Writing the Next Chapter: Kennedy Cole on Her Journey to a Debut Novel

Kennedy Cole holding her debut novel "There Used to be People Here" (Courtesy of Kennedy Cole).

At 23, Kennedy Cole is watching a story that began as a college writing exercise become something much bigger: a published debut novel and the beginning of an author’s career.

Cole graduated from UNC Wilmington in 2024 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. While working as a barista and in editorial assistant positions, Cole is preparing for the release of “There Used to Be People Here,” a novel that began taking shape during sophomore year of college.

The idea started with a short story Cole wrote for a class. After setting the story aside, Cole began wondering if it could become something more.

“I was like, maybe I can expand on that,” Cole said.

That expansion eventually introduced Samuel, a detective, and developed into a full-length novel. Cole wrote the first draft in about three and a half months, but the story underwent numerous revisions over the following years.

Writing the book while attending college was no easy task. Cole spent the next three years drafting, editing and refining the manuscript while balancing classes and other commitments. During junior year, publishing courses offered additional insight into the industry and helped Cole understand the work required to bring a book into the world.

Cole began querying agents within three months and eventually secured representation. By 2024, the novel had attracted publishing interest and was accepted for publication.

Now, as the debut approaches, Cole admits the experience comes with plenty of anxiety.

“I feel sick and I feel so anxious,” Cole said.

Still, beneath the nerves is a sense of pride. At 23, Cole has already accomplished something many aspiring writers spend years working toward.

“This is really hard and I did a really hard thing,” Cole said.

With the debut chapter nearly here, Cole is already looking toward the next one, working on a second book, making edits and learning to make room for both a writing career and life beyond the page.

To pre-order Cole's book, click here. To follow keep up with Cole and her work, follow her on Instagram.