Well, lightning has struck. Last night in Atlantic City, the North American Branch of the International Association of Crime Writers awarded me the Hammett Prize. Sadly, I couldn’t make it to the ceremony, but my speech was delivered by my agent in the Northeast.

Terrific news, as the Hammett is such an admired award, with a perpetually great list of nominees, but also because this is the ninth or tenth award I’ve been shortlisted for, and the first I’ve won!

Great news, indeed. And thanks again to International Association of Crime Writers!

UPDATE: If you don’t believe me, go to a trusted source for verification…