DEBUT RELEASE

KIM LOUISE

Previous Rising Stars Seressia Glass Simona Taylor Tamara Sneed Alice Wootson

1.     What made you want to become a writer?

I wish there were a simple answer to that question. The most honest answer is that I don't know. It's almost like asking me what makes me want to breathe. For me, writing is physiological--something I'm compelled to do.

2.     Why romance?

I've always loved romance novels. I remember subscribing to Harlequin's "Book-a-Day" club. At least, that's what I used to call it. Every month, I would get a box of books, fourteen I think. And I would read until my eyes hurt. A few years ago I was introduced to African-American romance novels, and I knew I wanted to be part of such a marvelous genre.

3.     Tell me a little bit about DESTINY'S SONG.

DESTINY'S SONG is the story of a woman trying to reclaim her life and the man who helps her do it. It's set in Atlanta (my favorite city!), where photo-historian Destiny Chandler meets handsome balladeer Xavier Allgood. The story is born out of four primary characters who (I believe) step right off the page. It's humorous, heartwarming, and will remind you of home. (And if you are a music lover, you're in for a syncopated treat!)

4.     What was the most difficult aspect of trying to get published?

For me, the most difficult aspect of trying to get published was writing the darn book. Even now when I hold my novel in my hand, I want to quote Steve Urkel and say, "Did I do that?"

4. Besides writing, what else do you like to do?

Read! If I'm at home and I'm not writing a novel, I'm reading one. I also like to take road trips—long ones.

5. Who're your favorite authors?

How long have you got? LOL! I enjoy reading Donna Hill, Shakespeare,  Ahkenaten, St. Augustine, Raymond Carver, Tony Medina, Gail McFarland, L.M. Harrison, Maurice Gray, Jr., Shirley Hailstock, Toni Morrison, Stephen King, Edwidge Danticat, and Susan Elizabeth Phillips. (And as soon as CAPTURE THE SUNRISE is published, probably Wayne Jordan!) James Baldwin is my all-time favorite author.

5.     Are you a full-time writer?

Not yet. Right now I'm a training specialist for an insurance company. However I have vivid aspirations of writing full-time one day.

6.     What's next for Kim Louise?

I have another novel coming out in July of 2001 called, A TOUCH AWAY. It's sort of the African-American version of "You've Got Mail!" Right now I'm working on a romantic suspense—something that I never envisioned myself writing. And I'm having a blast writing this story! It's a little different because the hero is the main character. That's something I haven't done before. I also have an idea for a historical series. It would require a lot of research, though. But I've been looking for an excuse to go to the Schomburg Center anyway. So, we'll see…

7. Any special message for the aspiring author?

Yes…WRITE! Don't talk about writing. Don't read about writing. Don't dream about writing. Just write. And don't keep saying to yourself, you'll do it one day when the time is right. The only right time is the time you make to do it. Remember, the only time we really have is right now. So why not live your dream today, this minute?

ROMANCE IN COLOR wishes Ms. Louise the greatest success!