Get ready to learn more about the book A Shot of Her in this discussion with sapphic author Katie Trapp.
Join us for an exclusive peek behind the scenes as we quiz Katie Trapp about A Shot of Her, writing, reading, and more.
This book is part of the Rich Girl / Poor Girl category in the 2025 IHS Reading Challenge.
Why did you write A Shot of Her?
It started out as an idea to write about my favorite hobby, quilting, then evolved into wanting to write a total opposite attract with real, relatable characters. I just rolled with it after that.
Who is your favorite character in the book?
Probably Dallas Hayes. She’s been through hell and grown from it. She doesn’t make excuses for things. She works on what needs to be worked on and has a beautiful glow-up.
What was the biggest challenge writing this book?
Getting past my fear that it would be boring because it was low angst, and there is no 3rd act breakup. I had nothing to worry about, though. My beta readers reassured me it was a refreshing read, and I trusted their judgment and went with it.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
I actually had help from my author friend circle! I put my blurb in our chat group with Adrian J. Smith, Ami Spencer, Robin Clairvaux, and Neen Cohen. We threw back ideas for a while. I’m still not sure if it was me or Ami that came up with A Shot of Her, but it clicked perfectly.
How much research did you need to do for A Shot of Her?
I already knew most everything about the quilt side of things, but I had to dive into the world of bourbon and how a restaurant and bar run. My wife was a huge help with the bourbon, and I was fortunate enough to have several friends on Facebook who had worked in the food industry that gave me real hands-on information.
What is your favorite line from your book?
“It burns a little going down and lingers on the tongue like a good night with the right woman.”
What is your writing process like?
I plot with the expectation that it will change some. My first draft is just getting words out. I don’t edit at all. The second draft is rewriting and fixing plotholes then the third I’ll focus on grammar and getting it ready for beta readers. After that, I rework it using their feedback, and then off to the editor it goes.
Where do you usually write, and what do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
I do most of my writing in my office, but sometimes if I work late, I’ll bring my laptop to the couch to sit with my wife. I feed off my surroundings and need an upbeat area so my office has lots of decorations and items on the walls that make me smile, like a rainbow squirrel and a picture of my pets dressed up in Renaissance clothing.
How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
My wife also takes me out to eat to celebrate.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing, and by whom?
Just get the words done. Hyperfocusing on making it perfect as I go will stop me from getting anything done.
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
Reminding myself that I can’t always go back and fix something. The first draft is going to be a hot mess, and the second isn’t going to be much better, and that’s okay.
What type of books do you enjoy reading the most?
I’m a mood reader, so it changes often, but the subgenre I always come back to is zombie apocalypse. I don’t know why but I love it.
Have you ever thought you’d hate a book, but ended up loving it?
Not necessarily one book but a genre. I was convinced I wouldn’t like historical fiction, but then I read Backwards to Oregon by Jae, and it’s now one of my favorite books I’ve ever read.
