• An Insightful Journey with Scott Phillips: Writing, Adaptation, and Noir Fiction

    Introduction Scott Phillips—a name synonymous with gripping noir fiction and intriguing storytelling. Born in Wichita, Kansas, Phillips has masterfully intertwined elements of crime, character-driven plots, and dark humor into his works. This article explores his journey, creative process, and reflections on the evolution of his novels, as shared during an interview with Noel King. Scott…

  • The Seduction of Violence

    I like violence. I like it in movies, on my TV and in books. I like MMA fighting. It gives me an adrenaline rush, increases my heart rate, has me holding my breath, my entire body tensing. I like Jason Statham, old marital arts movies with Bruce Lee, Steven Segal, Jackie Chan. I like watching…

  • Ben Wheatley’s Kill List and My Unsettling Films List

      Late last night I attended a packed screening of Kill List and to say that it fucked me up is to put it tres-fucking-mildly. Wheatley’s debut film Down Terrace is one of the true sleepers of the last decade, a crime film by turns loose and funny then disturbingly bloody and deeply unsettling, a…

  • What You’ll Be Reading This Year

    Hi, I’m Alex Monroe, a lifelong book enthusiast and passionate crime fiction fan. Over the years, I’ve come across some incredible stories that have left a lasting impression on me, and I thought it was time to share a few of my favorites with you. These books are more than just thrilling reads—they’re unforgettable journeys…

  • Exceptional Police Novels That Break the Mold

    When it comes to crime fiction, police novels often dominate the landscape. While not all follow the same formula, many of them explore deeper themes, complex characters, and unique perspectives on law enforcement and the human condition. Here’s a curated list of ten authors whose works stand out in this popular subgenre. 1) Charles Willeford…

  • The Heart of Noir Fiction: Compassion in the Shadows

    Noir fiction holds a special place in the world of crime literature. It’s a subgenre that goes beyond solving mysteries and dives deep into the raw, unfiltered reality of human flaws. These stories don’t shy away from the dispossessed, the morally dubious, or the emotionally broken. Instead, they amplify voices often ignored in polite society,…

  • Hands Across the Ocean: The Long Good Friday

    Ask me what my favorite British crime movie is, and there might be a pause before I answer. While many might instinctively choose Get Carter due to its iconic status, I have to admit it’s not my top pick. Sure, Get Carter has its memorable moments, but its flaws as a film keep it from…