Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born and raised in Emerald ( a rural town in Queensland, Australia) , where I still live today with my husband, our two little boys, Pomeranian dog and Ragdoll cat (we had to get female pets so that I wasn’t outnumbered by all the boys!).
I wrote my first novel ‘Convergence’ while still in high school and it was published when I was 18. After my youngest boy was born, I released my second novel, “Mistress of the Crossroads”.
Writing has always been my escape and my passion, I love the challenge of creating a whole little world. That’s something that my sons get from me, they spin many terrific tales- almost all of which involve dragons or dinosaurs.
I was a writer before I became a mother, but becoming a mother has taught me so much about creativity. Watching my little monsters grow has taught me that there is always time to make a mess and that creativity can come from anywhere!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The latest book is called “Mistress of the Crossroads” and it was inspired from so many places and so many conversations. I have such close relationships with my parents, sisters and of course my wonderful husband. What started as an idea in a dream found form and shape while I rambled on and they listened patiently and supported me.
The heroine in this book has such beauty and strength and refuses to lose her identify in the evil that surrounds her. This strength is inspired by my beautiful younger sisters, the eldest of whom is the cover model for this book. They are strong beautiful women with such passion in their bellies and fire in their hearts. I hope that one day they will see them selves the way that I see them and they will be proud.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have two little boys who are 3 and 1 year old! I’m a mum and a wife first, so I only ever write when the kids are asleep. Which, if you have young children then you’ll know is the real challenge!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are so many amazing authors that have inspired and influenced me over the years. I love Karen Marie Moning, Keri Arthur, J K Rowling – just to name a few.
What are you working on now?
We are currently working through some medical concerns at the moment as a family, but I am working slowly on another book. As I said before, I am a wife and a mother first, so we will have to see how this one comes along!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Goodreads was a wonderful platform with my first novel. Readers Favorite also did a wonderful review which was very helpful! The publisher was involved in the marketing so I had less involvement last time.
The new book has been released independently through Kindle Direct Publishing, so my husband and I are learning as we go this time around!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Be proud of what you do and who you are! Write things that make you happy. I think when you release a book, especially independently, its such a personal thing. Its so easy to be crushed if people aren’t receptive or don’t enjoy the story. If you write for you, something that you love and are proud of, then no matter what anybody else thinks of your work, you can always hold your head high.
Remember, everyone has different taste. Have confidence and don’t be afraid to take a chance on yourself!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Follow your dreams, reach for the stars, believe in yourself and love who you are!
(Mum always say the sweetest things to us , dont they?)
What are you reading now?
The Four Legendary Kingdoms- Matthew Reilly.
My husband finally finished it last week, so now its my turn!
What’s next for you as a writer?
I would love to keep writing, exploring new stories. I think that’s all any writer can hope for!
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?
The Four Legendary Kingdoms – Matthew Reilly ( so I can finish it!)
Feversong – Karen Marie Moning ( Because I’m dying to read it)
Its time for bed – Mem Fox (Because we’ve been reading it to my son every night for 3 years and its a tradition that I’m not ready to give up yet!)
Author Websites and Profiles
Kayci Reid Amazon Profile
Kayci Reid’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile