Q&A: Lou Berney, Author of ‘Crooks’

We chat with author Lou Berney about Crooks, which is an electrifying new novel that follows a uniquely American crime family on an unforgettable journey across four decades. PLUS we have an excerpt to share with you at the end of the interview!

Hi, Lou! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?

I’m an accomplished writer, teacher, and liar (but I use my gifts only for good, not evil). I live in Oklahoma City with my wife and our ancient but/and happy golden retriever. I have six great-nephews and one great-niece who keep me on my toes.

When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?

Early! I was only three years old when my older sisters taught me to read and write – and, most of all, to love making up stories. I was always more of a do-er than a watch-er, so halfway through a book I’d get impatient and start writing my own.

Quick lightning round! Tell us:

• The first book you ever remember reading: The Happy Hollisters and the Ice Carnival Mystery, Jerry West
• The one that made you want to become an author: A Good Man Is Hard to Find and Other Stories, Flannery O’Connor
• The one that you can’t stop thinking about: Deacon King Kong, James McBride

 

Your latest novel, Crooks, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?

Sweeping fun family crime thriller

What can readers expect?

A whole lot of story, a whole lot of characters, a whole lot of twists and turns, pages that refuse not to be turned.

Where did the inspiration for Crooks come from?

I’ve realized, the older I get, the more I was shaped by my family – for better and worse! Family gets you early and really makes all the difference.

Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?

I loved writing about the the Wild West of Moscow, Russia, right after the fall of communism in 1994. It was all the fun and none of the deadly danger.

Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge is just getting started each morning – that first sentence is always the hardest, so what I’ve started to do is write it before my actual writing time starts. I sneak up on it and trick myself. So far, so good.

What’s next for you?

I’ve got a project underway that I’m excited about. It involves a lot of research, more then Crooks, which has been a lot of fun. Tip about research I’ve learned: pick a topic you’ll have fun with!

Lastly, what books have you enjoyed reading this year? Are there any you’re looking forward to picking up?

Most recently, I’ve loved El Dorado Drive, by Megan Abbott, The Doorman, by Chris Pavone, and Creation Lake, by Rachel Kushner. I’m looking forward to King of Ashes, by S.A. Cosby.