Hello all! This week’s AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT shines brightly on writer (and good friend) Dawn Kirby. Dawn and I first met a couple of years ago through the social media universe, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed watching her make the rather rapid transition from fledgling writer to published author of the terrific and highly successful SERENITY SERIES. Dawn is an incredibly talented writer (though she’s entirely too humble to admit that), and if you aren’t familiar with her work, I suggest you give it a serious look. In the meantime, let’s meet the author.
As a bonus, Dawn will choose one lucky reader from the ‘comments’ section to receive a free Kindle copy of SECRETS, the first novel of the series. 
So be sure to share your thoughts!
Hi Dawn. Why don’t you start by telling us about The Serenity Series.
Serenity Series is about a young woman who, unbeknownst to her is a Damphir. Leah’s mother did everything in her power to shield her from the truth in hopes she’d never have to face the creature that turned her parents’ lives upside down. Once the truth comes to light, Leah is thrown into an unfamiliar world and forced to fight for her life alongside creatures she never knew existed.
What sets it apart from the other paranormal series currently on the market?
Though it is a paranormal series, I try very hard to keep the characters grounded. Sure they have supernatural power so to speak, but they also have lives. They thrive on the relationships they have with others. Whether they be vampires or werewolves they respect the other for what they as a species can bring to the table.
Where did the idea for the series originate and how long did the first novel take to write?
I’m not sure where the idea originated from. All I do know is that the idea had been stuck in my mind for years. Ten-plus years to be exact. At one point about 5 years ago 
it was so overpowering it kept me up at night. I couldn’t think of anything else. My husband told me to write out what was there; maybe then it would go away. One morning after I’d dropped off my kids at school I did just that. Eight hours later I was still writing. All said and done it took me about 6 months to get SECRETS down on paper, semi-edited and out to beta readers.
Which of your characters do you most identify with, and why?
Probably Leah. She a little braver than I, but thinks of others before she stops to think of herself. Sometimes that line of thinking gets us both in trouble.
When did you know you wanted to be a writer?
The second I finished my first book. As soon as it was in the hands of beta readers I launched myself into writing the second. After all the years wondering, I had finally found my passion.
What is a typical writing day like for you?
Typically I take my kiddos to school and come home. After I have a cold can of Coke on hand, I write. Sometimes I can spend all day there at my desk. Others it may only be a couple of hours. Either way I’m doing what I love.
Any unique cures for writer’s block?
Let it go and walk away. Take the time to put your focus on anything else but the WIP. It’s amazing how quickly the block lifts when you let go.
What one piece of advice would you give aspiring writers, whether they are pursing the indie or traditional route?
Never quit. Being a writer is probably the most stressful, infuriating, time-consuming career you’ll ever pursue. In the end, it’s also the most fulfilling.
Do you have any upcoming projects we should know about?
TRIBULATIONS, the third book in the Serenity Series is set to release soon. Another novel, APEX, a collaboration with none other than A.T. Russell is slated to hit amazon very soon. I also have two other works in progress, both very different from the world of Serenity.
In the interests of making our readers feel special, what is one thing you can tell us about yourself that no one else knows?
I’m a bit of a control freak. I like things in order from the glasses being lined up right in the cabinet right down to the color-coded hangers my kids hang their clothes on. Plastic, never wire.
Last, but certainly not least, where can readers find your novel?
Thanks for reading, everyone. If you enjoyed the interview, be sure to drop Dawn a quick note to say hello. I’m sure she would love to hear from you! And don’t forget about your chance to win a free copy of SECRETS!
JOHN HARDY BELL 
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