When beginning to write one's third novel

it is perhaps unwise to start reading Nicholas Nickleby and reflect that this was Dickens' third novel. Comparisons can be so discouraging.

That being said, I think that Ralph Nickleby might be a good model for the villain I'm trying to create (the unnamed Mr. X). A man of business, admired as an upstanding member of the community, with an utterly cold heart.

Hmm.

Peg