You may recall the trip my husband and I took to the northern coast for research two years ago. Well, the information gathered from that trip was for this book. And thus far, the reviews have been very complimentary so I think the authenticity of the location really helped give it an extra something.
Romantic Times Bookreview magazine gave To Catch A Killer, 4.5 stars and a Top Pick! Award (out of 280 titles, only a handful of books receive this designation), saying, “A very strong adventure and nonstop, heart-pounding tension combine with a strong romance to make this a fast, emotional read.”
I was on cloud nine when I found out the story had been received so well. I’m not ashamed to admit I suffered a fair amount of nervousness when it came to how my debut romantic suspense would fare. It’s always unnerving when you’re starting something new because you have a tendency to second guess your instincts, which is counter-productive to creativity. There were plenty of moments when I simply stared at the computer screen, not quite sure if everything was working but I’m happy to report, that not only did everything come together well, I’m pretty proud of the outcome.
Readers have asked me if I find it difficult to bounce between the Superromance line and the Romantic Suspense and the answer is, not really, mostly because I find myself leaning in that direction anyway. A lot of my Supers had some kind of suspense-like element and my last Superromance, Trusting The Bodyguard, was, as my editor put it, “a wobbler” for it could’ve fit within either line.
However, with that said, the suspense line has a more intense focus on the couple and the danger they’re facing while the Superromance line takes a wider snapshot of the couple, allowing for secondary stories much like a single title would. I enjoy bouncing between the two as it really stretches my writing muscles and I feel blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of both lines.
I’ve started a new e-newsletter (I’m so behind the eight-ball with my promo efforts!) but I’m pretty pleased with the product so if you want to sign up for my newsletter, there’s a handy-dandy sign up spot on my website (www.kimberlyvanmeter.com) for your convenience. I promise no spamming! Just cool little tidbits about upcoming releases, contests and even an excerpt now and then.
My 20-year class reunion is in September (gulp!) and of course, I’m suffering from an attack of vanity and wondering how I’m going to manage to look 17 again after having three children but I suppose I’ll figure something out before then (I assume barring plastic surgery I’ll have to settle for a flattering outfit).
And finally, I’m closing in on the last of my 2011 trilogy for Superromance so I will have a few months (I think) to allow my brain (and fingers) to rest for a bit. I think I’ll read a bit. I haven’t been able to leisurely read for a while now and I miss it.
That’s it for now. Remember, To Catch A Killer hits stores the second week of August. You don’t want to miss this one…it’s a good one!
Kim Van Meter is a staff reporter for The Oakdale Leader, The Riverbank News, and The Escalon Times. She may be reached at kvanmeter@oakdaleleader.com or by calling 847-3021.
