1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I am married and have three grown children, who are my greatest accomplishment, and I am quite proud of them, too. I’m a retired Nurse Practitioner and worked in mental health, OB/GYN, Hormones & Wellness, and owned my own Regenerative Aesthetics business before retiring in 2021. I’ve had a love for writing since my younger years, when I began journaling. Being retired afforded me lots of time to get back to doing things I love, like writing and traveling. I call California, Texas, and the Caribbean home. If I’m not in one of those places, I’m traveling the world and finding things that inspire me. My best writing is done at the beach.
2) What inspired you to write your book?
In many ways, this story is very personal to me. I had a family member who went through some very tough mental health issues, and by the grace of God, was able to reach out for help. What bothered me the most was that we never knew they were having problems. I wanted to write a book that brings mental health to the forefront and lets people know that there is help.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
I hope the reader finishes the book with a deeper understanding of how mental health affects people in many ways and that compassion or small gestures can be so powerful. Even if we don’t see it, people are carrying around grief, sadness, and quiet battles that they are fighting beneath the surface. Even in our darkest moments, connections and vulnerability with others can help to create unexpected pathways to healing. Let’s remove the taboo about mental health and make it a a subject that is comfortable to talk about.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
Honestly, it was by accident. When the story came to me, I thought of my children, knowing how difficult life is for kids nowadays. I wanted to make an impact in the young adult age group that has a higher incidence of mental health issues. I felt like I could tell an important story from their viewpoint. The story is also a crossover to any age group that knows someone who suffers from mental health issues.
5) 5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
It would be Briggs. The story only allows for a glimpse into his life and there is so much to learn from him. I would want to have an honest conversation with him about who he is and how his mental health affects him, which would allow for a better understanding of him as a unique person. I’d ask him to describe his pain and how it affects his thoughts. What do you wish you could admit without feeling judged? What’s one message you wish others who struggle could hear from you?
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
I would say Goodreads and Facebook
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
The key is to believe in yourself and just start with writing down something. It took me a couple years to write my story. Maybe at first, I didn’t think I could do it. But the more I wrote, the easier it got, and slowly my story came together, as did the belief in myself that I could write.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
I plan to continue writing, as there are more stories of connection I want to tell. Travel is a huge source of inspiration for me. Every place I visit helps to spark new ideas, characters, and scenes. So yes, you will probably find me on a beach writing my next story.
About the Author
Kimberly Fiese Yule believes life is better with sand between your toes, music in your ears, and a story that makes you feel seen. A mother of three, her greatest pride and joy, she is also a former women’s health nurse practitioner and a lifelong wanderer. Depending on the day, she calls Texas, California, or the Caribbean home, always finding inspiration in sunshine, connection, and the beauty of everyday moments.
https://www.instagram.com/kimberlyyule
