Get ready to learn more about the book Connection in this discussion with sapphic author Kim Pritekel.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz Kim Pritekel about Connection, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Roommate Romance category in the 2024 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write Connection?
Funny thing about this novel, which I wrote back in 2008. At the time I was working at an AT&T call center – horrible job. Anyway, I had gotten fired for something that was absolutely not my fault, and I was furious! I was born legally blind so don’t drive, and that day I was walking the mile or so home after it had all gone down at work.
While walking home, the entire story idea for Connection popped. Considering the heaviness of this book, I’m not sure what that says about my state of mind in that moment. lol But, even beyond my crappy day that day, I’d always been interested in the paranormal or supernatural. This book skates along the line of all that, so this storyline was certainly always something of interest to me.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
I adore Remmy. When I wrote this novel I was in my early thirties. Though Remmy is in her mid-twenties, she and I are a lot alike, especially when I was in my early twenties. Remmy’s somewhat silly nature, hopeful yet very streetwise, very much who I was, and I suppose, still am.
What inspired the idea for Connection?
As mentioned above, while walking home after being fried from a job on ludicrous grounds. The whole thing just popped into mind and was worked out over the walk home.
What was the biggest challenge writing this book?
The first half of the novel is fairly brutal, what with Julie’s kidnapping and the situation she was forced into. That was very, very hard for me. There were times where I had to open a second file on my computer that was an online story that had an amazing character that always calmed me. I forget the name of the book now, but the character was an Episcopalian priest, and though I’m not religious at all, the author wrote this character so beautifully that it helped give me peace while writing some of the more awful scenes in Connection.
What part of Connection was the most fun to write?
The love story between Remmy and Julie. Those two are amazing women and it was such a joy to explore that with them, watch them both grow.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
That was an easy one. The connection that Remmy and Julie have is so integral to the entire storyline, well beyond just their romance. Without it, Remmy couldn’t have done what she did to save her.
How much research did you need to do for Connection?
Not a ton. Just details here and there.
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?
I am not, however Remmy and Julie play secondary characters in another novel of mine, Swann Song.
What is your writing process like?
I get a basic idea of what I want the story to be and that’s pretty much where the planning ends. lol I had a very different process when I wrote Connection than I do today, as a much, much more seasoned author. Today, each chapter is its own little story. Like the entire novel is a meal and each chapter is its own bite with hints of seasonings to come until finally, it’s an entire, satisfying dish.
Where do you usually write, and what do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
I write in the area of my house that is specific to that. I use ear buds while I write and listen to music. My muscial choises are mostly instrumental – such as movie soundtracks.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?
V.C. Andrews. When I was about ten years old, I began reading her novels. She truly taught me how to begin the process of learning how to make characters real, bring them to life. I’d love to tell her that and thank her for her unwitting guidance.
What’s your favorite writing snack or drink?
I’m not a snacker, but do love my coffee while I write.
How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
Usually by crying. LOL No, it depends on what it is. A standalone novel, by the end I’m ready to finish usually. I just recently wrote a thirteen-book series in eleven months, and when I finished the final book, I sobbed. It was part-relief, part-grief and part-release.
Is there a particular genre you would love to write but only under a pseudonym?
Nope. I have now literally tackled every single genre from mystery to historical to fantasy and sci-fi. All have the common thread of lesbian romance, of course. And recently I even tackled superhero. I’m not at all afraid to tackle anything that interests me. I’ve never been a niche writer outside of lesbian romance.
Do you have any odd writing quirks?
I no doubt look like a lunatic at times. I giggle with my characters or cry with them, etc. I’m very reactive in that, what they’re feeling, t, too am feeling. So, if someone didn’t know what I was doing, I’m sure it’s quite bemusing to watch.
Do you have a pet who helps/hinders your typing?
I have a white and black cat named Lilly Beah, and she could care less. lol
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing, and by whom?
Years ago when I was writing online, I had written a novel called, ‘First’. It would become my first published book. Anyway, it became hugely popular and really put me on the map as an online writer. I was very young, in my early twenties, and it freaked me out. I had no idea what to do with the attention and stopped writing for a bit. I was worried I’d never write something that good again.
Well, once a writer always a writer and I felt the pull, but I was so afraid to. So, I reached out to an author named, LJ Maas (sadly, has since passed), who was about twenty years older than me and whom I really respected. I emailed her and explained my situation. She gave me such fantastic advice.
You have the sophomore jitters, she explained. Never give up on who you are or the gift you were given. Never write for an audience but for yourself, because if you begin writing for an audience, you’ll lose yourself.
I took that advice to heart and went on to write, ‘Lessons’, which became a bestselling novel. I never looked back.
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
I’m an extremely quick thinker, especially when it comes to fleshing out a story. I write a novel in about fifteen to eighteen days, on average. My fastest is eleven days. Just how I work.
What do you do to get inside your character’s heads?
I become them. I don’t mean in my daily life I dress like them, etc. I mean, I just open up my emotions and vast understanding of human psychology and become who they are in that moment and put it on paper.
Have you ever cried when writing an emotional scene?
Oh lord, yes! There isn’t a book I haven’t written where I haven’t.
Do you feel bad putting your characters through the wringer?
I feel horrible about it!! These characters are very, very real to me. Prime example is what I put Julie through in Connection.
Have you ever hated one of your characters?
Well of course! What else is the point of a good villain?
Have you ever fallen in love with one of your characters?
I do every single book. If I’m in love with her, (usually both MCs for different reasons) then it comes off the page and readers pick up on that.
What books did you grow up reading?
I grew up reading V. C. Andrews, Dean Koontz and Stephen King. Typical Gen Xer.
Describe your favorite reading spot.
Wherever. I don’t read but listen to audiobooks, so usually I’m up and doing things as I listen.
