Author Interview: M.K. Chester

About the author:
Wife and mom.
Romance author.
Creativity coach.
History geek.
Sports nut.
Sarcastic conversationalist.
Owned by Scotties.
Fighting MS.

What inspires you to write romantic fiction?
The thing that inspires me the most to write romance is the idea of a happy ending, no matter what the characters go through to get there. Life is hard, no matter your circumstance. I don't think it's too much to ask that, when we read for escape. we get the thing we all want most in life, the happily ever after.

Tell us about how you write.
I would love to tell you about how organized I am and how I can just sit and churn out book after book, but I'd be lying. The good thing about writing is there is no "one way" to do it. I'm a character-driven writer, which mean I have complex and compelling personalities, but plotting is something I really have to work at (which I do because it's important!). I use music to drive the feel of the book, and I'll brainstorm the strangest, most random things with my husband, because he used to work at the NSA and I think he's seen/heard everything!

Do you listen to or talk to to your characters?
I listen to them. They tend to have a life of their own, and if I'm quiet, they tell me about themselves, their background, family, education…all the pieces that make up a whole person. Sometimes they go away for a while, but they never leave entirely. I just let them go when the book is published.

What advice would you give other romance writers?
I've had great experiences working with others in this field, and I'd encourage anyone who's interested to start getting plugged in. The internet makes it so simple to follow your favorites, learn how others write, and seek feedback on your own work. A writer has to write, so go for it!

How did you decide how to publish your books?
My first published books were set in the early 20th century, which was a strange fit–was it contemporary or historical? Well, a new publisher came along with a line specifically for this time frame and I had to try. These books are now out as "Bryeton Books" and are some of my favorites.

What do you think about the future of book publishing?
I think publishing is undergoing great change. The old rues of having an agent and submitting tirelessly and waiting for a response are over. In some ways, things are much easier, like putting a book out yourself. In other ways, it's much more difficult to get noticed, to make a living, to hit the best-seller list. I'm not sure things will settle down anytime soon.

Which romance sub-genere(s) fit your stories best?
Romance, historical romance, contemporary romance

My books are available in the following formats:
eBook