Or should that be just 'forum'? Not sure. But it is a good place to discuss all things book-related. The thread that I began about whether the dark, dysfunctional and damaged detective has become a cliche has run on for some time, and produced a number on interesting points. I don't suppose that any of the participants also read this blog but thanks again to them if they happen to do so.

Not surprisingly, my overly analytical, not to say pedantic, approach to language eventually worried one contributor - I have duly apologised and explained myself. But it's good that there are a few places where we can have serious discussions about literature, where we can disagree without falling out and insulting each other, as happens on so many other forums. Or should that be fora?