Ian Parker, writing for The New Yorker, has a fascinating study of author Dan Mallory. Using the pseudonym A. J. Finn, he wrote the novel, The Woman in the Window and sold millions of copies. He made millions off of an upcoming film adaptation. He novel entered the Times best seller list at number one, which was the first time that has happened in over a decade.

It appears he has “a history of imposture, and of duping people with false stories about disease and death.” Charming, I’m sure.

It’s a glorious long read. I expect someone might try and turn it into its own movie.