An Interview with Tanner Kinsley
My name is Tanner Kinsley. I grew up in Utah, and growing up I have always wanted to be a writer. From short stories, to screenplays, and now my full-length book The Love of an Enemy. I have had the opportunity to travel the country as a truck driver, and I’ve seen so many incredible things and met so many amazing people. As my journey over the road has come to a close, I am closer to home with my biggest inspirations, my four wonderful kids.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
There have been many people who have helped shape me into the person I am today. My grandpa, a proud US Marine who passed Christmas Eve 2024. My friend Shivez, who never showed weakness when he was sick with cancer and always brought a sense of humor. His humor would keep you laughing, even in hard days. He also passed unfortunately in 2010. My friend Cortney, who always kept our imaginations alive as we played games that inspired my characters. Finally, my wife and kids, who always believed in me, and pushed me to write every day. All my characters are based on the people in my life. Their hearts and souls are in these characters.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The Love of an Enemy. It was easy to find because it’s based on a short film I made in high school. I felt like the name was perfect. The story is about characters who are born enemies but learn to grow as friends, and maybe even more.
Describe your dream book cover.
My dream book cover is all the main characters on the front. All designed to look similar to the real people they are based on.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
I always love soundtracks that use a large orchestra. The incredible sounds that sound epic, or even inspiring.
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
I read so many books, but I wanted to make sure my characters felt original. I spent more time going through old photos and videos for research, so the characters felt authentic.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I have spent a lot of my career as a truck driver. I’ve traveled to some of the most beautiful places. I’ve seen some incredible storms in Nebraska, the snowfall of Colorado, the long roads of Texas, and the towering buildings of New York City.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
My kids and my wife. They all knew I wanted to write, and they love when I tell the stories. I also got to see my old friend Shivez’s mother for the first time since he passed, and we told each other memories we had of him. I told her that he never let cancer define him. I made sure his legacy lived on in my story.
Where is your favorite place to write?
My room. It’s quiet. I also like writing outside when my kids are playing.
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
Start sooner. You always had it in you.
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
They are inspired to make a real difference, and realize even though we are different, we don’t have to be enemies.
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