Interview With Author C.S. Kjar
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a retired natural resources technical writer/editor that finds fiction much more fun to write. It allows my imagination to run wild. I’ve self-published nine books, all wholesome and full of adventure and fun. Some have a touch of fantasy, and some are sweet romances. My children’s book is based on a dream about my four granny friends and I winning a beauty contest. It evolved into a fairy tale called The Five Grannies Go to the Ball.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Finding Love in the Snow about a woman who is pulled from an avalanche by a man who was in the right place at the right time. Their lives intertwine in ways they don’t expect and not for a great reason. It was inspired by three crosses on Red Mountain Pass in Colorado in honor of a family that was killed by an avalanche there. When we drove by them, especially in winter, I wondered about what might happen if someone else got stuck there.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I share an office with my husband which isn’t the best configuration for a writer. He’s always wanting to tell me about what he’s found on the internet. I need a hair clip that has the words “Do Not Disturb” on it so he will get the hint. I love him, but he’s cramping my style.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love the broad sagas of James Michener books. Now they would be broken into a series, but he wrote them as large tomes. His books have inspired me. I met the best-selling author Jodi Thomas a number of years ago, and she’s had quite the impact on me. She’s kind and encouraging to other writers, and I want to be just like her.
What are you working on now?
My current WIP is set in 1948 when a woman fresh off the war factory floor doesn’t want to give up her freedom or new-found skills to become a wife and mother. She works as a mechanic at a small service station but is ostracized by the townsfolk who think she’s taking a man’s job. Murder and a new gentleman in her life bring intrigue to her life.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve been a quiet wallflower most of my life so calling attention to me and my books has been a personal challenge. I tell everyone I can about my books and accept almost every opportunity to speak about writing. I’m involved in several writing groups where I can talk about my books. My advertising in various newsletters offering discounted books has proven an effective way to market.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Learn the craft. Practice, practice, practice writing and using new skills. When imposter syndrome hits, push it aside. The world needs your voice. Persistence pays off.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Learn the craft of writing fiction, then learn the craft of writing your genre. You may have the gift of writing and storytelling, but it doesn’t substitute for learning the skills and mechanics involved in writing a great story.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading a paranormal story written by Colleen Story on my Kindle and a cozy mystery by Candace Havens. I read regular books in the daylight, and I read my Kindle at night.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to finish the book I’m working on, then continue working on a historical fiction about the Black Hills of South Dakota that will be akin to a James Michener book, but not as broad. I’ve had this idea for a very long time and trying to get it down on paper is daunting. I have high expectations for myself, and I’m not sure I can meet them. But I won’t give up.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
I would take a Bible, a dictionary (lots of reading in that), and Harry Potter book and James Michener books because both are so long, they will keep me entertained for a long time.
Author Websites and Profiles
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