A Cozy Author Interview With Kim Carter The Prolific Writer of The Clara & Iris Mystery Series. Book 1 & 2 Now Released on Amazon…


Hello and Welcome Readers, Visitors, and Friends!

About Kim Carter:

“I’ve been writing mysteries since 1999 when I became ill and housebound for a couple of years. I always loved reading and figured I’d try my hand at writing. Those novels remained on my computer for years before friends encouraged me to put them in print. It’s been quite the ride! I live in Atlanta, Ga with my husband and three retired Greyhounds.

I have three grown children, no not the Greyhounds, none of which have given me any grandchildren yet. Just adding that, should they read this and need reminding. LOL…. I love sharing my novels with readers and enjoy attending book clubs that choose my novels. It is such a humbling experience to know that someone picked your book to read when there are so many wonderful authors to choose from!”

What inspires you to write?
I’m inspired by beautiful and sometimes haunting places.

Tell us about your writing process.
I have the strangest writing process. My books always begin with inspiration from the location where the novel will be set. I initially have a few characters in mind, but they quickly take on a mind of their own, and walk all over me! I never have an outline or ending in mind. I allow the characters to do all the work. As the characters become more complex, I write down details about them on wipe off boards that cover every wall in my office, along with any chronological dates that I may need to refer back to as the book progresses. I also post enlarged photos that will help with detail as I write. I also have a lot of inspirational quotes tacked up everywhere. My office is a disaster, but it works for me. My husband, however, is mortified, and quickly shuts the door every time company arrives.

For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
I do listen to my characters. Many times I have had all intentions of a character being a certain way, either a villain, or a person with upstanding character, but that often goes out the window as they show their true colors. I allow them to be who they want to be. No, I’m not as big of a nut as I sound… LOL…I do know that they don’t ACTUALLY exist, but I respect them just the same. I cry with them, I laugh with them, and I grieve with them at the end of the book when we must say our goodbyes. It is a very hard day for me when I must wipe off the boards and put them away, only to begin anew.

What advice would you give other writers?
Don’t rush your writing…. I don’t have set times to write or a quota for the day. I have to be in the right mind set to make it work. I suppose we are all different. And most importantly, NEVER write in uncomfortable clothes. Pajamas work best….. who cares what the UPS or Postman thinks if you go to the door in the afternoon still in your pj’s???

How did you decide how to publish your books?
I have done both self-publishing and gone with a publisher. Both have their pros and cons. Do your research and only sign with someone after you have checked references and get a good ‘gut’ feeling!

photo shoot 3

What do you think about the future of book publishing?
I can’t begin to predict the future of publishing, and e-books are wonderful things, I just keep my fingers crossed that actual, physical books don’t go by the wayside. By far, they are my preference. #oldschoolandproudofit I put old school and a hashtag together. My grown children will be mortified! Ha!

What do you use?: Professional Editor, Professional Cover Designer

What genres do you write?: Mystery/Suspense Thrillers.

What formats are your books in?: Both eBook and Paperback

Website(s)
Kim Carter Home Page Link
Link To Kim Carter Page On Amazon

Your Social Media Links
Goodreads
Facebook
Twitter

***Interview Courtesy of Bookgoodies and Cat Lyon’s Reading Den***