Cowboys and Kisses
by Karin Kallmaker
Released in Audio: November 4, 2022
Genre: Historical Romance
Why this book and why now?
It is especially important now, with far right groups attempting to erase our stories from the present, to tell stories of us as we probably existed in the past – existed and survived.
What is a significant way your book has changed since either the first draft or the way you thought it would turn out when you first had the inspiration?
My original vision for the story did not have a happy ending. I saw little in my research that indicated one could be believable for women on the American frontier who were treated as expendable property. I wrote instead of a spiritual resolution. When I opened it again ten+ years later, with more inspiration about re-seeing “historical” accuracy, I found a different solution, and it is not just a happy ending, but a believable one.
Would you and your main character(s) get along?
Absolutely. Darlin’ and I believe in many of the same things: books, creativity, love, and sovereignty over our minds. In many ways, Darlin’ is the woman I might have been if I’d lived in that era.
Do your character names have special significance or meaning?
Darlin’s lack of a name is significant. She means so little beyond the money she can make for other people, that nobody cares to find out what her actual name is – she’s simply “Darlin’.” When she gifts that information to her Someone near the end of the story I hope that the reader feels the power of trust in that moment.
What TV show would your main character(s) most likely binge watch and why?
I think Darlin’ would very much enjoy Wynona Earp. It’s the kind of story she would have written, with strong, forthright women in charge of their own lives and futures.
What 3 things would your main character want with them if they got stranded away from civilization, and why?
Paper, pen, and ink. Darlin’ has a lifetime of knowing that, while books are wonderful, she can make her own if she has to.
Publishing a book is a huge accomplishment and it’s time to party! Choose a celebratory beverage for one of your main characters to toast the release of your new book.
A strawberry daiquiri. Because strawberries are a dim, wonderful memory from her childhood, I know Darlin’ would have strawberries any time that she could. Given how mercilessly hot it is in southeast Montana, anything iced would also be a treat.
