Author Interview: Katie McKnight

Seriously, starting this blog was the best idea ever. I’ve met so many wonderful authors, including the one I’m talking with today. I reviewed Katie’s book earlier this year and loved it. Please welcome today’s guest.

Secrets Revealed is your debut novel. What was the inspiration behind this novel?

 

The characters. I had a thirty-second dream about a woman visiting difficult in laws. The dream haunted my thoughts for days, eventually working itself into a manuscript.

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

 

No. I planned to move into New York City after graduation to try my hand at stage acting (I performed during high school). My parents had a different idea. House rules: degree before acting. By the time I finished school, I found other interests. While I believe I always had the writing bug, it did not develop until I reached my twenties.

 

What type of research did you do to make Ryan, the Hollywood heartthrob, and Melanie, a Broadway star, come alive?

I read a behind-the-scenes book on Broadway. Each chapter outlined different actor/actress’ experiences on the famous stage. The book provided a wealth of information (not used in the story, but I understood the mindset). I am fortunate to live close to Broadway, so I also had the opportunity to interview employees.

 

After writing this book, do you think you would ever want to be famous like the characters in your novel?

No. I feel bad for actors and actresses. I have often wondered what it is like for public figures when a secret or scandal surfaces. In Secrets Revealed, I provided a peek through the eyes of my protagonist.

On your blog, you write about bullying. How did this subject become so important to you?

I work in a middle school and witness hurtful behavior on a regular basis. I also have three children, one of which was bullied to the point that we home schooled for close to a year. It is a devastating situation for children and destroys entire families. My partner at work and I take steps to ensure that the students we see thrive in a positive environment, free from judgment and bully behavior. If one of the big New York Publishers picked up my book, I would quit my job and dedicate my life to anti-bullying organizations. I want every child to recognize and embrace their talents. Every person in this world is on this earth for a special reason. Don’t allow anyone to destroy your self-esteem. Oh no, this question struck a nerve…

Now that you have your first novel published, are you planning more? If so, what’s next?

I am halfway finished with my second novel. The story follows a woman who learns everything she knew about her husband is a lie. I know what you’re thinking, been there, done that. This story has so much more to it. I’m just not willing to share yet.

How do you find the time to write?

It is more difficult the second time around. I work, have three children and spend a good part of my down time marketing Secrets Revealed. If I do not write each day, I become grumpy. Therefore, I carry my laptop everywhere. I write while I am waiting for the kids to come out of school, before work, on the soccer field where my son is a referee and late at night when everyone else is asleep.

 

What activities do you enjoy to help alleviate stress?

I love karaoke. Music always makes me feel better. Singing just increases the mood faster. Last night a friend provided me with a head massager. It looks like an open-ended eggbeater with bendable, metal prongs. They claim it releases stress by sliding it on your head and moving it up and down. It sounds crazy, but it works…and it feels awesome.

Have you ever wanted to act?

Now that my kids are older, I would return to the stage if I had the time. I have a friend who acts through Community Theater. I am in awe of her talent and envious of her acting credits (only in the best way).

Thanks so much for stopping by today! I need to get one of those head massagers.

About the author: 

Katie McKnight lives on Long Island with her husband, three sons, and their boxer. She is a member of the Farmingdale Writer’s Group and the Long Island Writer’s Guild. Katie has completed Mystery Writing and Advanced Fiction courses through Queens College and Piedmont Community College, respectively.

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