I can’t remember the first time I met Kathleen Costa, but I do know that I now rely on her to be an early beta reader for all of my novels. I can count on her complete honesty and inspired insights, two essential qualities in a beta reader (if you want someone to gush over how clever you are, ask your mother). Kathleen is also a well-regarded book and film reviewer for Kings River Life Magazine and has graciously reviewed several of my books. I asked Kathleen to tell me a bit about her journey. Here she is:

Retirement can be the “mother of invention.” It is quite an adjustment for many 9 to 5ers, and a unique “closing door” for teachers, like me, who worked for decades, 365 days a year, ten or more hours in a work day, exploring, learning, planning, preparing, teaching, and follow upping. However, retirement can also be seen as an “opening door” to a variety of possibilities from reengaging shelved hobbies, checking off “bucket list” destinations, or reinventing oneself in a different career. My years of teaching and “red pen” experience gave me the confidence to answer the call for a copy editor with Kings River Life online magazine. It was exciting going beyond just reading, using my virtual “red pen” to correct errors and help ensure a flowing, accurate, and entertaining article. I can do that, I thought.

I can’t remember if I was asked or I suggested, but my first KRL project was to review the movie The Martian, and later Mr. Holmes. I found great enjoyment in writing, a passion I’d had early on when I wrote a Nancy Drew fan fiction story in the sixth grade, several short stories in middle school and high school, and a Greek tragedy in college. Seeing my reviews printed online was thrilling, so I continued with several television reviews. I was asked if I had any interest in reviewing cozy mysteries, some with an edge, so along with UK shows on PBS, AcornTV, and BritBox, I became a regular contributor with assignments and deadlines. I retained control over what books I review submitting a monthly list of proposed projects, so in many ways I’ve not been disappointed. I have, however, been asked to consider a book, and after reviewing available synopses or reviews, I have declined for personal preference reasons. The thrill of the reactions to my own reviews have been a confidence builder along with gained friendships with several authors with whom I’m now the KRL “go-to girl” for their books, being singled out with Facebook badges, pre-approved access by publishers, and the “most helpful” marks on Amazon. So, what’s next?, I pondered.

I enjoy the reading and venturing into various genres, watching more than cozy UK productions, and putting together my thoughts and insights with a bit of my style of humor, so when I was approached to be a beta reader for several of my favorite authors, I leapt at the new challenge. I enjoyed the purposeful reading, noting plot lines and character behavior, and evaluating effectiveness and entertainment value; I even found my suggestions taken seriously and some were even incorporated into the final work. I have been rewarded with sincere appreciation and compliments, a mention in the book, lovely friendships, and continued beta projects. Could I write something of my own?, I asked.

I’ve read hundreds of cozy and edgy, contemporary or historical fiction along with editing and offering insights, and conversing with several professional authors; I even entertained the thought about how I might have written something differently. I decided to move beyond thinking and start doing. I began with an outline, a familiar setting, debated first- and third-person narratives, then writing and rewriting and reading out loud. I really enjoy my own creative endeavor. However, the research authors complain about or find the most consuming is just that, but Google is the perfect co-pilot. What do I want to accomplish? How far will I take this? I have lots of time to ponder and explore and…write. I am retired, you know, do I hear the squeak of another door opening?

Kathleen Costa is a long-time resident of the Central Valley, and although born in Idaho, she considers herself a “California Girl.” She is a 35+ year veteran teacher having taught in grades 1-8 in schools from Sacramento to Los Angeles to Stockton to Lodi. Retiring a few years ago, she enjoys revitalizing hobbies, reading for pleasure, and spending 24/7 with her husband. A fortuitous Facebook post led her to join Kings River Life and KRL News & Reviews as a copy editor and regular contributor where she can also explore her passion with writing.