Please give a warm welcome to author K.R. Fajardo

Tell us a bit about yourself…

My name is K. R. Fajardo and I am an indie author from East Texas. I currently have 4 self-published books and many projects in the works. My genre of choice is fantasy but I also dabble a little in paranormal fantasy and paranormal romance. My interests include 80’s music (specifically 80s hair bands), reading(of course), RPG video games (Assassin’s Creed and the Witcher are my favs), and watching movies. Dr. Pepper is my caffeinated beverage of choice.

Have you always wanted to become an author? 

To be honest, I never considered it an option. Kind of like becoming a movie or rock star, it was one of those things that was reserved for the privileged few. I always loved reading and the escape it gave. And for years I had this one character running amok in my head, driving me crazy at night, but it wasn’t until my youngest child started to school and I found myself with some free time on my hands, that I decided to sit down and put some words on paper. One hundred and twenty thousand words later, K’s story was finally free. Shortly after that, I discovered self-publishing was a thing that existed, and fumbled my way through the process. And I am so glad I did. I have learned so much since then and met so many wonderful people from all over the world. It truly has been an adventure learning to be an author, but I don’t regret it one bit, and I never want to give it up. 

What was your inspiration for your current book/series? 

The Shadow Chronicles series is literally the voice in my head that would never shut up. K has rooted around in my mind for as long as I can remember. I think she is the embodiment of everything I wish I was. Strong, fierce, drop-dead gorgeous, and yet still vulnerable. And she is a vampire, because they have always fascinated me. Her story is unique in that it is told from the point of view of the other characters in the book. Her thoughts and feelings are never revealed, and that leaves her open to the interpretation of the reader. 

What are you working on now? 

Currently I am working on revising Stalking Fate for a rerelease with Butterdragons Publishing. The story is getting a complete overhaul with lots of new content that I think readers will enjoy. I also have several projects, including on Fae book and a paranormal romance in the works that will hopefully be ready for release next year.

Do you have any quirks while working? 

Silence. I am easily distracted, so no music or TV’s can be playing in the background. Also, I have developed the habit of lighting a candle while I work. I like the aromas they emit and find it soothing to have the flame flickering nearby.

What are your hopes for the future?

To keep writing stories. It is every bit as much of an escape as reading and it is my own world. Would I love to say that I will one day be able to quit my day job and just write, sure. But that is the dream isn’t it. If it is meant to be, it will be. In the meantime, I will just do me and have fun creating new worlds.

Do you have any advice for new authors about the publishing world?

Beware wolves in sheep’s clothing. In particular vanity presses. If someone offers to publish your book but then tries to charge you to do so, run. You can self-publish your book for a fraction of what those people are charging. Also beware all the so-called ‘coaches’ that are running around out there. Don’t get me wrong, there are some legit sites out there that will be of great help and many reputable coaches. But there are also just as many frauds. Social media can either be your best friend or your worst enemy. I have found many wonderful cover designers, editors, and formatters using these resources. I just recommend you do your research, speak to other authors, and interview any new prospective business before you send your money their way.

Do you have anything to say to your followers?

Thank you so much for sticking by me. I have had to deal with a lot of personal tragedies the last couple of years. This year in particular has been devastating. And through all these hard times, it has been your words of encouragement and patience that has helped me pull through. Finally, I have found my way back to writing, and it is all because of you guys. I love and appreciate each and every one of you. And you all have a special place in my heart.