Faye Kellerman on Her Gripping New Crime Novel, The Lost Boys

Briefly tell us about the book.

Missing person cases usually end happily. But what happens when they don’t positively? What kind of toll does it take on those who are left waiting and wondering about their loved ones? Crime includes the survivors as well as the victims. I wanted to explore that theme.

What inspired the idea behind this book?

My novels always start with a germ of an idea. From that, I flesh out plot and character. The plot takes the longest. Characters are the most fun to write.

What was the research process like for the book?

Some of my books take more research than others. If I deal with something technical, there is a lot of research behind the finished project. Others are developed from whole cloth and are much more character-driven.

What are you hoping the reader will take away from reading your book?

When I write a novel, I hope to take my readers to a different and entertaining place for a couple of hours. Heaven knows we can all use a little escape in our lives.

Does the creative process get easier for you with each book?

The creative process of writing never gets easier. But what does grow is the confidence. I know I back myself into corners. But I also know that eventually, I’ll be able to emerge victorious!

How does it feel to hold your book in your hands?

I like when I finish a novel. But after it’s sent to the publisher, I don’t think about it too much. It’s like a surrogate child. I birth it and off it goes.

What is something that has influenced you as a writer?

My influences have been many. No one is as important to me as my husband, writer Jonathan Kellerman. He’s my biggest fan and my best editor. But writing mysteries, there is a plethora of great thriller writers that came before me. Ross MacDonald speaks to me in a very deep way.

What’s the easiest and most difficult parts of your job as a writer?

The easiest part of being a writer? To say I’m a writer. The hardest part of being a writer? To write the book. Ugh, it’s like opening a vein every single time I sit down to write.