Interview with Kim McMahill

Recently, I interviewed Kim McMahill.

Which of your books was your favorite to write? Why?

Big Horn Storm was probably the most fun to write because it’s set in the state where I grew up, Wyoming. I was able to draw upon my experiences from that time riding horses, greatly exaggerated of course, to create a contemporary western romantic adventure. There are several scenes which still make me hold my breath every time I read them and I couldn’t have written them without my own fearless palomino.

Which of your characters was/is your favorite? Why?

I’ll always love Niki from Big Horn Storm. Despite a pretty humble childhood she has made the best of life and is fiercely loyal to those she loves. She’s a survivor and never backs down.

What is your favorite theme to write about?

I’ve written nine very different novels, but the common theme is adventure suspense with a dash of romance woven in. There is no greater motivator to test one’s limit than love.  My goal is to take readers on an action-packed adventure to some amazing places. I want to entertain, first and foremost, but also inspire others to explore.

What are your hobbies (besides writing)?

I’m always anxious for spring because gardening is my passion. I also love to follow the exploits of my nieces and nephews which involves lots of sports, explore in the mountains, and travel about anywhere. When the weather keeps me indoors I enjoy reading and tackling tough jigsaw puzzles.

Blurb from A Dose of Danger (Book 1 in the Risky Research Series):

When researcher Grace Talbot and her team discover a possible solution for weight loss they are targeted by a group dedicated to controlling a diet product industry worth billions. Her unsanctioned testing methods bring tragedy to the family ranch and the attention of the local sheriff’s deputy. With her colleagues either dead, missing, or on the run she soon realizes she must trust the deputy with her life, but can she trust him with her heart?

Other Books by Kim McMahill:

Marked In Mexico

Big Horn Storm

Shrouded in Secrets

Deadly Exodus

A Taste of Tragedy (Book 2 in the Risky Research Series)

A Foundation of Fear (Book 3 in the Risky Research Series coming soon!)

You can find Kim at https://www.facebook.com/KimMcMahillAuthor/, on twitter at https://twitter.com/kimmcmahll, or visit her at http://KimMcMahill.blogspot.com

Interview with Jayne Self

Which of your books was your favorite to write? Why?

I think I’m best suited to writing mysteries, and my favourite is always the one in progress. There’s still so much to discover, twists to unravel, and secrets to expose. I love unearthing my characters’ secrets. The anticipation keeps me awake at night. I love it!

That being said, I had a blast writing my two Seaglass Mysteries. Written at the seashore, about the seashore. I even had a reading on the beach. Wonderful.

Which of your characters was/is your favorite? Why?

At this point in my career, I think my favourite character remains the hero of a yet-to-be-published series. He’s Dean Constable, a former police detective turned crime-solving pastor. Dean is a man haunted by his past, but through situations he confronts in each book his wounds are healing and his faith is growing. He has a ridiculous dog, an off-beat sense of humour, and he’s falling in love with a woman from his past. For me, a character doesn’t get more fun than that.  

What is your favorite theme to write about?

Whether intentional or not, I find myself returning to the theme of belonging. Perhaps because, as someone adopted, belonging is my own issue. I can explore it safely through my characters and learn about myself. That I keep returning to this theme tells me I have much to learn.

What made you decide to become a writer?

I have always dreamed of writing stories. Ever since childhood I’ve entertained myself imagining ‘what if’ scenarios. For a time, I set that aside. I locked my imagination away because I thought it was somehow sinful. But eventually I returned to it, older, wiser (I hope) and more able to see it as a God-given blessing. Around 1999, I decided to try putting my thoughts onto paper, and my passion for words was unleashed.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

Learn the craft. Craft takes time. When I started writing I didn’t even know there was such a thing as writers’ craft. I though you only needed a good story. Over the years, and through lots of hard work, I’ve discovered that good story is not enough. Without good craftsmanship, a story will never reach the people God longs to influence. So, take the time needed to do it right.

God has given us His best and we should never be seduced into to giving Him anything less that ours.

Murder In Hum Harbour: A Seaglass Mystery: Jayne E. Self ...

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Death Of A Highland Heavyweight: Jayne E. Self ... www.amazon.com Death Of A Highland Heavyweight [Jayne E. Self] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. Murder, chaos, teen angst, missing frog figurines, wedding preparations.