Kimberly Killion Boards the Ship...Scotsman in Tow
Hellion: Hello, Kim, and welcome aboard the Romance Writer’s Revenge. *much shouting and rambunctious cheering from grog-warmed crew and passengers* Now, to give everyone a little background about how we met, Kimberly Killion is a member of MORWA, the Missouri Chapter of Romance Writers of America. She got me my start as a published article writer, beginning with my Captain Jack Sparrow article. During one of our email exchanges, Kim mentioned she had just sold a book, Her One Desire, to Kensington and it would debut in July 2008. At the time…oh, well, she tells this story better than I do. Kim, tell them the story. *perching on a cannon like a wide-eyed child listening to a daring adventure tale*
Kim *realizing now that Hellion couldn’t possibly have had a journalism class. Ever*: Oh, uh, okay…you mean about the…
Hellion: You know…how you got published. The overnight success that took like 10 years. I love this story. She pitched two books, one of a manuscript that was already finished and another….
Kim: Oh, that story. Well, having been imprisoned for months, *chained to my computer* I managed to spin a tale about a Highland laird forced to choose between avenging his father’s death and surrendering to the passion he finds in the arms of his enemy’s daughter. I call this little treasure, Highland Dragon, but ’tis doubtful the title will stick.
While waiting for my ship to sail *plane to fly to Dallas to attend the 2007 RWA National conference*, I started penning another bit of fiction I lovingly titled, The Executioner’s Daughter. This tale is about a Scottish spy escaping certain death in the Tower of London.
Upon reaching port *Dallas* I’d prepared my pitch and sat wide-eyed across from the infamous Hilary Sares. With my heart jumping all out of cadence, I tried to remember what the blokes called me back home. My name finally came to me as did the beginning of my pitch, but my well-thought out words didn’t seem to impress the wench *she is my editor now, so I use that word lightly in the spirit of swashbuckling joviality*. As the story goes, Ms. Sares did finally perk up when I told her the premise behind The Executioner’s Daughter. She asked me to send both manuscripts regardless of their condition.
I, without the slightest hesitation, agreed to her request, stood, and thanked her for her time with all the manners me mum taught me. At which point, I ran to the privy and then to the rathskeller for a much needed quaff of rum. But this is not the end of this mind-boggling tale…Upon returning to a land less inflated with agents and editors, I mailed the completed manuscript, Highland Dragon, and the puny five chapters I had of The Executioner’s Daughter.
Not a fortnight later *ten days* Ms. Sares called me with a two book offer. After I scooped myself off the poop deck, I was met with a slew of emotions that sent this bilge rat spiraling.
But wait…there was a catch. Ms. Sares decided the stronger book lie in the tale about the executioner’s daughter, aka incomplete manuscript. She asked how long it would take me to finish it. My reply, “Six months.”
As sweet as she could be, she counteroffered with three months. I agreed with a nervous laugh. What choice did I have? We blathered a bit more after which I ran for the privy and then the rathskeller for a quaff of rum.
Crewmember (shouting from rigging): “Did ye manage the feat?”
Kim: Aye, I did! Shackled in the hulk *bound to my computer in the basement* I added 80,000 words to finish what is now titled Her One Desire.
Hellion (as crew murmurs in amazement): And that’s not all. You also teach college courses, put together the monthly newsletter (Rumpled Sheets) for MORWA as well as the chapter newsletter for Hearts Through History, are married and have two children—you sound busier than one pirate trying to rob a fleet of ships at different longitudes at the same time! How do you do it all? How did you get 80,000 words done in such a short amount of time?
Kim: Well, I tied the ragamuffins *my children* in their chambers, shortened my hours at work, didn’t cook, didn’t clean, and just wrote. Oh…I also didn’t sleep.
Hellion: Amazing. Yes, it was clear you didn’t believe in sleep as soon as you mentioned having two children. That’s a glutton for punishment right there, though obviously worthwhile—much like getting this book published! What a dream come true! How have you been handling it? How exciting is it that after all these months of knowing it’s going to happen—you’ll be seeing your name in the bookstores next to Sherrilyn Kenyon and Lisa Kleypas?
Kim: Oh, aye, the K’s are right in the middle of the shelf and I couldn’t ask for better company sitting beside me. It is exciting and terrifying at the same time. Some days, I think I can’t keep up with all the promo, but it will all be worth it when Lord Broderick Maxwell and Lady Lizbeth Ives are freed into the world.
Hellion: Are you going to RWA this year? Will you be doing a book signing? (Do you think you’ll be signing near them? How cool would it be if Sherrilyn bought a book?)
Kim: Seriously, you need to switch to decaf.
Hellion: Oh, look, an undead monkey. *shoots it, monkey screams; Kim blinks but proceeds on*
Kim: I have my voucher to set sail for San Francisco in July and hope to have a quill all sharpened to sign Her One Desire as she hits the shelves in July. And if Sherrilyn Kenyon or Lisa Kleypas happen to ‘look’ my way, I’m certain to swoon.
Hellion: Lord, so would I. Okay, now…tell us about Her One Desire. What’s it about? Why are we going to fall in love with this book as much as you obviously have?
Kim: I love the hero in this book. Lord Broderick Maxwell, is gentle and honorable to a flaw, of course, he is arrogant which is forgivable given his appearance. Black hair, light blue eyes and a set of abs a tavern wench would flip her skirts for. Oh, and my Broc is funny, he makes me laugh just as he does Lizzy.
The crew might like to hear a quote by Patricia Rice, a New York Times Bestselling Author: “A sensual and spirited romance by a masterful new writer.”
Then, of course, there is the back cover blurb:
FOR HIS LOVE
Astride a stolen horse, encircled by the shackled arms of Broderick Maxwell, a Scottish spy escaping certain death in the Tower of London, Lizbeth Ives rides to the north, hidden by the merciful darkness. By stealth and by cunning, the daughter of the Lord High Executioner has undone her father’s cruel work, compelled to save the innocent man with her. There is no turning back—they are bound as one in his iron chains. Consumed by mortal fear, driven by passion, they disappear into the night…
A single raven follows them. Is it an omen? Or only the first of those who would capture them? They must ride on. If captured, they will face death together. But if they reach Scotland, he will claim her for his own…forever.
Hellion: *looking faintly dazed, has to shake herself to sense as she realizes Kim has finished* Oh, my! A Scottish hero…a tortured heroine who just wants to save her father…and action-packed adventure. And hot, hot sex scenes. *more cheering from the crew* Now, you said you sold two books to Kensington and they wanted this one first. What is your other book about? And when will we get to have our hot little hands all over it?
Kim: The second book is titled Highland Dragon and will grace the bookshelves in October 2009. I’m proud to say this book placed first in seven RWA sponsored contests including the Molly and Reveal Your Inner Vixen. Highland Dragon takes place in the Scottish Highlands around the turn of the 15th century.
The premise:
In a struggle between love and revenge, only one can emerge victorious. Eighteen years after hiding the secret of his betrothed’s lineage, Laird Calin MacLeod is forced to choose between avenging his father’s death and surrendering to the passion he finds in the arms of his enemy’s daughter.
Intelligent and feisty, Akira Neish has been called many things…even a witch, but never has she been called “beautiful” by a man. Unable to deny Calin’s seductions, Akira opens her heart to him, only to discover their marriage is part of his calculated plan to initiate a war with her biological father.
Hellion: Did you hear that crew? All those contest wins! I bet you knew you were close when you started finaling and winning all over the place! (And I have to say this: McLeod of the clan McLeod…okay, I’ll stop before the There can be only one.) *last said with dramatic flair, crew stares at her strangely, Hellion clears throat and proceeds in James Lipton manner* What’s the single most important thing you think new writers should keep in mind when they’re trying to push through and finish their books? (I.e. what have you found that’s worked for you?)
Kim: Rum! Lots of bloody rum! *Crew raises their mugs in agreement*. Seriously, it takes dedication and perseverance and lots of support from family, friends, and other writers. I wouldn’t have sold without the support of my local chapter and critique groups. Also, when writing, I have learned that you MUST move forward. Regardless how bad the scene is, you can always cut, but you can’t edit a blank screen.
Hellion: *looks at crew* See, I told you. They don’t listen to me. It’s what I get for being such a pushover. It’s my fault. I should give out more floggings and less rum. In any case, Kim, I think you’ve been an excellent interrogatee, um, guest pirate—and I suppose I should give my crew an opportunity to ask you some questions.
Kim: Ho, mate! Before you set the crew to waggin' their tongues, I'd like to let everyone know I'll be giving away an autographed copy of Her One Desire away to three of you bilgemates for making me feel welcome aboard the Romance Writer's Revenge. Cheers!
Hellion: Three copies? Did you hear that, crew? What would you like to ask the fair and fierce Kimberly? And for goodness sakes, pass her the rum!
(And if you can't get enough Kimberly interviews, she is also interviewing with the Romance Vagabonds! Say hello to her over there as well!)
Books by the Crew
121 comments:
I can vouch for this pirate's honesty, even though those two words hardly ever go together! Her One Desire is an awesome book. She'll soon be a famous author and I'll be saying, "I knew her when."
Kim
Congratulations, on your first (of many) book release day!!
I am picking this up, on my bookstore run this morning.
I am so glad you boarded the pirate ship today-you are an inspiration.
Di
Congratulations on the release of your first book! I'll be looking for it this week.
Congrats on your debut release, Kimberly. Will be getting it when I go book shopping next week.
Mornin' maties...or is that mates?
Glad to see you all up and about so early this morn, or mayhap ya'll are still up sipping rum. :)
This was easily the most fun I've had to date doing an interview. Ya'll are great fun. I'll be in and out all day...
~Kim
Welcome to the boat, Kim!
Ok, since the captain didn't really ask, I wanted to hear your call story. I know you'd met Hilary Sares at the conference, but where were you when you got "the call."
Thanks for coming aboard and thanks for putting up with, er, agreeing to interview with the captain!
I didn't actually get 'the call' as much as received an e-mail from Hilary ten minutes before I was scheduled to lecture to a class of thirty graphic design students. The subject line of the email was, 'very interested in your books'.
The email was cut and dry: Would like to buy THE EXECUTIONER’S DAUGHTER and one other, will call around noon
I cried. Really. Went to my boss in tears and showed her the email and she about fell over, too. The ten minutes I had before my class started, I called my critique partner who calmed my emotions and redirected me to make the next step—contacting an agent. Within a couple days I had signed on with Meredith Bernstein.
When Hilary called at noon, I was still in a lecture and couldn't talk. So I told her to call me on my cell on my way home. She did and then told me she didn't want to discuss anything while I was driving so I went home and waited for the phone to ring. I had chewed my fingernails to stubs by the time she finally called and the rest is history.
I love how-I-sold stories, and yours is soooo inspiring! Your book sounds awesome---I love the whole idea of the plot. And a Scottish hero, well, I can't complain about that. *g*
How did you keep the faith in your writing for 10 years? I admit I'm at a point right now in my querying where I wonder if there will ever be anyone interested in my manuscript. What did you do to keep yourself going?
Hi,
How wonderful after all that time to finally "make it". I am looking forward to your books!
Welcome aboard, Kimberly!! We are so excited to have you with us. Hellion told me about this book several months ago and sent me to your website to check it out. First off, that site is AWESOME! Is it true you did that yourself?
And I think it's so cool that you post pictures of your entire cast. I've never seen another author do that. I'm also interested in the call story, but also, what made you choose this time period in which to write?
Wooot! The day has arrived! I am so excited! Months ago when I begged Kim to come on the ship and share her story with the crew, I knew she was going to be wildly popular: inspirational, hot Scottish heroes, and plays along with crazy interviews and people who believe they are pirates!
I love that your CP calmed you down and told you to find an agent. What a kick ass CP! Great pirate.
I just love your pitching story...and how you buckled down and wrote the 80,000 words in a few short weeks. Truly brilliant--and nose-to-the-grindstone. :) I can't wait to read your book. It's going to make for a wonderful 4th of July weekend read!
Good question, Terr. I know she did her website. Now the question is: will she give the pirates a cut rate to show us how to do something similar with ours? *Terri snorting at Hellion since we all know no one in their right minds would attempt to show Hellion anything techy--no one has that kind of time*
Thanks Elyssa!
As far as keeping faith...I really enjoy writing. I like to play with imaginary people. Always have. It was fun when I was a kid and it is even better now that my imaginary friends are HOT, sexy Scotsmen. :)
I've had my share of rejection, but through the support of crit partners, RWA groups like my local chapter in Missouri and Hearts Through History online chapter, I found other authors who kept moving forward, so I did, too.
Perseverance! It's tough, but it will happen.
I thought the *cut rate* was the funnier line there. LOL!
Good morning, Terrio!
Yes, I did my own website. I teach graphic design and when other people watch TV for a release, I tend to play in Photoshop. I spend waaay too much time surfing and piddling with graphics, but it is what I do to get away from writing.
I'm glad you like my cast of characters. I always do a storyboard before I start a story. I'm a very visual person. My crit group pokes fun at me for being overly descriptive.
Ahoy' Hellion!!!!
I'm so glad to be here and have been looking forward to this day and this blog for months. You are such a hoot and you sure draw a crowd. An early crowd. As for giving you tips on creating websites...ah...ahem...well, let talk over a couple quaffs of rum and maybe I can sway the conversation...
I have to slip out to get a new do and feed the ragamuffins, but I'll be back shortly. Don't drown yourself in the cups while I'm ashore!
What time do you people get up? The sun is just rising on my ship!
That is one of the most inspiring sell stories I've ever heard. Fearless. You've got to be fearless and have a large tankard at hand, isn't that right?
I, for one, can't wait to meet you in San Fran, no matter who's sitting on either side of you!
Huzzah and becoming Captain of your own ship!
That woman is going to get me talked back into joining my local chapter, I just know it. *makes eeking sound* I might even be talked into doing WORK for the chapter. *starts drinking rum nervously*
Need to make a correction: Kim will be blogging with RV on THURSDAY (according to the email I received this morning)--so if you don't win some booty today, there is a chance to win the booty on Thursday! And you guys really need to go look at Kim's blog tour. She's blogging at some great places: Fresh Fiction (Topic: CURSE IT! LET'S TALK ABOUT EXPLETIVES); Unusual Historicals (Topic: TORTURE & EXECUTION); and at the RV, she's blogging about how getting published feels like getting pregnant after a one-night stand! What a HOOT!
Welcome aboard the ship Kim!! I'm SO looking forward to Her One Desire!
80k in a few short months is pretty impressive. What kind of writing style do you have? Did you outline it out or did you just pants it all?
Sin wrote:
80k in a few short months is pretty impressive.
What Sin left out of that statement are the words "without deleting." LOL! Sin could easily do 80K in a month. It's getting her to keep them that's the problem.
In a year and a half I haven't managed to reach 80K total. So I'd also like to know if you edit as you go or if you write straight through then go back and revise/edit/layer.
Hi Kimberly, Welcome!
There is at least one pirate aboard who stuffs her mattress with rejected manuscripts! Did you really just sit down and write those two books or is there a history of failed attempts, plots that didn't work or long hours spent finding your voice?
As a scientific author, I'm intrigued at the process of publishing romantic fiction. How some people can make a beeline to the top while others, who to me seem just as talented, end up meandering through webs of delay. As one of the talented bees, could you offer some tips and perhaps indicate whether there is an 'old boys network' of contacts involved?
In England a good dinner with a few whiskies can often smooth the way to success......a little psychology goes a long way! *g*
I would like to try your book but couldn't find it at fictionwise. Is it available as an ebook?
Congrats on your release and welcome aboard! I heard about your new book and you blogging here today and I wanted to know more. What I read pleased me so much that I ordered Her One Desire. Of course I'll have to wait to spend some time with a hot sexy Scotsman ....the time for him to arrive this side of the water. I'm looking forward to spending time with Broderick and Lizbeth.
What a great call story! This is a book I'll definitely have to pick up-gotta love the Scots.
Sarah
I went pillaging this morning and failed to find Her One Desire :(, however the very nice lady at the store (who cringes when she sees me looking for her on Tuesday morning) ordered a copy for me and a couple more for the store. :)
Di
Hi Kim *waves*
Congratulations on your deal. I've been cheering you on all the way.
I'm not a stalker really, I visit RWR on a regular basis, and when I received your news letter saying you were going to be here, I had to swing on over.
You bet I'll be hitting the bookstore. Having read parts of Highland Dragon once upon a time, I have to say I'm a bit disappointed that one wasn't out first. I really, really want to see what happens to MacLeod and Akira, but I'm more excited to get my hands on Her One Desire. :)
What a great pitch story.
Renee
Congrats on the release of your book, Kimberly! Can't wait to read it!
What a wonderful and delightful interview ladies! I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Congratulations on your debut release Kimberly and the one following in October! I am a sucker for anything Scottish so you can bet these will be in my greedy hands as soon as they're out. Both of your stories sound fantastic and I can't wait to read them.
I'm also curious how you managed 80K in 3 months - that is a huge accomplishment! Or it is to me - one writer who can't seem to get 1K in a week. LOL!
Did you do a lot of research for the books? Did you enjoy the research or did you find it tedious?
Thanks for sharing your story with us, Kimberly. Reading about the achievements of other authors really gives me an uplifting feeling that as long as we keep writing, it will happen!
Shannon
Congratulations, Kim, on the publication of your fist book. It sounds fascinating, as does the second one. I'll certainly try to get them. I was actually in a bookstore yesterday and saw the book, but since I didn't have enough time to check it out, I didn't get it yet. Thanks for sending me the newsletter.
Great job, Di!--your own copy and extra copies for some soon to be grateful booklovers!!
Hello Gina!! Welcome on the ship!
Renee! Great to see you again! You've gotten to read parts of her other works? I'm so envious!
Shannon, I can empathize. When she told me she wrote 80K in less than 3 months, my jaw hit the keyboard. I'm more in the 1000 words a week category! Great question--I can't wait to see how she answers it. (I'm pretty sure she loves her research...I remember her asking me about balconies and ships...so I imagine that was going to be a lot of fun!)
Congrats Kim,
I'm so happy for you. Your blog tour is off to a great launch. Can't wait to get my hands on a copy:)
Hellion, it is a lively, spirited blog. It was fun to read.
However... I hate to complain, espeially on my first outing to this site, but I also found the entry very frustrating to read. Whenever I saw an asterisk (*), I automatically looked for a footnote somewhere. This is a use the * was not made for and there are other marks, or no special marks at all, that could be used instead. For most of them a () would have been more appropriate, even though there would have been a lot of them. If you are desperate for alternate marks, try using {} or [] for descriptions of what is going on off-stage. And it is incorrect to place "I.e." at the beginning of a sentence. It must be written out: That is,...
As a teacher of ESL (i.e., English as a second language) I would urge everyone who aspires to write professionally to use "only" correct English as far as possible in all blogs, chats, letters--in short, whenever you write anything. Correct language then becomes a great habit. Of course, everyone makes mistakes--I certainly do--but then you know you have made an effort. English is deteriorating far too fast. Soon only small groups of people will be able to communicate meaningfully.
Big congratulations on your new release, Kim!! I can't wait to read it! I have a great fondness for Scottish historicals. Best wishes!!
Oh my
You were given Three Months to write A Book? Jeez, I have a letter that I’ve been trying to finish up for two years.
oh… Ohh… OHHHHH MY GAWD! Stealth? And cunning? A single raven? I adore Dark Omens. The daughter of the Lord High Executioner… I loooove that premise …. has undone her father’s cruel work? Ooohhh and she is Compelled to save an innocent man! There is no turning back— I can’t stand it… They are bound as one in his iron chains…. You are Wicked, Kim… Tempting me with the tempting lil’ details of your torrid tale. Your characters are Consumed by mortal fear, Driven by passion… And after reading about them, I too am consumed and driven … to get my hands on you book as sooooon as possible.
Honestly
I can’t stand it! This book sounds like it has everthing i love about Fomance Lit.
Ranurgis: Thank you for visiting the ship. I'm sorry for the confusion with my "chat" grammar. My only concession to proper English through "chat room" writing is not saying things like, "R U OK?" (For some reason that sort of thing drives me crazy. We all have our pet peeves, don't we?)
English is a funny language, assigned with rules that can't be applied properly because it's not from the same language group; and language and the rules that govern it are always evolving. I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing any more than I think change that occurs in other ways of our life is bad. I think our world and culture adapts to it and finds new ways to express and communicate what is important in life.
Once upon a time people believed that movies would be the end of communication because no one would read books or write letters...or do the "traditional" ways of communicating; however, I think movies as a medium of communication has proven itself time and again. I think movies have merely expressed ideas and meaning in a way words or talking cannot.
Nicole! Welcome to the ship...I hope you get to read Kim's new book soon.
Julie: I have letters like that. *LOL* I'm glad we're here to torture you for another day! You're welcome! Run, run to the bookstore, Julie! :)
Man, Julie's comment started to sound like that scene Meg Ryan did in When Harry Met Sally. LOL! You know the one I mean. ;)
Don't tempt Julie. You know she'll do it...then she'll blame US for making her do it. *LOL*
Holy crappers!!! I go and get my hair trussed up and now I've gotta get caught up...
bear with me! :)
I am determined to win one of the copies of your book!!! I want it! Congratulations to the other ladies that already won it (even though I wanted to win). Anyone who receives one of the signed copies is one lucky matey (had to throw in some pirate talk). Even if I don't win you are still on my TBR pile. I thought your interview was pretty funny actually, but I do not think you are on caffeine whatever it is I would love some of it. I hope you have a great day and best wishes on your book.
Tami: you got us. It was rum. *yells at Terri* Hey, get Tami some rum so she can be a pirate like the rest of us!
Kim: Your hair looks wonderful! Glad you're back!
Damn! HTML ate my post...let me try again...
A broadsword pen? How cool is that!
[What time do you people get up?]
I get up at 4am
As a matter of fact, at 11pm last night, I was lying awake trying to figure out who would play the executioner's daughter in the movie they are going to make of my book. LOL
Kate Winslet will play Lizzy. I'm still on the fence trying to decide who will play Broc.
Of course, Mel Gibson will have a role. Don't know what yet...but I'm getting sidetracked...
I love Kate Winslet!
Gerry Butler for Broc? *grins*
Hellion: Thanks for the compliment. I went for that cool new look with stripes of caramel, chocolate, you know reds, browns, and golds...It looks yummy. :c)
Yep, a broadsword pen. I bought a backup, too. It's a knight in shining armor. So, just look for the dork signing with armor.
Hellion, did I hear you right...
[That woman is going to get me talked back into joining my local chapter, I just know it. *makes eeking sound* I might even be talked into doing WORK for the chapter.]
...we would love to have you. I'm signing on as President next year. You would fit nicely into a board position. Ahem!
Seriously though. I wouldn't be here today without the support of those wonderful ladies.
Yes, yes, Gerry Burler, or maybe Matthew Mcconaughey. He's got great abs...I mean he's a spectacular actor.
It's a good thing I'm not going to be in San Fran. I'd try to abscond with your pens. (Terri, be sure to abscond with her pens!)
Backing up a lil...
Sin said:
[80k in a few short months is pretty impressive. What kind of writing style do you have? Did you outline it out or did you just pants it all?]
I'm a total pantser. This story just flowed. When my characters told me something about there past I went with it. It's amazing what the pressure of a deadline can do. There was a point that I carried a folding table and packed a chair to the barn (seriously) when my kids wouldn't leave me alone. There were days I cried because I didn't meet word count. But mostly I just screamed at my family to leave me alone. It was tough, and I'm so glad that's behind me.
Terrio said:
[I’d also like to know if you edit as you go or if you write straight through then go back and revise/edit/layer.]
I vomit the words at first. Mostly dialogue, then I comb it once, then I comb it again and add deep POV, then I go over it again and add lots of senses. I'm a fan of smells. I want my reader to know what burnt flesh smells like while they are reading about a tortured prisoner. :)
After 3-4 passes, I'm usually content.
I said, I was considering it. You're going to be President? That's so cool! A board position? Is this one of your "torture" euphuisms? I know the ladies at MORWA rock!
Dude, and you had the whole newsletter and MORWA stuff to do. Damn, girl, your dedication and preseverence leave me in awe...I really am. I'm glad the words flowed, though I'm sure you wouldn't have allowed anything like writer's block...
Did Kim say that she woke up at 4 in the morning? *blinking pathetically.* I would be a miserable human if I had to rise before the sun.
Quatum:
[Did you really just sit down and write those two books or is there a history of failed attempts, plots that didn’t work or long hours spent finding your voice?]
I spent 4 years writing a regency about a woman who was raped by her betrothed and the pirate she ran away with. I thought it was a great story. Then I joined RWA and found out what POV was. HA!
Kate Duffy rejected me in 1998, ad wasn't nice at all about. I was crushed and quite writing for a couple years. Then I decided to try my hand at a Scottish Medieval. After I got the hang of it and learned all the 'tricks' I felt pretty darm good about the voice I had found for myself.
That first book--the learning book--it didn't totally die. You bet your backside, when Hilary put me under that 3 month deadline, I pulled that sucker up and started copy/pasting the love scenes. 2 books later, I have stripped all the good parts of that first book, so I don't feel like I wasted 2 years worth of work.
[I would like to try your book but couldn’t find it at fictionwise. Is it available as an ebook?]
HER ONE DESIRE isn't being sold as an ebook right now. You can order it on Amazon or B&N or pick it up at Wal-Mart, or maybe even your local bookstore.
Hellion: If you came back to MORWA I wouldn't even make you work the first year. :wink:
And, yes Marnee Jo, I get up at 4am. Actually, when I'm working, I get up at 3am. I have to get my writing in before I leave for work because I'm worthless in the evenings.
Someday I will be able to quit the day job...
Stef said:
[What I read pleased me so much that I ordered Her One Desire.]
YEAH!!!! Jumping up and down! I made a sale. You will have to tell me what you think. Hope my Hot, sexy, scotsman is everything you hope for. He was for me.
Thanks Di! Keep after those bookstore owners. I was so sad to see only two copies of my book at my local bookstore. I mean common'. I've lived in my hometown since I was born. You would think they might have ordered more than 2 bloody copies.
But, I signed them with a smile and thanked her for her time. Argh!!!
Where's the rum, Hellion?
Hi Gina! Thanks for stopping by...I have to plug my sister zebra author. Gina has a book coming out in November called Spy Candy. Isn't that an awesome title?!?!
Check her out at www.ginarobinson.com
Renee:
*waving back*
[I have to say I’m a bit disappointed that one wasn’t out first. I really, really want to see what happens to MacLeod and Akira, but I’m more excited to get my hands on Her One Desire.]
You and me both, sister. My life would have soooo much less physco had Hilary put Highland Dragon on the shelf first. Now, it sits on her desks waiting for its turn. Finished and ready to go. HD has to wait until October 09. :(
That's ok though. I'm working on an Italian bit right now (relax, there's a Scot)
I'm hoping to finish it before National.
Thanks for visiting, Renee, and for keeping up with me.
Shannon:
I actually love research. You learn so much about the past and other people's opinion of history. My main source of research for HER ONE DESIRE was a 600 page biography on Richard III. I read it twice, highlighted it, studied it, and even contacted the author's daughter. She read the author's note I put at the end on this story regarding Richard III's role in the book and the mystery surrounding the princes in the Tower.
So that was cool.
You never know who you are going to meet.
Hellion:
[I’m pretty sure she loves her research…I remember her asking me about balconies and ships]
And I appreciate your help. That scene turned out great, BTW. I mean, you can't go wrong when you want your H's to have sex on the balcony of a ship. ;c)
What was great about that love scene is that the hero is afraid of heights so propping the wee Italian beauty up on the rail was altogether frightening...muhahahah
Hey Dawn! Glad you stopped by. See you at Crit group tomorrow...
Yes, Hellion, that would be another perk of YOUR local RWA chapter. :snort:
*Waving* at Nicole. As a member of one of member crit groups I have beonged to, I appreciate you stopping by and showing support.
I'm almost caught up... ;c)
I used to attend SCORE (Saturday CORE), but it got so out of hand, they quit it. I just got disheartened and didn't want to commit to the drive. You know how it is. I mean, I have a gym membership and I won't go to the gym unless I'm already in town for another reason.
The ladies are wonderful; and the guest speakers we have are the bomb! It is a very valuable resource.
October 09???? You mean like a year and a half from now???? That's insane if it's already finished!
And yes I will tell you how I liked the book. Just be patient, I don't know if amazon will send it sooner than the four weeks mentioned.....
Oh, I forgot the rum! *passes her more rum* Don't worry; there will be a lot of copies at Nationals...and I'm sure they'll be sold out by the time you're done signing!! :) (You'd think the bookstores would have had more copies: isn't this a special book? Like $3.99? You can't get a Harlequin for $3.99...and this is a thick historical!)
Julie,
I'm laughing my backside off over here. I love the way you broke down my back cover blurb.
It is soooo dramatic isn't it. I confess, I didn't write it, but cried when Hilary sent it to me.
Yes, I know, I cry a lot. You should have seen me when she sent the cover art and I saw the Fabio of the decade on my cover. Nathan Kamp is hot as apirate, a rogue, a Scot...He is just HOT, HOT, HOT!
And I am so fortunate to have him (on my cover)
Yes, Stef. 2009!!!
I tried to convince my editor to give me an earlier slot. Her response: There is a lot involved...yadda...It's not like wack-a-mole.
I did laugh at her remark, but only a little.
And what do you mean -- 4 weeks--? Where do you live? The center of the earth? LOL
Hellion:
[The ladies are wonderful; and the guest speakers we have are the bomb! It is a very valuable resource.]
I'm presenting in August. Do this mean you are coming? :) :) :)
One sec...*takes a drink of rum*...damn that burns!
[Isn’t this a special book? Like $3.99? You can’t get a Harlequin for $3.99…and this is a thick historical!]
Yep, pretty dang cheap! And, yes, it is novel length--352 pages. With a glossary, and an author's note, and lot's of hot love scenes.
I thought August was a Camp-Write-A-Lot? You presenting at that?
See, I thought so. So affordable everyone should buy two and give one to a friend.
Tami C:
Here's hoping you win a copy, and like Hellion said, I'm blogging all month. Plus, I'm giving away two copies every Tuesday during the month of July.
*pause for a quick commercial*
Hop over to my website and go to my contest page and sign up to win, win, win...
http://kimberlykillion.com/contests.asp
*and now back to the program*
:)
No Camp-Write-A-Lot this year. Is was so hot last year one of the members had to host camp at her house, so we decided to have a meeting instead.
I'm presenting, and then signing along with Megan Kelly and Annmarie McKenna.
Whew!
*wiping sweat off brow*
I'm all caught up. Now to check the 130 emails waiting for me. Such an excitig day and all from the confines of my wee lil laptop!
Thanks, again for having me aboard. You have such a great group of ladies here. I'll be about if any of ya'll have more question or just want to pass the rum.
Oh, and if anyone sees Captain Jack Sparrow, send him my way...
The center of the earth??? LOL Nope, I just live on the other side of the pond, in France. I order all my books through amazon.fr (they should give me money each time I write that..or a coupon at least...and a supply of rum) and if the books aren't in store I have to wait for them to cross the ocean.... But I won't complain...At least I get them...and no shipping fee. How cool is that?
Well, the no shipping fee is cool, but the wait...Whoa! Don't they have bookstores over there? Or is it all in French or something? Sorry to be so 'duh' about this, but I don't get out much.
Congrats on the release, you are a new author for me and I'm always looking for them!
No bookstores????LOL of course there are bookstores, a few of them even sell English and American books....but where I live they mostly go for the classicals...either I've already read them or I'm not interested in them. No romance, very few paranormal. I can find suspense though. A lot of choice in Paris, but I don't go there as often as I used to. The thing is with amazon, I pay half the price of what I would pay in a bookstore. So...
Teresa,
I think I speak on behalf of all new authors when I say, "We love you!" :)
Thanks for giving newbies a chance.
Stef,
Wow! We Americans are so spoiled and we don't even know it.
Goodness, I got busy and missed all the fun.
You *vomit* out the first draft. Gosh, I have to write that down somewhere. I keep telling my internal editor it's okay to do that and go back and fix the rest later, but the witch won't listen. Well, she'll listen now!
Oh, and Santa isn't a pirate name. LOL! It's her real name. Really! And Q is across the pond as well. In jolly old England. So he might not be able to hop down to his local Wal-Mart. *g*
Now, since I'm on my local chapter board (Conference Chair - because I'm insane), I vote for Hellion to join back up and you put her to work right away. Seriously, she doesn't have enough to do.
Lol, terrio!
Yes, vomit. Tell the witch to leave you the hell alone and start puking up some words.
Sounds gross?!?
Well, I'd rather clean up vomit than a pure white page of nothing!
Dang! There are no Wal-marts in England? Huh. Who knew. I'm learning a lot today. You all are probably thinking, 'How the hell did this bloody idiot get published?'
(If that's what you are thinking ,please keep it to yourself. :))
Conference chair? You are a glutton.
And I think you are right, Hellion needs more duties. All she does is sit around and drink rum. *grin*
And entertain Jack. And do some really funny interviews. LOL! But we need to give her something to do in her free time.
No, I don't think there are Walmarts in England. I'm not sure what their equivalent would be. (Do you know how hard it is to get BEN & JERRY'S in France or England?)
I go to the GYM in my spare time...and I supposedly write, but clearly I value sleep above writing, which Kimberly proved that sleep is overrated!
LOl, Hellion.
I'm glad to see I'm not the only person who doesn't know about overseas Wal-Marts.
I'm determined to go to Scotland some day. Alone! Without kids or a husband to ruin it. Actually, I would like to go with another writer. That would be fun.
And, yes, sleep is overrated. What's the auld saying, "I'll sleep when I'm dead."
Vomit up a first draft! LOL!! I feel like I'm doing that right now. Puke, that's what I'm writing. Wretching, heaving puke.
I'm just hoping once I scrub up that what's left doesn't smell that bad.
Oh, should we tell Kimberly we've been planning a trip to Scotland for two years? LOL!
Tesco!!!!! LOL That's me butting in about a British walmart equivalent, or what I feel the closest to an equivalent...After all i'm neither British nor American. (Soyeah maybe I should just shut up.)
And yes getting B&J here is no "peace of cake" (though this one's not my fav) . You can find pints but not much choice (cookie dough, chunky monkey chooclate fudge etc...)
Yup you ARE spoiled. LOL
*whine*
I wanna go to Scotland. You ladies will have to tell me all about it.
And Marnee Jo, you crack me up. I am at a loss for how to respond to your last post. LOL
And Stef, you have my sympathies. :(
Kim, we haven't pirated enough to go to Scotland yet. You will probably have been able to go twice before we nickel and dime all the money we need to go once. *LOL*
*LOL* Tesco! I just saw that referenced in a book! (Remember Me by Sophie Kinsella. She's my touch with modern British stuff.)
Congratulations I know you are sooo excited! Your book sounds wonderful! I had a Scottish boyfriend but at the time to young to appreciate but man i loved to here him talk lol! i would love to visit Scotland also.. alone> lol!
Marn - if you call what you have now wretched puke, then that final draft is going to be the nectar of the gods.
Yeah, I should have added we've been planning for two years and still haven't figured out how to do it. LOL!
But I am hitting the Greek Isles next fall. That's not so bad. However, Hellion won't go with me on that one. LOL!
Dang, Lori! I wish I'd had a Scottish boyfriend. The accent alone...well...I don't need to go on, else we might have to set this ship on a course for Scotland right now.
LOL! Sorry Kim, I suppose there was no good response. :)
Thanks Ter! I love when you get out the pom poms!
Yummy Scottish accent!
What a story. I'm glad to hear that the kidlets survived being tied down while you finished your manuscript.
What drew you to writing about Scots?
The kids are actually old enough to feed themselves and that's what they did during that three months. They learned how to do laundry and put themselves to bed. :)
I have always been a lover of historicals. I think Julie Garwood's earlier novels really drew me into Scotland and a beautiful way of writing.
I love the land, the heroic quality that goes with every story. I love the time period. It is dramatic and filled grace, dignity, and pride.
While I joke about hot, sexy, Scots, there is just something I admire about a man who would fight for his country and when that same man fights equally as hard for his God and his woman it makes me want to weep.
I love Julie Garwood's historicals. And I agree with you about there is just something swooning about a Man who would fight for his God, country, and woman... (*going home to watch Braveheart and Rob Roy tonight*)
P.S. That laundry thing is going to pay off for them! You did a great thing! What was it that Dr. Jones says to Indy in the 3rd movie? "I taught you self-reliance!"
Kim said, "Seriously, you need to switch to decaf."
Hellion: "Oh, look, an undead monkey."
Ha! What a fun interview! I wanna go on a pirate ship! Huge congrats on your book's release. It sounds GREAT.
See you at conference!
Whoo hoo! 100th post!
Wonderful interview. It sounds like a great book. I can hardly wait to read it.
Sweet! Welcome Lina, Welcome Esri! Have some rum and I'm so glad you guys stopped by!
Esri - that can be arranged. LOL! YES, I will stalk....errr....see you at conference. LOL!
[Whoo hoo! 100th post!]
I was thinking that myself! Dang! We rocked the house...ship...today.
So here's a question for all you historical readers.
Do you like to read about places that haven't been written about much? Say like, Egypt or Africa? It seems the whole of historicals are set in England and Scotland and the like. I know the industry seems to be opening its doors a little wider for 'unusual' historicals. What kind of settings would you be interested in reading about?
And who are your favorite heroes?
My favorite all time hero was Sebastian in Teresa Medeiros' Heather and Velvet.
Holy mackrel! Have ye got enough kegs of rum for the lot of 'em?
Hi Kim! Sorry it took me so long to post. I just got back from NY where I took my son to West Point. Ah, (ack! my son's a man now!! Dries an errant tear), a man in uniform. Is there anything better, wenches? He's not wearing Norington's uniform but he looks just as suave with his new buzz cut. :-) This wench couldn't be prouder. Please say a prayer for him as he slays the beastie for the next 7 weeks at Beast Barracks, so titled because they beat the stupid out of you before you start school in August. A perfected way to man a new crew for the class of 2012.
Hellion and Kim, great interview! Capn. Jack hasn't appeared, however, because he's been detained, if you know what I mean. (wink) Which reminds me, I must get him more rum before he wakes up.
Kim, what has been the hardest part about getting this book published and how did you keep yourself from losing faith in your work?
I'd buy a book with Gerard Butler as the hero every time. Y'all know I would. :-)
Hi Kathy!
I feel for ya, having to take your wee one and set him free. He will be a 'mon' the next time you see him though!
What was the hardest part, you ask?
Selling the damn thing. LOL I think writing a book that is creative is the key. We can't just write about vengeance and pride and kidnapping and baby snatching anymore. We have to write, suspense, drama, humor, hot sex, and tie a lil bow on it and call it a novel. There isn't chick-lit anymore. It is 'funny contemporaries'. There aren't paranormals anymore. They are now called 'urban fantasy'. The market is forever changing to meet a new generation and for those of us who have been writing ten years we not only have to grow as writers, but also with the trends of a new generation.
Whew!
As far as loosing faith in my writing. I question every word, every plot, every day. I sometimes think I will never write another book as good as the last, then I reread what I wrote and think, hmmm...that ain't half bad! :)
Hey Kimberly **waving** I'm so glad that I was surfing you website tonight and saw where you were bloggin today. I loved your "conversation" with Hellion. Great, great fun!!! I need some clarification though . . . what's a rathskeller?
As you know I am really excited about your book. I have been looking for it during my normal shopping days, but have not spotted it yet. Guess I need to trek into one of those national book chain stores.
*clinking glases* Here's to your much deserved success!
Yes, my name is Santa. So I'd be that wee Italian lass your Scot hoists up on the balcony. Can't wait to read that scene -- 'cause I'm such a wee one, you understand!
What a great blog today, Kim and your fabulous pirate wenches. Thanks for the insights into your journey. I can't wait to get my hands on your book and they'll be autographed with a broadsword pen. Guard it, lass, guard it!
I've returned to reading historicals after a long time away. My romance readers book club had us reading a historical by Anne Gracie. I was hooked again on the genre. I love the idea of the book taking place in somewhere other than England or Scotland. One my earlier favorite historicals took place in New Zealand.
You are too clever by half, Santa!
And, ahoy, Buffie. Glad you stopped by. A rathskeller is a bar. (pirate slang LOL)
Keep looking lass, keep looking. You will find it and if you don't, ask for it. Demand they order it, I say! *slams mug on bar in the rathskeller*
Congratulations, Kimberly!!! Great story and I can't wait to get my hands on your new release!
Thanks, Kim. There is a lot expected out of us nowdays. Sometimes it's hard to write and not get caught up in the drudgery of trying to meet all the plot/interest goals at once.
Do you have a problem stifling the collective voices inside your head telling you to stop writing "That!"? I have a few nasty devils dancin' on me shoulder trying to smother me muse.
I 'spose drinking a dram of rum, shouting "Dead monkey!" and brandishing about a blunderbuss might do the trick. :-)
Kim - I'd love to read stories set in Venice, Florence, Moscow or even India. A change of scenery is always welcome in Historicals or Contemporaries IMO.
Kathy - Thank you and thank your young man for what he's doing and will do for out country.
Hey, Angie! Thanks for stopping by. My local girls are all so supportive. See, Hellion, what you are missing out on. :)
Kathy,
Ahhh...the dreaded 'that'. Of course, you have to watch out for 'was' and 'to be' and 'this' and 'one'. Everytime I type a 'no-no' word an alarm sounds in my head. But remember, we have to vomit first and then clean up. LOL
I used to get hung up on not using all 'those' words, but then I realized the core of what the reader is interested in is dialogue and people use those words in their speech so, we writers can use them, too.
And, yes, that internal editor will smother your muse. Be strong! Don't let it!!!
If that doesn't work, then, yes, reach for the rum. LOL
Yeah, terrio!
Ok...I know you didn't ask...but...I am working on a new book that begins in 1488 Firenze (Florence, Italy). As an artist by trade, I’ve always been a lover of the Renaissance era. I am a fan of incorporating historical figures into my books, Lorenzo the Magnificent makes an appearance in my next book. Laird Taveon Kraig travels to Italy in search of an amulet that is said to hold the heart of a woman who cursed his clan. In Italy, he meets Mistress Viviana Gorini de’ Medici Martinus da Vincenza, a ward of Lorenzo the Magnificent who has already suffered the burden of the marriage bed twice and has no desire to wed again. Until...
Sorry, got carried away there. :)
Kim - that sounds great. I hope the publishers catch on and find more books with a variety of settings. I know they have to be out there.
Alas, I must say farewell. I have an early day on the morrow and all this rum has given me an ache in the head.
I've had a merry ole time aboard your pirate ship and I hope to see some of you in the future, be it in San Fran or elsewhere.
For those of you who are readers, keep reading and read fast. :) And for those of you who are writers, keep writing and write fast.
My motto: One reads is to experience life, but one writes to live.
~Enjoy the Magic
Kimberly
Love your new WIP, Kim. I've been to Firenze and lived in Vicenza. Cool!! Gotta love the heroine's name. :-)
Terrio, you've touched my heart. Your kind words mean a lot to me. Have I told y'all my oldest is in Qatar right now. He's in the Air Force. :-)
Kathy - I live in the Norfolk area and I work for a military contractor. We have several bases here with every branch including the Coast Guard. Since moving here I have a brand new understanding of what these soldiers and their families sacrifice for us. Thank you for giving so much!
*waves* Ahoy mateys! Sorry I'm late to this fabulous party.
80k in 3 months, very impressive, Kim! I can't wait to read Her One Desire. It sounds yummy!
just wanted to say hello and thank you for the blessing of all the stories you write if it wasn't for people like you who have the courage to write a story then take a chance to have it published then we wouldn't have a chance to read the most wonderful thing a book filled with love, dreams and hope Thank you forgiving us a chance to wind down to the best thing a book to read.
Thanks again God Bless
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