We were lucky to catch up with Keira James recently and have shared our conversation below.
Keira , looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
If there’s one thing the Navy taught me, it’s how to work under pressure, adapt to difficult situations, and push through even when I’m running on fumes. As a former hospital corpsman, I wasn’t just clocking in and out like a traditional 9-5. I was handling crises, managing personnel, and learning what it meant to have real discipline. That kind of work ethic and experience didn’t go away just because I separated the military. It followed me as I transitioned to civilian life, and it plays a major role in how I write, how I strategize my author career, and why I refuse to half-step when it comes to my books and brand.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
The most exciting thing about writing is the fact that I get to tell the stories I want to read, in the way that feels most real to me. However, my writing isn’t just about entertaining readers. It’s also therapy for me and my life’s purpose. It gives me an outlet to process my emotions and connect with readers who look like me and find pieces of themselves in my characters and stories. It’s one of the most fulfilling careers I’ve ever had, and I wouldn’t trade it for nothing in the world.
What’s made writing special for me lately has been the people I’ve connect with. Those people are my pen sisters of BWW5 (Toni Larue, Octavia Grant, Tanisha Stewart, Kenya Moss-Dyme, and myself).
These ladies are more than just my peers. We’re a sisterhood that was built on support, creativity, and a shared love for amplifying Black women’s voices in thriller, suspense, and horror. Having them in my corner means everything to me because we push each other to be better, hold each other down through the highs and lows, and remind each other that we’re not in this journey alone.
Because of their encouragement and support, I’ve recently expanded my brand to help other indie authors build and market their own stories. I know firsthand how tough this industry can be, especially for Black women in thriller and suspense. That’s why I’m launching marketing and branding services designed specifically for indie authors who want to elevate their presence and reach their ideal readers without losing their creative identity.
At the heart of it all, my brand’s mission is to provide thrills that heal because I believe storytelling is more than just an escape. It’s a way to process, to feel seen, and to find community. Whether that’s through my books or working with other authors, it’s what I aim to do.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, three things had the biggest impact on where I am today: inquisitiveness, adaptability, and understanding that you don’t have to have it all together to start.
I’ve always been curious and eager to learn. My thirst for knowledge has been my greatest asset because it keeps me evolving and improving. My advice for folks who are early in their journey is to never stop being a student of your craft. Read, research, experiment, and do whatever it takes to grow. The moment you think you know it all is the moment you stop progressing.
Another game-changer for me has been adaptability. My ability to adjust without getting discouraged has been essential. For indie authors just starting out, I’d say: get comfortable with discomfort. Be flexible enough to switch things up when needed but grounded enough to stay true to your vision.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that I don’t have to have it all figured out to start. I didn’t have all the answers when I first stepped into the writing industry, but I figured it out along the way, with lots of help from fellow authors. If I could offer more advice for anyone pursuing their passion it’s to always believe in yourself, study your craft, put in the work, make meaningful connections, and most importantly, stay authentic. Do everything from a place of love and with a spirit of excellence.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my grandmother did for me was teach by example. She showed me the importance of building genuine relationships, practicing gratitude, and respecting people, no matter what they look like, or where they came from. She had a way of making people feel valued and appreciated, and that left a lasting impression on me. Even after I lost her years ago, I still carry those lessons with me in how I navigate relationships, how I approach my work, and how I show up for my loved ones. She helped shape not just the person I became, but the way I move through life, which is with intention, appreciation, and an understanding that the way you treat people matters.
My mom and dad taught me that hard work beats talent and that it doesn’t matter how good you are at what you do if you don’t put the work in.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thekeiranjames.com
- Instagram: https://bit.ly/KNJ_IG
- Facebook: https://bit.ly/KNJ_FB
- Other: Tik Tok: https://bit.ly/KNJ_TT
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