Meet author Kimberly Rose Johnson

Award-winning author Kimberly Rose Johnson married her college sweetheart and lives in the Pacific Northwest. From a young child Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing. She especially loves romance and writes contemporary romantic mystery and suspense that warms the heart and feeds the soul. Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.

Tell us about your newest book.

The Sleuth’s Surprise is a romantic mystery set in a fictional town in Oregon. This book wraps up the series. Here is the back-cover blurb: Mary Daley has been the sheriff of Tipton County for more than two decades, but someone wants her job. When it seems circumstances can’t get more complicated, a murder happens on her watch. Had she been the intended victim?

Deputy Chief Lyle Griffin only wants Mary to be happy, but when he asks her if she’d consider retiring, it sets off a string of events and emotions that muddy their friendship. Nancy Daley-Malone can’t believe anyone would run for sheriff against her mom. She is onboard to help run the best campaign Tipton County has ever seen until the sheriff’s opponent is murdered and Nancy’s husband joins the race. On top of that, it appears someone is out to kill her mother as well. Can Nancy, along with the sheriff’s department, find the murderer before it’s too late? Will Lyle and Mary be able to admit their feelings for one another or will the status quo remain?

What inspired you to write The Sleuth’s Surprise?

I knew since book two that I wanted to write Mary and Lyle’s story. Their story had been forming in my mind for quite sometime as I was writing the books that come before it.

How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?

The Sleuth’s Surprise is a cozy-feeling romantic mystery with a little suspense woven in. Think Hallmark Movies and Mysteries.

What genre do you focus on and why?

Currently I’m focused on writing romantic suspense with mystery, which is the reverse of The Sleuth’s Surprise.

Why do you write?

I write because I love writing. My mind is always coming up with story ideas. I like to feel successful and completing a project give me that sense of accomplishment.

Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?

Mary Daley is the main character in this book. When I started the series, I didn’t actually know her first name. I called her Sheriff Daley. I knew her last name since her daughter, who is the star of all the books, had that last name. I’m not sure how I came up with the name Mary, other than it seemed to fit.

What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?

It really depends on what’s going on in my life. With my husband working from home and my son home again since his university moved all classes to online, it’s been different than what it used to be. Pre-COVID I would awaken at 5:20 and by 6:20 I was on the computer posting in book groups, then I break for breakfast and reading my Bible. After that, I’d work on the business side of writing and blog posts, then I would exercise. Lunch would follow and then I’d get in two to three hours of productive writing.

Now the only thing I still am regimented about is my social media early in the morning. With my husband working from home and my son living here again, it’s really messed my schedule up. I am easily distracted and have a very hard time focusing. I usually get some solid writing in during the early afternoon hours but that’s about it.

What is the hardest part of being an author?  

For me it’s putting myself out there on social media. I’d much rather write my books and not do anything else. However, I do enjoy Instagram. I love looking at all the pictures on my feed.

What’s the best part of your author’s life?

Writing and even though I indicated that I don’t particularly enjoy social media, I really enjoy visiting with readers on Facebook. It’s fun to find out what’s going on in their lives. I also enjoy running things by them and asking for suggestions.

What’s one thing your readers should know about you?

I’m an introvert. I love being at home and keeping to myself. I have to make a conscious effort to be social.

How have you changed or grown as a writer?

I am a lot more open about sharing my faith in my work as well as sharing pieces of me. In the early days of my writing (pre-published), I was closed. If you really want to know me, read my books. A piece of my heart and me are in each and every one.

What is your favorite pastime?

Walking. I love being outdoors and it makes me feel good to walk.

Do you have other books? We’d love to know.

Yes, I have a several series out as well as a few stand-alone novellas. I have the third book in my Protection Inc. series releasing in October. You can find my list of books on my website https://kimberlyrjohnson.com/books/ .

What are you working on now?

Currently I’m writing a screenplay. I’m taking screenwriting intensive this summer, so that has consumed my writing time. As far as what’s next with my books, I’m not sure. I’m toying around with writing either the fourth and possibly final book in the Protection Inc. series or writing the next book in my Law Enforcement Heroes series. Wherever the Lord leads is where I will spend my time. I can’t wait to see where He leads me next!

Website: https://kimberlyrjohnson.com/

Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DCRSHRH

Social media links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlyrosejohnsonauthor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimberlyRoseJohnson

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimberlyrosejoh