Riot Headline 10 Exciting Books to Read this Summer

#Essays

What Makes a Great Audiobook?

What makes an audiobook stand out? Is it true that narrators can make or break the story? Some experts offer perspectives.

How Are Smartphones Used in Mystery Novels?

Smartphones have solved a lot of logistics problems in real life - and caused problems for mystery writers by being an instant solution.

What Is The CAWPILE Review System?

Ever find yourself stumped for how to review a book? Take a look at the CAWPILE system and how it might help.

What’s in a Ship Name?

From Mulder and Scully to Kirk/Spock and Black Bonnet, here's where ship names started in fandoms and where they are now.

The Bane Of My Bookish Existence: I Can’t Read Nonfiction In Print

When trying to read even the most interesting nonfiction books in print, I abandon them for fiction. Nonfiction audiobooks are my saviour in this.

So You Hated that Book Your Friend Recommended to You

Hating a book a friend recommended can put you in a bit of a quandary. Just how sticky a wicket is it? One writer explains.

How Comics Discuss Mental Health

Two interviews with the publishers of Oni Press and Iron Circus about the discussion of mental health in comic books

Why Your Favorite Author Wants to Connect with You

Two authors, Alex Temblador and Allison Trowbridge, share their thoughts about why your favorite author wants to connect with you.

A Compelling Villain Is All About the Backstory

A compelling villain makes for a much more interesting narrative. The best way to achieve that is for them to have a sympathetic backstory.

The Price of Snails: Patricia Highsmith and Her Unusual Pets

Did Patricia Highsmith really smuggle snails out of France in her bra? Why was she so enamored with this highly unusual pet?