The Big Thrill’s Behavioral Analysis Unit: Karin Slaughter

One of the best ways to describe someone is to find out what their peers say. When asked about Karin Slaughter, fellow scribe Gillian Flynn said, “I’d follow her anywhere,” a sentiment shared by a litany of other writers regarding this prolific author. But who is Karin Slaughter, really? Sure, she posts a bunch of cat memes on Instagram and is known for her quick wit and sarcastic retorts. But first and foremost, Karin is a storyteller. One who has penned over twenty novels, published in 120 countries, and has sold over 40 million copies around the world. Her latest novel, GIRL, FORGOTTEN, will come out on August 23, 2022 from William Morrow, while her standalone novel Pieces of Her became an eight-part Netflix series garnering rave reviews. Sometimes the best way to learn about an author is to send them 20 questions and wait with bated breath for the responses. The Behavioral Analysis Unit at The Big Thrill did just that, and here is what Karin had to say.

PS. We loved her responses, as will you. So without further ado …

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

I’m not sure I’d want it because then what?

What is your greatest fear?

I’d rather not say because someone will do it to me because they’ll think it’s funny.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

My inability to control my cupcake consumption.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Being deliberately unkind.

What would your superpower be?

Flying.

Karin Slaughter

What is your favorite way to waste time?             

Nothing wastes time if you are enjoying it—reading a nice book with some cats and total silence is very nice, but also vacuuming and mopping the garage can bring a certain peace.

If you weren’t a writer, what would you be?

A watchmaker.

What is your most embarrassing moment?

I’ve done so many embarrassing things that there’s really nothing left.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Work: being a self-employed writer. Life: being a really good friend.

What’s your favorite place in the world?

Home.

What do you most value in your friends?

Loyalty.  I am ride or die.

Who are your favorite writers?

Flannery O’Connor, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Mo Hayder, Denise Mina.

If you were to die and come back as a character in a novel, who would you be?

Elizabeth Bennet, but in jeans.

Who are your real-life heroes?

Anyone who hustles every day to get the job done.

What is your most unappealing habit?

Cupcake madness.

What is the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received?

Sit down and write.

What’s your favorite drink?

Topo Chico grapefruit.

Plotter or pantser?

Both.

What is your favorite word?

Onomatopoeia.

Which living author do you most admire?

Stephen King.

What is your motto?

“If you wear it outside, it stops being pajamas.”