New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kimberla Lawson Roby tackles another difficult subject in her latest novella.
“Best Friends Forever centers on Celine Richardson, who in a matter of days, learns that she has breast cancer and her husband is leaving her for another woman. She, of course, is devastated, and even though her best friend, Lauren, steps in to support Celine and her daughter, Celine truly wants to give up,” Roby said.
For Roby, tackling breast cancer has personal significance.
“Although I write about real-life social issues, I hadn’t written about breast cancer. Sadly, I have two relatives who were diagnosed in the past, and I really felt it was time to write about this particular illness. Then I thought, what if a woman discovers that she has breast cancer and that her husband is having an affair—and wanting to leave her.”
Roby has a busy year ahead. She will release her 24th book—the 13th in her popular Curtis Black series—in June, and another book early in 2017.
Over the years, she’s learned how to balance her career with family life.
“It takes a lot of balancing and knowing what your priorities are. I will say, though, that my biggest blessing in this area rests with my husband, Will,” Roby said. “He has always been the most supportive husband, and of the 22 national book tours I’ve embarked on around the country, he has traveled with me on every last one of them. Even when I’m exhausted or stressed, he’s the person comforting and encouraging me.”
Roby also credits her longevity to her loyal fans.
“While I do enjoy writing and creating stories, the absolute best part about being a novelist (for me, anyway), is having the opportunity to communicate and spend time with my readers. These are the people who regularly encourage me to keep writing, giving the kindest feedback, and I am forever grateful to them,” she said.
To moms trying to juggle their roles, Roby has a simple formula.
“My personal advice for any mom or woman wanting to pursue her dreams and live out her purpose is to believe in God, believe in yourself, believe in whatever it is you are trying to accomplish…believe in that order.”
To learn more about Kimberla Lawson Roby and her books, visit www.kimroby.com, facebook.com/kimberlalawsonroby or twitter.com/KimberlaLRoby.