Police officers and private investigators may chase the same crimes, but they solve them in very different ways. This panel explores the parallels and contrasts between cops and PIs in crime fiction, from authority and access to ethics, methods, and personal stakes. Authors discuss how each role shapes plot, tension, and character, and how choosing the right kind of sleuth can transform a story.
Inside the Power Structure of Prison Gangs
Drawing on deep professional experience, James L’Etoile takes listeners inside the closed world of prison gangs. This session breaks down how these groups form, how power is maintained, and what motivates loyalty and violence behind bars. Writers gain a realistic...
