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Introduction
Meet Kassandra Garrison, a rising author writing about things that are dear to her heart and sharing them with the world. Her latest release, Dear Daughter is a testament to motherhood and the lessons she learned through her own imperfections and mistakes. Writing a range of work from Young Adult to Christian to Romance, there’s a little bit of everything for all to enjoy.
Come join me as we peer behind the scenes into Kassandra’s work and get to know her a little bit better. She reminds me of myself in a lot of ways with her interests, lifestyle and how she’s taken hard experiences and allowed those to lead her in positive directions for her own life. We all come from somewhere and everyone has their story, so let’s get going!
Kassandra’s Books
Interview with Kassandra Garrison
Q: Let’s get started with an introduction. Can you tell me a little about how you first got into writing and what it felt like publishing your very first book?
A: In school, I could always be found with my nose in a book. I’d always loved writing but never seriously thought about making it a career. It wasn’t until I had an extremely vivid dream (yes, I know it sounds cheesy!) that I put pen to paper, or should I say fingers to keyboard. God placed a burden on my mind to bring my dream to a reality and since writing that first book, I haven’t stopped!
There was much to be learned when I published my first book. I went into it with no experience and no launch plan. It all happened so fast that I couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that I had published a book. Still to this day, I still suffer from imposter syndrome.
Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies (other than writing)?
A: Some of my favorite ways to spend my free time are reading (of course), gardening, and baking bread! Though I’m an introvert and homebody, I’ll always agree to a trip to the bookstore!
Q: What book (other than your own) do you recommend to everyone that they have to read?
A: My current favorite book is The Words We Lost by Nicole Deese. Nicole is incredibly talented and fully immerses her readers in her beautiful story of faith, love, and healing. Plus, the MMC is a walking green flag and my new standard for all MMCs.
This series from Nicole Deese is absolutely amazing!
Q: You get to design one room in a new house, what room do you choose and what kinds of things would be in that room?
A: I did not have to think about this answer long at all! I would absolutely choose an office with my own personal library. Add a big fluffy chair in the corner with a blanket, a glass of iced coffee, and a big picture window. Perfection.
Q: If you could be any fictional character (cartoon, book, movie, etc), who would it be and why?
A: I would choose to be Elizabeth Bennet. I love England and have always wanted to see the rolling hills and cliffs for myself. Her love of books and blunt wit make her a favorite of mine. Plus, dances and Mr. Darcy!
Q: Can you tell me a little bit about your writing process? Note taking; favorite place to write uninterrupted; etc?
A: My books always start with a specific scene or idea that I’ve had. After that, the story evolves. I begin the writing process by making a list of key moments I want to happen in the story. This rough outline allows me to create a character list and further develop the entire story. Once I have the foundational ideas set, I begin writing. A detailed outline forms as the story progresses.
My favorite place to write is on the couch with a fuzzy blanket. When I’m all business, I spread out my notes on my desk or dining table and type away.
Q: Tell us a little about what inspired your latest release.
A: My latest release was Dear Daughter. My own daughter inspired me to write this story. Not to be mistaken, this isn’t a story about motherhood. It’s a journey through a woman’s life that, in the end, reveals God’s continual presence and unconditional love. The love I have for my daughter gave me a deeper understanding of how much God loves me despite my imperfections and mistakes.
Q: Which one of your books was your most favorite to write?
A: Picking a favorite book feels like choosing a favorite child. Although I will admit that I had a lot of fun writing Distant Stars. It was my first dual POV and it has a beach setting (my favorite place to vacation!). Plus, I still just adore those characters so much.
Q: What advice would you give to new and aspiring authors?
A: Do your research. Take your time. I rushed into publishing my first three books. Make a launch plan, find beta readers, develop your audience, and create a beautiful cover. And always: edit, edit, edit.
Q: You have 50 words or less to convince an audience why they should read your books. Go!
A: My writing is REAL but not the kind that leaves you devastated. My stories are about relatable people finding love and hope in an imperfect world. I strive to balance my stories with humor and heart. My writing might not send Hallmark vibes but it will always leave you smiling.
Follow Kassandra
My name is Kassandra Garrison. I was born and raised in Southern Illinois with two older sisters. Growing up, I always had my nose in a book. When I was twelve-years-old, I actually wrote a book. (You’re not missing out! There’s a reason tweens don’t write historical romance novels!)
Now, I live with my husband and high school sweetheart, Joseph. He’s also my personal IT consultant and brainstorming partner. (Don’t feel too bad for him. He has me as his personal chef!) Our love and mutual weirdness blessed us with our daughter, Nora, and son, Emmett. Add two rescue dogs with vastly different personalities and there’s never a dull moment in our house!
When I’m not chasing a toddler, cuddling a teething infant, or baby-talking two sixty-pound dogs, I am writing my next novel or blog post, reading a rom-com, baking bread, or watching Pride & Prejudice. (The 2005 version, of course!)
With my writing, I hope to uplift, inspire, and encourage my readers. Whether it’s diving into one of my romance novels for a happy escape or reading one of my blog posts to help you push through a rough day, I hope to touch your heart and put a smile on your face.
Looking for book recs…
Adventures in Literature 
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