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Cake and Murder: A Delightful Anniversary Celebration in Toronto

Hank Phillippi Ryan addresses the SinC meeting

On June 16, Hank Phillippi Ryan, award-winning, bestselling author of nine mysteries (her latest is Say No More), and on-air investigative reporter for Boston’s NBC affiliate, was special guest of Sisters in Crime (SinC) Toronto at our anniversary celebration — 30 years for Sisters in Crime, 25 years for our chapter.

Our record-size assembly began with a message from SinC National, who sponsored Hank’s visit.

SinC crowd laps up Ms Ryan's words

Then Hank spoke, sharing stories and advice. “Be a little brave,” she told us. “If you don’t write, no one will care — so do it for yourself. Write the kind of book you love to read.” And don’t run in heels!

With every new book, she worries that she’s set up a puzzle she can’t solve. But then finally something clicks all the pieces together. “You twist and turn until it sounds right.”

A record crowd celebrates SinC's 30th anniversary

Asked how writing fiction is different from reporting, Hank admits that of course she uses her own experiences — particular incidents have sparked great ideas — but she likes the freedom novels give her to write “pure total fiction.” She loves “the joy of thinking of something new.”

After a lively Q&A session, Hank signed copies of her books for members and guests as we enjoyed anniversary cake – and later decamped with an enthusiastic core of fans to Sip Wine Bar.

This event is part of the monthly, third Thursday meetings of Sisters in Crime - Toronto, a chapter of Sisters in Crime, an organization celebrating 30 years of promoting women crime writers.

All lovers of mysteries are welcome, whether you are a member or our guest.

Admission is free to members. $5 at the door for guests.

This event is part of the monthly, third Thursday meetings of Sisters in Crime - Toronto, a chapter of Sisters in Crime, an organization celebrating 30 years of promoting women crime writers.

Next monthly meeting: Thursday, September 21, 2017.

Hank Phillippi Ryan signs her books

Long-time SinC-Toronto member Jane Burfield and Hank Phillippi Ryan