Book Passage, Corte Madera, California

The annual Book Passage Mystery Writers Conference at the legendary Corte Madera store Book Passage, north of the Golden Gate Bridge, is, quite simply, one of the premier events in the world for people wanting to learn about writing.

I’ve been on this year’s roster for some time, but now there’s a fuller list of the authors taking part in this four-day teaching fest for would-be writers.

There are familiar faces: Tim Maleeny, Cornelia Read, Dylan Schafer, Michelle Gagnon, Cara Black, Tony Broadbent, and David Corbett. Plus the talented duo who graciously co-chair the event, Sheldon Siegel and Jacqueline Winspear.

Hallie Ephron, who doubles as both author and acclaimed writing teacher, will be there to offer some customarily thought-provoking words of wisdom. For some inside forensic track you really can’t beat D. P. Lyle, a professional physician and author of some of the best reference guides around. LA Superior Court judge Ken Freeman will talk about law and criminal procedure. George Fong, supervisory special agent for the FBI, will be around too, and he is, I can guarantee, unmissable.

Plus you get agents, publishers and a host of other authors there’s no space to mention here. It really is a blast - four days of panels, workshops and informal chats, an intensive programme that is enjoyable and just as thought-provoking for the authors as it is for the students.