Pearl Kirkby asked A.R. Simmons:

Thank you; after an initial revelation of backstory, I try to add further only gradually - as you say, just like you learn about people in real life. I also try to give each character a distinctly recognizable voice, so that I may avoid those, "she said/they answered" repetitions (re the old "Dick and Jane" primers!). Any thoughts on 'preparing' your readers...helping them to engage more fully?

A.R. Simmons I try to give the reader a vivid setting, an interesting situation, and someone to identify with. It is also important to have strong female characters. I think there is no better hook than to give readers someone precious and then put them at risk. (By the way for POV tags I totally ignore Leonard's "rule" that we shouldn't use anything but "said.")

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