Mystery Author Visits the Brecksville Library

Former FBI agent Noah Boyd turned author when he had grief with the law enforcement system. His mystery novels The Bricklayer and Agent X integrate his FBI experience and knowledge.

At 7 p.m. on Friday, the  will host author Boyd for a presentation and book signing. Agent X– just released Feb. 8 – will be available to buy Friday night and can be signed by Boyd.

But first, he’ll discuss his novels. For a sneak peak, here is a quick Q & A Boyd offered via email while traveling into town.

Brecksville Patch: What made you start writing novels?

Noah Boyd: I didn't like the direction the FBI was heading, and thought if I let people know about the problems, it would make a difference. Of course, it didn't.  But I got a nice retirement job out of it.

Patch: What was the most challenging part of the writing the second book?

Boyd: The deadline, that's always the toughest for me.

Patch: How do you come up with your characters?

Boyd: Being an agent for twenty years, I've met a lot of characters and others. Like [John] Steinbeck said in his introduction to Cannery Row, "...[to] open the page and [to] let the stories crawl in by themselves."

Patch: Where did get your idea for a plot in your latest novel?

Boyd: It was something I had written down a long time ago, and when I discovered it fit the circumstances of the characters, I went with it.

Patch: Do you plan to continue writing novels?

Boyd: Yes, I have a contract for three more Steve Vail-Kate Bannon novels.

Patch: What author do you idolize, if any?

Boyd: In the "idolize" category one, Steinbeck. He wrote with such authenticity and understanding of human nature. 

Patch: What would you like people to understand about your writing?

Boyd: I want readers to have fun when they read my novels, and maybe escape a little.

Individuals who want to register for Friday's event can call 440-526-1102.