Interview with Kristal Dawn Harris

Author of The Burn

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

I am originally from Ohio and currently reside in Ohio.

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

N/A

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

I’ve always been a “closet” writer. My journey started with writing small poems, which led to songs, and eventually my first novel. I knew I needed help with my first novel, so I did my research and chose The Wild Rose Press, Inc. to publish my first book.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

I primarily write paranormal, although I do dabble in erotic. My books have a darker edge to them and always feature some creature like a vampire, werewolf, or ghost. I see my books as sensuous and edgy, with a great love story, and a happily-ever-after ending.

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

Romance readers are most likely to connect with the topics I write about.

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

During the writing process, I realized my imagination is much bigger than I originally thought. I knew I was attracted to paranormal books, but when you write one it is much different. Developing a great plot and building a world around your characters is a challenge.

The publishing process was an eye opener. I did not realize how many people work behind the scenes to publish my books nor did I know how much time it took to get it right. Whether you’re using a traditional publisher, or self-publishing, allow for time to perfect the details of your book.

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

I would tell myself to slow down. I possess a very aggressive, determined personality, so patience is not one of my virtues. I don’t like to let things “season,” but it does make the difference.

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

I’m an author, so I want to reach thousands if not millions of readers. LOL My goals are high!

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

Marketing is the biggest challenge and frustration in my opinion. Sometimes, I feel like I’m chasing my tail! The amount of time that goes into marketing yourself and your book is unbelievable. Again, I’m not a patient person, so this has been a hard lesson for me!

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

My biggest strength when it comes to writing is my imagination. Creativity is something I enjoy whether I’m doing a craft or writing a book. Because I’m so driven, I go hard on whatever I’m working on until it’s completed. Some see this as a negative trait, but I see it as what keeps the ball rolling.

Because I normally use a publisher, I don’t have to worry about the fine details, but if I had to pick my greatest strength with regards to publishing it would be the editing process. I set a limit of forty to fifty pages edited at one sitting because the words start to blend together and I find myself caught up in the story. I also enjoy seeing my book through my editor’s eyes and the ideas she comes up with to make the book really shine.

Marketing is a wicked monster all by itself! LOL I’ve always enjoyed people and how they act/interact with situations, so my strength would be my people skills. However, if I don’t pay attention to time, I quickly find I’ve been on social media all day long which doesn’t do anything for my next book.

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

I have several weaknesses when it comes to writing, so I have to be careful. I love fantastical places I’ve never been, but that requires research and I hate to do research! lol There are a couple of words which are my Achilles heel, so thank God for great editors! I also am easily bored, so I bounce around between creatures, locations, and genres. I usually have several books going at once, so I can switch stories if what I’m working on loses its luster for the moment. Haha!

Publishing a book the right way takes a lot of patience and fine detail. The entire process is not my friend although I love the final product. My undying gratitude goes out to those behind the scenes editing, creating covers, and formatting for publication.

The time that goes into good marketing is my biggest weakness. I pay close attention to the clock when I’m on social media. I have to or I’d never write, and then I’m frustrated, and can’t write. LOL

When do you think you will you write your next book?

After several paranormal releases, I needed a break. I’ve almost completed my first contemporary book and I like it. The book should be ready to submit to the publisher by the end of October. I enjoy just about every type of romance there is, so it comes as no surprise that I’d venture into contemporary.

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

I am published through a traditional publisher (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.), but I also self-publish, so I am considered a hybrid author.