Kimberly Belle writes best-selling thrillers that leave readers unable to predict her surprise endings.
Belle talked with Vikki Locke and Cyndee Woolley on the PRosé podcast and says she just writes the novels she likes to read.
Belle’s thrillers have a believability that sinks readers deep into her stories. Then, when things “go really sideways,” Belle says, “it feels very fictional and very adventurous, on one hand, but very familiar on the other, so as a reader you can put yourself in that position and think, ‘this could happen to me.’”
Read more about Belle and listen to the podcast.
Behind the Scenes with Bestselling Author Kimberly Belle: Writing Thrillers, Social Media, and Navigating the Publishing World
Kimberly Belle, internationally bestselling author of seven novels, including her latest, My Darling Husband, joined the hosts of Prose A for an insightful discussion on her creative process, the challenges of social media, and the intricacies of writing domestic suspense. From her methodical approach to storytelling to her reflections on modern publishing, Belle offers a masterclass for aspiring authors and an inside look for her fans.
Finding Thrills in the Familiar: The Appeal of Domestic Suspense
Belle’s genre, domestic suspense, stands out for its combination of the ordinary and the extraordinary. As she explains, “Domestic suspense is built around the relationships within a familial setting—husband and wife, father and daughter, mother and son. You take those dynamics and throw in a suspenseful twist, and it creates something both adventurous and familiar.”
Her newest book, My Darling Husband, is no exception. The story revolves around a home invasion, a scenario that hits close to home for many. Inspired by incidents in Atlanta’s affluent neighborhoods, Belle crafted a tale that’s as unsettling as it is relatable. “It’s not about a personal experience, but a story I heard in my friend group that stayed with me,” she says.
A Pandemic-Inspired Masterpiece
Belle’s writing process for My Darling Husband was unusually swift, fueled by the isolation of the pandemic. “I wrote the first draft in just four months,” she shares. For an author who typically spends up to ten months on a manuscript, this was a significant shift. The lockdown offered both focus and a much-needed distraction. “I disappeared into my fictional world and pounded out the story,” she recalls.
Interestingly, early drafts included elements of the pandemic, but feedback from her editor and readers led her to remove those references. “It was just too soon,” Belle admits. “I think at some point, we’ll see it more in stories, but right now, it’s still fresh for many people.”
Plotting the Perfect Thriller
One hallmark of Belle’s work is the unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. But creating surprises isn’t easy, especially for a genre-savvy audience. “People who read a lot of suspense have seen it all,” she notes. “It’s so hard to surprise them, but that challenge drives me with every book.”
Her approach begins with a detailed outline, a roadmap she develops collaboratively with her publisher. “I don’t just dive into writing; I hammer out a premise, then outline the chapters,” she says. This structure allows her to focus on character development and plot intricacies as the story unfolds.
The Challenges of Social Media
For Belle, social media is both a blessing and a burden. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook provide a direct line to fans and fellow authors, but they also come with challenges. “Social media feels like an extra job,” she confesses. “It’s a vital part of an author’s life today, but it can be overwhelming.”
Belle’s next book explores the darker side of social media. It tells the story of an influencer whose post goes viral for all the wrong reasons, endangering her family. “It’s really about the risks of putting your entire life online,” Belle explains.
The Art of Titles and Covers
Titles and covers are crucial marketing tools, but Belle takes a hands-off approach. “My publisher handles it, and they do a great job,” she says. With trends like short, memorable titles and bold, eye-catching covers dominating the industry, Belle trusts the experts to position her books effectively.
Advice for Aspiring Authors
Belle’s journey offers valuable lessons for writers at any stage:
- Start with a Solid Premise: Work closely with editors or trusted peers to refine your story idea before diving into the writing process.
- Outline Your Work: Even a basic roadmap can help you stay focused and avoid writer’s block.
- Embrace Feedback: Be open to suggestions from readers, agents, and editors. Their insights can elevate your work.
- Use Social Media Strategically: Connect with your audience, but don’t let it distract from your writing.
What’s Next for Kimberly Belle?
Belle is currently working on her eighth novel, which explores the complexities of social media fame and its potential dangers. As always, readers can expect a gripping narrative filled with twists, turns, and a touch of the unexpected.
Fans can stay connected with Belle through her website, KimberlyBelleBooks.com, where links to her social media and Goodreads profiles are available.
Conclusion
Kimberly Belle’s passion for storytelling and her commitment to creating suspenseful, character-driven novels have earned her a dedicated readership. As she continues to explore new themes and challenges, her books promise to captivate and surprise audiences worldwide.
For those seeking an unforgettable read, My Darling Husband is available everywhere books are sold. Whether you’re a fan of domestic suspense or a writer looking for inspiration, Belle’s work and wisdom offer something for everyone.
