When and how did you know you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve always had a love of books and storytelling.
When I was in grade 3, I wrote an epic 20-page long story about a girl who ran away with a bag of apples. The assignment was for 100 words. I moved on to experiment with poetry in my early teen years. Then, I decided to become a journalist. Until I went to college and discovered filmmaking. I thought I’d write movie scripts.
When “real life” started, all those lofty ideas got set aside. For 2 decades I ignored the little voice in my head that never seems to shut the heck up. Then, one day that voice got a little too loud, and I was too tired, and dissatisfied with life to shut it out any longer. That’s when I thought, “I can do this.” So, I did.
Did you have any influencing writers growing up?
None that I would call influences, but I read a lot of Stephen King, Anne Rice, and Danielle Steel. (a strange mix, I know)
Are any of your characters based on people in real life?
Not directly. But each of my leading ladies has a tiny piece of me, and some of the storylines are echoes of my real life.
Where do you draw your book inspirations from?
Vibes. Always vibes.
Seriously though, I’m a very opinionated person, and a lot of times I can’t say everything I’m thinking out loud (my friends and family get sick of listening to me, I’m sure). So, many of my strong feelings find their way into my books.
Do you use have a basic outline when starting a new story or do you let the characters lead the way?
No matter how many times I try to outline a story, the characters always take over. But I do need to have a sense of where the book is going before I start. It’s a very loose outline.
When you are picturing the characters in your book, do you have a cheater photo for inspiration?
I am a very visual person, and I love Pinterest. I have personal boards set up for every one of my books.
Many people read as a form of escape and relaxation. What is your favorite way to sit back and relax?
I love movies and books. Usually with a nice snack.
Who are your favorite current authors to read?
J.T Geissinger is amazing.
Susan Fanetti is a long-time favorite.
I also really enjoy Ali Hazelwood, Navessa Allen, Pam Godwin, Sierra Simone, Trisha Wolfe, and Brynne Weaver.
What are your favorite books by others?
The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons will probably always be my favorite.
The entire Singal Bend series by Susan Fanetti.
Also, the Experiment in Terror series, and The Artists Trilogy by Karina Halle.
Do the locations in the stories have any meaning to you?
Not really. It’s always about the vibe of the place, not the place itself, if that makes any sense. And I generally believe it’s the people who make the place.
Do you write in single or multiple POV?
Multiple. MMC and FMC
What do you find to be your best research tool?
Google is great. Especially Google Maps.
Do you write under a pen name? Also, do you write under more than one name?
Kimberly Quinn is a pen name. Although Kim is my real first name. I used to write under Kim Bailey, which was my married name, but then switched to the pen name with my separation. I don’t think I could keep up with more than one pen name at a time.
What genre do you write and why is this your preference?
It will always be romance for me. Because in every story I’ve ever read/watched, I look for the romance. And when there isn’t one, I tend to make one up.
Tell me something about yourself outside of writing. Jobs, accomplishments, family, quirky trait...what led to you being you?
I like to talk…a lot.
What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?
Just keep going. No matter how bad the writing is. Never give up.
How do you deal and process negative book reviews?
I curse them. LOL
Literally, I swear a whole lot (to myself) and then move on with my day. Not one single book out there was made for everyone. There will always be people who love a thing and people who hate it. That is the beauty of free thought/speech.
What is the most difficult part of your writing process?
Getting past my perfectionism. It slows me down a lot.
What do you need in your writer’s space to keep you focused?
Coffee.
What is your naughty indulgence as you are writing?
I love my pajamas and/or sweats. Not sure how naughty that is, but if I can avoid getting dressed in real clothes, I do.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose? And why?
S.M. West and Sybil Bartel because these 2 women are the best author friends I could ever ask for.
What is your schedule like when you are writing? Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?
I do most of my writing either in the morning or very late at night, depending on the day. I don’t usually snack while writing (I save that for when I’m done) but I do love my coffee.
Do you listen to music when you write – what kind of music is your favorite?
I have a different play list for my books, but I usually end up listening to something instrumental or white noise to help me focus.
Have pets ever gotten in the way of your writing?
Every day. My dog, George is the neediest pet on the planet. And we’ve recently “adopted” a stray cat who comes by the house to visit every day. But I love them both, so it’s all good.
Have you ever killed off a character that your readers loved?
Not yet. But I wouldn’t rule it out for the future.
How do you celebrate after typing THE END?
Sleep.
I hope you enjoyed this interview!
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