Author's Interview with Kim Hopkinson

Before we dive into our exciting conversation with today’s remarkable author, let’s start by getting to know the creative mind behind the diverse and captivating stories.

1. Could you please introduce yourself to us?

Hi my name is Kim Hopkinson and I live in West Sussex.The Refugee is my first novel. My background is in journalism and teaching. I started writing when I retired.

2. Congratulations on your book! What inspired you to write it?

I had moved to the countryside from the town and the truth is, it started close to home.

There’s a particular local area that’s always fascinated me. Years ago, before it changed with new developments and building plans, it had such a unique atmosphere, a sense of quiet, of untold stories and of lives lived behind closed doors. I found myself wondering what day to day life looked like there back then and how easily assumptions could be made about the people who lived there.

💡 That idea, that you should never judge a book by its cover, really stuck with me. So I took that curiosity, my long time love of crime and thriller fiction and started crafting a story.

📖 The Refugee is entirely fictional, but it’s rooted in the textures and moods of the Sussex countryside and inspired by the idea that not everything is as it seems. Writing it has been a journey and I’m so proud to finally be sharing it with readers.n

3. What is your book about?

It is a psychological thriller that involves betrayal and murder. The reader is encouraged to  to examine all the characters lives and decide who they think the murderer is. There are lots of twists and turns.

4. Why did you choose this genre for your book?

I enjoy reading murder thrillers and the idea I had fitted with this genre.

5. How long did it take you to complete the book?

About two years

6. What makes your book special?

Although it is a crime thriller it is very different from anything already on the market . It is fast paced and people have said it is a real page turner.

7. When can we expect your next book?

My next book is called Where the Bones are Buried. I am in the process of choosing a front cover and I have had the second proofs. So it should be published soon.

8. Did you experience writer’s block while writing? What advice would you give to others who face it?

Set time aside for writing at a particular time. Then put something down on paper every time it does not matter if it is not wonderful. You can change or amend it later. 

9. Besides being a talented author, what are your other hobbies?

I enjoy Tai Chi and dancing . Walking and reading and looking after my six sheep.

10. Last but not least, how did you feel during this interview?

A little nervous but I am getting used to posting on social media and answering questions.

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