Q&A with M.K. Harkins, author of The Reader

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I know the exact date – February 3rd, 2013.  I ran out of reading material on my Kindle. I stared at the wall, for what seemed like hours. It was then that I had a light bulb moment.  I thought “Well, if I can’t find anything to read, I’ll just write something!”  The “something” became my first novel, Intentional.

Do you have a routine that you use to get into the right frame of mind to write?

Yes and no.  I need uninterrupted time (I’m not one of those authors who can write for an hour per day) Give me four hours, and I’m good to go.  I do my best writing in the parking lot waiting for my daughter to finish her basketball practice.

Where did you get the idea or inspiration for The Reader?

I have absolutely no idea!  When I sat down to write it, the words, plot, dialogue literally flew from my fingers to the keyboard.

What books have most influenced your life?

The first book I remember reading was Exodus. I was in the 7th grade and I couldn’t put it down. Although I can’t remember all the details, I’m sure it has made me more compassionate.

The next book would have to be Slammed by Colleen Hoover.  I know these two books are polar opposites, but nonetheless they both left their mark.  With Slammed, I was introduced to a simple, yet complex love story. It brought out all my dormant feelings of first love. My heart raced, my palms became sweaty – all of those feelings came back in a rush.  If it were not for Colleen Hoover, and her wonderful writing, I would not have written my first book.  That’s a pretty big influence!

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

When I’m not writing, I like to think about writing.  When my fingers are not on my keyboard, my brain is batting around dialogue.  I think it’s called “Voices in my Head” but for writers, it means creativity, not craziness (I think - lol)

Any future writing news you would like to share?

Yes!  I am currently working on Famous by Default (another YA book).  Also, if I get enough requests, I’ll continue with The Reader Series ☺  (So email me!)