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Monday, October 29, 2007

Spotlight on Kathryn Cushman and A Promise to Remember

Another day, another spotlight. I have THREE this week. But don't forget to post comments on the 2 from last week. We only had 1 or 2, and that's highly unusual for this blog. Lots of chances for FREE books. Don't miss out.

Today, I have the privilege of featuring yet another debut author with her first book. Already, she's received excellent reviews and accolades. Enjoy!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katie Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. After practicing as a pharmacist, she left her career to stay home with her family and has since pursued her dream of writing. A Promise to Remember is her first novel. Katie and her family currently live in Santa Barbara, California.

A PROMISE TO REMEMBER
By Kathryn Cushman
BUY YOUR COPY TODAY

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

1. This is your very first book! Congratulations! You've got two different women headed for a collision with each other and the impact that changes everything. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

There was a car accident near Santa Barbara a few years ago. It also involved teenagers and a legal case—although the rest of the circumstances were very different. Any time they talked about the story in the news, I always felt such great empathy for both mothers. Writing this story gave me a way to explore both sides a little deeper.

2. How much of your own experiences influenced the characters of Andie and Melanie? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?

I had originally planned to loosely base Melanie's personality on a good friend of mine, but from the very first scene, Melanie went her own direction. Andie's personality I based quite a bit on myself, which made it especially painful when the first critiques came back. "I hate Andie, she's such a spineless wimp." Ouch!

3. What themes exist in A Promise to Remember that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

The major theme doesn't really become apparent until pretty close to the end, so in the interest of not creating a spoiler, I won't mention that one. Some other issues addressed are parental liability, self-preservation, and standing up for what's right.

4. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?

The most difficult scenes were the ones where either mother was remembering her son. Especially hard were the scenes where Melanie was at the graveyard. I always gave my daughters an extra big hug after writing those parts.

5. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?

My next book is coming out Fall 2008. The story is about a young pharmacist who must decide whether to reveal a co-worker's negligence or preserve what's left of her family after their own tragedies.

Thank you so much, Tiff!

* * * * *

Thank you, Katie, for being in the spotlight. Readers, leave a comment for your chance to be entered in the drawing for a FREE, autographed book. If you don't wish to be entered, say so when you post. This week, the contest is open to US/Canada residents only.

10 comments:

Kim said...

I'd love to be in the drawing for this book!

Kim
berlysue.blogspot.com

Cherie J said...

Cool! Love to learn about new authors!

Anonymous said...

I came over from Katie's blog. I would love to be entered and I look forward to reading more on your blog.

tetewa said...

Count me in! tWarner419@aol.com

Anonymous said...

Wonderful book, really blessed by the author's amazing storytelling abilities. Can't wait for the next one, p.s. if I win the book, since I've already read it, it will go to someone else who needs the blessing!
-Julie

ChristyJan said...

I enjoyed the interview with Katie.
Please enter me in this drawing.

Kathryn Cushman said...

Thanks to everyone for entering and your encouraging comments. Julie, I was so blessed to read that my book blessed you (that's a lot of blessings!)
Special thanks to Tiff for hosting me!
katie

carrie said...

Way to go Katie!
Is the drawing over already?

Tiffany Amber Stockton said...

I'm a little late announcing this, but the winner of the drawing is...

CHERIE!

Congratulations. I've sent your mailing address to Katie so she can send out your book ASAP.

I'm catching up on the rest of the drawings, so visit the ones from the past month to see if you've won!

Cherie J said...

Cool! Thanks Tiff!