{Coffee with Kara}: Strolling Down Memory Lane

Today, in the US, it’s Memorial Day–a day to remember all the men and women who’ve fought and died for our country. So, in honor of this holiday, I thought it would be fun to take a stroll down memory lane and reflect on some of the many books I’ve edited.

FIRST — One of the very first books I edited here at Anaiah was Connie Ann Michael’s 1000 STOLEN MOMENTS. Fittingly enough, it’s a military romance. This book really has it all….action, romance, danger, humor. It hit me in all the feels.

EASIEST — Christmas in Meadow Creek by Katy Eeten. This novella was extremely “clean” when it landed in my inbox, meaning it didn’t need a lot of structural or content edits. And it really was just a fun, lighthearted book.

HARDEST — Against All Odds by Becca Hart. While this wasn’t the hardest book I ever edited (not even close!), it is possibly the hardest working author I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. This book started out as a novella, and during the editorial process, it almost tripled in length via various additions and rewrites. Becca was a real trooper throughout the process, constantly growing and learning and willing to work hard.

FUNNIEST — Nothing Ventured by Julie Arnold. Editing a book with a good dose of humor is always so much fun, and this one has it in spades. The banter between the hero and heroine kept me laughing throughout the entire book.

SADDEST — When Hearts Collide by Sara Beth Williams. I remember the first time I read this book…as soon as I’d finished, I messaged our Executive Editor and told her all about how emotional this book was. I always tell authors I want stories that will punch me in the gut with emotion, and this book delivered!

SURPRISING — One Small Spark by Jackie Minniti. It’s no secret that I don’t like historical books, so I wasn’t the first choice to edit this particular book. But due to circumstances, I happened to be the only one available. And let me tell you…I thoroughly enjoyed this book! So much so that I actually went hunting for similar type historical stories.

Every single book I’ve edited and every single author I’ve worked with holds a special place in my heart, and I cherish all of them. This list is by no means comprehensive, but I hope you’ve enjoyed taking a look back with me.

Happy Memorial Day!