About R.F. Kristi:
R.F. Kristi, the author of the Inca book series is a former professional of the United Nations Children’s Fund. She has traveled and lived in various countries of the globe. With a deep commitment to animal rescue efforts, Kristy has a keen interest and love for animals. She created the Inca Cat book series for younger readers up to age 8 or 12 and also animal lovers. Kristi currently resides in France. It is anticipated that the proceeds of the Inca Book Series will be donated to animal rescue efforts in developing countries.
What inspires you to write?
Writing the Inca Cat Series arose out of the blue. I had never dreamed of writing stories for children. My specialty due to my work with the United Nations specialized agencies rather concentrated on lengthy reports of a more technical nature based on strategic planning. A world much removed from the milieu of children’s books targeted at all persons who love animal, both kids and adults.
I had acquired Inca two years ago, from a distraught neighbor who was undergoing personal challenges and fighting depression. She had purchased Inca, a beautiful Siberian kitten from a breeder in the outskirts of Paris, France. However, she just could not cope with caring for her in her current mental state. She had asked the guardian of our apartment building situated in central Paris if he knew anyone who would be willing to take on the kitten.
What a windfall, at least from my perspective. Our guardian, Monsieur Fernandez knew how fond I was of cats and that my own cat had passed away a few months ago, at the ripe old age. Although I was not ready to house another cat after Beffy who had been my companion since I found her in Africa while working for UNICEF many years ago, I was smitten with Inca. Above all she needed a new home.
It was a match made in heaven. Inca conquered my heart the moment I set eyes on her. She came home to stay that very same night and settled down comfortably as if she owned my apartment sleeping that night on my chest. To keep her company while I was away at work, I obtained Cara, a blue-eyed diminutive Siamese kitten. Inca embraced her instantly with love and understanding. I was amazed as I was aware that cats have a reputation for being jealous and territorial. My misgivings were in vain and they bonded on meeting – with Inca in the role of big sister, protective of her little sister Cara.
I am an avid reader. I can never remember a time that I was not visiting the local library scouting for books. However, I never read romantic novels neither science fiction nor fantasy stories. I never enjoy them. Detective stories on the other hand have me hooked. I can never put down a good who-done-it. I am rather nostalgic and like a more ordered world.
From watching and interacting with both Inca and Cara, the Inca Cat Series was born. Loving a good mystery, when I started writing about the cat adventures, the ideas started flowing. So much so that I could not stop writing once an idea germinated. The first book starts off in Paris where I am currently living and then moves to London with the well-known characters Inca, Cara with Fromage a cheese loving tabby male cat joining the family.
Tell us about your writing process.
I am more of a pants writer though I am trying to become an outliner. What I try to do now is have a basic outline and then I let my imagination run wild. Inca and Cara, my real live cats are a great inspiration to me.
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
I just watch my pet cats and then let my imagination run wild. I have just adopted 3 street dogs from Asia, hence, I am waiting to see what type of thoughts these three lovable mutts will provide to the Inca Book Series.
What advice would you give other writers?
As far as writing goes, pick a topic that interests you. I have found that this allows my imagination to flow. Hire a professional for the rest: editor, proof reader, marketing specialist etc.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
By trial and error. I have tried self-publishing through paid service and free service such as Create Space and a combination of services. I have also decided to try to find a literary agent during the latter part of 2018 as I already have the plans to complete 2 more books in the series.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
As many more ordinary citizens become interested in writing fiction and non-fiction, I believe the book publishing industry will flourish.
What do you use?: Professional Editor, Professional Cover Designer, Beta Readers
What genres do you write?: Children's books
What formats are your books in?: Both eBook and Print, Audiobook
Website(s)
R.F. Kristi Home Page Link
Link To R.F. Kristi Page On Amazon
Your Social Media Links
Goodreads
Facebook
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All information in this post is presented “as is” supplied by the author. We don’t edit to allow you the reader to hear the author in their own voice.
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