Linwood Barclay, a New York Times bestselling author with twenty novels to his credit, spent three decades in newspapers before turning full time to writing thrillers. His books have been translated into more than two dozen languages, sold millions of copies, and he counts Stephen King among his fans. Many of his books have been optioned for film and TV, a series has been made in France, and he wrote the screenplay for the film based on his novel Never Saw it Coming. Born in the US, his parents moved to Canada just as he was turning four, and he’s lived there ever since. He lives near Toronto with his wife, Neetha. They have two grown children.
Want to keep up on all things Linwood, then check out his website https://www.linwoodbarclay.com/, or follow him on Facebook or Twitter.
What does your writing space look like?
I have a home office with tons of shelves loaded with books and kitschy 1960s era science-fi models, Batman art on one wall, a framed portrait of Alfred Hitchcock on another, and a broad, white desk that overlooks the street where I can watch people fight over parking spots
If you could spend a day with another popular author (living or dead), who would you choose and why?
I’d like to spend more time with the late Ross Macdonald, who wrote the Lew Archer series of detective novels. No writer had a greater influence on me when I was young, and when I was 21, through a variety of circumstances, I had the opportunity to have dinner with him and spend several hours in his company. We lost him far too soon..
How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
Vodka with Perrier and lemonade. Of course, that’s how I celebrate at the end of each day’s writing session.
Is there something you do/have while writing that helps your process? (Music, snacks, etc.)
I don’t really romanticize the process. As long as I have my coffee, I can sit down and get to work. Writing is a job. No one would ask a plumber about music or snacks or rituals.
What book are you currently reading?
I am on an Emily St. John Mandel binge. The Singer’s Gun and The Glass Hotel last week, now into Station Eleven. She is amazing.
