Today, we welcome Kay Smith-Blum, an author whose journey has taken her from the world of fashion to education leadership and now to award-winning historical fiction.

Kay's Website

@discerningKSB on Instagram

Kay's Facebook page

A longtime Seattle resident, Kay has recently been honored with multiple awards for her debut novel TANGLES, including Best Historical Mystery/Suspense at the 2025 American Fiction Awards, Best Debut Fiction by the American Writing Awards, Best Regional Fiction/West by the National Indie Excellence Awards, and Book of the Year by the Literary Global Book Awards.

Inspired by the mid-20th century and the haunting realities of leaking radioactive waste tanks at the Hanford Nuclear Site, Kay brings history, suspense, and humanity together in her storytelling.

The Spark for TANGLES

• You’ve said that the recent controversies around radioactive waste tanks at Hanford compelled you to write this story. What was the moment or piece of history that made you say: this has to become a novel?

From Fashion to Fiction

• Your background includes running a successful fashion business and serving as Seattle School Board President. How did those experiences shape your perspective as a writer—and ultimately lead you to TANGLES?

Historical Suspense & Craft

• TANGLES blends mystery, suspense, and historical detail. How did you balance historical accuracy with narrative drive? What were the biggest challenges in weaving fact with fiction?

Writing Process & Rituals

• You describe yourself as a sunrise writer who works out writer’s block in gardens and lap pools. Could you share more about your creative process—and how these routines fuel your storytelling?

Recognition & Next Steps

• With TANGLES winning so many awards—including Book of the Year—what has this recognition meant for you personally and professionally? And what’s next on your creative horizon?

What’s one piece of advice you’d offer to aspiring authors who feel drawn to tackle historical or regional stories, but maybe hesitate to take the leap?

Thanks to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee—fueling creative conversations everywhere. Listeners, enjoy 10% off your first order at whitecloudcoffee.com.

Also, as a thanks to you for listening, I’d like to offer you a free download of my e-book of Your World of Creativity when you visit mark-stinson.com.