Life Altering Reads: Author Interview

Saturday, July 27, 2013

Author Interview – Kim Cano

Who or what influenced your writing over the years? Life experiences, world views, etc. Also favorite authors influence me. I read their books and try to figure out what makes them great so I can hopefully incorporate it into my own work.

What made you want to be a writer? I’m creative and reclusive. It’s the perfect combo for writing.

What do you consider the most challenging about writing a novel, or about writing in general? Being consistent with word count goals and not getting distracted.

Did writing this book teach you anything and what was it? The storyline in the novel taught me you cannot control your destiny, only see what life sends your way and go from there. I’ve also learned writing isn’t easy and requires a lot of work. When done there’s more work to do with marketing. It’s non-stop.

Do you intend to make writing a career? Yes. It’s the only job I enjoy so much I have no desire to retire.

Have you developed a specific writing style? I don’t know. I think one’s style is always changing, being shaped by what one reads. I read good books, so I’m hoping I will get better too.

What is your greatest strength as a writer? Persistence, and being willing to accept critique and not be afraid if it hurts. How better to learn I think.

Have you ever had writer’s block? If so, what do you do about it? I have. It usually stems from wanting to write a story but not really knowing the characters. Then I go on the treadmill and think about them some more and then come back to the computer.

Can you share a little of your current work with us? Sure. A Widow Redefined is a women’s fiction novel that features a young widow who is transformed by the power of friendship. It also appeals to male readers who have lost a loved one. I’ve been pleasantly surprised to have been contacted by several men saying they enjoyed the book.

How did you come up with the title? I wanted something short and to the point that conveyed what the book was about.

Can you tell us about your main character? Her name is Amy, and she’s a young widow raising a seven-year-old son. She works in an office, and her mom lives with her to help out. She’s a very average American woman. Except she’s stuck and can’t move on after her husband’s death a few years before.