Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a fairly new author. I’m currently penning YA The Growing Pains Series. The first book Kendra’s Diaries has been published. The second book is scheduled to be published late summer.
I’m in the insurance industry by day. I live in New Orleans, LA and have two wonderful sons.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Growing up is challenging. I wanted to encourage our youth that there is truly nothing new under the sun and whatever you are going through someone has gone through before and come out on the other side. I wanted to tell a story about the ups/downs, joys/sorrows and triumphs/let downs of growing up. It’s encouraging and entertaining at the same time.
A big plus which I didn’t anticipate was more “seasoned” people like myself enjoyed it too. I received many compliments while they strolled down memory lane.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
When I’m stuck writing a scene/chapter I go take a shower. I have no idea how/why but I usually figure out how to proceed.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve never been much of an outdoors person so tv and books kept me company growing up (they still do!). Sweet Valley High and Flowers in the Attic series were my absolute favs. I also loved Judy Blume and Mary Higgins Clark.
James Patterson and Sidney Sheldon get top honors from 18+ years of age.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on the third book in The Growing Pains Series. And I’m in the embryo stage of writing a contemporary adult fiction book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I love social media. I love interacting with people from everywhere. It’s really all about building relationships and most of the time it’s not about my books. We are usually chatting about our common interests. I’m a big sports and soap/drama fan. At some point I have an opportunity to share about my writing. And they get to share their dreams with me. I do love social media!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
DON’T GET BOGGED DOWN BY INFORMATION. There is so much information out there books, articles, blogs, podcasts, etc, etc. You can get so bogged down in the information you might never get around to DOING anything. Information is wonderful but more than likely you will learn the most by trial and error so just start doing and go from there.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
You won’t live the rest of your life without making another mistake so don’t be scared of making them.
What are you reading now?
Most of the stuff I have been reading lately is information on writing and publishing. I’m reading a short 24 page book “Using Stories to Get Great Clients” by Judy Bloom.
It’s summer and my sons are out of school. I’m hoping to have time to read lots of books (fiction). So if anyone has any suggestions let me know my preferences are; legal thrillers, mysteries and contemporary fiction.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to keep writing. If the adult fiction book “hits”, I might turn it into a series. I’m most excited to see what other doors my writing will open for me.
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?
1) Bible 2) Rage of Angles by Sidney Sheldon 2) Kiss The Girls by James Patterson 4) The Firm by John Grisham
Author Websites and Profiles
KP Smith Website
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