Picture a Nottingham storyteller who turned everyday life into gripping tales of resilience and mystery—meet Kim Slater! This multi-award-winning author has captured hearts with her Young Adult novels, blending raw emotion with page-turning plots. From her debut, Smart, to her bestselling crime thrillers as K.L. Slater, Kim’s stories resonate with readers who crave authentic voices and thought-provoking themes.
Born and raised in Nottingham, England, Kim’s love for storytelling began in childhood, crafting spooky tales to scare her younger brother. Her journey from self-employed professional to literary star is a testament to chasing dreams at any age, proving it’s never too late to rewrite your own story.
The Making of Kim Slater
Growing up in Nottingham, Kim was an avid reader, devouring works by C.S. Lewis and Enid Blyton. Her early storytelling was playful yet macabre, hinting at the emotional depth she’d later bring to her novels. At 40, Kim took a bold leap, enrolling at Nottingham Trent University to pursue a first-class BA and MA in Creative Writing. This decision transformed her passion into a profession, with her MA short story evolving into her acclaimed debut, Smart. Despite years of rejections, Kim’s perseverance paid off, landing her a literary agent and a deal with Macmillan Children’s Books before graduating in 2012.
Kim Slater’s Unforgettable Stories
Kim’s Young Adult novels, published under her real name, are set in Nottingham and center on working-class teenage boys facing real-world challenges. Her debut, Smart (2014), follows Kieran, a neurodivergent boy who solves a murder mystery while navigating poverty and abuse. Nominated for 24 awards and winner of 10, including the Geoffrey Treece East Midlands Book Award, it’s hailed as a ‘future classic’ by Booktrust. A Seven-Letter Word (2016) explores Finlay’s struggle with a stutter and his mother’s disappearance, earning a spot on BBC Bitesize with excerpts read by Stephen Fry. 928 Miles from Home (2017) tackles prejudice through Calum’s unlikely friendship with a Polish immigrant, while The Boy Who Lied (2018) weaves a mystery around truth and family hardship.
Writing as K.L. Slater, Kim dives into psychological crime thrillers, selling over two million copies worldwide. Titles like Safe With Me (2016) and The Marriage showcase her knack for suspense and domestic noir, proving her versatility across genres. Kim’s style is immersive, capturing the authentic Nottingham voice and tackling issues like bullying, poverty, and identity with empathy and grit.
Why Kim Slater Matters
Kim Slater’s impact lies in her ability to give voice to marginalized characters, particularly young people facing adversity. Her YA novels resonate in UK classrooms, sparking discussions on social issues and inspiring empathy in young readers. As a Nottingham native, she proudly showcases her city’s vibrant culture and literary heritage, contributing to its UNESCO City of Literature status. Her dual career as K.L. Slater amplifies her reach, blending literary depth with commercial success. Kim’s journey—returning to university at 40 and overcoming rejections—encourages aspiring writers to persevere, making her a beacon of hope and authenticity.
- Born: Nottingham, England
- Key Works: Smart, A Seven-Letter Word, 928 Miles from Home, The Boy Who Lied
- Awards: 10 awards for Smart, including Geoffrey Treece East Midlands Book Award
- Education: BA and MA in Creative Writing, Nottingham Trent University
Ready to dive into Kim Slater’s world? Grab Smart for a heartfelt mystery or lose yourself in K.L. Slater’s Safe With Me for a thrilling ride!