From shadowy noir streets to modern, high-stakes thrillers, Los Angeles has always been a city built for crime fiction. In this panel, authors explore how L.A.’s history, culture, and shifting neighborhoods have shaped crime stories across decades. They discuss how the city’s evolving landscape influences tone, character, and the kinds of crimes that feel true to each era.
The Power Behind the Protagonist
Frankie Bailey, Lisa Wysocky, Mark Troy, Rabbi Ilene Schneider, and Sharon Hopkins explore what gives female protagonists their power. They discuss strength, authenticity, and how portrayals of women continue to evolve across genres and storytelling traditions.




