Why are we so drawn to stories of crime? What makes us tune into such a vast array of true-crime shows, or pick up a book that begins with murder? And is it harmless entertainment, or something more sinister? Three authors of crime novels or works about the impact of crime explore why we love the dastardly: Michael Melgaard’s Not That Kind of Place is a literary anti-mystery and a compelling exploration of our obsession with true-crime stories. Liz Nugent is an international crime writing sensation, whose Strange Sally Diamond moves into the thriller genre. And Sam Wiebe’s Sunset and Jericho novel, the fourth in The Wakeland Novels series, reveals the underbelly of Vancouver’s too-often ignored. Don’t miss this invigorating conversation. Moderated by André Picard.

Event Participants:

Michael Melgaard

MICHAEL MELGAARD is the author of the short story collection Pallbearing. His writing has appeared in Best Canadian Stories anthology, as well as Joyland, Lithub, and elsewhere. He is a former book columnist for the National Post. Originally from Vancouver Island, he currently lives in Toronto.

Liz Nugent

LIZ NUGENT has worked in Irish film, theater, and television for most of her life. She is an award-winning writer of radio and television drama and has written critically acclaimed short stories both for children and adults, as well as the bestselling novels Unraveling Oliver, Lying in Wait, and Little Cruelties. She lives in Dublin and has won four Irish Book Awards, as well as the James Joyce Medal for Literature. Visit her at LizNugent.com

Sam Wiebe

SAM WIEBE is the award-winning author of the Wakeland novels, one of the most authentic and acclaimed detective series in Canada. His work has won the Crime Writers of Canada award and the Kobo Emerging Writers prize, and been shortlisted for the Edgar, Hammett, Shamus, and City of Vancouver book prizes. His latest is Sunset and Jericho.