press is a Canadian book publisher located in Toronto, Ontario. It was founded by Jack David and Robert Lecker in 1974 as a Canadian literary magazine named Essays on Canadian Writing. They started publishing trade and scholarly books in 1979.ECW Press publishes a range of books in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, sport, and pop culture. Publishers Weekly listed ECW Press as one of the fastest-growing and most diversified independent publishers in North America. ECW Press has published over 2,000 books, distributed throughout the English-speaking world and translated into dozens of languages.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

In this podcast, Erik D’Souza interviews Jennifer Hillier, the Canadian Guest of Honour at Bouchercon 2026 in Calgary, to discuss her writing and upcoming book. Jennifer discusses her award-winning novel, Things We Do in the Dark, which spans multiple locations, including Vancouver and Toronto, and her approach to writing diverse characters drawn from her lived experience as a Filipino-Canadian. She also shared details about her upcoming book Heart of Glass, set in a fictional seaside town, which took four challenging years to write. The conversation covered Jennifer's writing process, her experience with publishers regarding setting locations, and her return to Bouchercon after missing previous events due to scheduling conflicts.BioJENNIFER HILLIER is the USA Today, Toronto Star, and The Globe and Mail bestselling author of Things We Do in the Dark, described as “an intoxicating thrill ride” by the New York Times and “propulsive and chilling” by People magazine. It was an Indigo Top Ten Best Book of the Year, an Amazon Editor’s Spotlight Pick, a Goodreads Choice Award nominee, a Loan Stars pick, and her third consecutive novel to be honored as a Library Reads pick, which places her in their Hall of Fame. She’s also the author of six other novels including the USA Today bestselling Little Secrets, which is currently being adapted for Peacock by Tish Cyrus’s Hopetown Entertainment and Universal Television, and Jar of Hearts, which won the ITW Thriller Award for Best Hardcover Novel. A Filipino-Canadian, she was born in Toronto and spent several years in Seattle before returning home to Canada. She currently lives in Oakville, Ontario with her family.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

In this podcast, Erik D’Souza talks with Mark Graney, the American Guest of Honor for Bouchercon 2026 in Calgary. It focused on his writing career and experience with the conference. Mark discussed his process for writing lengthy thrillers, including his Gray Man series and Jack Ryan novels, explaining how he balances writing with his large family while incorporating current global affairs into his stories. He shared insights about researching locations, the psychological development of his assassin characters, and his approach to writing morally complex characters. The conversation concluded with Mark's advice about attending Bouchercon, highlighting its welcoming atmosphere and diverse community of writers and readers. Bio MARK GREANEY is the #1 NYT bestselling author of twenty-five novels, including THE GRAY MAN (2009), and twelve more books in the Gray Man series. He also coauthored three Jack Ryan novels with Tom Clancy, and authored four more Jack Ryan novels after Mr. Clancy’s death. Mark is the co-author of the military thriller, RED METAL (2019), and the author of the Josh Duffy series, including ARMORED (2022) and SENTINEL (2024).The film adaptation of THE GRAY MAN was released in 2022, starring Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas, and was the fifth most-watched Netflix film of all time.Mark lives in Memphis, TN, with his wife, Allison, his three stepchildren, and his four rescue dogs.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D’Souza interviews Vicki Delany as part of the Bouchercon series podcasts. The discussion covers Vicki's creative process and her approach to series longevity, particularly her decision to introduce a new protagonist in the Lighthouse Library series while keeping the original character, Lucy, in a supporting role. The conversation also touches on setting choices for cozy mysteries and the challenges of getting Canadian-set books published in the US market. The interview concludes with Vicki's advice for attendees of the upcoming Bouchercon in Calgary, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and spontaneity.BioVicki Delany is the recipient of the 2019 Derrick Murdoch Award for contributions to Canadian crime writing. She is one of Canada’s most prolific and varied crime writers and a national bestseller in the U.S. She has written more than fifty books: clever cozies to Gothic thrillers to gritty police procedurals, to historical fiction and novellas for adult literacy. She is currently writing the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series, the Year-Round Christmas mysteries, the Tea by the Sea books, and the Lighthouse Library series (as Eva Gates).Vicki is a past chair of the Crime Writers of Canada and co-founder and organizer of the Women Killing It Crime Writing Festival. Her work has been nominated for the Derringer, the Bony Blithe, the Ontario Library Association Golden Oak, and the CWC Awards of Excellence. She lives in Prince Edward County, Ontario.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Erik D'Souza interviews Kevin Sands, author of the Blackthorn Key Adventures and Thieves of Shadow Fantasy Heist series, as part of the Bouchercon series podcast. Kevin discusses his journey from theoretical physics and various careers to becoming a middle-grade fiction writer, explaining his approach to writing for 8-12 year olds while maintaining complexity that appeals to older readers. They explore Kevin's method of crafting puzzles in his books, drawing comparisons to Dan Brown, and discuss the challenges of reaching young audiences in the current social media landscape. The conversation concludes with information about Kevin’s upcoming appearance at Bouchercon's Kids event on October 24th, 2026 at the Central Library in Calgary.BioSince escaping from university with a pair of degrees in theoretical physics, KEVIN SANDS has worked as a researcher, a business consultant, a teacher, and a professional poker player. He lives in Ontario, Canada. He is the author of the bestselling and multiple award-winning Blackthorn Key adventures and Thieves of Shadow fantasy heist series.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

In this special edition podcast interview for Bouchercon, Erik D'Souza speaks with Louise Penny, the Lifetime Achievement Guest of Honour, about her career and Canadian crime writing. They explore the growing international recognition of Canadian crime writing and Louise's role as an ambassador for the genre. The conversation also touched on Louise's journalistic background and her recent co-written novel, The Last Mandarin, with journalist Melissa Fung. They concluded by discussing the upcoming Bouchercon event, with Louise offering advice for first-time attendees and sharing her positive experiences at previous conferences.Louise Penny, a former CBC radio journalist, is the #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Globe and Mail bestselling author of the Chief Inspector Armand Gamache novels. She has been awarded the CWA Dagger, Nero, Macavity, and Barry Awards, as well as two Arthur Ellis and two Dilys Awards. In addition, she has won the Agatha Award (eight times), and was a finalist for the Edgar Award for Best Novel. The series has been translated into 35 languages. In 2017, she received the Order of Canada for her contributions to Canadian culture. Louise Penny lives in a small village south of Montréal.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

In this podcast, we discuss BoucherCon 2026, the mystery and crime fiction convention in Calgary, with the Chair of the Local Organizing Committee, Pamela McDowell. The convention, which runs from October 21-25, will feature 1,500 attendees, including readers, writers, and industry professionals, with a diverse lineup of guest authors from Canada, the US, the UK, and beyond. McDowell highlighted the convention's unique fan-focused format, special programming including a book collector showcase, and various social events planned throughout the city. The guest of honor list includes notable authors Louise Penny, Kathy Reichs, Mark Greaney, Vicki Delany, Abir Murherjee, Jennifer Hiller, Kevin Sands, P.J. Vernon, and Steele Curry (posthumous), with activities planned for both adult and young readers. The event will also feature book signings, publisher hospitality suites, and various networking opportunities, making it an exciting destination for mystery fiction enthusiasts.BioPamela McDowell loves reading mysteries - thrillers, cozies, historicals, procedurals, she loves them all. Back in 1972, her grandmother gave her a copy of Nancy Drew’s The Secret of the Old Clock, and Pamela has been a fan of mystery and crime fiction ever since then.Today, Pamela lives in Alberta and leads a team of more than two dozen writers, readers, book sellers, editors, and librarians as they prepare to host Bouchercon: The World Mystery Convention in Calgary in 2026.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

William Wodhams lives in Vancouver with his wife and an ill-behaved dog. His first novel, Declan Tucker's Grand Debut, was published in December 2024. His second novel, Thirty Feet Under, was named a finalist for the Crime Writers of Canada Best Unpublished Crime novel award and was recently published by ECW Press.William is an award-winning copywriter who has been inspiring people with the life-changing possibilities of cell phones, hamburgers and drywall for over twenty years. His stories have been published in The Globe and Mail, the Pigeon Review Art and Literary Journal, and have won recognition from Writer’s Digest and Crime Writers of Canada.In this episode, William Wodhams shares his journey to publication, including extensive querying and eventual success with ECW Press, and explains how his research trip to Italy inspired the plot of his book about art smuggling and an FBI art-crimes team. We discuss the moral ambiguity of the art world and Bill's character development.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

In this podcast, Hope Thompson discusses her short story collection Dark Thoughts and Other Stories, which blends noir elements with character-driven narratives. Hope explained her transition from theater and screenwriting to crime fiction, inspired by her role as host of Toronto Noir at the Bar. We examine two stories from the collection: "Dark Thoughts," featuring an advice columnist who receives a threatening letter, and "Locked Room Mystery," a 1930s-set tale about a young man obsessed with a serial killer. Hope shared her writing process, including her fascination with noir and her inspiration from Cornell Woolrich. They also touched on her work on a true crime project about missing persons cases in northern Ontario. Bio:Hope Thompson has a background in theatre, screenwriting, and true crime podcasting. Her plays have been produced in Toronto, Vancouver and Los Angeles; she was a story editor on CBC’s Baroness Von Sketch Show and wrote on the pre-school drag variety show The Fabulous Show with Fay & Fluffy. A licensed PI, Hope has also researched and written for true crime podcasts Crimehub and Whereabouts Unknown. In 2019, she wrote and performed her one-woman show, The Talking Grave—a séance with deceased crime writer, Cornell Woolrich. Dark Thoughts & Other Stories is Hope’s first story collection (DarkWinter Press, 2026).Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

G.D. Stickles is the pen name for Gary Stickles, who grew up in a small town near Niagara Falls.  Over the years, he has pursued diverse professional roles, including hospitality worker, accountant, restaurateur, copywriter, and copy editor. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is also a husband and father.His debut thriller, Purging of Paradise, was recently released by Pegasus Publishers. The novel is set in Hawaii and follows ex-cop Eric Wakefield, who becomes a private investigator and is embroiled in a chilling cat-and-mouse game with a serial killer. Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

ALAN R. WARREN is a Bestselling Author, producer and lead host of the popular radio shows House of Mystery and Inside Writing, both heard on 106.5 F.M. Los Angeles/102.3 F.M. Riverside/ 1050 A.M. Palm Springs/ 540 A.M. KYAH Salt Lake City/ 1150 A.M. KKNW Seattle/Tacoma and Phoenix.​Al started writing articles for True Case Files Magazine and is still a contributor for Serial Killer Magazine. Since then, he has completed 38 non-fiction books covering true crime, cults, human trafficking, history, and memoirs for three different publishers, including RJ Parker/Vronksy Publishing in Toronto, Canada & WildBlue Press in Colorado, America.​His bestselling True Crime Books in Canada are Beyond Suspicion: The True Story of Colonel Russell Williams, which was featured on CNN's Lies, Crimes, & Videos in Season 4 in the Fall of 2022, and Murder Times Six: The True Story of the Wells Gray Park Murders.In this podcast, we will discuss his newest book,  Peace, Love, and Murder: The Charles Manson Story. He explores how Manson could only have thrived in the unique atmosphere of 1960s San Francisco and Los Angeles—a turbulent backdrop of war protests, psychedelic experimentation, and a generation desperate for change. Alongside this cultural portrait, the book provides rare insight into the backgrounds of each member of the so-called “Family,” showing how their vulnerabilities and desires made them susceptible to Manson’s influence.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Laurie McLure has a passion for crime fiction and for those who read it, write it, edit, and publish it. Laurie garnered significant experience throughout her career in government and while working and volunteering with a variety of not-for-profit organizations. Laurie is a member of the Mystery Writers of America and the Crime Writers of Canada. She is the author of Mountain Shadows and In The Dark Shadows. The great loves of Laurie's life are her family, animals, travel, and potato chips. Laurie is a full-time writer working on her third book of the Mountain Shadows Mysteries Series.In this podcast, we will discuss her second novel, In The Dark Shadows.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Tony writes mysteries and thrillers, two fingers at a time. His first massage therapy thriller, The Night Nurse, was published in 2020. His second, On Borrowed Time, hit the shelves in 2025.Tony spent 17 years as a registered massage therapist in Vancouver and now works for Parks Canada. When he’s not making a paycheque or writing books, he can be found hiking and paddling the Columbia Valley or trying out new recipes on unsuspecting guests.Tony also co-writes with Juanita Rose Violini, his life partner and murder mystery plots expert, under the pen name Trigger Jones. Trigger’s first two sci-fi adventure books, Gravity Doesn’t Lie and Atmosphere Meltdown, are available now. The first book in their time travel treasure hunt series will be out soon.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Juanita R. Violini is a mystery creator and author known for her long career crafting interactive whodunits and exploring the strange edges of reality. For nearly two decades, she produced live murder‑mystery events in Vancouver, an experience that shaped her signature blend of solvable puzzles and theatrical fun. She is also the creative force behind Mystery Factory, a company built on more than thirty years of designing clever, audience‑friendly mystery plots. Mystery Factory grew out of her earlier venture, Masterpiece Mysterys, and continues her mission of helping writers and performers build compelling, fair‑play mysteries.In this podcast, we will discuss her most recent book, The MYSTERY BONES METHOD DIAGRAMS. It’s a self-guided course that tells you everything you need to know, from beginning to end, about how to plot a murder mystery story.mysteryfactory.comLearn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Angela van Breemen is a graduate of the University of Guelph with a degree in management economics and was a co-owner of a dental supply company. After the company was sold, she turned her focus to writing, music, and volunteering her time at Procyon Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre. In 2024, she published her first novel, Past Life’s Revenge, a crime thriller with a twist of spiritualism. Angela is a Soprano Soloist and a firm believer in giving back to the community.She lives in Loretto, Ontario, with her husband, Peter Thomas Pontsa, author of the Inspector William Fox Series. In this podcast, we will discuss her second novel in The David Harris and Emma Jackson Mystery series, Revenge is Not Enough.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Dawn Rodger grew up in Scarborough in the 1980s during Paul Bernardo's rampage. She is also a trauma survivor from domestic violence and narcissistic abuse.She has a BMUS from the University of Western Ontario, and a BEd from the University of Toronto. She is a clarinetist and has played in community bands her entire adult life. She taught elementary school music for twenty-five years. Dawn has published a previous book, a memoir called I Could Almost Touch the Devil. In this podcast we discussed her debut crime novel, Scattered Garbage. She lives in the Greater Toronto Area with her loving husband, five beautiful children and their beloved dog, Cupcake.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Winnipeg author Joel Nedecky has always loved stories, yet most of his childhood was spent playing hockey. It wasn’t until university that he discovered a passion for all types of fiction. In 2023, his novel, The Broken Detective, was shortlisted for The Award for Best Unpublished Manuscript, sponsored by ECW Press. We are chatting today because The Broken Detective was recently published by Run Amok Crime.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

In this episode, we have the editors of A CAPITAL MYSTERY ANTHOLOGY, the mostly retired public relations professional, writer and editor Bernadette Cox and the award-winning and bestselling author of the Sgt. Windflower Mystery Series, Mike Martin. A CAPITAL MYSTERY ANTHOLOGY is presented by THE CRIME WRITERS OF CANADA and features 21 talented mystery authors. Some of our mysteries are set in modern times, some reach all the way back to Bytown, Ottawa’s original settlement. But what each story features — whatever the setting — is a crime that will leave you wondering, or leave you shocked, or maybe, awake at night wondering if you should read one more.A Capital Mystery is a book that celebrates the magic, history and most of all — mystery — that is Ottawa.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Peter Thomas Pontsa is a Canadian author known for his thrilling William Fox Adventure Series, which includes Outfoxed (2023) and Sanctity of Freedom (2025). Before turning to fiction, Pontsa had a distinguished career in the dental industry, authoring numerous techno-clinical articles. After his retirement, he decided to develop his creative writing side by taking a course at the University of Waterloo on Advanced Fiction Writing. He also became active in writers’ groups such as the Wordsmiths and the Crime Writers of Canada.A passionate British sports car enthusiast and a second-degree black belt in taekwondo, Peter brings realism to his action scenes through personal experience. He lives in Loretto, Ontario, with his wife, author Angela van Breemen, and their orange tabby, Mr. Tee.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

As an author of novels (for YA readers and adults), playwright, journalist, and screenwriter, Shane Peacock has always been interested in larger-than-life characters, seeking the truth about human beings, and exploring the invisible things that matter to us all. Earlier this year (season 3, ep. 2), I interviewed Shane, and we discussed the first novel in his new Northern Gothic series, “As We Forgive Others”. The novel has received significant recognition, including the 2025 Crime Writers of Canada Award of Excellence for Best Crime Novel Set in Canada, which affirms its literary merit and resonant themes.In this podcast, we will discuss its sequel, “A Place of Secrets,” published by Cormorant Books.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Joanne Kormylo’s debut novel, THE RESISTANCE DAUGHTER, is a work of historical fiction inspired by true stories. She is the daughter of a WWII bomber pilot and prisoner of war. As part of her research for this novel, she studied her late father’s Wartime Log, interviewed veterans, served on the board of an Air Force Museum, and traveled to the UK, Poland, and Germany. Joanne holds both an MA and a JD, leading to a career as a lawyer and business owner. She has one daughter, Andrea, and resides in Western Canada.Two years ago, I interviewed Joanne because her story TWO KNOTS was nominated by Crime Writers of Canada for the Award for Best Unpublished Manuscript sponsored by ECW Press in 2023.Since then, the title changed to THE RESISTANCE DAUGHTER and it’s been published by Hodder & Stoughton publishers in the UK. Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Born and raised in Montreal, Rosemary McCracken has worked on newspapers across Canada as a reporter, editor, editorial writer, arts reviewer, and restaurant critic.Safe Harbor, the first novel in her five-book Pat Tierney series, was a finalist for Britain’s Debut Dagger Award in 2010. It was first published by Imajin Books in 2012, followed by Black Water in 2013 and Raven Lake in 2016. All three were republished by Carrick Publishing in 2018, followed by Uncharted Waters in 2020 and Riversong in 2025.Rosemary’s short stories have appeared in numerous anthologies and magazines. “The Sweetheart Scamster,” a Pat Tierney story in the Mesdames of Mayhem’s anthology Thirteen, was nominated for a Derringer Award in 2014.Rosemary now lives and writes in Toronto.Visit Rosemary’s website: here.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Timothy S. Johnston is the author of the Science Fiction/Thriller The Rise of Oceania series, which includes The War Beneath, The Savage Deeps, Fatal Depth, The Shadow of War, and most recently, A Blanket of Steel. He has won the GLOBAL THRILLER Award Grand Prize, the EPIC Award, the CYGNUS Science Fiction Award Grand Prize, as well as the CLUE Award. He has been an educator for twenty-five years and a writer for thirty. He lives on planet Earth, but he dreams of the stars. Visit www.timothysjohnston.com to register for news alerts, read his blog and reviews, and learn more about his current and upcoming thrillers.In this podcast, we’ll discuss the series, focusing on A Blanket of Steel, which recently won the 2024 Grand Prize in the Global Thriller Awards and the 2024 First in Category award in the Cygnus Awards.  Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Iona Whishaw has been a youth worker, social worker, teacher, and an award-winning High School Principal, who continued with her writing throughout her working life. Receiving her Masters in Creative writing from UBC, Iona has published short fiction, poetry, poetry translation and one children’s book, Henry and the Cow Problem. The Lane Winslow mystery series is her first foray into adult fiction.Iona was born in Kimberley, BC, but grew up in several different places, including a small community on Kootenay Lake, as well as Mexico and Central America, and the US, due to her father’s geological work. The Cost of a Hostage is the twelfth book in the Lane Winslow mystery series. Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Vicki Delany is one of Canada’s most prolific and varied crime writers and a national bestseller in the U.S. She has written more than forty books: clever cozies to Gothic thrillers to gritty police procedurals, to historical fiction and novellas for adult literacy. She is currently writing four cozy mystery series: the Tea by the Sea mysteries for Kensington, the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series for Crooked Lane Books, the Catskill Resort mysteries for Penguin Random House, and the Lighthouse Library series (as Eva Gates) for Crooked Lane.Vicki is a past president of the Crime Writers of Canada and co-founder and organizer of the Women Killing It Crime Writing Festival. Her work has been nominated for the Derringer, the Bony Blithe, the Ontario Library Association Golden Oak, and the Arthur Ellis Awards. Vicki is the recipient of the 2019 Derrick Murdoch Award for contributions to Canadian crime writing. She lives in Prince Edward County, Ontario. Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Karen Grose is from Toronto, Canada. Her debut novel, The Dime Box, was selected by Amnesty International for its 2021 Book Club. Her second is Flat Out Lies, and All June Left Behind is her third. She has flash, poems, and short stories published by Roi Faineau Press, Paddler Press, Punk Noir Magazine, Epistemic Literary Magazine, Hooghly Review, Bunker Squirrel Magazine, and Superior Shores Press. She is a member of Crime Writers of Canada, Sisters-in-Crime-Toronto and National, and the #thrillsandchills writing group. Track her down on X: @kgrose2, IG: karengrosewrites, FB, or at www.karengrose.caLearn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279

Dean Jobb’s book,  A Gentleman and a Thief: The Daring Jewel Heists of a Jazz Age Rogue, (published by HarperCollins Publishers Ltd.) is nominated for The Brass Knuckles Award for Best Nonfiction Crime Book sponsored by David Reid Simpson Law Firm (Hamilton) with a $300 prizeDean Jobb writes historical true crime. His latest book, A Gentleman and a Thief, the story of a daring jewel thief who targeted New York’s Jazz Age elite, is a national bestseller and a New York Times Editors’ Choice. He is the author of The Case of the Murderous Dr. Cream, which recreates the hunt for a Victorian era Canadian doctor-turned-serial killer, and Empire of Deception, the tale of a fugitive American swindler in 1920s Nova Scotia. All three books are published by HarperCollins Canada. He has won the CrimeCon and Crime Writers of Canada awards for best true crime book and has been a finalist for the Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize and the American Library Association’s Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence. His monthly true crime column, “Stranger Than Fiction,” appears in Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine and he has written for Air Mail, CrimeReads, the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, The Irish Times and other major publications. He is a professor at the University of King’s College in Halifax, where he teaches in the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Nonfiction program. Find him at www.deanjobb.com.Learn more about Crime Writers of Canada at:  crimewriterscanada.comFind past video interviews  at: youtube.com/@crimewritersofcanada1279