Interview with Kate Kasch

Author of Jane Street

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I am originally from the Boston area and now live in the suburbs of New York City.

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

I always wanted to live in New York City, despite having never been there! After I graduated from college, I accepted a position in New York and still had never been there. But as is often the case, I trusted my gut, and it was the right decision. New York was everything I dreamed it would be :).

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

After having my fourth (and last!) child, I was interested in getting back to work after a five year hiatus. I thought long and hard about what I enjoyed doing, and kept coming back to writing. So, I sat down one day and started typing. That’s when I wrote my first murder mystery book, JANE STREET. It was so much fun – I smiled the entire time I was writing. I’m now hooked.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

My murder mystery series, The Verity Townsend Mystery series which consists of JANE STREET and THE DAKOTA both take place in New York City. They are fast-paced, fun reads with twists and surprises. I also like to include some New York City history in each book, specifically haunted locations throughout the city. I love a good spook factor!

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

Anyone into contemporary mysteries and romance.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

How long everything takes! The process is very long. Even once you’ve completed your first draft – edits take forever!

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

I would tell myself to BE PATIENT. Take the time to do things right the first time. Read every book in your genre, research covers, find the best editor you can afford — take the time!

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

Millions! I mean what author doesn’t?

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

Marketing. It’s not my favorite – but it’s necessary – vital.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

My writing strengths are storyline and dialogue.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

My weakness is not expanding enough — I like every single sentence, word, to matter. No fluff. I’m pretty sure that’s not ideal for an author.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I’ll start my next book in January!

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I self-published all four of my books: Jane Street, The Dakota, Restoring Christmas, and The Christmas Invitation