The Bookshelf

Where do stories come from?

Contrary to what my non-writing friends believe, there is no story-fairy, who places blockbuster story ideas under the pillows of writers late at night. If it were that easy, my list of publications and the flow of article queries and book proposals leaving my office would be never-ending.

In reality, story ideas originate from everywhere--from life around us. Whether it's an event observed, a conversation overheard, or in some cases a suggestion from friends, acquaintances and even strangers.

As writers, we rely on observation and imagination to turn nothingness into bylines. If you think that you have an idea for a great story, article or book, please let me know. I'd love to hear from you. Please understand that I do not pay for story ideas, and in fact in most cases, such arrangments would be unethical, however, you will have my undying gratitude.

 

  • Books
  • Articles

Books

 

Much of my writing has allowed me to call on my extensive experience as a criminal investigator and legal academic. As a result, my first two non-fiction titles have taken a decidely instructive tone, falling into the broad category of what one would call, trade hardcover. My third title, due out in early 2009, while non-fiction as well, takes my writing muscles in a new direction allowing me to stretch my narrative voice. This true-crime narrative, set in suburban Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, chronicles an eight day period in 1979 in which two crazed killers murdered four unsuspecting victims for no reason other than the thrill of the kill.

 

   

 

 

Computer Forensics: An Essential Guide for Accountants, Lawyers, and Managers

 

 

Forensic Accounting and Fraud Investigation for Non-Experts. Second Edition, Wiley and Sons. 2007

 

Articles

 

The following is a brief list of a selection of the many articles I have been fortunate enough to place for publication. If you are interested in information about these articles, or would like copies of writing samples (both published and unpublished), please email me

 

 

Student Comment, Cyberpredators: Police Internet Investigations under Florida Statute § 847.0135. 54 University of Miami Law Review, 2 , (2000).

 

Reading Between the Lines: A Guide to Steganography for Police Professionals, Law and Order Magazine. (2004).

 

Probable Cause to Arrest in Dominion and Control Cases: An Analysis of Maryland v. Pringle., Police Chief Magazine (2004).

 

The World Wide Wash: Conducting Money Laundering Investigations in the Global Economy. Law and Order Magazine (2004).

 

The Power of Persuasion: Not Just for Juries Anymore. Police Officer’s Quarterly (2004).

 

Gone Phishin’: Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft Online. Plus Magazine (2004).

 

Managing the High-Tech Crime Unit. Law and Order Magazine (2004).

 

Kill for Thrill: The Murder of Patrolman Leonard Miller. Chief of Police Magazine (2005).