In Which Kristan Higgins Contemplates Lad Lit and PoFam Romance
In this conversation, Nancy chats with bestselling author Kristan Higgins, exploring her journey from aspiring writer to successful novelist. Kristan shares her experiences in the publishing industry, her writing process, and the evolution of her work from romance to women's fiction. The discussion also delves into the importance of social media in connecting with readers and building a successful author brand.
Kristan and Nancy delve into the multifaceted world of writing, exploring the challenges authors face in balancing authenticity with branding, the importance of personal voice, and the necessity of thorough research when tackling sensitive topics. They discuss the evolving landscape of social media and its impact on authors, the significance of maintaining passion for writing amidst industry pressures, and the future of publishing in the age of AI.
Kristan shares her personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of listening to others' stories and the value of self-care in the writing process.
Key Takeaways
Kristan Higgins has published 24 books, all of which have been bestsellers.
She started writing while raising her children and found inspiration in romance novels.
Attending a writing conference motivated her to pursue publishing seriously.
Her first book was a sleeper hit that gained traction through word of mouth.
Kristan emphasizes the importance of writing relatable characters and stories.
She transitioned from romance to women's fiction, focusing on women's journeys.
Her writing process involves brainstorming 'what if' scenarios before outlining.
Social media has played a crucial role in her career, allowing her to connect with readers.
Kristan’s authenticity on social media resonates with her audience.
Having a supportive assistant has helped her manage her online presence while writing. Social media can be overwhelming for authors.
Authenticity is crucial in writing and branding.
Finding your personal voice is essential for success.
Researching difficult topics enhances authenticity in writing.
Connecting with real experiences enriches storytelling.
Maintaining passion for writing is vital for long-term success.
Physical activity can help balance the writing life.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to writing.
AI is an inevitable part of the future of publishing.
Control what you can control in your writing career.
