Interview With Author Kenneth Cruz
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m originally from New York and a physically challenged Latino writer. Writing has always been a part of my life—I’ve penned hundreds of short stories and completed four full manuscripts. I was very active on Medium and Vocal for a while, and after achieving several tops stories and finally placing in one of their writing contests, I gained the confidence to begin my publishing journey. Though I’m just starting, things are coming together quickly. I currently have five short stories available, and I’m beyond excited for the release of my debut novel, Whipped: Seduction at First Sip, coming out at the end of February 2025. It’s a steamy yet relatable story about a single mom juggling life, a controlling mother, and a mysterious new relationship that takes her on a dark journey of self-discovery and growth.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Whipped: Seduction at First Sip,” draws inspiration from its main character, Ashley, a barista who’s navigating the chaos of single motherhood. The title stems from a playful yet pivotal moment when Ashley meets a mysterious stranger who asks for extra whipped cream. Nervous, she sneezes on his coffee, but instead of being put off, he flirts with her, taking a sip. That chance encounter spirals her life into something dark and steamy. Ashley falls hard in love, but the relationship drags her to depths she never could have imagined. Just as she’s at risk of losing herself, she hits rock bottom in a truly wild scene of depravity that has to be read, she then is inspired to rise like a phoenix and rebuild herself into a stronger version of herself.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I try to follow the process Stephen King outlines in On Writing. When I’m working on a manuscript, I treat it like a graveyard shift job, focusing fully. That said, I deviate from King’s method in one way: I always write with a playlist, not a single song, on repeat. The variety keeps my creativity alive. I also load up on caffeine and stop only to take much needed short bathroom breaks. Here’s a deep little fun fact—my playlist primarily includes songs that break my heart, ones that bring back the most painful memories. I use those emotions as fuel and inspiration, channeling them into my work and giving me the drive to continue my mission.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Stephen King was my first major influence. My dad read his books to me at a young age, leaving a lasting impression. Later, I discovered Donald Goines, whose raw and unapologetic storytelling drew me in. Ernest Hemingway inspired me with his evocative language, and for a while, I enjoyed James Patterson’s punchy, fast-paced style. But the writer who truly captivated me is China Miéville. His intricate world-building and sophisticated prose both challenge and inspire me. Each of these authors has left a unique mark on my writing
What are you working on now?
I’m wrapping up edits for “Whipped”. It’s such a layered novel—from Ashley’s intense love story to her downward spiral and eventual rise like a phoenix. Beyond that, I’ve completed a draft of another manuscript, M.O.N.S.T.E.R.S.—Men Opposing Negative Systems That Eradicate Rights. It’s a dark mashup of Fight Club and Saw, where male activists seek vengeance against a system that’s wronged them. The two leaders undergo massive arcs, setting them not only on a collision course with each other but also with a relentless Filipina detective. Her obsession with stopping them becomes all-consuming, costing her a fiancée and pushing her into her own spiral of dark rage.
I’m also working on To Save a Marriage, a contemporary romance about an unfaithful husband who goes to shocking and desperate lengths to redeem himself and rekindle his wife’s love. After that, I plan to revisit Ashley’s story with a shocking sequel that will take her journey into even darker, more unexpected territory
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The best method or website I use when it comes to promoting my book is www.readwhipped.com
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing. Don’t let criticism or doubt hold you back. Write what feels true to you, and read widely. Pay attention to the styles, prose, and rhythms of authors you admire, and blend those influences with your own voice. Most importantly, never give up. With persistence, your writing will evolve, and you’ll find your audience
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Be yourself, forgive yourself, and never give up on yourself or your dreams.” That’s advice I live by every day.
What are you reading now?
Between editing and writing, I haven’t had much time for new books. But I keep coming back to On Writing by Stephen King and Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk. They’re like creative fuel for me. After this interview, though, I feel a strong pull to revisit Perdido Street Station by China Miéville, my all-time favorite book.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to keep crafting stories that stir the soul. My goal is to explore the depths of the human experience and inspire readers to overcome their challenges, self-doubt, and heartbreak. I hope Ashley’s journey in Whipped resonates with readers, showing that even when we hit rock bottom, we can rise again stronger.
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’d bring The Stand by Stephen King for its sprawling, intricate narrative that I can revisit endlessly. Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk for its layered storytelling and raw, unflinching energy. Perdido Street Station by China Miéville for its masterful world-building and evocative prose that humbles and inspires me. Lastly, maybe Great Expectations by Charles Dickens for its
emotional depth, though I might swap it for something spicier, like my own novel Whipped, to keep me entertained and always reworking my craft.
Author Websites and Profiles
Kenneth Cruz’s Social Media Links
Author Interview Series
To discover a new author, check out our Featured Authors page. We have some of the best authors around. They are just waiting for you to discover them. If you enjoyed this writer’s interview feel free to share it using the buttons below. Sharing is caring!
If you are an author and want to be interviewed just fill out out Author Interview page. After submitting we will send it out in our newsletters and social media channels that are filled with readers looking to discover new books to read.
If you are looking for a new book to read check out our Featured Books Page.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.