Fresh Fiction Blog | Kimberly Fisk | The Power of a Dream...

Like so many others, I’ve been caught by the Olympic fever. Each night my family and I sit in our living room and watch athletes do the impossible. I gasp in amazement as they fly down the slopes…dance on the ice…flip and twirl through the air. But as much as their individual performances captivate me, I find myself wondering about when they dared to dream of becoming an Olympic athlete. And, more importantly, when they dared to voice that dream.

Dreaming is easy. Safe. In our minds we can envision ourselves doing anything, being anyone. But when you dare to voice your dream...oh, man. Scary stuff indeed.

I still remember the moment I discovered my first romance novel. I was at my Aunt Patsy’s house and a copy of The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen Woodiwiss was on the nightstand next to the guest bed. That night, while everyone else was sleeping, I sat in the window seat and with lightning illuminating the dark sky, I devoured that book. The passion, the heartache, the longing… When I reached the end, I realized my life would never be the same. Now, I not only knew what genre I wanted to read, but I also knew what I wanted to write.

But knowing and believing are two different things.

So I shelved my dream. Went to school, got married, had three wonderful children. And in between a demanding job and mommy duties, I read. And read and read and read. I read every romance novel I could find. But I never let myself dare to dream I could become a published author. That dream seemed better suited to someone else. So I kept my fading dream close, only sharing it with my husband. And thank goodness I did!

One day while I was chasing toddlers and changing diapers, he handed me an article from our hometown paper highlighting the local Romance Writers of America chapter. A whole world of romance writers and readers? Heaven!! Right then I knew I had a decision to make: was I willing to put voice to my long held desire?

Was I willing to publicly fail? Because really, that was what I was afraid of.

It took me six years to complete my first book. It then took the prodding of my amazingly supportive friends to convince me to enter RWA's Golden Heart contest. When they announced that I had won, I wish I could say I was speechless. Surprised? Yes! Shocked? Yes! Yes!! But speechless? How I wish. No. I cried. Like a baby.

While that manuscript did not find a publisher, it did land me the world’s best agent. And when I sat down to write my second novel, I channeled all of my long held dreams, all of those longings, into my hero and heroine. Jenny is a strong woman, shattered by her past, who is afraid to believe in love…until she meets Jared, a hardened flyboy who lives in a closed world where hopes and dreams do not exist.

While my road to publication has been a long one, I’ve learned that each dream begins with a single, small step. And while I’m no Olympic athlete, I am glad I finally dared to voice my dream and let it take flight. How about you? Have you taken that first step toward fulfilling your dream? Did you, like me, read a book that changed your life? Or did your dream take a different path? Do you remember the first romance novel you read? Please share with me on this my first blogging experience!! Everyone who comments will be included in a drawing for an autographed copy of my first novel, LAKE MAGIC, and a $20.00 Barnes and Noble gift certificate.

Warmly,

~Kimberly

kimberlyfisk.com

Comments

I could never write a book, but I read all the time. i never go anywhere without one. I've been reading since I was in grade school. Being fr. a small town there wasn't much to do, so reading was my escape.
(Pat Wilson 11:04am March 1, 2010)

So nice to hear from you, Pat!! We sound exactly alike. I, too, came from a small town--really small town. Riding my horse and reading were my two activities. And I hear you on having a book with you at all times. There is always at least one book in my purse and one in the car. With running my three kids around, I have plenty of waiting in the car time. LOL May I ask who your favorite authors are and what you've read lately that you enjoy? I'm always on the lookout for new authors and new books!!

Unfortunately I have to run to the day job, but I'll be back tonight!!
Kimberly
(Kimberly Fisk 12:48pm March 1, 2010)

A lesson I teach my daughters
is to follow your dreams,
wherever they take you, even
if it feels like you are off
track. The road to dreams is
not a straight line.
(Tanja Haack 4:57pm March 1, 2010)

I remember my first romance novel. I found it in my older brother's room and decided to read it. It was a big change from the usual Young Adult books I was reading at the time. I fell in love with it. Sadly I don't remember the title or the author. I still remember what happened in the book even though it's been well over 10 years.

Props to you for being able to write a book. I think the only books I am capable of writing are alphabet books and counting books. Easy stuff like that.
(Alyn Yang 9:34pm March 1, 2010)

I wish I could tell you my first romance
book, but my memory doesn't go back so
far.
(Jung Ja Ahn 12:04pm March 2, 2010)

Hi, Karen. Thank you so much for stopping by. I have to admit, I was SOOOO nervous writing this blog--my first blog e.v.e.r.
(Kimberly Fisk 1:24am March 2, 2010)

Oh, Tanja. I LOVE that. You are so right, the road to a dream is not a straight path. What great advice you are giving your daughters. If you don't mind, I'd love to share that with my children. Thanks so much for stopping by!!
(Kimberly Fisk 1:26am March 2, 2010)

Alyn, you crack me up: alphabet and counting books. I bet if you told us the plot of that first romance novel you read, we could figure it out. Romance readers have THE BEST memories!! And too funny you found your first romance in your older brother's room. Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment.
(Kimberly Fisk 1:29am March 2, 2010)

Hi, Jung Ja!! I used to think I had the world's greatest memory. Oi. The older I get, the worse it gets. My kids love that about me. LOL LOL Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment. I know how busy we all are and so appreciate everyone taking the time.
(Kimberly Fisk 1:32am March 2, 2010)

Hi, I don't remember my first romance novel - way too many years have passed. Congrats on the blog!!
(Mary Preston 3:17am March 2, 2010)

Congratulations on finding a voice to your dream! Keep writing!
(Joanne Reynolds 6:33am March 2, 2010)

I remember the book and initial happening that set me on my path. The book (s) was James Herriot "All Creatures Great and Small". It lead me to know that what I wanted more than anything was to help animals, to be a vet.I loved watching the show on PBS too. I recall too being 5 years old and we had a dog with epilepsy. In his seizures he would run and run , no one but me could get close to him, my mom taught me what to do putting a spoon in his mouth to hold his tongue down, then to calm him, putting a cold wash cloth on his head. That moved me to know yes this was what I was to do with my life. I still do take medical care of animals but I also do medical research as time went on I saw the suffering in both the animals and people, needs for cures..now I do cancer research. I keep thinking..why not a cure?
(Susan Dase 7:52am March 2, 2010)

Congrads on finding your dream. Love your book cover~very pretty. Can't remember the first romance novel I read either but; I love to read them.
(Sue Brandes 7:59am March 2, 2010)

The first romance I read was LADY OF FIRE. I still own it and love it!
(Susan Shay 9:35am March 2, 2010)

what a great blog, can't wait to read your book.
(Kelly Marker 9:53am March 2, 2010)

I could never write a book and have great respect for those that can. I read all the time, about a book every 2 days. My first book was Dark Prince by Christine Feehan - I got it in a charity shop and haven't stopped reading romance's since.
(Barbara Hanson 10:11am March 2, 2010)

Congrats on your book and your first blogging experience. The first romance novel I read was Gone With the Wind, when I was 12.
(G S Moch 10:13am March 2, 2010)

Good morning, Mary! You, Jung Ja and I all seem to suffer from the same problem. I'm seeing a pattern. LOL Thank you so much for coming by today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:15am March 2, 2010)

Thank you so much, Joanne. Ahhh but there are some days when I sit down to write that that voice seems very, very far away. :) I so appreciate you visiting the blog today and leaving a comment!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:17am March 2, 2010)

What a beautiful story, Susan Dase. You obviously have a rare talent when it comes to animals. And how wonderful you now work in research. As a mother of a daughter with an incurable auto immune disease, thank you, thank you!! On a different note, LOVE all the James Harriet stories. When my husband and I were first married (and too poor to do anything else), we'd take turns reading them out loud to each other at night. How we laughed!! Such great memories. Thank you for stopping by today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:23am March 2, 2010)

Hi, Sue. I'm so glad you like Lake Magic's cover. I think Berkley did such a beautiful job with it. And, for anyone who knows me this won't come as a surprise, but the first time I saw it, I cried. I was just so, so happy!! Thank you for taking the time today to stop by and leave a comment!!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:28am March 2, 2010)

What, Susan Shay...a romance novel I've missed? I'm definitely going to have to find a copy of LADY OF FIRE and add it to my pile. Don't you love how we can read and reread our favorites and love them just as much the second (and twentieth!) time just as much?! Thank you so much for stopping by today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:30am March 2, 2010)

I very seldom remember my dreams. I would like to remember the goods.
(Jeffrey Russell 10:31am March 2, 2010)

Hi, Kelly. Thank you so much! As you might have seen from an above post, this was my "virgin blog." I was so nervous, I couldn't eat. I'm thinking this has to be good for a five pound loss. Hmmm, maybe I should blog more often. ha ha ha Thank you so much for stopping by and, if you do find a chance to read Lake Magic, I'd love to hear what you think.
(Kimberly Fisk 10:34am March 2, 2010)

Wow, Barbara, and I thought I was a fast reader!! I've heard nothing but fantastic things about Christine Feehan. I'm not one who usually reads paranormal novels but last year a girlfriend told I had to read the Twilight series. Ummm, devoured those books in four days. One each night after the kids went to bed. I was one tired, but happy, camper that week. :) I'll make sure and include Dark Prince in my next Amazon order. Thanks for the recommendation and for joining me today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:39am March 2, 2010)

Thanks for sharing in the power of dreaming. I too started that same dream when I was only 13 years old, I'm now 39. Ironically, the first romance novel I ever read was the one I stole from my sister Debbie, The Wolf and the Dove, by Kathleen Woodwiss!LOL I'm currently working toward my first publication and look forward to the day, where I too, will cry tears of happiness for winning the Golden Heart. ~ Truly Tamara Smith
(Tamara Smith 10:40am March 2, 2010)

Hey, love...what a great blog! Thank you for sharing your heart like this. :) I so hear you! I wrote for nine years before selling my 13th manuscript - they all sold subsequently, but I often say writing isn't for whimps! :) My first romance novel? It was a Presents. The first author I glommed - Julie Garwood. The first time I realized I could make people feel like what I was reading? Eclipse Bay by Jayne Ann Krentz. (I'd been writing for several years by then.)

Hugs! Lucy :)
(Lucy Monroe 10:40am March 2, 2010)

Gone With The Wind. OMG. Just typing the title gives me goose bumps as I remember all those great moments between Scarlett and Rhett. Each time I read GWTW, I try and convince myself that, yes, this time, they will get together. So many people I know have only watched the movie and while the movie is utterly fantastic, I tell them they really must read the book. Thanks, G S Moch, for reminding me of one of the greatest reads ever! I so appreciate you stopping by today and leaving a comment!!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:44am March 2, 2010)

How my husband wishes I wouldn't remember my dreams, Jeffrey. Sometimes I have this great dream and I'll wake up in the middle of the night and then have to wake him so I can share. Gotta love a man who just pulls me close, gives me a hug and a kiss and says "that's wonderful, sweetie." Then goes right back to sleep. :) Thank you so much for stopping by today!!!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:48am March 2, 2010)

Tamara, The Wolf and the Dove was the third romance I ever read. Wulfgar, ahhhhhh. Such an amazing hero. Yum. Yum. :) And how exciting to hear you're a writer!! Did you enter the GH this year? My fingers are crossed you get the call. And when you do, I bet you'll cry much prettier than I did. Thanks so much for stopping by today and I eagerly await the day when I see your name on the front of a book!!
(Kimberly Fisk 10:55am March 2, 2010)

Lucy!! Oh my gosh, how sweet of you to stop by. For those of you who haven't yet met Lucy, rush over to her website. What an inspiration she is to so many of us writers!! And inspiration and the best cheerleader and writer could hope for! She is one of the hardest working authors in the biz. Thanks again, Lucy, for stopping by. And how right you are, writing is not for wimps!
(Kimberly Fisk 11:00am March 2, 2010)

Kim--what a great publication
story. Congrats on the release!
I have Lake Magic on my Kindle
:-)
(Gina Robinson 11:32am March 2, 2010)

congrats on the book kim! i'm still trying to achieve my dream, which involves going back to school but i know i'll get there someday. great post!
(Michelle Santiago 11:46am March 2, 2010)

Congrats, Kim, on living your dream! I am most likely in the minority, but I've never read a romance novel. However, I promise to make Lake Magic my first one in the very near future. And when it comes to dreams, my life wouldn't be as it is today without them!!
(Lorie Dankers 12:21pm March 2, 2010)

Gina, you are so sweet. Just the other day, I saw LM on a Kindle for the first time. Had that same "OMG" feeling like when I saw it on a bookstore shelf. I don't own a Kindle but hear so many people who love them!! Thank you so much for stopping by today, I really appreciate it. And for all you readers, if you love sexy suspense, check out Gina's books. They're FAB!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:33pm March 2, 2010)

I love hearing the road-to-publication stories of other authors. As Lucy says, writing isn't for wimps!
Great blog. :)
(Margaret Mallory 12:33pm March 2, 2010)

Kimberly - Love your blog!! You voices what so many of us who are trying to/or wanabe writers are thinking. Afraid to be rejected, not good enough, holding too tight to our babies (our creations), to take that leap of faith. It is a scary place to be.
So glad that you are succeeding in your dream! Now I need to get on with "my" dream and take that "leap of faith".
(Beth Tucker 12:37pm March 2, 2010)

Kim.. Way to go. Living your dream! I'm here supporting you all the way. Glad you are blogging. Keep up the great work. I am enjoying Nicholus Sparks books. I am not a big romance person, but I VERY much enjoyed Lake Magic. The northwest setting is great. Makes us love it even more!
(Pam Flaherty 12:38pm March 2, 2010)

Hi, Michelle. Sometimes there are so many roadblocks in our path our dreams seem impossible. But know that I'm hoping, praying and cheering for you that you find a way to get back to school!! Thank you so much for stopping by today and leaving a comment!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:39pm March 2, 2010)

Congrats on having your dream and voice heard!!! :)
(Colleen Conklin 12:42pm March 2, 2010)

Brenda, I think you are so right. There are so many gifts/life lessons I want to pass on to my children but I especially want them BELIEVE they can try anything! And, just this past week, I saw a glimpse that my motherly advice might be working. My youngest son, against ALL the odds, is trying out for the Varsity baseball team. I am so darn proud of him, I could burst! Thank you for your wonderful comment!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:44pm March 2, 2010)

Lorie!! You are so sweet to stop by today. Haven't read a romance?! Oh, my! We're going to have to change that. LOL BTW, your little ring bearer is now 6'3" and a senior in high school. Oi. Where does the time go?!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:48pm March 2, 2010)

Margaret, I'm with you--LOVE to hear authors talk about their publication journey. No two stories are alike. Congrats on all your success with your great Medievals. Knight of Desire was fantastic and so looking forward to having the time to read Knight of Pleasure. So appreciate you stopping by today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:57pm March 2, 2010)

How right you are, Beth. It is a leap of faith. (Always makes me think of that Indiana Jones movies where he takes that step off the ledge ). And that leap of faith--I don't think it ever goes away. Or it doesn't for me, anyway. I feel that way every time I sit down to write. Know that I'm cheering for you!! Please keep me posted on how your writing goes! I'm so glad you stopped by today.
(Kimberly Fisk 1:08pm March 2, 2010)

Pam, you are so sweet!! Thank you so much for your kind words about Lake Magic. I'm dying to see the new Sparks movie--Dear John. Has anyone seen it? If so, what did you think?! LOVE The Notebook. But then, how could I not? It had my Jimmy in it (James Garner)!!! Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 1:11pm March 2, 2010)

Thank you so much, Colleen!! I so appreciate you joining me here today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 1:13pm March 2, 2010)

As a kid, I always thought I'd have lots and lots of kids. Well, I do. Only two are mine by birth. The other multitude of kids are those I work with every day. Not really a different dream, just a bit altered than how it started out.
BTW, I read Lake Magic and LOVED it. Recommend it to everyone every chance I get. Have a great day.
(Kara Conrad 1:17pm March 2, 2010)

Hi Kim, Congrats on your first blog! I started writing because I needed something I really looked forward to on a daily basis, and didn't cost an arm and a leg to do! Fame and fortune will be great, but I LOVE to write. I hosted two international soccer players at my house this weekend. After the try-out he said, "You know, I love soccer." He was beat up and could hardly walk. He wouldn't care if he was playing in the World Cup or getting millions of $, he plays because he LOVES what he does. I want that too!
Diana Gabaldon got me into reading romance again. She is a writing goddess! Just like you Kim! :)
(Jennifer Conner 1:19pm March 2, 2010)

Oh my gosh, Kara. Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words about Lake Magic. I don't think an author can receive a higher compliment than to hear a reader has recommended their book to others. Thank you, thank you!!! And what a lovely story about all your kids. Love how your dream was fulfilled! Maybe not how you first envisioned it, but fulfilled just the same! Thank you so much for stopping by today.
(Kimberly Fisk 1:31pm March 2, 2010)

Jennifer, what a wonderful story. I think it's so true, we do what we do because we love it. It's a passion that while money & fame & bestseller lists would be wonderful, they wouldn't define who we are. Or what we do. And after being incredibly lucky and getting the chance to read your writing, I have no doubt I will soon see your name on the front of a book. Thank you so much for coming by today. And a writing goddess?! Can I pass that along to my family? Maybe it will get me out of cooking dinner and doing laundry. ha ha ha Oh, how I wish!! :)
(Kimberly Fisk 1:37pm March 2, 2010)

I am not sure when I read my first romance novel but there have been some memorable ones.
(Shannon Scott 1:39pm March 2, 2010)

I don't know about you, Shannon, but I have a special shelf of my all time favs. About once a year, I love to revisit some of those romances that just send me. I never tire of reading those books. Thanks so much for stopping by today and leaving a comment!!
(Kimberly Fisk 1:46pm March 2, 2010)

Hi Kim,
I remember my first romance was Ashes in the Wind. It always amazes me that so many of us read something by Kathleen Woodiwiss to begin with. Anyway, it wasn't until many books and years later that I wanted to write. I'm glad I started and joined RWA. I've learned soooo much.
(Tina Louise 2:02pm March 2, 2010)

Congrats on publishing your first novel. I don't believe I have the skill to write a good novel but I sure do love reading them. However, I do remember the joy of seeing your name in print for the first time when having a work published. In this case, it was a poem. When I was a teenager I loved to write poetry but lacked the courage to try and get it published until I was in college. I decided to take a chance and submit some of my work to the school's poetry magazine. Like you, I was speechless when I saw that one of my poems had been chosen and published. What a tremendous feeling. I was so glad that I had taken the chance. Proof that you can accomplish what you wish to if you are willing to take chances. Thanks for guestblogging and sharing your story.
(Cherie Japp 3:02pm March 2, 2010)

Kim - love your blog! Lake Magic is the very next book on my "To Be Read" pile. I have a feeling you're going to cost me some sleep, though, because I've already done some peeking and I can't wait to dive into this story. All the best to you!
(Dawn Calvert 3:16pm March 2, 2010)

Hi, Deb. Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today. I wish I had enough copies of Lake Magic to give out to everyone!! If you do get a chance to read it, I'd love to hear what you think!!
(Kimberly Fisk 3:27pm March 2, 2010)

Tina, that is so true!! How cool that Woodiwiss brought so many of us into the genre. I mean, who could read one of her books and not be hooked on romances forever?! The second romance I read was Laurie McBain's When the Splendor Falls. OH MAN!! Love, love, love that book. Recently I read in RT that she is writing again. I'm thrilled!! And I know if it wasn't for RWA, I would never have published. Thanks so much for coming by the blog today. I so appreciate it!!
(Kimberly Fisk 3:32pm March 2, 2010)

Rose, sometimes when I'm writing I think about Margaret Mitchell. To write that big of a story. All those characters...all those plot lines...the historical details...the pain and heartache and passion. Amazing!! Thank you so very much for coming by today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 3:37pm March 2, 2010)

Cherie, it IS pure joy seeing your name in print. I think because it represent so much. For me, all those years of hoping and praying and working toward my dream. Huge congrats on taking that chance and submitting your poems!! I'm so glad you stopped by today and shared your story with all of us!!
(Kimberly Fisk 3:43pm March 2, 2010)

Dawn, you sweetie!! I so hope you enjoy Lake Magic. Every time I read the tag line from your second novel, His and Hers, I get chills. Good chills. GREAT chills. "Tell me what you want. What you really, really want." Oh, my!! Good stuff! :) Thank you so much for stopping by today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 3:51pm March 2, 2010)

I enjoyed your blog. It helped me think about things that I want to do and how to go about seeing them through.
Thanks
(Leni Kaye 3:56pm March 2, 2010)

So many authors knew when they were a preteen that they wanted to be a writer. Some were able to start their dream early, some later in life. I have always wanted to write and have written poems, songs and small pcs for local newspaper. I just retired in 08 and still trying to get my bearings but hope to go to one of the books I have written and see if it is good enough to try pubishing. I do admire you that you did get to do what you wanted to at a fairly early time in your life. Congratulations and keep on keeping on. The readers are waiting on the next book..
(Brenda Hill 4:16pm March 2, 2010)

Dear Leni;
Thank you so much! I hope you accomplish everything you set out to. So glad you stopped by today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 4:29pm March 2, 2010)

Congratulations on retiring, Brenda. My husband dreams of that day far, far, FAR off in the future. :) Wow, what a wonderful variety of writing you have done. That is wonderful! How exciting you are revisting the books you've written. I'm cheering for you!! Thank you so much for visiting with me today. And what a sweet comment about my next book. I'm super excited about it!!
(Kimberly Fisk 4:34pm March 2, 2010)

Congratulations, Kimberly, on your debut novel and on your first blogging experience! I love to read and my very first romance novel was a Harlequin titled THE GENTLE FLAME by Katrina Britt. What amazes me is that I remember it over 32 years later!
(Deb H. 4:46pm March 2, 2010)

Isn't it amazing, Deb? But almost every romance reader I've ever asked remembers the first romance they read. Thank you so much for stopping by today and joining in the fun!!
(Kimberly Fisk 4:56pm March 2, 2010)

My first romance novel had an enormous impact on me. I didn't want to read anything else for the rest of my life and when it came time to write I didn't want to write anything but love stories. It was Carnal Innocence by Nora Roberts. I loved your post! Thanks!
(Amber Leigh Williams 5:06pm March 2, 2010)

Amber, I felt the exact same way when I read my first romance novel. Thank you so much for stopping by today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 5:33pm March 2, 2010)

Kathleen Woodiwiss' wonderful stories are what got me hooked on romance, also. I even named my daughter Alaina after Alaina MacGaren from Ashes in the Wind. Sigh. It's been too long since I picked up one of her stories. Time to dust one off and remember. :) Thanks for the great post, Kim. And the memories!
(L R 6:55pm March 2, 2010)

Lake Magic looks v.g. Will be getting it (if I don't win it here)!

My first romance type books was Sandra Brown's Exclusive - more of a rom . suspense.
(Pat Lieberman 7:12pm March 2, 2010)

Dear Laurie;
My oldest son is named Brandon. As in Brandon and Heather from The Flame in the Flower. I thought I was the only one who had done this!! :) Thank you so very much for stopping by the blog and leaving a comment.
(Kimberly Fisk 7:13pm March 2, 2010)

Hi, Pat. Fingers crossed for you in the drawing. Like I said earlier, I wish I had enough copies to give everyone!! I LOVE Sandra Brown. If you can find any of her old category books, GRAB THEM! Love all her books but those category ones--wow. Talk about great sexual chemistry! Thanks so much for joining us here today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 7:16pm March 2, 2010)

I don't remember my first romance novel specifically, but I do recall Danielle Steele & Sandra Brown were some of the earliest authors I read that branched more into romance...Unless you count Gone with the Wind as a romance book, it sort of is although it is so much more than that too, I read that thing cover to cover at least once a year from the 8th grade on through high school & college.
(Cheryl Bradley 7:54pm March 2, 2010)

I agree, Cheryl. Gone With The Wind is so much more. Its been about five years since I've reread GWTW, I need to make sure and add it to my "must reads" this spring. And, sheesh, just realized I haven't turned my daughter on to this book. Bad mommy. Bad. :) Thank you so much for joining us here today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 8:00pm March 2, 2010)

I never go anywhere without a book or two. I read more in one week than most people do in a month. It's my favorite passtime!
(Kathryn Windland 8:21pm March 2, 2010)

to reach for a dream--- one was to be a mom, can check that one of my list with three kids, a second would be a children's book illustrator -- not sure where to start with that one, used to follow some illustrations sites and forums but have not even drawn anything except a pointe shoe for my daughter since she wanted to she who could do it better for awhile. As for books many roam around our house in various states of finish, I am usually never without one, trying to install that love in my kids
(Kelly Holt 8:28pm March 2, 2010)

I dreamed of being a nurse at age 8 with a picture and merit badges in Scouts. Then after so much time riding buses, the writing began on the bouncy ride home. Diaries and writing the sadness out used to be my creative outlet. After a long hiatus, now belong to Cleveland State University Writers Group (free)and 2 poetry groups, my writing gets closer to readable. People are out there to help you with your craft.
(Alyson Widen 8:38pm March 2, 2010)

I'm so sorry--some posts are showing up here and some are showing up on the book page for Lake Magic. I really am answering everyone, so if you don't see a response here, it is probably on the other page.
(Kimberly Fisk 8:44pm March 2, 2010)

Hi, Alyson! It sounds like you belong to a wonderful writers group. I know that if I hadn't joined RWA (Romance Writers of America) I would have never gotten published. Because, just like you said, generous people are out there ready to help us with our craft. Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today!
(Kimberly Fisk 8:51pm March 2, 2010)

I don't remember the title but i
sure it was by Emily Loring.
(Lisa Richards 9:04pm March 2, 2010)

I am such an Olympics junkie too! It's
like I don't know what to do with
myself now that they are over.

I definitely remember the first
romance novel I read-it was actually
the first book I read that didn't include
comics. :) It was The Promise by
Danielle Steele when I was in college. I
couldn't put it down and I read until 5
am. I then immediately went to yard
sales looking for all of her books. I've
outgrown her style for sure and prefer
historical fiction now, but I'll never
forget that one book that got me
hooked on reading.
(MaryAnne Banks 9:36pm March 2, 2010)

I enjoyed your blog a lot. I have never read any of your books but will have to look for them. I LOVE the Olympics and can understand people that had a dream and followed it. I was a loner and was never anywhere without a book. My father always hollered at me and told me to quit reading so much but I never listened. I got in trouble at school for hiding books behind my school books and reading them in class. HA! Awe the memories. But anyway I have been reading for close to 50 years so don't remember the first one. But I love Robhyn Carr,Debbkie Macomber,Linda Lael Miller and countless others. Thanks for sharing with us.
(Diana Smith 9:58pm March 2, 2010)

Looks like your first blog is a resounding success, Kim! I'm looking forward to reading Lake Magic!
(Theresa Scott 11:13pm March 2, 2010)

Please enter me in your contest. I can't remember my first romance, no way, I've been reading them since I was 12 or 13 and I'm 51 now. Too many years!
(Brenda Rupp 11:41pm March 2, 2010)

Hi, Lisa. I haven't read Emily Loring; I'll make sure and add her to my list of new authors to read!! Thank you so much for joining the fun today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 11:59pm March 2, 2010)

The Promise! Boy do I remember that book, Molly. Waaaaay back in the day, before marriage and kids, I worked as a paralegal. I started a romance when I got home from work, read all through the night and had about 50 pages left by the time I had to leave for work the next day. Unable to stop reading, I copied the last few pages to read while at my desk. My boss never knew... :) I so appreciate you joining in today!!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:02pm March 3, 2010)

Diana, thank you for your kind comment. As I've mentioned, I was a tad...stressed about writing it. :) And the classic "hide the romance." As you can see in my reply to Molly, I got very creative with how I hid my romance. LOL You and I have such similar reading tastes! Thanks so much for visiting today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:09pm March 3, 2010)

Thank you so much for stopping by, Cecilia!! You're entered!! :)
(Kimberly Fisk 12:10pm March 3, 2010)

Theresa, you sweetheart! I hope you enjoy Lake Magic!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:13pm March 3, 2010)

But lots of good years, right, Brenda?! :) Thank you so much for joining us today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:14pm March 3, 2010)

Good luck on your first novel - I love the cover!
(Cheryl Snyder 12:27pm March 3, 2010)

I'm so glad you like the cover, Cheryl. I just love it!! Could not have asked for anything more lovely. Thank you for joining the blog today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:40pm March 3, 2010)

Sounds like a good book. I usually wait
until the whole series is out . I'll don't
like waiting for the next book in a series
to come out.
Good luck with the release.
(Patricia Barraclough 12:58pm March 3, 2010)

Wow, Wanda. A book a day?! I am impressed. Thank you so much for the congrats. I still have a hard time believing my book is on the shelves. And love the yummy description!! :) Thanks so much for stopping by!!
(Kimberly Fisk 1:02am March 3, 2010)

Thank you so much, Patricia. I understand what you mean about series. While Lake Magic is a stand alone novel, I'd love to write connected books one day. Thank you for joining in today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 1:08am March 3, 2010)

Kim, it was so wonderful to meet you,
and a pleasure to read your
publication story. I identify with
everything you said! The first romance
I read was actually more women's
fiction, I think, The Proud Breed by
Celeste de Blasis, when I was 12.
Shanna, by Kathleen Woodiwiss, was
second. Both of those books had a
profound influence on me, and in fact
both of them are still right here on my
desk, along with Woodiwiss's The Wolf
& the Dove and A Rose in Winter, as I
refer to them frequently and reread
them as often as possible. I can't wait
to dive in to Lake Magic! All the best!
(Chassily Wakefield 3:02am March 3, 2010)

I actually still have the first romance i have read. It is The Paper Marriage by Bronwyn Williams. I still love it
(Raelena Pavey 5:30am March 3, 2010)

It was absolutely wonderful to meet you, too, Chassily. Isn't it amazing how many of us read a Woodiwiss novel? (If not first, almost). I so hope you enjoy Lake Magic. Thanks so much for joining the blog today!!
(Kimberly Fisk 8:24am March 3, 2010)

Raelena; I tink I have EVERY romance novel I've ever read. Can't seem to part with my books. :) When we moved several years ago, I carefully packed them up, really hoping to get the hubby to build these bookcases I want. Bookcases aren't completed but I'll have all those wonderful books to shelf once they are. I so appreciate you stopping by!!
(Kimberly Fisk 8:27am March 3, 2010)

I was so caught up in the olympics this year too. I just retired and now had the time to watch much of the events. I also have shelves of books waiting to be read, now that I have the time. I cannot wait.
(Barbara Studer 9:48am March 3, 2010)

I haven't read your book, Kimberly. It looks interesting & I plan to put it on my TBR list!
(Sharon Shearouse 10:41am March 3, 2010)

Hi Kimberly, I remember reading my first romance book in 5th grade. My grandmoter and aunts were always reading and I wanted to know what was the attraction to sitting hours just reading. It was a really old one about a nurse that falls in love with the doctor, wrote in the early 70's. They don't write books like that any more. lol.
(Tonya Atchley 11:10am March 3, 2010)

Glad to hear I wasn't the only one with Olympica fever, Barbara. :) Enjoy retirement and all that lovely time to read. Thank you so much for stopping by!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:03pm March 3, 2010)

Thanks so much, Sharon. If you do get a chance to read Lake Magic, I'd love to hear what you think!! I so appreciate you joining me here!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:04pm March 3, 2010)

Ah, Tonya, I see I'm not the only one who had an aunt who (unknowingly) introduced me to romances. :) A nurse falling in love with a doctor--sounds like a classic. Love those plot lines. Thank you so much for joining in!!
(Kimberly Fisk 12:08pm March 3, 2010)

Lake Magic sounds delightful.
Blessings,
Marjorie
(Marjorie Carmony 2:16pm March 3, 2010)

I read the english lit requirements such as Jane Eyre and Pride and Prejudice and loved them....but I think my renewed interest in reading(after nearly 30 years of not taking the time to read for fun) occurred when my aunt came to visit for the week and brought this wonderful book with her titled Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. We spent the whole week laying by the pool reading the entire series...It was so much fun.

And I Haven't quit reading for fun since then and now I read about 3-5 romance novels a week!!!
(Mitzi Hinkey 3:28pm March 3, 2010)

Marjorie;
What an incredibly kind comment. Thank you so very much and thank you for joining the discussion!!
(Kimberly Fisk 6:46pm March 3, 2010)

Hi, Mitzi. Oh man, do I ever remember reading Outlander. Wow, 3 to 5 romances a week, you put me to shame! So wonderful to "meet" you here!!
(Kimberly Fisk 6:49pm March 3, 2010)

Love to read, enjoy the whole Fresh Fiction website. Will look forward to reading your book.
(Paulette Hendrix 10:08pm March 3, 2010)

I remembered my first romance. It was a Harlequin Romance, "Where the Wolf Leads," by Jane Arbor. I was supposely be studying but I got bored (information overload) and took a break.
(Kai Wong 10:10pm March 3, 2010)

My wife has certain books that she goes back and re-reads thru-out the year. But I know that books effect people differently depending on preferences.
(Jeffrey Russell 10:10pm March 3, 2010)

Back again. I have read ALL of Sandra's category romances, couldnt rest years ago til I found them all - was so sad when I finished the last one. LOL.
(Pat Lieberman 11:33pm March 3, 2010)

Hi, Paulette!! Yes, isn't this a great, interactive site for readers? I love it to. If you do get a chance to read Lake Magic, I'd love to hear what you think. All my best!!
(Kimberly Fisk 1:28am March 4, 2010)

Kai, I think more romances get read when we should be studying. Or cleaning...cooking...working. LOL Thank you so much for joining us!
(Kimberly Fisk 1:30am March 4, 2010)

Welcome back Jeffrey & Pat!! I'm like your wife, Jeffrey, I must visit my all time favs at least once a year or os.

I'm jealous, Pat. I haven't been able to find/read more than half of SB's category romances. Lucky, lucky you!! :) The most recent book of hers that I read was Play Dirty. Really enjoyed it. Had a twist I never saw coming.
(Kimberly Fisk 1:33am March 4, 2010)

A HUGE thank you to everyone who stopped by the blog. I had such a wonderful time chatting with all of you!! And I hope the fun doesn't stop here. If you're on Facebook, I'd love to connect. Or, you can always ontact me through my website. I've had the most gorgeous bookplates made for Lake Magic. If you'd like one, please send me your address and I'll get it in the mail asap. Thanks again!! This was such a fun experience.

All my very best,
Kimberly
(Kimberly Fisk 8:57pm March 4, 2010)

As a teenager I was hooked on harlequin romance novels but I can't remember the names of the books.
(Ivonia Class 8:00pm March 7, 2010)

There are dreams I have had to put away, but I have others that I am taking small steps towards.
(Tamara Shurling 9:59pm March 7, 2010)

My wife loves romance novels but is loath to try new authors. I hope you become one of her new favorites
(g t Ashmore 1:52pm March 8, 2010)

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