A Writer's Journey: Exploring Crime, Consequences, and the Power of Stories

A writer with a knack for crafting tales about flawed individuals has just released a new book. This time, the story unfolds in a struggling Oregon coastal town, far from the usual desert settings. The plot revolves around a group of small-time criminals, including a disgraced lawyer, his brilliant sister, a corrupt cop, and an ex-con with too much knowledge. It's a tale of people trying to be good, going bad, and getting caught in the middle. Switching gears from a long-running series about a gangster-turned-rabbi, the writer found the change refreshing. After 15 years focused on one character, exploring new stories and voices was a welcome challenge. The shift required adapting to different writing styles, which proved both difficult and rewarding. When it comes to reading recommendations, this writer has a soft spot for Daniel Woodrell's work, particularly "Winter's Bone. " Recently, they enjoyed "The CIA Book Club" and Susan Straight's "Sacrament. " Their reading habits are eclectic, often picking up books on a whim and getting lost in them for hours. The first book that left a lasting impact was "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck. It was a transformative experience, introducing them to the emotional power of literature. On the other hand, "Moby Dick" remains unread, despite multiple attempts. "Get Shorty" by Elmore Leonard resonated deeply, feeling like it was written just for them. Audiobooks have become a favorite, especially for unwinding at night. They recommend "The Confidence Game" and Colin Firth's narration of "The End of the Affair. " Their list of favorite books is extensive, ranging from "Empire Falls" to "Your House Will Pay. " Up next on their reading list are "Subject: Punk" and "Crooks. " A memorable quote from "The Maltese Falcon" highlights their fascination with flawed characters and poor decisions. Growing up, their older brother introduced them to crime novels, shaping their early reading habits. They're drawn to compelling characters and the messes they find themselves in, like those in "The Only Good Indians. " This writer doesn't hesitate to put down books that don't resonate. Some books, like "Five Days at Memorial" and "Ghettoside, " have challenged their perspectives on society. A memorable bookstore experience was spending hours in Sundance Books in Reno after the 2016 election, finding solace in the power of stories.