The New York Times–bestselling author tells the story of how he created his popular San Francisco sleuth. In 1989, everyman Dismas Hardy debuted in John Lescroart’s mystery, Dead Irish. It’s a story millions of readers have enjoyed, along with other entries in the New York Times–bestselling series. But a tale they may not know is how Lescroat invented the ex-Marine, ex-cop, and ex-lawyer turned sleuth. In this brief autobiographical essay, Lescroart details the development of Dismas Hardy, as well as his own career. He discusses his attempt to be a “serious” novelist, his stint as the lead singer of a band, and his struggle to get published. He also talks about how he realized he was meant to be a writer (and not working a “regular” nine-to-five) and how Dismas’s adventures almost didn’t become the series readers love. Praise for the Dismas Hardy Novels “Compulsively readable . . . a dense and involving saga of big-city crime and punishment.” —San Francisco Chronicle “A beautifully written San Francisco murder story with perfect-pitch dialogue.” —Playboy on Dead Irish “The killer proves to be as fascinating a personality as Hardy himself.” —Publishers Weekly on Dead Irish “The narrative flows effortlessly and includes a Perry Mason–worthy moment when Hardy manifests a bit of courtroom magic. Lescroart is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy great ensemble casts.” —Booklist on Poison