Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My fascination with fiction began in middle school when I entered a book-reading contest and won. As an ardent fan of the resonating narrative and the cliffhanger, I decided to dedicate myself to becoming a skilled writer. When college professors spotlighted my writing in the classroom, it anchored my interest in becoming a novelist. I continued to pursue my education at UCLA where my writing earned praise from an award-winning author. Of equal and enduring importance in my life, is a passion for horses. As an avid, lifelong equestrian and horse owner, I now live on a ranch with my family, which we share with a menagerie of four-legged friends.
My debut effort, Beautiful Evil Winter, is a Multi-Award-Winning Novel. Beautiful Evil Winter earned a bouquet of book awards including a highly-coveted Eric Hoffer Award for “…writing of significant merit…” and a Readers’ Favorite International Book Award. The hotly contested Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards attract both New York Times Best-Selling Authors and celebrities like comedian Jim Carey, a children’s author. Readers’ Favorite shortlisted Beautiful Evil Winter in three genres- Suspense, Thriller and Romance Sizzle. Beautiful Evil Winter would best be classified as a Fiction hybrid – part Women’s Fiction, part Suspense and part Thriller.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my novel is Beautiful Evil Winter. After my husband and I traveled to Russia to adopt, I decided to write a book.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I always write on a full stomach. I build rhythm into my day with frequent breaks to walk the dogs or tidy the house. I restrict my intake of news when writing because I find that I’m much happier and focused.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King, Jodi Picoult, Annie Proulx, Stephenie Meyer, Suzanne Collins
What are you working on now?
My second novel, a Suspense Thriller, will be based in the US. I expect it to be published in mid-April because it has to grind through the quality control process. Quality has been a enduring focus for me in all aspects of my life.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Google + has been an effective way for me to establish an author presence. I also like Pinterest.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Set a budget which allows for a high quality book covers, editing and formatting. I recommend Damon Za for cover art, Sara at Yellow Bird Editors for editing and Polgarus Studios for formatting. Remember that the text should be a polished as the cover design; so, don’t skimp on the editing process. Finally, I recommend self-publishing through Ingram Spark because they make the process simple, and they offer great customer service.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Never share the idea for a plot until it appears in print.
What are you reading now?
I just completed Sing You Home by Jodi Picoult. I haven’t started to read another novel yet. I hope to read American Sniper by Chris Kyle soon.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Finish my second novel and take a break.
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 Bible, The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama, Rainbow in the Cloud by Maya Angelou.
Author Websites and Profiles
Kelly K. Lavender Website
Kelly K. Lavender Amazon Profile
Kelly K. Lavender’s Social Media Links
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