I was thrilled to get a chance to interview Kristian Parker who has thirteen titles to his credit. HIs most recent release Fool’s Gold came out just a few days ago. Kristian took time out of his busy schedule to talk about his work. I hope you enjoy hearing another perspective on the life of a romance writer. If you like what you read, please be sure to pick up one (or more) of his books.
What is it about writing that you enjoy the most?
At the risk of sounding odd, I’m always playing little scenarios around in my head. I’ve done it ever since I can remember. The physical act of writing is getting some of these scenarios out and onto the page. I love to create characters, then live inside them for a little while. One of my best friends can always tell if I haven’t written for a few days because I seem a bit more stressed than usual.
What drew you to writing gay romance?
I had the idea for To Light A Fire many years ago. I wrote it and had a look around to see where I could publish it but it didn’t come to anything. For some reason, I didn’t discover the world of M/M romance publishing. So much for my highly honed research skills.
During one of the lockdowns, I saw a tweet from Pride Publishing asking for submissions. So, I polished To Light A Fire and sent it in. I was absolutely thrilled when it was accepted. The rest is history.
Now I’ve got more specific scenarios playing out in my head. I have truly been bitten by the M/M bug and have lots of ideas that I can’t wait to bring to the table.
Can you share something about your writing process?
About ten years ago, I got my M.A. in TV & Radio Scriptwriting. We were taught to plot and to build a story in layers. I use these techniques now. I have the utmost respect for discovery writers who have a beginning and an end set but let the story flow freely as they write. I’ve tried that and found it to be far too stressful.
Because of my day job, I’m used to juggling lots of different projects and I do the same with my writing. I have everything planned. That isn’t to say the process isn’t creative. Lots of ideas come to me when I’m first drafting or editing. I just make way for them. Plans can always be changed.
What is the part of the process that you find most challenging?
The blurb on the back of the book! I hate writing the blurb. Luckily my editor, Rebecca Fairfax, is pretty nifty in the blurb department. She is very patient and lets me have an attempt, then she waves her magic wand and behold, it is ten times better.
Maybe one day I’ll master this dark art.
How has your writing changed since you published your first story?
Hmmm that’s a difficult one. That would involve me re-reading my first story I wrote for a collection, called Venetian Valentine and I’m not sure I’m brave enough. I hope that I am getting better with each book I bring out. That is certainly the intention.
With my new series, Two Tribes, I have written one big story over the trilogy as well as each book being self-contained. That was a big challenge to me, and I hope I’ve pulled it off. Previously my series were standalones in the same world.
What is your favourite thing to do when you’re not writing?
Not writing? What do you mean?
Only joking. I love to do the usual things. Travel for one. After the pandemic, I don’t think I will ever take it for granted again. I went to Rome and Greece last year. It was amazing to be back in an airport.
I’m lucky to be blessed with wonderful friends and family so if I’ve spare time, I’ll be with some partner in crime or other. Probably in a pub to be fair.
What are you most excited about in future projects/work?
I’ve been a busy boy, so 2023 is going to see quite a few stories from me.
I’ve already released the second Queens Crescent book, Pole Position which is set in the glamourous world of Formula One racing.
March sees my other new series, Two Tribes, begin. The first book, Fool’s Gold is the story of Liam Moseley. He’s in his mid-twenties and trapped in Jonny Wellingham’s gang. They have ruled Manchester, England for years yet Liam doesn’t have the respect he craves. Then Marco Ponti comes into his life, triggering a chain of events that changes everyone’s lives.
The sequel, Everything Changes is out in April and the finale, Don’t Look Back In Anger in May.
May also sees us go back to Queens Crescent for Reality Royal. I’ll calm down then, I promise. Although expect a few more visits to Queens Crescent before the end of the year. I’m currently putting the finishing touches to them so I won’t say anymore.
What is the best way to find out more about you and your work?
To keep up to date with my comings and goings, you can find me in all the usual places:
Newsletter & three free stories! www.kristianparker.com
Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/kristiansworld
Thanks for taking time today to do this interview. I look forward to reading on the upcoming books this spring and summer.
Peter E. Fenton 