In the close to three months since Kym Brunner sat down with the Sun Day, she has seen the publication of two novels, a handful of events celebrating said releases and already has plans to write a few more.
Brunner’s first two novels, released this summer, have opened to much praise since their debuts. Brunner is now at work on her next novels. (Photo provided)
Though the first of two books, titled “Wanted: Dead or in Love,” was released on e-book by the time the May 22 article had been released, it found publication on June 30. “One Tough Cookie,” the second book, was published on July 15.
Brunner notes the former is receiving a little more attention, but credits that to the book’s national release. “People have been seeing it on shelves, and it has that unique element of crossing over into the adult market that has been really helpful,” she said.
Brunner told the Sun Day back in May she was bitten by the writing bug 12 years ago but was not sure how to actually write a novel. Looking online for advice, reading a few “how to” books, and joining a society for children’s book writers helped, she said.
“Once I started going to a monthly critique group, the encouragement and advice I received from others made me want to keep trying to improve my craft,” she said.
Brunner is the daughter of Sun City residents OB and Rita Obrachta (N.37). Rita, who Brunner refers to as her “unofficial mom-ager,” has been keeping track of her daughter’s successes since these books have been published.
She mentions her daughter had a book signing on June 25 at the Barnes & Noble in Arlington Heights, where approximately 75 interested readers/buyers showed up and “surprised the managers of the B&N store.”
Brunner also had an intro celebration at Bar Louie in Mount Prospect on July 18, which Rita Obrachta said was attended by approximately 125 family members, friends, and colleagues. Attendees were encouraged to don clothing from the 1920s in honor of the book’s motif (it features the spirits of Bonnie and Clyde).
“It’s been really positive so far,” says Brunner, who mentions she has three new novels in the works — but only shares information about two of them.
Tentatively called “Leave it to Bucia” (a play on “Leave it to Beaver”), it is a continuation of “One Smart Cookie.”
“St¡ng” has a realistic suspense/thriller kind of vibe, Brunner said. It tells the story of what would be the challenges of living in a world without bees, something she noted is a real possibility.
Both “Wanted” and “Cookie” are currently available online or in Barnes & Noble stories. The novels are also available in e-book formats.
1 Comment
Thanks for featuring me in an update article! I’m super excited to be able to come to Huntley Del Webb to talk about my books and publishing experience with the N37 book clubs on October 30th and with the Polish Club on November 17th! Would love to talk more about both the challenges and rewards of writing novels. If you would like more info about these events, please contact Rita Obrachta at robrachta@gmail.com.